The 11 best wooden train set brands
Learning Curve, BRIO and TOMY lead our ranking of 11 wooden train set brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Wooden Train Set brands, ranked
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1
Learning Curve
Learning Curve has produced wooden railway sets, including Thomas and Friends wooden track and engine lines made under license.
Website: thelearningcurveshop.com |Brands like Learning Curve
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
BRIO
BRIO is known for wooden railway sets with track, bridges, and engines, sold worldwide for young children.
Website: brio.us |Brands like BRIO
Popularity 5.8/10
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3
TOMY
TOMY makes Plarail and Thomas-themed toy train sets, mainly plastic and die-cast rather than wood.
Website: us.tomy.com |Brands like TOMY
Popularity 2.9/10
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4
Thomas and Friends
Thomas and Friends wooden railway sets feature the franchise's engine characters, produced under license by toy makers.
Website: thomasonline.co.nz |Brands like Thomas and Friends
Popularity 2.6/10
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5
Melissa & Doug
Melissa and Doug sells wooden train sets with track pieces and engines aimed at preschool play.
Website: melissaanddoug.com |Brands like Melissa & Doug
Popularity 1.5/10
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6
Lionel
Lionel makes electric model train sets, mostly metal and plastic rolling stock rather than wooden toy trains.
Website: lionel.com |Brands like Lionel
Popularity 0.9/10
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7
Kidkraft
KidKraft makes wooden play furniture and wooden toy train sets with track and figures for young children.
Website: kidkraft.com |Brands like Kidkraft
Popularity 0.9/10
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8
Roundhouse
The Roundhouse is a meticulously restored edifice in Chippendale's center. The Age of Steam Museum and Australia's sole public miniature gauge railway are located here. It's all about trains, from its heritage-listed turntable to its collection of steam locomotives. It's a living, breathing Roundhouse where skilled restorers bring the past back to life. It's more than just a museum and a collection; it's a living, breathing Roundhouse where skilled restoration professionals work on vintage trains, preserving them for future generations.
Website: ageofsteamroundhouse.org |Brands like Roundhouse
Popularity 0.7/10
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9
PlanToys
PlanToys makes eco-friendly wooden toys, including wooden train sets and track pieces.
Website: plantoys.com |Brands like PlanToys
Popularity 0.7/10
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10
Hape
Hape makes wooden toy train sets with track, bridges, and vehicles designed for early childhood play.
Website: hape.com |Brands like Hape
Popularity 0.5/10
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11
Early Learning Centre
Early Learning Centre is a UK toy brand that has sold wooden train sets and track for young children.
Website: elc.co.uk |Brands like Early Learning Centre
Popularity 0.5/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Learning Curve | thelearningcurveshop.com | /thelearningcurvemalta | thelearningcurvemalta | – | – |
| BRIO | brio.us | /BRIOPlay | brioplay | – | BrioAB |
| TOMY | us.tomy.com | /tomy.toy | tomy_toy | @tomy_toy | – |
| Thomas and Friends | thomasonline.co.nz | /ThomasOnlineNZ | thomasonlinenz | – | – |
| Melissa & Doug | melissaanddoug.com | /MelissaAndDoug | melissaanddougtoys | @MelissaAndDoug | melissaanddoug |
| Lionel | lionel.com | /Lionel-Trains | lionel_trains | @Lionel_Trains | LionelModelTrains |
| Kidkraft | kidkraft.com | /kidkraft | kidkrafttoys | @kidkraft | KidKraftBrand |
| Roundhouse | ageofsteamroundhouse.org | /ageofsteamroundhouse | ageofsteam | @AoSRoundhouse | AgeOfSteamRoundhouse |
| PlanToys | plantoys.com | – | – | – | – |
| Hape | hape.com | /Hape-Toys-UK-1588728128113238 | hapetoys_usa | @hapetoys | hapetoys |
Wooden Train Sets Buying Guide
Wooden train sets have been a beloved toy for generations. They are not only fun to play with, but they also help to promote creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills through building and constructing different track layouts. However, with so many wooden train sets available in the market, the task of choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This buying guide will help simplify the process by providing you with the essential factors to consider before making your purchase.
