Star Trek: U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701-D™

Detailed ratings

In-depth review analysis

LEGO Icons 10356 offers an interpretation of the Enterprise NCC-1701-D from Star Trek: The Next Generation, with 3,600 pieces and nine minifigures. It is primarily a ship for display: its silhouette, saucer and secondary hull are central to the experience. Reviewers recognize the challenge of recreating the ship’s curved forms, but disagree about how successful the result is. Their observations describe an ingenious and generally sturdy model whose visual compromises and price deserve consideration.

The build clearly separates the ship’s two major sections. New Elementary describes a fairly straightforward process without spectacular techniques, noting that the saucer’s small panels clip onto a frame. Their number introduces some repetition, particularly for the underside elements, but the reviewer feels that their small size prevents the sequence from becoming too repetitive. By contrast, Brick Fanatics highlights numerous interesting techniques, especially in the sideways-built secondary hull. For Merlins Steine, this section is the most entertaining part of the build: assemblies develop in different directions before coming together into a coherent structure.

The detachable saucer is an important feature and an ingenious detail. Brick Fanatics explains that a small shuttle and a Technic pin help secure it. Hothbricks also praises this system and mentions the accessible shuttlebay. Building the saucer remains the most disputed stage, however. Hothbricks finds it the most tedious, while Merlins Steine considers the panel assembly increasingly boring and recommends care when attaching them: handling one area can dislodge elements already in place. The Brothers Brick also considers that multiplying the segments would have added to an already repetitive process.

Once the ship is complete, opinions on its strength are generally favorable. Brick Fanatics judges the secondary hull sturdy and detects no particular fragility in the thin pylons supporting the nacelles. The outlet nevertheless advises holding the model in the correct places. Merlins Steine also describes the rear section and stand as very stable, while distinguishing that robustness from the potential difficulties of attaching the panels. Brickset considers that the two stand prongs extending into the hull provide stability, but observes that the stand appears to be under strain when the model is displayed in an orientation other than the intended one.

The finished appearance draws more mixed reactions. Brickset finds the result outstanding given the difficulty of reproducing the curves, and appreciates the rounded shapes and streamlined look. The joins between panels remain visible, but, in its view, less so than the box artwork suggests. Brick Fanatics likewise praises the accuracy of the silhouette and its clean appearance. By contrast, hothbricks argues that lines and notches disrupt the overall shape and that the saucer’s curves are only vaguely represented. Merlins Steine is less fond of the octagonal design on the top and bottom and considers the black stand too dominant. The Brothers Brick, meanwhile, feels the facets become less noticeable when the full volume is visible, but finds the front of the engineering section less successful.

Decoration combines printed pieces and stickers. New Elementary counts 21 pieces to be decorated with the sticker sheet. Brickset and Merlins Steine report a spelling error on the plaque sticker; Merlins Steine says a corrected version also removes other important elements. As for documentation, Brickset mentions two instruction books, while The Brothers Brick appreciates their LCARS-inspired introduction and minifigure profiles. These observations describe their contents but do not provide enough evidence to rate the clarity of the instructions.

Finally, the stated European retail price is €379.99. Brickset considers it high relative to the ship’s size, even though the quality of the design makes the reviewer want to buy it. The Brothers Brick, conversely, finds the price fairly reasonable. The decision therefore depends on the importance given to appearance, building enjoyment and perceived value: the reviews document real strengths, but also visible compromises at this price.

Strengths

• Recognizable silhouette and a design generally appreciated by several reviewers.
• Inventive, sturdy secondary hull with a detachable saucer.
• Stable stand in the intended orientation.
• Instruction books enriched with information about the characters and franchise.

Weaknesses

• Saucer panel assembly can be repetitive and delicate.
• Joins, facets and octagonal shapes are too visible for some reviewers.
• Numerous stickers and a reported error on the plaque.
• Price considered high by Brickset and stand visually dominant according to Merlins Steine.

Where reviewers disagree

New Elementary finds the saucer panels not too repetitive, whereas Merlins Steine finds their assembly increasingly boring. — newelementary.com · Merlins Steine

Brickset appreciates the curves and overall appearance, whereas hothbricks finds the lines, notches and saucer finish distracting. — Brickset.com · hothbricks

Brickset considers the price high for the ship’s size; The Brothers Brick finds it fairly reasonable. — Brickset.com · The Brothers Brick

New Elementary describes a build without spectacular techniques, whereas Brick Fanatics highlights numerous interesting techniques. — newelementary.com · Brick Fanatics

Publications consulted

newelementary.com · Date not provided

Brickset.com · Date not provided

Brick Fanatics · 2025-11-12

hothbricks · 2025-11-07

The Brothers Brick · 2025-11-07

Merlins Steine · 2025-12-26