Can you combine different train track brands? We tested it!

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: May 16, 2023

Trains are fun, but what about the differences between the brands? Can you combine them with each other?

Train track brands are often made of the same material and therefore fit well together. You do have to pay attention to the rails, because some brands fit together better than others.

In this article I discuss the possibilities and what you should pay attention to when combining different brands of train tracks (we've reviewed the best ones here).

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Mixing different train track brands: a creative world

Combining different train track brands can offer a lot of advantages. This way you can challenge yourself to come up with new and interesting designs, and you might discover possibilities that you didn't think possible before. In addition, it is often cheaper to mix different brands, because you can take advantage of offers and discounts. And most importantly: it's just great fun to do!

Which brands go together?

In general, most well-known brands, such as Verve, Hape, Janod, bigjigs and Eichhorn, together without any problems. However, it is important to know that the rails of different brands do not always connect seamlessly. Sometimes you have to be a little creative to get everything in its place. But that's the fun of mixing brands: you keep discovering new ways to expand and improve your train track.

What should you pay attention to when buying different brands?

If you plan to combine different train track brands, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Take a good look at the design of the rails and the equipment. Some brands have their own style, and it can be difficult to mix it with other brands.
• Pay attention to the quality of the materials. Cheaper brands can sometimes be less durable, causing them to wear out or get damaged more quickly.
• Consider the scale and dimensions of the different models. Not all brands use the same scale, and some trains or wagons may not fit properly on the rails.

The world of model railway: another story

Mixing brands is sometimes a bit more complicated in model railways. Brands such as Minitrix, Fleischmann, Peco and Connetix each have their own system and scale, and it is not always possible to combine them without problems. Nevertheless, forums and Facebook groups often contain useful tips and tricks to get the most out of your creativity here too.

In short, combining different train track brands can open up a world full of creative possibilities. So what are you waiting for? Look for the best combinations and let your train run like never before!

Which tracks and trains fit together?

If you want to expand your train set with a set from another brand, pay attention to whether the rails fit together.

If you want to buy additional accessories, you can easily combine the following brands:

• BigJigs
• VERVE
• Eichhorn
• Janod
• KidKraft
• Mentary
• Hape
• Bandits & Angels
• waytoplay

No one rail is completely identical, but that does not mean that the brands do not fit or connect.

Perhaps the pieces do not always connect seamlessly, but the train will be able to pass them without many problems.

They are interchangeable, which means that both the trains fit on the tracks of other brands and the tracks can click on the tracks of other brands.

Which tracks and trains do not fit the above sets?

Unfortunately, not all train tracks will fit the above brands.

The train track of the Ikea children's department, for example, can cause problems, it is sometimes difficult to get these pieces of rails together and apart.

I have found that the following wooden train tracks do not fit well on the aforementioned brands:

• Lillabo from Ikea
• Playtive wooden train track from Lidl
• Hema train set

These sets would work well together again.

The art of combining train tracks

Combining different brands of train tracks is easier than you think. Most wooden train tracks go well together, regardless of the brand. For example, you can effortlessly combine a Brio set with a Hape or Janod set. The same goes for Bigjigs and other brands. It's a fantastic way to expand your train layout and give your kids plenty of inspiration for their train adventures.

Color difference and addition

Although the rails of different brands usually fit well, sometimes there can be a slight color difference. However, this is not a problem, because it gives a playful addition to your train track. Moreover, the extensions of the different brands are often affordable, so you can put together an impressive train track without much expense.

Combining the wonderful world of Brio train tracks

If you're a big fan of train tracks like me, then you know there's nothing more fun than letting your creativity run wild and building the most amazing tracks. One of the brands I like to use is Brio, and I've found that combining Brio with other brands is a great way to have even more fun building train tracks.

Compatibility between Brio and other brands

The great thing about Brio is that the brand connects almost seamlessly to other train track brands. The rails often fit together perfectly, and while there can sometimes be a slight color difference, this does not detract from the playing experience. For example, I have a Zooz crane truck that fits perfectly on my Brio rails. The packages and sets of other brands can also often be combined with Brio, in terms of both the tracks and the trains and accessories.

Combine Hape train tracks with other brands

When I first discovered the world of toy trains, I was amazed at the many makes and models out there. One brand that caught my eye was Hape. Hape is known for its high quality, environmentally friendly wooden toys and has an extensive range of train tracks and accessories. But what about combining Hape with other brands? I decided to investigate.

Tips for combining Hape with other brands

If you plan to combine Hape train tracks with other brands, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check whether the parts of the different brands fit together properly. Although most wooden train tracks are compatible, it can sometimes happen that certain parts just don't connect properly.
• Look at the quality of the different brands. Hape is known for its high quality and safety, but it is always good to pay attention to the materials and finish used with other brands as well.
• Try out different combinations and let your child discover which parts fit together best. In this way, your child learns to solve problems and to think creatively through play.