Age Range
The age range of the wooden train set is the first thing to consider before making a purchase. Train sets designed for toddlers typically have larger pieces and simplistic designs, while sets designed for older children may have smaller pieces and more intricate designs. It is important to choose a train set that is age-appropriate for the child who will be playing with it. This information is often printed on the packaging or in the product description.
Size of the Train Set
The size of the train set is another significant factor to consider. Wooden train sets come in a range of sizes, from small starter sets to larger train sets, with numerous pieces and accessories. If you have limited space, a smaller set may be more suitable. However, if space is abundant, a larger set may be a more versatile and long-lasting investment. It is worth noting that many sets can be combined with additional pieces to expand the collection over time.
Brand and Quality
When shopping for wooden train sets, it is essential to consider the brand and quality. Not all wooden train sets are created equal, and some are of a higher quality than others. A reputable brand that has been in business for a while is more likely to produce quality sets that are durable, safe, and well made. Avoid sets made from inferior materials, as they are more likely to break easily, and may even pose a safety risk to children.
Design and Style
Design and style are subjective and depend on personal taste. Wooden train sets come in a variety of themes, such as traditional train sets, circus train sets, animal train sets, and even fairy tale train sets. Some sets include additional accessories like bridges, tunnels, and stations, which add to the play experience. When choosing a train set, consider the child's interests and tastes, as well as how the set will fit into their play environment.
Compatibility
If you are planning to add more trains and accessories to the set over time, it is essential to consider compatibility. Not all wooden train sets are compatible with each other, so it is crucial to choose a set that will work with others of the same size and brand. Some sets also have unique features, such as magnetized trains that attach to each other, which may not be compatible with other sets. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions or consult with an expert in the store to ensure that you choose a compatible set.
Safety Features
When buying a wooden train set, it is crucial to consider safety features. Ensure that the set complies with safety regulations and has no sharp edges or small parts that can pose a choking hazard. The paint and finish on the wooden pieces should also be non-toxic and lead-free. Additionally, sets designed for toddlers should have larger pieces and not include any small parts that a child could accidentally swallow.
Price
The price of a wooden train set can vary widely, from inexpensive starter sets to high-end sets with numerous pieces and accessories. It is important to choose a set that fits within your budget while still providing a high-quality play experience. Keep in mind that while more expensive sets may have additional accessories and features, a cheaper set may still meet your child's needs.
Conclusion
Wooden train sets are a classic toy that children love to play with, and choosing the right set can provide years of enjoyment. Consider the age range, size, brand and quality, design and style, compatibility, safety features, and price before making your purchase. With these factors in mind, you can choose a wooden train set that will be a hit with your child and provide endless hours of imaginative play.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips that can help you choose the right wooden train set for your child:
- Read reviews: Before making your purchase, read online reviews of the train set you are considering. Reviews from other parents can provide valuable insight into the quality, durability, and play value of the set.
- Consider storage: Wooden train sets can take up a lot of space, so it is important to consider how you will store the set when it is not in use. Some sets come with storage solutions, while others may require you to purchase storage separately.
- Budget for additional pieces: While starter sets can be an affordable option, keep in mind that your child may want to expand the set over time. Budgeting for additional pieces or accessories can help you avoid disappointment down the line.
- Think about the environment: Wooden train sets are designed for indoor use, so if you plan to use the set outdoors, make sure to choose a set that is weather-resistant and made from materials that can withstand the elements.
Benefits of Playing with Wooden Train Sets
Playing with wooden train sets offers numerous benefits for children, including:- Fostering creativity and imagination: Train sets allow children to create their own stories, scenarios, and worlds, which helps to develop their imaginative and creative skills.
- Improving problem-solving skills: Train sets require children to plan and think strategically when designing and building tracks, which can improve their problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning abilities.
- Encouraging social skills: Train sets can be played with alone or with others, which helps to develop social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and communication.
- Improving fine motor skills: Playing with train sets involves manipulating small pieces and putting them together, which can improve children's fine motor skills.
- Promoting STEM learning: Playing with train sets can introduce children to basic concepts of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), such as cause and effect, gravity, and motion.
