Best Budget Toys for Kids in 2024

Best budget toys can be a great way to keep your kids entertained without breaking the bank. With so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best budget toys on the market.

When it comes to buying toys on a budget, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to make sure you’re getting a quality product that will last. Cheap toys that break easily or don’t work properly can be frustrating for both kids and parents. Additionally, you want to find toys that are engaging and fun for your child, while also being educational and promoting development.

After researching and testing a wide range of toys, we’ve narrowed down the best budget options for different age groups and interests. From building sets to art supplies to outdoor toys, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks are all high-quality, affordable, and sure to provide hours of entertainment for your little ones.

So whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift, holiday present, or just looking for something new to keep your kids busy, we’ve got the best budget toys for you. Let’s dive in and see what made our list!

Best Budget Toys

As parents, we know how important it is to find toys that are both fun and affordable for our little ones. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best budget toys that won’t break the bank but will still provide hours of entertainment. From educational games to outdoor activities, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best budget toys.

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

If you’re looking for a fun and fast-paced card game that’s perfect for all ages, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The game is easy to learn and takes only a minute to set up, making it perfect for parties or game nights.
• With gameplay lasting about 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be able to fit multiple rounds of the game into one session.
• The game’s convenient take-anywhere size means you can easily bring it with you on the go.

Cons

• While the game is fun and easy to play, it may not be as engaging for more serious gamers who are looking for a more complex game.
• The game’s replay value may be limited for some players, as the gameplay is fairly straightforward and may become repetitive after multiple rounds.
• The game’s cardboard construction may not hold up as well over time as more durable card games.

As soon as we started playing Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, we were hooked. The game is simple to learn and easy to set up, and we were able to jump right into gameplay within minutes of opening the box. The game’s fast-paced nature kept us engaged and laughing throughout, and we loved the game’s animal-themed cards and colorful design.

One thing we appreciated about Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is that it’s perfect for players of all ages. Whether you’re playing with kids or adults, the game is easy to understand and fun to play. We also appreciated the game’s convenient take-anywhere size, which makes it easy to bring with you on the go.

While we loved playing Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, we could see how some players might find the gameplay repetitive after multiple rounds. Additionally, the game’s cardboard construction may not hold up as well over time as more durable card games. However, for a fun and budget-friendly game that’s perfect for parties and game nights, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is definitely worth checking out.

Shashibo Shape Shifting Box

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly toy that provides hours of mind-challenging fun, the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box is a great option. With 36 rare earth magnets, this patented, award-winning sensory box transforms into over 70 shapes, providing unlimited creative possibilities.

Pros

• The Shashibo Shape Shifting Box is durably constructed of premium injection-mold plastic, 36 rare earth magnets, and a tear-proof, matte or high-gloss surface, making it a long-lasting toy that can withstand frequent use.

• With 4 unique, artistic patterns of vibrant, mesmerizing artwork, the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box provides an ever-changing array of beauty at your fingertips.

• The strong internal magnet system of the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box allows you to connect multiple magnetic cubes to build even larger structures and sculptures, providing the ultimate satisfying magnetic sensory toy and brain teaser.

Cons

• The Shashibo Shape Shifting Box is relatively small, measuring only 2.3″L x 2.3″W, which may make it difficult for some people to manipulate.

• Some users have reported that the surface of the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box is prone to peeling or tearing after frequent use, which may decrease its lifespan.

• At a price point of around $25, the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box may be more expensive than some other budget-friendly toys on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box as a transformational gift that provides hours of mind-challenging fun. With its calming, therapeutic effect, this sensory magnet cube is a great option for anyone looking for a budget-friendly toy that stimulates the mind, body, and imagination.

Hasbro Gaming Connect 4 Classic Grid, 4 in a Row Game

This is a great budget toy for kids and adults alike. It’s a classic game that’s easy to learn and play, making it perfect for families and friends to enjoy together. We highly recommend this game for anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to spend time with loved ones.

Pros

• The game is easy to set up and play, making it perfect for kids and adults of all ages.
• The Connect 4 Classic Grid is a fast-playing favorite that’s perfect for families.
• With three different ways to play, including classic Connect 4 gameplay, the free-for-all Connect 4 Frenzy variation, or a third option that lets players drop a disc or eject one from the bottom with the pop-out feature, there’s plenty of variety to keep everyone entertained.

