LEGO has earned its reputation as the gold standard in building bricks. But with bulk lots, secondhand markets, and online listings, counterfeit parts and clone figures are everywhere. Knowing how to tell real LEGO from impostors is critical—whether you’re a collector, reseller, or casual builder.

Key Takeaways

Genuine LEGO has crisp “LEGO” embossing, consistent clutch power, and smooth ABS plastic.
Fakes often have blank studs, brittle or greasy plastic, and poor print quality.
Third-party brands (Mega, Cobi, etc.) aren’t illegal…they’re competitors, not counterfeits.
Buy from trusted sources to protect your collection and resale value.

The LEGO Standard: What Makes It Unique

LEGO bricks are engineered with incredible precision. A piece made in the 1970s will still fit perfectly on one made in 2025. That’s because:

Clutch Power: Bricks hold snugly but aren’t impossible to pull apart.
Material Quality: High-grade ABS plastic resists yellowing and cracking (well, let’s ignore white pieces in the sun and brittle brown for now ;)).
Precision Molding: LEGO maintains tolerances down to microns for consistency.

Quick Visual Checks

1. Stud Logo

Every genuine LEGO brick has the word “LEGO” stamped on the studs. It’s sharp, evenly placed, and consistent. Clones often have blank studs, fuzzy embossing, or alternate markings.

2. Underside Design

Flip it over: LEGO bricks have clean hollow tubes for clutch power. Clones often show messy injection marks or solid undersides.

3. Plastic Feel

Real LEGO feels smooth and solid. Knock-offs can feel greasy, brittle, or oddly soft.

4. Minifigure Details

Tight, smooth joints.
Sharp, vibrant printing.
Properly scaled accessories.
Counterfeits often flop around and look “off.”

5. Packaging

LEGO boxes always show set numbers, barcodes, and LEGO Group trademarks. Fakes mimic artwork but lack this detail.

Third-Party vs. Counterfeit

Third-party brands like Mega and Cobi make their own systems…they’re legal competitors.
Counterfeits mimic LEGO branding and packaging to trick buyers. These are low-quality and illegal to resell.

Pro Sorting & Buying Tips

Buy from trusted retailers (LEGO.com, LEGO Store, or verified Amazon/eBay sellers).
When buying bulk, expect some clone pieces. Keep a separate “non-LEGO bin.”
Ask sellers for close-ups of studs when buying secondhand.
A good magnifying desk lamp makes sorting faster.
→ Buy here: LED Magnifying Lamp on Amazon

Recommended Tools

Magnifying desk lamp for checking stud emboss.
Sorting trays for separating non-LEGO pieces.
Brick cleaning solution for restoring authentic ABS plastic.

FAQ Section

How do I quickly tell if a brick is real LEGO?
Check for the crisp “LEGO” emboss, smooth ABS feel, and clean underside tubes.

Are third-party brands like Mega or Cobi illegal?
No. They’re legal competitors. Counterfeits are the issue.

What are the minifigure red flags?
Loose joints, fuzzy printing, mismatched accessories.

Can I resell sets with mixed clone parts?
Yes, but disclose clearly. For minifigs or complete sets, keep them 100% LEGO.

Where should I buy to avoid fakes?
LEGO.com, LEGO Store, or verified retailers. On eBay/FB Marketplace, ask for stud close-ups.

Want authentic parts at fair prices? Visit CDW Marketplace on eBay for 100% LEGO listings.

How to Spot Fake LEGO vs. Third-Party Clones