Model making is a rewarding hobby, but getting started can feel overwhelming for beginners. With nearly a century of history, injection-molded plastic models cover a wide range of subjects, from military vehicles and sports cars to anime robots and everyday objects. While it might seem like you need a full workshop, steady hands, and years of practice to create impressive models, that's not necessarily true.
To help make starting this hobby less daunting, I've curated a list of model kits that are perfect for beginners and experienced builders alike. Many of these recommendations are based on my own experiences. The list starts with kits that require no glue or paint, ideal for newcomers, and progresses to those that allow for more hands-on work. Scroll to the end for essential tools and supplies, as well as where to find these excellent alternatives to LEGO.
No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!
Model kits traditionally required glue and paint, but that's no longer the case. Many companies now offer entry-level kits that are pre-colored and can be assembled by simply snapping pieces together. Some beginner kits are very simplified, but others still provide a satisfying challenge without the need for messy materials. For those interested in giant robots, Gundam kits are an excellent starting point.
Under $25 - Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
1:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up. $15.14 save 14% $12.99 at Amazon
Under $100 - Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
1:100 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up. $59.20 save 13% $51.50 at Amazon
Gundam kits are categorized by grade. High Grade (HG) kits, typically priced between $15-30, are about 6 inches tall when completed. Master Grade (MG) kits, priced around $30-50, are larger and more detailed. There are also Real Grade (RG), Entry Grade (EG) for absolute beginners, and Perfect Grade (PG) for advanced builders.
High Grade - Bandai Hobby Wing Gundam Zero
The Wing Zero HG kit comes with a twin buster rifle, beam sabers, pile driver shield, and machine cannons. $20.99 save 24% $16.00 at Amazon
Master Grade - Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos, Bandai Spirits MG 1:100
The Gundam Barbatos 4th form has appeared as an MG, with a reproduced Gundam frame of internal mechanics as well as a recreation of the Suit's Ahab Reactor! $54.69 save 0% $54.69 at Amazon
Gundam modeling, or Gunpla, has become incredibly popular, but if giant anime robots aren't your thing, there are plenty of other no-fuss kits available across various themes.
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai Hobby AT-ST 1:48 Scale Star Wars All Terrain Scout Transport Walker
Y-Wing Starfighter kit has an inner cockpit. See it at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit
AT-ST from Star Wars was recreated as a detailed model kit with articulated legs, rotating head, and weapon systems. $29.64 save 0% $29.64 at Amazon
Bandai has applied the Gundam model approach to other beloved properties, including Star Wars. Many characters and vehicles are available as pre-colored, snap-together kits. Some might benefit from additional touches like a basic wash or dry-brushing to enhance details, especially for monochromatic subjects from the Original Trilogy.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit
Your favorite Star Wars bounty hunter is now a 1/12 scale model kit with a full array of accessories including interchangeable hand parts. $29.99 save 43% $17.02 at Amazon
Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits
Boba Fett's colorful design looks great straight out of the box, while Stormtroopers may need some personalization to avoid looking too plain.
13 Images
Anime Model Kits
Anime Model Kit - Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
Recreate iconic scenes from Dragon Ball Z with this standard model kit of Son Goku featuring an upgraded Muscle Build-Up System. $34.95 save 6% $32.99 at Amazon
Anime Model Kit - Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
Enjoy another fan-favorite anime build for Uzumaki Naruto, with superior tooling in the joints. Achieve action poses and signature attacks such as "rasen GAN", "rasen shuriken", and "shadow Clone jutsu"! $32.58 save 0% $32.58 at Amazon
Bandai's Figure-Rise line extends the appeal of injection-molded action figure model kits to anime characters, covering popular series like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Digimon, and human characters from Gundam.
Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren’t Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Solid: Metal Gear Rex (Black Ver.) Model Kit
From Konami's series Metal Gear comes an epic model kit of the nuclear-armed bipedal tank Metal Gear Rex. Buying options vary and range from $154 and up. $154.00 save 0% $154.00 at Amazon
Kotobukiya’s 1:100 scale Metal Gear Rex is a challenging but rewarding build. Compared to the intricate Metal Gear Sahelanthropus, Rex's design is more straightforward, making it a better option for builders concerned about complexity.
Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
This giant model kit comes in at 15" in length and will help you get into (mechanical) beast mode. It's an amazing build for Horizon Forbidden West fans and robot fans alike. Prices vary but start at $107. $107.64 at Amazon
Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
Ellen Ripley included! See it
Good Smile Company’s Moderoid kits come pre-painted, making them perfect for display, though they are on the pricier side.
Bandai Store Imaginary Skeleton – 1:32 Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus
Who doesn't want to own a cool miniature dino? This 1/32 T-Rex model kit is highly rated for its attention to detail, including impressive skull and two rows of special teeth on the upper jaw. It's posed in a crouching position so it's ready to jump! $44.00 save 16% $36.99 at Amazon
Bandai Store Triceratops
If T-Rex isn't your thing, you can build the 1/32 Triceratops version of this Bandai model kit at a similar price point! $46.00 save 0% $46.00 at IGN Store
Bandai's dinosaur skeleton kits are easy to assemble and come in the correct colors, ideal for those who want to try painting without much confidence in their skills.
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
This is a unique and fun model kit for beginners. The inside is filled with 3D scanned noodles, egg, shrimp, and "mystery meat" to bring the food staple to life. $27.00 save 0% $27.00 at Amazon
The 1:1 Cup Noodle kit is surprisingly complex but completely snap-together, resulting in a model that closely resembles the real thing.
Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White 1:32 Scale Model Kit
This white 1:32 scale Nissan car model kit is affordable, easy to build (with only 30 parts), and fun to display on any collector's shelf. $14.99 save 0% $14.99 at Amazon
Aoshima’s Snap Kit series offers easy-to-assemble car models that require no glue and come in the correct colors, making them ideal for quick projects.
Military Model Kits
Tamiya 35346 1/35 US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman Plastic Model Kit
Meet the M4A3E8, AKA "Easy Eight" model kit, a perfect build and paint project for history buffs and Fury movie fans alike. $44.99 save 0% $44.99 at Amazon
Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit
The "worlds' strongest tank" but smaller! This 1/35 Abrams tank model kit even comes with body figures as an extra touch. $34.30 save 0% $34.30 at Amazon
Tanks are forgiving of messy paint jobs, as they are often covered in dirt and grime in real life, making them a great choice for beginners experimenting with painting techniques.
Hasegawa 1:72 AV-8B Harrier II Plus
This 87-piece build is great for intermediate builders. The AV-8B Harrier II is redesigned from the previous generation. $21.99 save 0% $21.99 at Amazon
Hasegawa 1:48 AV-8B Harrier II
This 166-piece build has an impressive scale down from the complex form of the Harrier II. $36.89 save 0% $36.89 at Amazon
Understanding model scales can be tricky, but it's simply a matter of fractions. Different subjects suit different scales, with cars typically at 1:24 or 1:32, military ground vehicles at 1:35, and aircraft at 1:48 or 1:72.
Car Model Kits
Hasegawa 621123 Model Car BMW 2002 Tii 1:24 Model Kit
A classic BMW car model kit that brings a little bit of a challenge. $25.50 save 0% $25.50 at Amazon
Car model kits can be detailed and complex, offering a rewarding challenge for builders. They are perfect for car enthusiasts looking to recreate their favorite models.
Revell of Germany 07051 McLaren 570S
Tip: Get yourself the Revell of Germany kits and not the American ones. Only 8 left in stock of this one! $34.99 save 0% $34.99 at Amazon
Revell of Germany kits are generally preferred over their American counterparts for their superior quality.
Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 11 1:24 Scale Model Kit
This Lambo includes exclusive parts for the R-SV such as the body and engine, plus scissor doors you can open up. $33.99 save 0% $33.99 at Amazon
Aoshima Volkswagen 13AD Beetle 1303S '73 1:24 Model Kit
VW fans love this kit based on the classic 1973 Beetle. $22.38 save 0% $22.38 at Amazon
Aoshima Bunka Kyozai 1:24 Mobile Sales Series No. 8 Yakitori Ryuho Plastic Model
This realistic reproduction of a food truck is adorable! $19.77 save 52% $9.58 at Amazon
Aoshima offers a diverse range of vehicles, from luxury supercars to quirky food trucks, catering to various interests.
How to Get Started with Model Kits
Tools:
BXQINLENX 8-Piece Model Tools Set
This basic tool set is ideal for beginners. Tools include pliers, a carving knife, blades, sanding tools, and tweezers. Plus, it comes in a plastic case to take on the go and store the tools in. $7.99 save 0% $7.99 at Amazon
A good set of tools is essential for starting model building. Investing in quality hobby shears or "nippers" can significantly improve your building experience by ensuring clean cuts.
anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat Double Sided 5-Ply Craft Cutting Board
Multipurpose craft mat and cutting board for model builds, cutting, engraving, and beyond. $15.98 save 44% $8.99 at Amazon
A cutting mat protects your work surface and makes it easier to move your project around.
Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue Fine Tip 40ml
Ditch the glue! Grab some model cement to fill in tiny gaps in your plastic kits or to fuse two pieces together. $8.99 save 0% $8.99 at Amazon
Model cement is a solvent that melts plastic slightly to fuse parts together, making it ideal for plastic kits.
Paint:
For painting models without an airbrush, a combination of spray cans and water-based acrylics works well. Primer is crucial for a smooth finish and better paint adhesion.
Best Primer - GSI Creos Mr. Hobby B519 Mr. Surfacer 1000 Large Spray
A go-to primer for model kits, Mr. Hobby is a trusted brand for plastic builds. $15.35 save 0% $15.35 at Amazon
ON SALE! - Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set
The Vallejo brand brings model builders a non-toxic paint set option for model kits and miniatures. Coming in a pack of 16 assorted colors, this set was made for use on both metal and plastic, leaving no brushstrokes behind. $59.99 save 43% $34.04 at Amazon
Water-based acrylic paint is user-friendly, requiring no special thinners or solvents for cleanup.
Tamiya 86034 PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint, 100ml Spray Can
This classic red paint comes in a 100ml spray can and brings your model kits a nice, matte finish. It's high quality for its price. $9.30 save 25% See it
Tamiya's spray lacquer is great for covering large areas with a matte finish, perfect for base coats before detailing.
Model making is a hobby that offers endless enjoyment and learning opportunities. While it can be intimidating to see the work of experts, there are plenty of online resources and tutorials to help you improve. YouTube channels like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, and Jun’s Mini Garage offer valuable tips, while Laser Creation-World and Minibricks showcase inspiring dioramas. Happy modeling!
Model Kit FAQs
Where is the best place to buy model kits?
Amazon: Great deals can be found, but watch out for resellers inflating prices. Always check the going rate online.
HobbyLink Japan: Offers a vast selection, but shipping can be slow and costly. Bulk ordering can be more economical due to size-based shipping calculations.
MegaHobby: A good selection with relatively faster shipping times.
IGN Store: Features a solid selection of anime and pop-culture kits. Regularly check for new additions and sales.
Your local hobby shop: Support local businesses where you can meet other enthusiasts. Staff often have in-depth knowledge, though their focus might be on specific areas of the hobby.
