I love collecting and building with Nanoblock Pokémon sets. It gives me the opportunity to build an exciting model with my own two hands. Nanoblock was created by Kawada, which is a toy company based in Tokyo, Japan.
If you are reading this guide, you are most likely a fan of these Nanoblock kits as well. Then again, you may be shopping for other fans of these products.
As a big Pokémon fan, I follow the news from time to time. I just came across PokéJungle news about a new Pokémon nanoblock series:
New Nanoblock Pokémon sets announced for Japan. Any of your favorites here? I spy a Leafeon😍 pic.twitter.com/YnIrw6tfcI
— PokéJungle (@pokejungle) January 22, 2021
Whether you are shopping for yourself or another fan, you want to ensure you are choosing the best products on the market today. This is why I took the time to research a range of Nanoblock kits in this series.
As you read through my guide, you are going to find…
- The best Nanoblock Pokémon sets on the market today.
- Details such as the age group, difficulty level and the number of pieces.
- Others’ opinions and videos of these products.
I have researched over 60 products by checking out Amazon and other related blogs and websites, and I have narrowed my choices down to seven building kits. While the following Pokémon Series Building Kits are also good choices, I do believe the products on our list are better options for any collector:
The good news is, you are about to find out which products I consider to be the top building kits of this series.
I want to start with my pick for the best Nanoblock Pokemon set on the market today.
My Top Pick
Pikachu →
- Killer Feature: 3D design with accurate details.
- Comes with 120 pieces, including extra blocks.
- Brick sizes start at 4 mm by 5 mm.
- Step-by-step instructions.
- Stands at 1.8 inches tall.
- Sits on a display baseplate.
While there are many characters to choose from in this line, the Pikachu set takes the number one spot for me. It has everything I look for in a Nanoblock set, from the accurate details to the precise instructions to the extra pieces. When I was finished building the model, I could hold a 3D Pikachu in the palm of my hand.
Of course, there are two other models that are also great additions to your collection. I believe they are good enough to add to my list of top building kits.
Also Great
Charmander →
- Killer Feature: Flaming tail design.
- Comes with 110 pieces, including extra blocks.
- Brick sizes start at 4 mm by 5 mm.
- Step-by-step instructions.
- Stands at 1.6 inches tall.
- Sits on a display baseplate.
The Charmander set from the Pokémon collection is also a great choice in my eyes. It is easy to build this 3D character with precise instructions and high-tolerance bricks. My favorite part is the flaming design on the tip of Charmander’s tail, which shows that he is angry and ready for battle.
Eevee →
- Killer Feature: Accurate details of small design.
- Comes with 120 pieces, including extra blocks.
- Brick sizes start at 4 mm by 5 mm.
- Step-by-step instructions.
- Stands at 1.2 inches tall.
- Sits on a display baseplate.
The Eevee set is the smallest of the three products mentioned in this section, but the compact size is why I consider this set to be another great choice. There is something about this small 3D design that catches my eye, from the perfect fit of the blocks to the accurate details of this character.
Lego also offers extra pieces in every set, and you can read my comparison of Nanoblock and Lego in this article.
Buyer’s Guide
You may be wondering how you can choose the best sets for your collection, or maybe you want to ensure you are surprising a loved one with an enjoyable gift. After all, you want to ensure you are getting the best building kit for your money.
In an effort to help you choose your next product, I have put together a buyer’s guide for choosing the best Nanoblock Pokémon kits.
Step One: Difficulty Level
The first thing you need to do is learn about the difficulty level of these sets. Some models are harder to build than others, and you may not want to start with a model that is too difficult to build.
The difficulty level is based on a scale of one to five, with one being the easiest and five being the most difficult. For example, level two indicates that it is still easy with a few challenges. You can find the difficulty level on the packaging of the set.
Step Two: How Many Pieces
Next, you want to check to see how many pieces are included in a set. You may be basing your purchase on the number of pieces rather than the series itself.
Some collections offer sets with as few as 90 pieces or as much as 220 pieces. It is easy to find the number of pieces because it is printed right on the packaging.
Keep in mind that each Nanoblock set comes with extra pieces that are included in the total count. You can use these pieces to change or create your design. The Brick Blogger offers another opinion on the extra pieces, and to quote this blogger,
“Although the real reason of including them is probably because Nanoblock pieces are so tiny it is very easy to lose some – therefore the extra pieces come handy.”
You have learned why Nanoblocks adds extra pieces to a set. Have you ever wondered why Lego sets come with extra pieces? You can find the answer to this Lego mystery here.
Step 3: Age Group
Now, the age group may not make a huge difference if you are just looking to collect a variety of sets. However, it is important to note the age group if you are buying a set for a loved one.
The age group is usually based on the level of difficulty of each set. A set at level one is designed for ages 8 and up, while a set at level three is designed for ages 15 and up.
