I've read that dowel joints are nearly if not as strong as mortise and tenon joints. The mortise and tenon joint requires expensive tools (specifically a table saw and a router) and the know how to make them, but dowel joints can be made with just a drill. The tricky part, though, is getting your dowel holes lined up on each piece. With my dowel jig widget, you can configure a jig for your specific situation and 3D print it at home or for an affordable price online.