There's no shortage of fantastic jigsaw puzzles for adults, but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect one. A great way to narrow down your choices is by focusing on a franchise you love. Puzzles featuring your favorite stories or characters not only make the puzzle-solving experience more enjoyable but can also result in a display-worthy piece of art.
One such franchise that offers an array of captivating puzzle options is The Lord of the Rings. J.R.R. Tolkien's rich universe, which has been adapted into movies and even LEGO sets, naturally extends to some excellent jigsaw puzzles. Here are five of the best Lord of the Rings puzzles you can find online right now.
TL;DR — These Are the Best Lord of the Rings Puzzles
2000 pieces
Ravensburger Lord of The Rings: The Return of The King
2See it at Amazon!
1000 pieces
theory11 Lord of The Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
2See it at Amazon!
204 pieces
Lord of The Rings Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
2See it at Amazon!
1000 Pieces
Aquarius Hobbit Map Puzzle
2See it at Amazon!
100 Pieces
MyPuzzle Hobbit House
2See it at Amazon!
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Puzzle
Best Overall
2000 pieces
Ravensburger Lord of The Rings: The Return of The King
2See it at Amazon!
If you're a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies, like many of us are, then this Return of the King puzzle is a must-have. It beautifully captures key scenes and characters from the final film in the trilogy, framed by an elegant border. You'll see Frodo's struggle to cast the ring into the fires of Mount Doom, Gandalf in the midst of battle, and Aragorn ascending to his rightful place as king. What more could you ask for?
Crafted by Ravensburger, a top-tier puzzle brand, this puzzle ensures every piece is uniquely shaped and fits seamlessly together, making for a satisfying puzzle experience.
theory11 Lord of the Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
Coolest Design
1000 pieces
theory11 Lord of The Rings Jigsaw Puzzle
2See it at Amazon!
The standout feature of this theory11 puzzle is its stunning design. This 1,000-piece puzzle evokes the style of J.R.R. Tolkien's original illustrations, with its green and gold hues perfectly complementing the artwork. If you're a fan of the illustrated Lord of the Rings books, you'll love how this puzzle looks once assembled. It's an ideal choice for framing and displaying as a piece of art.
Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
Best 3D Puzzle
204 pieces
Lord of The Rings Barad-Dur Eye of Sauron 3D Model Kit
2See it at Amazon!
While traditional jigsaw puzzles dominate this list, the market for 3D model kits for adults is growing, offering a new dimension to the puzzle experience. This kit from 4D Build brings the iconic tower of Sauron to life without the need for glue or tools. With 204 pieces spread across 14 sheets, it's an affordable alternative to the pricier Barad-Dur LEGO set, costing under $40.
Hobbit Map of Middle Earth Puzzle
Best Map Puzzle
1000 Pieces
Aquarius Hobbit Map Puzzle
2See it at Amazon!
For those seeking a puzzle worthy of display, this 1,000-piece map of Middle Earth is an excellent choice. Centered around the Shire, it showcases key locations from the story. While it doesn't include every location in Middle Earth, being the map from The Hobbit, it's the best Lord of the Rings map puzzle available. For a more comprehensive view, you can always explore the interactive map online.
Hobbit House Puzzle
Best for Beginners
100 Pieces
MyPuzzle Hobbit House
2See it at Amazon!
While I enjoy the challenge of a 1,000- or 2,000-piece puzzle, not everyone seeks such complexity. This 100-piece puzzle is perfect for beginners or casual puzzlers looking for a quick and enjoyable experience. The image depicts a charming Hobbit home in New Zealand, a real-life destination you can visit!
Tips for Choosing the Best Puzzle for You
If you're new to puzzles or buying one as a gift, consider these factors before making your purchase:
How many pieces is it?
The number of pieces is a key indicator of a puzzle's difficulty. A 100-piece puzzle is ideal for kids or beginners, a 500-piece puzzle suits intermediate puzzlers, and a 5,000-piece puzzle is a significant challenge. For a relaxing puzzle session or one suitable for young children, stick to 300 pieces or fewer.
What size is it?
Consider the space you have available. Even smaller puzzles can take up considerable room, and larger puzzles may require days to complete. Ensure you have a suitable space, such as a dedicated puzzle board or mat, especially if you're working on a puzzle that will occupy your dining table.
Roll-up Storage
Becko Puzzle Mat
22See it at Amazon!
Up to 1000 pieces
Ravensburger Puzzle-Store Storage
17See it at Amazon!
Includes 6 Drawers
PlayVibe Puzzle Locker
13See it at Amazon!
Titls and rolls
All4Jig Puzzle Table
10See it at Amazon!
What does the picture look like?
Lastly, consider the image itself. Choose a puzzle featuring something you love, but also think about the image's composition. Puzzles with distinct elements are easier to assemble than those with similar colors or large areas of empty space, like a clear blue sky.