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1. Pikachu →Building a level two 3D design with less than 150 pieces. My Top Pick |
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2. Charmander →Creating a realistic design, right down to the flaming tail. Also Great |
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3. Eevee →Building a small but detailed Pokémon character. Also Great |
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4. Squirtle →An entry-level Nanoblock Pokémon kit. |
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5. Gengar →An entry-level building kit at 150 pieces. |
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6. Bulbasaur →Building a set with accurate details, from the shade of green to the red eyes. |
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7. Charizard →A level-three building kit, which is designed for ages 15 and up. |
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8. Snorlax →Building a Pokémon character that stands over 2 inches tall. |
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9. Venusaur →Building a Pokémon character with accurate details with 160 pieces. |
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10. Lugia →Building a Pokémon that stands at almost 3 inches tall with almost 200 pieces. |
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11. Mimikyu →Building a 3-inch Pokémon with accurate facial features using 200 pieces. |
It also helps to learn a little about the various sets before adding them to your collection. I have put together a list of various sets and information based on the buyer’s guide.
1. Pikachu
You can use the step-by-step instructions to build a 3D Pikachu that fits in the palm of your hand. It is recommended to create a Pikachu-fueled power plant to help this character naturally store the electricity in its body. The set comes with a display baseplate and extra pieces.
Number of Pieces: 120
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
The design is easy enough for anyone who is just getting started in Nanoblocks, but it is also ideal for those who prefer a challenge when building a model.
UnlistedLeaf showcases the packaging and pieces of this Pikachu set. They also walk you through an actual build of this beloved character. It is perfect for anyone who wants to see how the model is built before getting started on the project.
Buying Options:
Check the full review of Pikachu nanoblock set on my website here.
2. Charmander
Use step-by-step instructions to build a 3D Charmander that stands at 1.6 inches tall. The flame design on the tip of its tail indicates that he is an angry little creature, and he is ready to face his opponents in a battle. This building kit also includes extra pieces and a display baseplate.
Number of Pieces: 110
Ages: 8 and up.
Difficulty: Level 2.
Why I Choose It:
Charmander is another great choice for someone who is not as experienced in building with Nanoblocks, but the most experienced builder can still enjoy this set. In addition, I cannot get over the flame design on the tip of Charmander’s tail.
TheTrunkleton takes the time to build Charmander right before your eyes in this video. They follow the instructions and display the pieces to give you an idea of how to build this model.
Buying Options
Check the full review of Charmander nanoblock set on my website here.
3. Eevee
Eevee is one of the 13 characters included in this Pokémon series. The step-by-step instructions make it easier to build this creature, and the baseplate allows you to display your creation. You can also find extra pieces in this building kit.
Number of Pieces: 130
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
The details are accurate from the tail right down to the eyes and nose. Standing at 1.2 inches tall, I think this 3D character is super adorable.
As you can see, I agree with Concerto101’s opinion of this Eevee model. To quote Concerto101,
“Eevee would definitely be my favourite because of that tuft of fur around its neck and its button nose just makes it so adorable!”
TheTrunkleton shows fans how to build Eevee in this video. They take the time to display the pieces and follow the instructions to ensure an accurate build.
Buying Options:
Check the full review of Eevee nanoblock set on my website here.
4. Squirtle
Use the step-by-step instructions to build the popular character known as Squirtle. This little character stands at 1.5 inches tall, but it is easy to tell it is Squirtle with its accurate details. The set comes with extra pieces, and you can display the finished model on the baseplate.
Number of Pieces: 120
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
This is an entry-level set with everything you need to build this character. You also have the opportunity to build a shell instead of the usual tail, which may be the key to stepping out of your comfort zone.
With experience in building various Pokémon characters, TheTrunkleton builds Squirtle in this video. It is a great way to get an idea of how to build this 3D character with your pieces.
Buying Options:
5. Gengar
Gengar is part of the 13-character Pokémon collection. This 3D model stands at 2 inches tall, which makes him one of the taller characters in this series. It comes with step-by-step instructions, extra pieces and a display baseplate.
Number of Pieces: 150
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
Sometimes, I like to build with more than 120 pieces, and I think Gengar fits this category perfectly. There is a challenge with 150 small pieces, but this building kit still includes an entry-level design.
The UnlistedLeaf shows off the packaging and pieces of this building kit. They also take you through the steps of building this model with these small blocks.
Buying Options:
6. Bulbasaur
The Bulbasaur set includes step-by-step instructions on how to create this detailed character. Standing at almost 2 inches tall, this 3D character can be displayed on the baseplate. You can also find extra pieces in this set.
Number of Pieces: 120
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
I love the accurate details of this model, from the light shade of green on its back to the small red eyes. Precise details are always worth the money in my eyes because you want the character to look as accurate as possible.
Lady KrimZen shows viewers how to build Bulbasaur in this video. This tutorial is longer than other videos, but it provides step-by-step instructions to make it easier to build this character.
Buying Options:
Check the full review of Bulbasaur nanoblock set on my website here.
