Pick a Brick vs. BrickLink: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying LEGO® Parts

Struggling to find the right LEGO® pieces for your custom builds, missing parts, or next big project? You've likely encountered the two major players: LEGO® Pick a Brick and BrickLink. As we source 2-3 tons of LEGO parts every month, we have extensive experience in selecting the right platforms to find precisely the parts needed. But which platform is truly the best fit for your specific needs?

Let's dive into a clear comparison to help you choose wisely.

What is LEGO® Pick a Brick?

LEGO® Pick a Brick is the official online store where you can purchase individual LEGO elements directly from The LEGO Group. It's ideal when you need brand-new, genuine pieces for current sets or basic building.

Pros:

• Guaranteed Quality: All parts are 100% brand-new, genuine LEGO elements.

• Reliable Service: Direct shipping and customer support from LEGO ensure a smooth experience.

• Newer & Common Parts: Excellent for sourcing readily available pieces and those from current production.

Cons:

• Slower Delivery: "Standard" parts, often shipped from Europe, can have significantly longer lead times.

• Higher Costs: Generally higher prices per piece, particularly for unique, rare, or retired elements.

• Limited Selection: The inventory focuses on currently produced parts, offering less variety than third-party sites.

What is BrickLink?

BrickLink stands as the world's largest online marketplace for LEGO parts, connecting independent sellers with builders worldwide. This is your go-to for finding virtually every LEGO piece ever made, from brand-new to vintage and retired elements.

Pros:

• Unparalleled Variety: Access a vast inventory, including rare, retired, and highly sought-after pieces not available elsewhere.

• Competitive Pricing: You'll often find lower prices, especially on pre-owned parts, which can be a significant cost-saver.

• Bulk & Specialized Orders: Many stores offer custom bulk ordering and specialized part selections.

• Global Access: A wide network of international sellers provides diverse inventory and shipping flexibility.

Cons:

• Variable Quality: Part quality can differ, especially for used items. Always review seller ratings and descriptions carefully.

• Complex User Experience: The platform's extensive features can be daunting for new users due to individual storefronts and varied processes.

• Store-Specific Policies: Each seller has unique terms, including minimum order values and diverse shipping costs, requiring more attention.

So… Which One Should You Choose?

Use this quick guide to determine the best option for your LEGO part needs:

Need / Priority	Best Option
Brand-new, current parts	LEGO Pick a Brick
Rare, retired, or vintage	BrickLink
Bulk orders	BrickLink
Simplicity & direct trust	LEGO Pick a Brick
Lowest overall price	BrickLink
Full LEGO customer support	LEGO Pick a Brick

Our Take at DD Bricks

At DD Bricks, we strategically leverage both platforms to meet diverse project demands. We use LEGO Pick a Brick for guaranteed new elements, and BrickLink (including our own store!) for its vast variety, scale, and often quicker access to specific parts.

This hybrid approach allows us to create our custom sets—from corporate gifts and team-building kits to educational bundles—using a blend of new and sustainably sourced used parts. This ensures optimal quality, minimizes waste, and provides the best value without compromising on the fun.

🔄 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I trust BrickLink sellers?

A: Yes, absolutely. Similar to platforms like eBay, BrickLink has a robust seller rating system. Always look for sellers with "99%+ positive feedback" and a history of clear communication to ensure a reliable transaction.

Q: Why are some parts cheaper on BrickLink?

A: Prices on BrickLink are often lower because many sellers offer pre-owned parts that are still in excellent condition. Additionally, you can find overstock or retired parts no longer available directly from LEGO, where market dynamics dictate pricing.

Q: Does LEGO Pick a Brick ever offer sales or discounts?

A: Sales on LEGO Pick a Brick are rare. The LEGO Group typically maintains stable pricing for individual elements. In contrast, BrickLink prices are more dynamic, reflecting current market demand and supply.

Q: Is it advisable to mix orders from both Pick a Brick and BrickLink?

A: Yes, this is a common and highly effective strategy! Many experienced builders and small businesses regularly combine orders from both platforms to optimize for cost, delivery speed, and part availability for their projects.

Ready to source LEGO® parts for your next project?

👉 Contact DD Bricks today! We're here to help you find the best—and most enjoyable—solution for your building needs.

And by the way, if you're looking for an outstanding, one-of-a-kind corporate gift, you've come to the right place!