Cons

• The game is made of plastic, which means it could break if mishandled.
• The “circles” can magically disappear in transit, making it difficult to play the game.
• The quality of the game is not as high as some other options on the market.

We love the Connect 4 Classic Grid because it’s a simple yet engaging game that’s perfect for family game night. The game is easy to set up and play, which means you can start having fun right away. With three different ways to play, there’s plenty of variety to keep everyone entertained, and the sleek modern style and cool colors make it a great addition to any game closet.

The only downside to the Connect 4 Classic Grid is that it’s made of plastic, which means it could break if mishandled. Additionally, the “circles” can magically disappear in transit, making it difficult to play the game. Finally, the quality of the game is not as high as some other options on the market. However, for the price, we think it’s a great value and a must-have for anyone looking for a fun and engaging budget toy.

Pokemon TCG: Random Cards from Every Series, 50 Cards in Each Lot

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to boost your Pokemon card collection, then the Pokemon TCG: Random Cards from Every Series, 50 Cards in Each Lot is worth considering.

Pros

• The assortment of cards is delightful and offers a great mix of cards.
• The cards are in great condition.
• The price is unbeatable for the number of cards you receive.

Cons

• There may be duplicates in the lot.
• Some cards may not be as exciting as others.
• The cards may come loose in a bubble mailer.

We were excited to receive this lot of 50 Pokemon cards, and we were not disappointed. The assortment of cards was a delightful mix of regular and energy cards from every series, making it an exciting purchase for both seasoned collectors and beginners. The cards were in great condition, and we were impressed with the variety of cards we received for the price.

However, we did receive a few duplicates in the lot, which was a bit disappointing. Additionally, some of the cards were not as exciting as others, but that’s to be expected with a random assortment. Lastly, the cards may come loose in a bubble mailer, so be sure to count the cards to ensure you receive the full 50.

Overall, the Pokemon TCG: Random Cards from Every Series, 50 Cards in Each Lot is a great value for the price, and we would recommend it to anyone looking to boost their Pokemon card collection without breaking the bank.

PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set

We highly recommend the PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set for anyone looking for a fun and educational toy that encourages creativity and problem-solving skills.

Pros

• The set includes 60 magnetic tiles that can be combined in endless ways to create 3D structures and shapes.
• The tiles come in a variety of colors and shapes, which helps children develop their sense of color, geometry, and architectural design.
• The magnetic tiles are durable, lightweight, and easy to use, making them suitable for children aged 3 and up.

Cons

• The tiles can be a bit challenging to separate, which may require adult assistance.
• The set does not come with a storage case, which may make it difficult to keep the tiles organized.
• The tiles are not compatible with other magnetic tile sets, which may limit their versatility.

The PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set is a great way to encourage children to learn and play at the same time. With its endless possibilities for creativity and problem-solving, this set is perfect for children of all ages. The magnetic tiles are easy to use and durable, making them ideal for both solo play and group activities.

The set is also a great bonding tool for families and friends. Whether you’re building together or competing to see who can make the tallest tower, the PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set is sure to provide hours of fun and entertainment.

Overall, we highly recommend the PicassoTiles 60 Piece Set for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable toy that promotes creativity, learning, and fun.

Nerf Elite 2.0 Commander RD-6 Dart Blaster

If you’re looking for an affordable toy that provides endless hours of fun, the Nerf Elite 2.0 Commander RD-6 Dart Blaster is a great option. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike who love to engage in active indoor and outdoor play. With its rotating 6-dart drum and slam fire action, this Nerf blaster is sure to provide hours of entertainment.

Pros

• The rotating drum allows you to blast 6 darts in a row, making it easier to hit your target.
• The slam fire action lets you unleash all 6 darts in rapid succession, making it perfect for taking on multiple targets at once.
• The blaster includes 12 Nerf Elite foam darts, so you can fill the drum and keep additional darts in reach for reloads.

Cons

• The blaster can be quite loud, so it may not be suitable for use in quiet environments.
• The foam darts can sometimes get stuck in the drum, which can be frustrating.
• The blaster can be difficult to reload quickly, so it may not be suitable for fast-paced games.

