Hands-On Review: LEGO Icons 10305 — Advanced Builder Series

LEGO's Icons line keeps raising the bar for adult and family-friendly builds. The 10305 Advanced Builder set arrived at our test bench with high expectations: premium parts, a challenging build, and a display-ready finish. We spent a week assembling, photographing, and testing how this set stands up to real-world use — including curious kids and an impatient cat. Below you'll find our in-depth impressions, structural observations, and value analysis.

"The right LEGO set can feel like a small architecture course — and this one hits many of those notes." — Maya Rivera, Senior Toy Editor

First impressions & packaging

The box design for 10305 is sleek and compact for the parts included. Inside the instructions are glossy, with step-by-step color plates and supplemental building tips. Bag numbering is clear, and the parts quality matches LEGO's premium standard: consistent clutch power, clean mold lines, and minimal flashing.

Build experience

At roughly 1,450 pieces, the set falls into a comfortable half-day build for experienced adult builders, or a multi-session family project. Notable techniques include SNOT (smooth no-overlapping technique) panels, balanced cantilevers, and some challenging micro-assembly for small details. We recommend sorting by color and shape first — the manual's sequencing occasionally groups disparate pieces together which increases search time.

Difficulty and pacing

This set sits at the upper end of intermediate difficulty. It rewards patience and planning: when builders follow the sub-assembly approach, the larger assembly becomes more satisfying. Young builders (under 10) will need adult guidance for several steps involving small clips and hinge assemblies.

Durability and display readiness

Finished models are robust with several integrated plates that lock the structure. The base includes integrated mounting points suitable for a display stand. One minor critique: some decorative tiles sit flush but are secured primarily by clips that can be nudged loose if handled roughly. For families with toddlers, we classify this set as display-only.

Playability

LEGO Icons sets are not primarily designed for rough play; this one is no exception. There are movable parts that encourage gentle interaction — but the charm is in the assembly experience and the display presence. If you want a beast creature for sandbox play, look at LEGO's Duplo or Classic lines instead.

Parts inventory and creativity value

Part assortment is excellent for MOC (My Own Creation) builders. There are unique color prints and a useful spread of sloped tiles, curved slopes, and specialized connectors. Save a small portion of the set for inspiration: we reused several pieces in a secondary microbuild within our studio hours.

Price and value

At a mid-premium price point, the set is a fair trade for build complexity and part quality. Some collectors may balk at the price-per-piece ratio, but you should weigh that against unique colors and display potential.

Pros & cons

• Pros: High-quality parts, rewarding build, excellent display potential.
• Cons: Not suitable for young children, a few unsecured decorative tiles.

Who should buy?

Pick this up if you're an adult fan of LEGO (AFOL), a family looking for a multi-session build, or a collector who wants a display centerpiece. If you're buying for young children under 7, consider a sturdier, play-oriented line.

Final verdict

Rating: 8.8/10 — A delightful build for fans, with minor notes on handling and play suitability. The set's strengths lie in design sophistication and the strong part selection for future creative use.

Note: As with all sets in 2026, availability may vary by region — check official retailers and verified resellers for the best pricing.