All About nanoblock
Explore everything about the mini building blocks that are 1/8 the size of traditional building blocks
All About nanoblock
Explore everything about the mini building blocks that are 1/8 the size of traditional building blocks
What Is nanoblock?
nanoblock is the micro-sized building blocks brand created in Tokyo, Japan by Kawada Co. Ltd back in 2008, and best known for its tiny pieces that allow for the building of intricate models.
This building block hobby has some of the smallest building blocks in the world that measures at 4mm by 4mm by 5mm.
Ever since its first sale to consumers back in October 2008, nanoblock has been a huge success in many parts of the world outside of Japan, including its overseas market in South-east Asia like Singapore.
This is a premium, high quality Japanese brand with every model designed in their Tokyo headquarters by the nanoblock experts who have an obsession with attention to details. (Another differentiating point compared to Lego!)
History of nanoblock
nanoblock was first introduced into the Japanese market in 2008 by Kawada. They are currently distributed overseas by local companies, including us in the South-east Asia market – Lancashire Marketing Pte Ltd.
Fun fact – did you know that in 2012, imports of nanoblock reached 31 countries?
Here are some of the awards that Kawada has clinched as a company with nanoblock:
- Outstanding Performance Award in the High Target category at the Japan Toy Awards
- Grand Prize in the High Target category at 2011 Japan Toy Awards
- Brand License Award at the 2012 Licensing of the Year Awards
Being a wonderful hobby, toy, and collectible gift for anyone who’s between 8 and 80 years, nanoblock then slowly became popular for those who seek micro-sized building blocks when it comes to building and constructing blocks.
Their educational flair and attention to details for every series were also reasons why people have outgrown their kid-sized building blocks options and went for them instead.
What Makes nanoblock Different From Lego?
Although they may look similar to each other in design, nanoblock and Lego are both very different building blocks, especially in terms of their respective dimensions.
Forming the foundation of display models, both brands make up these display-worthy models.
On one hand, nanoblock is a micro-sized building block that’s designed for detailed, display models, while on the other hand, Lego pieces – the larger, kid-friendly bricks – are made for play and creativity, and family-friendly fun!
There’s also the differing building experience that builders get when it comes to building out and completing sets from respective brands!
How Does nanoblock Work?
nanoblock works by using interlocking mechanism that allows tiny interlocking building blocks to create detailed, miniature models that replicate their real-life model counterparts.
Unlike larger building blocks like Lego, which has a tube system, nanoblock have a double-ridged backing system that provides a more secure connection. (This explains why nanoblock can be much sturdier and more rigid than expected when it’s completed with building.)
The building process of nanoblock is much more sophisticated than building Lego bricks, mainly due to its intricate, precise details to attention. nanoblock models are often built layer by layer from the bottom up, by following instructions that can be challenging due to the intricate layout.
The sequence of building out the figurines or models would highly depend on the builders, with some preferring to construct sections like the head and body first, while some would prefer to assemble the body of the model first.
Due to their small size and highly-detailed nature, building with nanoblock requires patience and precision, and also the use of specialised tools such as nanoblock tweezers.
Who is nanoblock Most Suitable For?
nanoblock is best suited for the following people who enjoy detailed, hands-on building activities, such as this demographic of people:
- Older kids
- Teens
- Adults
Because the bricks are very small and precise, the models require patience and precision to build. As such, nanoblock appeals to a certain group of individuals:
- Teens and adults looking for a relaxing, focus-driven hobby
- Collectors who enjoy display-worthy miniature models
- Fans of intricate builds that resemble their real-life counterparts such as landmarks, animals, or Pokemon
- People who enjoy a challenge and fine motor skill activities
- Gift buyer who wants something fun, unique, and educational
- Creative hobbyists who like to design and display their own micro-builds
Benefits of Playing nanoblock
Tiny bricks help improve finger dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and precision
nanoblock requires careful attention, making it a great activity for improving patience and mental focus.
Figuring out how each tiny piece fits together strengthens logical thinking and step by step planning.
Beyond official sets, builders can create their own custom models, encouraging imagination and design skills.
nanoblock sets are unique, collectible, and enjoyable across age groups – ideal for birthdays, Christmas, or corporate gifts.
Challenging sets teach perserverance and the satisfaction of completing something intricate.
Older children develop cognitive and fine motor skills, while adults enjoy the relaxing, puzzle-like nature of the builds.
Types of nanoblock Sets
nanoblock sets come in several categories, each created for a segment of users who have different interests, difficulty levels, and display styles.
Mini Collection Series
- The most popular and entry-level series
- Small, quick builds
- Some of the building block models from this series include animals, food, objects, and simple landmarks
- Ideal for somone who is new to building, kids, or even collectors
Sights to See Series
- Models of famous landmarks and world attractions
- Examples of these models include Eiffel Tower, Tokyo Tower, Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal, and more.
- The models from this series are more detailed than the Mini Collection Series
Pokemon Series
This popular licensed collection includes:
- Individual Pokemon such as Pikachu, Eevee, and Charmander
- Blind Boxes (Each containing 6-8 random designs)
- Special editions and larger Pokemon builds
- Perfect for both collectors and fans
Character Series (Licensed)
Includes popular collaborations with TV Show and movie characters, such as:
- Hello Kitty
- Sonic
- Sanrio
- Other Japanese or pop culture characters such as Miku
Musical Instruments Series
- Miniature musical instrument replicas
- Examples include piano, violin, guitar, drum sets, and many more
- Eye-catching as display sets and perfect as gifts for music lovers
Architecture & Art Series
- Highly detailed models that focus on architectures and structural aesthetics
- World famous landmarks and creative sculptures are also included
nanoblock Plus Series
Additional types of nanoblock that are less common, including:
- nanoblock Motion
- nanoblock Plus: larger-sized blocks for younger builders, which are more kid-friendly
nanoblock Deluxe Series (Large Sets)
- Bigger, more complex builds
- Higher piece count, commonly found with at least 500 – 600 pieces
- Great fpor display and experienced builders who are looking for more challenging building sets
- Includes advanced architecture, characters such as Pokemon, and more complex structures
How Difficult Is It to Build With nanoblock
The difficulty of building nanoblock sets can range and differ, depending on the building set you choose. Building play sets with nanoblock can be easy for beginners, yet challenging for advanced hobbyists as you choose the difficulty level of the nanoblock models that you want to build.
Each model comes with a building difficulty rating from Level 1 to Level 5, making it easy to pick a building set that matches your skill level, or your child’s level.
Level 1-2: Beginner-Friendly
- Simple building models that require fewer pieces
- Great for first-timers, older kids, and casual hobbyists
- Building it usually take 20 to 60 minutes
Level 3: Intermediate
- Moderate number of building pieces
- Requires more patience and attention to details with the blocks placement
- Building it usually takes 1 to 2 hours
Level 4-5: Advanced
- High details and many micro-sized pieces
- Best for teens, adults, and experienced builders
- Building these models can take several hours and require more precision