7. Charizard
This multicolored model is the perfect addition to any Pokemon collection. Charizard stands at 2.2 inches tall, and it can be displayed on the baseplate. With a difficulty level of three, this set is ideal for ages 15 and up. The set comes with extra pieces.
Number of Pieces: 200
Ages: 15 and up
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It:
The Charizard building kit offers more of a challenge to the experienced builder. It is also easy to tell which Pokémon is being displayed on the baseplate because of the accurate details.
The UnlistedLeaf shows viewers how to build Charizard, which is perfect for those who are just starting at level three. They also highlight the packaging and pieces of this building kit.
Buying Options:
8. Snorlax
Snorlax is a large bear-inspired Pokémon, and it is not too difficult to build this cute character. Standing at 2.5 inches tall, this is one of the taller characters of this collection. The Snorlax set includes step-by-step instructions, a display baseplate and extra pieces.
Number of Pieces: 220
Ages: 15 and up
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It:
I wanted to add more level three building kits to the list, and I think Snorlax is the perfect addition to any collection. The character is adorable, and the model is not too easy or difficult to build.
The Sibling Rivalry builds Snorlax right before your eyes in this lengthy video. They take the time to go through the steps of building this model while chatting about various topics.
Buying Options:
9. Venusaur
The Venusaur set comes with step-by-step instructions, extra pieces and a display baseplate. Once it is completed, the model stands at 1.4 inches tall for a small but detailed design.
Number of Pieces: 160
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
This set features everything from bright colors to accurate details. Once it is displayed, it is easy to tell this model is Venusaur. The details are enough to place this model on my list of top building kits.
Nico Suryo shares their gift of the Venusaur building kit, which they received for Christmas. In addition, they show viewers how to build this popular character.
Buying Options:
10. Lugia
The Lugia model stands at 2.7 inches tall, which is taller than other models in this series. It can be placed on a display baseplate to show off your creation. The set also comes with step-by-step instructions and extra pieces.
Number of Pieces: 187
Ages: 8 and up
Difficulty: Level 2
Why I Choose It:
Lugia is taller than other models, but it is still small enough to fit in the palm of my hand. The color scheme is different from other characters in this series, but this is what makes the character itself stand out from other Pokémon.
Toy Farm displays and opens the Lugia packaging to show viewers what they can expect when they purchase this set. The video also shows viewers how to build this eye-catching character.
Buying Options:
11. Mimikyu
The Mimikyu building kit comes with step-by-step instructions, extra pieces and a display baseplate. Mimikyu stands at 3.1″ inches tall, and it is one of the tallest models in this series. However, this 3D character is still small enough to fit in the palm of my hand. It also features details ranging from accurate facial features to the perfect body shape.
Number of Pieces: 200
Ages: 15 and up
Difficulty: Level 3
Why I Choose It:
With a taller height and unique facial features, Mimikyu stands out from other models in the series. The details are accurate enough to fit any collection, and the difficulty level is ideal for those who would prefer a challenge when building.
Virtually Marti uses a speed-build video to show viewers how to build Mimikyu. It is a great option for those who need a visual but do not want to sit through a longer video.
Buying Options:
As you can see, every Nanoblock Pokémon set features accurate details and high-tolerance pieces for a perfect fit. You are going to find extra pieces in each set to ensure you have everything you need to complete your project.
When it is time to go shopping, you can use the product information and buyer’s guide to narrow down your search to the sets that catch your eye.
Other Must-Haves
There are several accessories that are designed to make it easier to build Nanoblock Pokémon characters. The best part is the accessories work with other Nanoblock kits as well. Speaking from my own experience, I feel the following accessories are must-haves for your Nanoblock collection.
Nanoblock Tweezers →
It is not always easy to pick up the small pieces in a Nanoblock kit. With a pair of Nanoblock tweezers, you can easily pick up the pieces you need for your design. The tweezers are lightweight and 4.7 inches tall for easy gripping and building, and they are adorned with the Nanoblock logo.
Nanoblocks Plate Set Building Kit →
If you are building a character or design that does not include a base, it is best to look into a set of plates. You can find a set of two high-quality 20-inch by 20-inch plates to use for multiple kits. The sets also come in handy for creating an original scene that needs an extra plate.
Nanoblock Collection Case Toy →
There is nothing like displaying your Nanoblock Pokémon, house or other design after you have finished building it. When you feel a plate is not enough, you can create a fun, safe display with an acrylic collection case. You can also connect multiple cases to create a bigger display of Nanoblock creations.
Useful Resources
- Why Pokémon still matters 20 years later →
- Pokémon types & type chart →
- 13 rare Pokémon cards that are worth ridiculous money →
- Nanoblock instructions →
Choose The Best Pokémon Nanoblock Set
If you want to choose the best Nanoblock Pokémon sets, it is important to use the buyer’s guide to choose the right set for your collection. Of course, you can also start by checking out the sets included on my list. I would never steer you wrong when choosing the best building kit for yourself or a loved one. Finally, you want to take your time to ensure you are choosing a set that is perfect for your collection.