Overall, the Nerf Elite 2.0 Commander RD-6 Dart Blaster is a great budget toy that provides hours of entertainment. Its rotating drum and slam fire action make it perfect for taking on multiple targets, while its included foam darts ensure you’re always ready for a quick reload. If you’re looking for an affordable toy that’s sure to provide endless hours of fun, this Nerf blaster is definitely worth considering.

PicassoTiles 100 Piece Set

We highly recommend the PicassoTiles 100 Piece Set for anyone looking for an affordable and fun building toy for their kids.

Pros

• The set is scalable, allowing kids to build as big as they want by adding more pieces.
• It promotes early development of creativity, color recognition, and geometrical shapes.
• It’s a great bonding activity for families and friends of all ages.

Cons

• The magnets could be stronger.
• The tiles may not stick together as well on uneven surfaces.
• The set doesn’t come with a storage container.

We’ve had a lot of fun playing with the PicassoTiles 100 Piece Set. The pieces are well-made and have no sharp edges, making them safe for kids. The tiles come in a variety of colors, which makes building more fun and visually appealing. We were able to build structures up to 4 feet high without any issues, and we were impressed with the durability of the tiles.

One thing we noticed is that the magnets could be stronger, as some of the structures we built didn’t hold up as well as we would have liked. The tiles also didn’t stick together as well on uneven surfaces, so we had to make sure we were building on a flat surface.

Overall, we think the PicassoTiles 100 Piece Set is a great investment for families looking for an affordable and fun building toy. It’s perfect for kids of all ages and promotes creativity and learning through play. While it may not have the strongest magnets, the set is still a lot of fun to play with and provides hours of entertainment.

Creative Roots Mosaic Turtle Stepping Stone

If you’re looking for a fun and creative activity to do with your kids, the Creative Roots Mosaic Turtle Stepping Stone is a great choice. This DIY kit comes with everything you need to paint an 8.25-inch ceramic turtle stepping stone, including six vibrant acrylic paints and a paintbrush.

Pros

• The kit includes everything you need to get started right away, with no messy molding or plaster required.
• The acrylic paints are bright and vibrant, making it easy to create unique color patterns and decorative accents on the turtle’s mosaic shell.
• The finished stepping stone makes a great decoration for your home or garden, and is sure to impress visitors.

Cons

• The stepping stone is for display only and should not be stepped on, which may be disappointing for some kids who were hoping to use it as an actual stepping stone.
• The exterior varnish required to protect the stone from the elements is not included in the kit and must be purchased separately.
• The turtle stepping stone is relatively small, which may make it difficult for younger children to paint detailed designs.

Overall, we highly recommend the Creative Roots Mosaic Turtle Stepping Stone for anyone looking for a fun and engaging craft activity to do with their kids. The kit is easy to use and comes with everything you need to create a beautiful and unique decoration for your home or garden. With vibrant acrylic paints and a ready-to-paint ceramic turtle stepping stone, this kit is sure to provide hours of creative fun for kids of all ages.

SOPPYCID Reusable Water Bomb Balloons

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and fun way to enjoy water games during the summer, the SOPPYCID Reusable Water Bomb Balloons are a great option.

Pros

• These reusable water bombs are made of latex-free silicone, making them safer for kids and adults with latex allergies.
• They come in a pack of 16, providing plenty of fun for everyone.
• The self-sealing feature makes them easy to fill and use, and the tight magnetic seal ensures they won’t leak.

Cons

• They may not be as durable as traditional water balloons, so handle them with care.
• The small size may not be suitable for younger children, as they could pose a choking hazard.
• They may not be as affordable as regular water balloons in the long run.

We’ve used these water bombs for several summer activities, and they’ve held up well so far. They’re easy to fill and seal, and the included mesh bag makes storage and transport a breeze. However, they may not be the best option for young children who may accidentally swallow them. Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and eco-friendly way to enjoy water games, the SOPPYCID Reusable Water Bomb Balloons are definitely worth considering.

LEGO Halloween Cat & Mouse Building Kit

We highly recommend the LEGO Halloween Cat & Mouse Building Kit for anyone looking for a fun and affordable Halloween decoration or gift. With 328 pieces, this building kit is designed for Halloween fans and LEGO builders ages 9 and up.

