Lego

[brakespear]

We've had a look at a couple of smaller non-Lego but "compatible with other leading bricks" sets and, in comparison, they are utter rubbish. Lighter in weight and the brick-to-brick fit is nowhere near as snug meaning they come apart far easier.

I've no issue with paying any additional "Lego tax" as it is worth it.

Absolutely this - I had to put together a non-Lego Fire Station one Christmas and it tookages because the blocks kept popping out of position etc and when finally played with by my son it didn't last long before it was mostly back in bits.