When I first started using jigsaw puzzles to try to ward off anxiety and to keep full blown panic attacks at bay, I was a die hard 1000 piece puzzles. Every single time. The longer I could focus on one puzzle, the calmer I became. And I’m so grateful for all those puzzles I did during those dreary days.

But then I discovered there is a whole world of competitive speed puzzling competitions out there. I HAD to try doing that. Not competing, I’m too chicken for that at the moment, but just trying to see how quickly I could finish a puzzle. So I started accumulating lower piece counts. Mostly 500 pieces, but some 300 piece puzzles, too. That was when I realized the joy of a quicker, smaller puzzle. I have come to love them just as much (and sometimes more) than the 1000 piece puzzles. And just to note…I’m not the worst at speed puzzling, but I’m not great. No awards will be won here!

Then there are the puzzles that are MORE than 1000 pieces. Some might say these are for the insane. I haven’t dabbled too much in these. I’ve done a couple 2000 piece puzzles, but I’m not sure when I’ll be adventurous enough to try something more than that. But I love watching videos of people doing insane piece counts (9000+ pieces). I wouldn’t have any clue where I would put a puzzle that size!

So, if depending on your expertise levels, or if you’re new to puzzling this is what I suggest:

*200 piece and under for when you just need a super fast hit of dopamine. Or if you’re brand new to puzzling. If you’re wanting to do a piece count that’s smaller, but don’t necessarily want to do a “childish” puzzle, I recommend the Puzzle Moments collection by Ravensburger.

*300 piece puzzles are great for when you need an hour or two of distraction and JOY. The next puzzle is a 300 piece Ravensburger as well. I promise I do more than Ravensburger! They’re just my favorite for Disney puzzles.

*500 piece puzzles are a classic starter for when you’re starting to feel brave enough to take on a little bit of a challenge, but not ready to commit to anything bigger. This is another Ravensburger, a 500 piece puzzle that was used in the USA Jigsaw Championship.

*1000 piece puzzles. The Gold Standard of puzzling. Enough said. This little beauty is from Cobble Hill. It’s called Cats Vs Puzzles. I saw it used in the 2025 Portland Jigsaw Masters and knew immediately I had to have it! It did not disappoint.

*1500-2000 piece puzzles are for the dedicated puzzler, who wants an experience they can savor a bit.

*3000+ pieces=Marathon.

Enjoy! ~B