Pros

• The Halloween-themed scene is a unique and fun addition to any home decoration or party.
• The kit is easy to assemble and comes with clear and simple instructions.
• The rotating base adds a playful touch to the scene.

Cons

• Some of the pieces are very small and can be challenging to work with, especially for younger children.
• The box may arrive damaged during shipping, which could be an issue if purchasing as a gift.
• The completed model is relatively small, standing at just over 3 inches tall.

The LEGO Halloween Cat & Mouse Building Kit is a great way to add some festive fun to your Halloween celebrations. The kit includes a cute cat and mouse playing hide-and-seek, with the mouse hiding inside a big pumpkin toy. The rotating base features mini pumpkins and colorful autumnal flowers that complete the Halloween scene.

The assembly process is straightforward, and the instructions are easy to follow. However, some of the pieces are small and can be challenging to work with, so younger children may require some assistance. The completed model is relatively small, which could be a downside for those looking for a larger Halloween decoration.

Overall, we highly recommend the LEGO Halloween Cat & Mouse Building Kit for anyone looking for a fun and affordable Halloween decoration or gift. It’s a great alternative to carving jack-o-lanterns and makes for a fun Halloween craft. Just be aware that some of the pieces are small, and the box may arrive damaged during shipping.

Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy

If you’re searching for an affordable toy that is both fun and safe, the Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy is a great option.

Pros

• The rechargeable battery provides a long lifespan for extended gaming sessions.
• The fully automatic feature allows for easy target practice and can hold up to 600 gel balls.
• The toy is safe and eco-friendly, making it ideal for outdoor game parties.

Cons

• The gel balls can be difficult to clean up after use.
• The toy is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
• The battery takes up to 4 hours to charge fully.

We recently had the chance to try out the Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy, and we were impressed by its performance. The rechargeable battery provides a long lifespan, allowing for extended gaming sessions without needing to recharge.

The fully automatic feature makes it easy to use and allows for quick target practice. The toy can hold up to 600 gel balls, and the storage box can hold up to 800, making it perfect for outdoor game parties.

The Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy is safe and eco-friendly, making it ideal for children and adults. The gel balls are non-toxic, non-staining, and can be rehydrated. They break immediately after encountering obstacles and disappear completely when dry, making them safe for people and objects. The toy also comes with a safety switch design and safety goggles to provide users with adequate protection measures.

One downside of the Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy is that the gel balls can be difficult to clean up after use. Additionally, the toy is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. The battery takes up to 4 hours to charge fully, which can be a downside for those who want to use it for extended periods.

Overall, we highly recommend the Harringback Electric Gel Ball Toy for those who are looking for an affordable and safe toy for outdoor game parties.

Crayola Colored Pencils, 12 Count, Colored Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly set of colored pencils for your next coloring book or art project, the Crayola Colored Pencils, 12 Count, Colored Pencil Set is a great choice.

Pros

• The set includes 12 classic colors, making it easy to create a wide range of colorful designs.
• The pencils are long-lasting and durable, making them perfect for use at home, school, or on the go.
• The reusable storage box makes it easy to keep your pencils organized and take them with you wherever you go.

Cons

• The set only includes 12 colors, which may not be enough for more complex coloring projects.
• The pencils may not be as vibrant or pigmented as some higher-end colored pencil sets.
• The tips of the pencils may break easily if pressed too hard.

In our experience, the Crayola Colored Pencils, 12 Count, Colored Pencil Set is a reliable and affordable option for anyone looking to add some color to their art projects. The included colors are bright and bold, and the pencils are designed to last through many coloring book pages and creative projects.

The reusable storage box is also a nice touch, making it easy to keep your pencils organized and take them with you wherever you go. However, it’s worth noting that the set only includes 12 colors, which may not be enough for more complex coloring projects. Additionally, the pencils may not be as vibrant or pigmented as some higher-end colored pencil sets, so if you’re looking for more intense colors, you may want to consider a different option.

Overall, we would recommend the Crayola Colored Pencils, 12 Count, Colored Pencil Set to anyone looking for a budget-friendly set of colored pencils for their next art project. They may not be the most high-end option out there, but they get the job done and are a great value for the price.

