Puzzle Buying Checklist: What to Check Before You Buy

Before you click buy on your next puzzle, take a moment to run through this checklist. A few minutes of consideration can prevent a disappointing purchase and ensure you get a puzzle you will enjoy assembling.

1. Is the Piece Count Right for You?

Consider your skill level and the time you have available. A 1000-piece puzzle takes 8 to 20 hours — do you have that kind of time? If you are buying for a child, is the piece count age-appropriate? Be honest about your commitment level.

2. Does the Image Appeal to You?

You will be looking at this image for many hours. Choose something you genuinely enjoy looking at. If you are buying a puzzle as a gift, consider the recipient taste — not yours.

3. Is the Image Complexity Appropriate?

Some images are much harder to assemble than others. Dense collages with similar colors are challenging. Landscapes with clear color zones are easier. Match the image complexity to your skill level and patience.

4. Is the Brand Reputable?

Stick with known brands like White Mountain, Ravensburger, Buffalo Games, Cobble Hill, or Springbok. Unknown brands may offer lower quality — thinner pieces, poor printing, and imprecise cutting. Read reviews before trying a new brand.

5. Is the Price Fair?

Compare prices across retailers. The same puzzle can vary in price by $5 to $10 depending on where you buy it. Check the manufacturer website, Amazon, and other retailers. Be cautious of prices significantly below the normal range.

6. What Is the Return Policy?

Before purchasing, check the return policy. If the puzzle has missing pieces or damage, can you return it? Is there a time limit? Knowing this in advance saves stress if something goes wrong.

7. Do You Have Storage Space?

Puzzle boxes take up space. If you are building a collection, do you have shelving for storage? If you frame completed puzzles, do you have wall space? It sounds trivial, but puzzle storage is a real consideration for active hobbyists.

8. Are There Missing Piece Policies?

Check whether the brand offers replacement pieces. White Mountain and Ravensburger both have policies for missing pieces. Knowing this before you buy gives you peace of mind.

9. Is the Puzzle in Stock?

Popular puzzles can go out of stock, especially during the holiday season. If a puzzle you want is unavailable, check whether it is being restocked or has been discontinued. Discontinued puzzles may become collectible but cannot be replaced if defective.

10. Have You Read Reviews?

Take a few minutes to read reviews from other buyers. Look for comments about piece quality, missing pieces, image accuracy, and overall satisfaction. Reviews can alert you to quality issues with specific puzzle runs.

Conclusion

Running through this checklist before each puzzle purchase takes only a few minutes and helps ensure you get a puzzle you will enjoy. The most important items are piece count, image appeal, and brand reputation. Get those right, and you are set for a satisfying puzzle experience.