LEGO Harry Potter Talking Sorting Hat Set Review

Review Summary

The LEGO Harry Potter Talking Sorting Hat Set is a captivating model designed for both Harry Potter fans and LEGO enthusiasts. With 561 pieces, this set brings the iconic Sorting Hat to life, combining interactive features with detailed design elements that make it a perfect display piece for adults. Let's dive into what makes this set a magical addition to your collection.

1. Design & Build Quality (4.5/5)

The Sorting Hat is recreated with an impressive level of detail, capturing its folds and facial expressions with LEGO bricks that resemble the texture and shape of the hat from the movies. The set's robust build features a solid base that incorporates the four Hogwarts house crests, adding a touch of authenticity to the overall design. The hat’s expressive features, such as its moving eyebrows and mouth, are surprisingly lifelike and align closely with the source material, enhancing its visual appeal as both a display and interactive piece.

2. Interactive Features (4/5)

The most unique aspect of this LEGO set is its built-in sound brick, which plays the voice of the Sorting Hat when activated. You can trigger the sound either by placing the hat on your head or by pressing the top, mimicking the magical experience from the Harry Potter series. While the sound quality closely matches the gravelly tone of the Sorting Hat's on-screen voice, the overall experience would have been more immersive with additional phrases or a more varied sound selection. Nevertheless, this feature adds a playful, engaging element to the set that will delight both builders and Harry Potter fans alike.

3. Building Experience (4/5)

The construction process is straightforward yet rewarding, taking roughly 2-3 hours to complete. The instructions are clear, and the build includes clever techniques to create the iconic shape of the Sorting Hat using curved and angled bricks. While some pieces, like the base of the hat, may feel repetitive, the final result is well worth the effort. The hidden references to Hogwarts house artifacts, like the Sword of Gryffindor and Slytherin's Locket, add an extra layer of detail for dedicated fans.

4. Value for Money (3.5/5)

Priced at £89.99 / $99.99 / €99.99, the Talking Sorting Hat is on the higher end for a LEGO display set of this size. While the inclusion of the sound brick and intricate design elements justify some of the cost, it may still feel slightly overpriced for its relatively small scale compared to other sets in the LEGO Harry Potter range. Despite this, its appeal as a collectible and interactive piece makes it a must-have for true fans of the Wizarding World.

Who It’s For

• Harry Potter Fans: Perfect for those who want a touch of Hogwarts magic in their LEGO collection, complete with authentic house details.
• LEGO Display Set Collectors: Ideal for adult builders who enjoy intricate and visually appealing sets that are great for display.
• Collectors of Movie Memorabilia: A great addition for fans who appreciate movie-themed collectibles with interactive elements.

Overall Rating: 4/5

The LEGO Harry Potter Talking Sorting Hat Set stands out for its blend of interactive features, detailed design, and connection to the Harry Potter series. Although it might be a bit pricey for its size, its unique appeal and the nostalgia it invokes make it a fantastic choice for any LEGO or Harry Potter fan looking to bring a piece of the Wizarding World into their home.