Top Gundam Kits for Beginners and Collectors
Top Gundam Kits for Beginners and Collectors
Getting started with Gundam model kits (Gunpla) can feel overwhelming with so many grades, scales, and series available. Whether you're new to the hobby or an experienced collector looking to expand, choosing the right kit makes all the difference between a frustrating experience and a deeply rewarding one.
This guide breaks down the best Gundam kits by grade, with specific recommendations for beginners and collectors — and the supplies you need to get started.
Understanding Gundam Kit Grades
Every Gunpla kit belongs to a grade that indicates its complexity, scale, and detail level. Here's what each grade means:
- Entry Grade (EG): No tools required, snap-fit assembly, designed for absolute beginners. The fastest and easiest way to build your first Gundam.
- High Grade (HG / HGUC): 1/144 scale, affordable, beginner-friendly, and available in hundreds of designs. The most popular grade for new builders.
- Real Grade (RG): 1/144 scale with Master Grade-level detail and inner frame engineering. More complex than HG — best for intermediate builders.
- Master Grade (MG): 1/100 scale with full inner frames, more parts, and impressive display presence. The sweet spot for serious collectors.
- Perfect Grade (PG): 1/60 scale, the most complex and detailed kits available. For advanced builders and serious display collectors.
Best Gundam Kits for Beginners
Entry Grade RX-78-2 Gundam — The Absolute Best First Kit
The Bandai Entry Grade 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam is the single best starting point for any new Gunpla builder. No tools required, no nippers needed — parts snap together cleanly and the finished model looks great. It's the iconic original Gundam in the most accessible format possible. Build it in an afternoon, display it proudly.
Best for: Absolute beginners, gift buyers, anyone who wants to try Gunpla with zero barrier to entry.
Entry Grade Strike Gundam — Best Entry Grade Alternative
The Bandai Entry Grade 1/144 Strike Gundam is the Gundam SEED entry in the EG lineup — same tool-free assembly, same accessibility, but featuring one of the most popular designs from the SEED series. A great choice if you prefer the SEED aesthetic over the original series.
Best for: Gundam SEED fans and beginners who want an alternative to the RX-78-2.
HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam — Best First HG Kit
The HGUC 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam is the classic High Grade version of the original Gundam — more parts and detail than the Entry Grade, but still very approachable for new builders. A great step up once you've completed your first EG kit and want more of a building challenge.
Best for: Beginners ready to move beyond Entry Grade and learn proper Gunpla techniques.
Best Gundam Kits for Collectors
RG RX-78-2 Gundam — Best Real Grade for Collectors
The RG 1/144 #01 RX-78-2 Gundam packs Master Grade-level engineering into a 1/144 scale kit. The inner frame, articulation, and surface detail are exceptional for the size — making it one of the most impressive display pieces in the RG lineup. A must-have for any serious Gunpla collection.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced builders who want maximum detail in a compact display footprint.
RG RX-78 GP01 — Best RG for Advanced Builders
The RG 1/144 #12 RX-78 GP01 is one of the most technically impressive Real Grade kits — featuring the Gundam GP01 from 0083: Stardust Memory with exceptional articulation and detail. A strong collector piece for fans of the Universal Century timeline.
MG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver. 2.0 — Best Master Grade for Collectors
The MG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver. 2.0 is the definitive Master Grade version of the original Gundam — full inner frame, excellent articulation, and a build experience that's deeply satisfying for experienced builders. A centrepiece display kit that belongs in every serious collection.
Best for: Experienced builders who want the best MG version of the iconic original Gundam.
MG RX-78-4 Gundam — Best Variant MG
The MG RX-78-4 Gundam is a rarer variant of the classic design — a strong collector pick for builders who already own the standard RX-78-2 and want something more unique for their display shelf.
PG RX-78-2 Gundam — The Ultimate Display Piece
The PG RX-78-2 (Blue) Gundam and PG RX-78 GP-01 Zephyranthes are the pinnacle of Gunpla — massive 1/60 scale kits with extraordinary detail, LED compatibility, and a build experience that can take weeks. These are statement pieces for serious collectors and advanced builders only.
Best for: Advanced builders who want the most impressive display kit possible.
Essential Supplies for Gunpla Builders
Beyond the kits themselves, the right supplies make a significant difference in your build quality and enjoyment:
- Gundam Marker Basic Set — essential for panel lining and detailing. The fastest way to make any kit look more finished.
- Gundam Metallic Marker Set — adds metallic accents to thrusters, weapons, and trim for a premium finish.
- Gundam Marker Advanced Set — a comprehensive marker set for builders ready to go beyond basic panel lining.
- Mr. Basic Tool Set — nippers, a hobby knife, and files. The essential toolkit for any HG kit and above.
Browse our full Gundam Supplies collection for all available tools and markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Gundam kit for a complete beginner?
The Entry Grade RX-78-2 Gundam — no tools required, quick to build, and looks great. It's the perfect introduction to Gunpla.
Do I need tools to build Gundam kits?
Entry Grade kits require no tools. For HG and above, a basic set of nippers and a hobby knife is recommended — the Mr. Basic Tool Set covers everything you need.
What's the difference between HG and RG?
Both are 1/144 scale, but RG kits have significantly more parts, inner frame engineering, and detail. HG is better for beginners; RG is better for intermediate builders who want more complexity and display quality.
Do I need to paint Gundam kits?
No — modern Gunpla kits are colour-separated, meaning the plastic colours match the design without painting. Panel lining with Gundam Markers is the easiest way to add detail without a full paint job.
Shop Gundam Kits at Tistaminis
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