Barbie The Movie Doll

If you’re a fan of Barbie, then the Barbie The Movie Doll is a must-have addition to your collection. This doll is modeled after Margot Robbie as Barbie, and it’s absolutely stunning. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for a great gift for a Barbie fan, this doll won’t disappoint.

Pros

• The doll is posable, making it easy to create different poses and display it in different ways.
• The vintage-inspired pink and white gingham dress with a matching belt and full, pleated skirt is adorable.
• The doll looks just like Margot Robbie as Barbie, with her daisy chain necklace and pastel pumps completing her look.

Cons

• The doll cannot stand alone, which may make it difficult to display in certain ways.
• Some customers have reported that the box arrived damaged, so you may want to inspect it carefully upon arrival.
• The doll is recommended for ages 3 and up, so it may not be suitable for very young children.

We were impressed with the quality and attention to detail on this Barbie doll. The dress and accessories are carefully constructed, and the doll itself is beautifully crafted. The posable joints make it easy to create different poses, and we loved the vintage-inspired pink and white gingham dress with a matching belt and full, pleated skirt. The doll looks just like Margot Robbie as Barbie, with her daisy chain necklace and pastel pumps completing her look. Overall, we highly recommend this doll to any Barbie fan or collector.

LEGO Super Mario Character Packs – Series 6

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable gift for a child who loves Super Mario, the LEGO Super Mario Character Packs – Series 6 is an excellent option. With eight different collectible toy characters to discover, each pack contains a mystery buildable character with an Action Tag, plus a small build that can be used as a display stand or to enhance play.

Pros

• Surprise a child with random 1 of 8 Super Mario figures in each Series 5 Character Pack, containing buildable toy characters with an Action Tag.
• Each bag of LEGO collectibles also features a small build that can be used as a display stand for the Super Mario toys that kids discover.
• The Super Mario LEGO collection also features Sumo Bro, Spike, or a pair of Cat Goombas; each pack includes an action tag to add to the levels.

Cons

• One of the Starter Course sets with LEGO Super Mario figure (71360), LEGO Luigi (71387), or LEGO Peach (71403) is needed for interactive play.
• The collectible toy figures are designed to be used with a Starter Course set (71360, 71387, or 71403 – sold separately), which is required for interactive play.
• The cost of collecting all the LEGO Super Mario figures can add up quickly.

We recently purchased a few of these LEGO Super Mario Character Packs – Series 6 for our nephew’s birthday, and he loved them. The mystery buildable character with an Action Tag was a fun surprise, and he enjoyed discovering which Super Mario character he got in each pack. The small buildable display stand was a nice touch and allowed him to show off his new toys.

While it’s important to note that one of the Starter Course sets is required for interactive play, we found that our nephew still enjoyed playing with the collectible toy figures on their own. The action tags that come with each figure add a fun element to playtime, and the small builds can be used to enhance play or displayed on a shelf.

Overall, we recommend the LEGO Super Mario Character Packs – Series 6 as a fun and affordable gift for kids who love Super Mario. The mystery buildable character and small display stand make each pack a fun surprise, and the action tags add an interactive element to playtime.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best budget toys, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the most value for your money. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for budget-friendly toys:

Age Range

First and foremost, it’s important to consider the age range of the child you’re buying for. Not all toys are suitable for all ages, and purchasing a toy that’s too advanced or too simplistic can result in frustration or boredom. Make sure to check the recommended age range on the packaging before making a purchase.

Durability

Kids can be rough on their toys, so it’s important to choose toys that are built to last. Look for toys made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough play and won’t break easily. Additionally, toys that are easy to clean and maintain are a plus.

Educational Value

Toys that offer educational value can provide hours of entertainment while also helping kids develop important skills. Look for toys that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and learning through play.

Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing toys for kids. Make sure to check for any potential hazards, such as small parts that can be swallowed or sharp edges. Look for toys that meet safety standards and have been tested for safety.

Price

Finally, price is an important consideration when shopping for budget toys. While you don’t want to sacrifice quality for affordability, there are plenty of great options available at reasonable prices. Look for sales, discounts, and clearance items to get the most bang for your buck.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best budget toys for the kids in your life without breaking the bank.