All in all, combining Hape train tracks with other brands is a fun and educational experience for both you and your child. So what are you waiting for? Take your train track to the next level and let your child discover the world of trains and railways!

Combining Janod train tracks with other brands: a world of possibilities

Janod is a great toy brand known for its quality, design and fun features. Their range of wooden train tracks is no exception. The great thing about Janod is that you can easily combine it with other brands, such as Brio, Hape, Bigjigs and even Ikea. This way you can build your own unique train track and offer your children hours of fun.

Combine for more fun

Combining Janod with other brands offers numerous advantages. Here's how you can:

• Expand your train track with new pieces and functions from other brands
• Add different types of trains and wagons for more variety
• Let your kids experiment with building their own creations
• Stimulate social skills and coordination by playing with friends

What do you pay attention to when buying Janod train tracks?

If you are considering buying a Janod train track, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Quality: Janod is known for its high quality, so you can rest assured that you have a good product in your hands
• Compatibility: Check whether the train track you have in mind fits with the other brands you already have at home
• Features: Look at the different features of the train track, such as sounds, moving parts and challenges for your child
• Price: Janod may be a bit more expensive than some other brands, but the quality and fun to play certainly make up for it

Mix Bigjigs train tracks with other brands

Bigjigs is an English brand that is extremely popular in the field of wooden trains and sets. They are known for their durability and endless fun. What is a big advantage of Bigjigs is that they are very easy to combine with other brands, such as Brio, Hape and Janod. This way you can easily expand your train track with expansion sets, locomotives and wagons from other brands.

Nice accessories for even more fun

Bigjigs also has a lot of fun accessories that you can add to your train track, such as:

• A crane truck with a strong white locomotive and a lever to operate the crane remotely
• A horse and rider set to make the landscape around the train track even more lively
• A complete platform set with transport from container ship to train

These accessories can also be combined well with train tracks from other brands, allowing you to vary and expand endlessly.

Where can you find Bigjigs train tracks and accessories?

You can find Bigjigs train tracks and accessories in many toy stores and online shops. Just add the desired items to your shopping cart and you are ready to expand your train track with this fun brand. So what are you waiting for? Get started combining Bigjigs with other brands and create a unique train track for endless fun!

Model railways versus wooden train sets: what are the differences?

When choosing a train layout for yourself or for your children, you will soon be faced with an important choice: are you going for a model railway or a wooden train set? Both types of toys have their own charm and possibilities, but they cannot simply be combined with each other. In this part of the article, we take a closer look at the differences between these two popular train track variants.

Model railways: the real train experience

Model railways are designed to provide the most realistic train experience possible. They are made of high-quality materials, such as metal and plastic, and are often very detailed. Model railways come in different scales, such as H0, N, and Z, and are powered by electricity. As a result, the trains run smoothly and quickly on the track, which gives a realistic picture of how a real train runs.

Model railways are often a bit more expensive than wooden train sets, but they do offer more possibilities in terms of landscaping and realism. However, it is important to know that the parts of different brands of model railways are not always easy to combine with each other. This is because the rails and trains of different brands are sometimes slightly different in terms of dimensions and connections.

Wooden train sets: simple and versatile fun

Wooden train sets are a popular and inexpensive alternative to model railways. They are made of wood and consist of simple, colorful parts that are easy to fit together. Wooden train sets are often somewhat larger than model railways, so they take up more space, but also offer more fun for young children.

A big advantage of wooden train sets is that the parts of different brands, such as Brio, Hape, Janod and Bigjigs, can almost always be combined with each other. This means you can easily expand your train track with new pieces of rails, bridges and accessories, without worrying about compatibility. In addition, wooden train sets are often cheaper than model railways, so you get more toys for your money.

The challenges of combining Ikea's train track with other brands

Ikea is known for its affordable and functional furniture, but did you know they also offer toys? The Lillabo train set is a popular toy among children and parents. It's a fun way to help develop your child's motor skills and create a landscape together that the train runs through. But what about combining this train set with other brands?

Do the connectors of Ikea's rails fit with other brands?

Combining train sets from different brands can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the rail connectors. Unfortunately, it appears that the connectors of Ikea's Lillabo train set sometimes cause problems. They fit together less well than those of other brands, so that it is sometimes a struggle to get the rails in and out.

Conclusion

It is possible to combine different train track brands with each other. It's a good way to express your creativity and discover a new world of fun. It's important to pay attention to the details, like the rails and the material, but it's a good way to express your creativity and discover a new world of fun.

Following these tips is an easy way to express your creativity and discover a new world of fun.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.