Explore Gundam Model Grades to Match Your Skill Level
Have you ever wondered what the letters on the model kits mean? Are you looking for where to start in a large landscape of Gundam model kits? This will help you understand the different Bandai Gundam model kit grades, ranked by difficulty. Good information for newcomers and enthusiasts to select the ideal kit for their building experience.
Understand Gundam Model Grades
Bandai offers a variety of Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Model) grades, each with different levels of complexity, detail, and customization. In this guide, we’ll break down the grades in order of difficulty—starting with the easiest—and introduce you to the exciting 30 Minutes Missions series.
Entry Level Kits
1. Super Deformed (SD) kits are the simplest Gunpla models available. Characterized by their cute, chibi-style proportions, SD kits have fewer parts, easy snap-fit assembly, and minimal stickers. They are perfect for children, beginners, or collectors who want a fun, quick build.
2. Entry Grade (EG) is designed with first-time builders in mind. These kits offer straightforward assembly, color separation, and do not require glue or stickers. Despite their simplicity, EG kits deliver good articulation and detail, making them a fantastic starting point for new hobbyists.
3. 30 Minutes Missions (30MM) is Bandai’s original mecha model line, known for its easy, modular assembly and user-friendly design. Intended for quick builds—often within 30 minutes these kits feature customizable parts compatible across the 30MM line. The system is beginner-friendly while allowing for creative kitbashing and modifications.
Intermediate Grades
4. High Grade (HG) kits provide a balance between ease and detail. These 1/144 scale models are accessible to both beginners and experienced builders. HG kits use snap-fit assembly, offer a wide variety of mobile suits, and are popular for their affordability and solid detail.
5. Real Grade (RG) kits bring advanced engineering to the 1/144 scale. RG kits feature inner frames, high articulation, numerous small parts, and realistic color separation. They are a step up from HG, challenging builders with more intricate assembly and rewarding them with exceptional realism.
Advanced Master Grades
6. Master Grade (MG) kits, at 1/100 scale, are known for their complexity and detail. With internal frames, moving parts, and often hundreds of pieces, MG kits require patience and skill. They are perfect for experienced modelers looking for a satisfying, customizable build.
7. Perfect Grade (PG) stands at the top of the Gunpla hierarchy. These 1/60 scale kits offer the highest level of detail, articulation, and complexity, often including LED features and intricate inner frames. PG kits are meant for expert builders seeking the ultimate modeling challenge and a showstopping display piece.
Explore Gundam Model Grades Perfect for Your Skill Level
Discover a clear guide comparing Gundam model kit grades by complexity and detail to assist you in selecting the ideal build.
Entry Level: High Grade (HG)
Designed for beginners, HG kits offer straightforward assembly with good detail and articulation at an accessible difficulty.
Beginner
Affordable
Detail
Intermediate: Real Grade (RG)
Offering enhanced complexity and detail, RG kits challenge builders ready to elevate their modeling skills.
Beginner – Intermediate
Increased Detail
Runner/Part Count
Price
Advanced: Master Grade (MG)
Master Grade kits feature intricate parts and advanced articulation, ideal for experienced modelers seeking depth.
Intermediate – Advanced
High Detail Level
High Runner/Part Count
Price Range
What about scale for the Gundam Model Grades?
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a kit is the scale—which determines the size and detail of your finished model. Each model kit grade is associated with specific scales, impacting both the building experience and display presence. Here’s a breakdown of the different Gundam model kit scales based on their grades.
1. 1/144 Scale
The 1/144 scale is one of the most popular and accessible sizes in the Gunpla world. Models at this scale stand roughly 12–13 cm (5 inches) tall, making them compact and display-friendly.
- High Grade (HG): The majority of HG kits are 1/144 scale, offering a balance of detail and ease of assembly.
- Real Grade (RG): All RG kits are 1/144 scale, but feature much more intricate details and articulation compared to HG.
2. 1/100 Scale
The 1/100 scale provides larger models, typically around 18–20 cm (7–8 inches) tall. This scale allows for more intricate inner mechanics and detail.
- Master Grade (MG): MG kits are mainly produced in 1/100 scale, offering advanced builds with inner frames and plenty of poseability.
- Reborn-One Hundred (RE/100): Another line at the 1/100 scale, RE/100 kits focus on mobile suits that might not otherwise receive MG treatment, but without full inner frames.
3. 1/60 Scale
The 1/60 scale is the largest of the standard Gunpla scales, with completed models standing an impressive 30 cm (12 inches) or more.
- Perfect Grade (PG): PG kits are exclusively in 1/60 scale, featuring the highest level of detail, articulation, and complexity in the Gunpla lineup.
- Some special releases (like Mega Size Model kits) also use the 1/60 scale for simpler but massive builds.
4. Super Deformed (SD) Scale
Super Deformed (SD) kits do not follow a fixed scale due to their chibi-style proportions. SD kits are designed to look cute and compact, with exaggerated heads and bodies, standing about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) tall.
- SD (Super Deformed): Known for their stylized appearance, SD kits are fun, easy to build, and perfect for collectors of all skill levels.
- Cross Silhouette (SDCS): A modern SD line that offers more articulation and optional taller proportions.
5. Entry Grade (EG) Scale
Entry Grade (EG) kits are typically produced in 1/144 scale, though Bandai may release special versions in other sizes. EG kits focus on ease of assembly and accessibility.
6. 30 Minutes Missions (30MM) Scale
The 30 Minutes Missions (30MM) series primarily uses the 1/144 scale. These kits are compatible with Gunpla accessories and parts, making them perfect for custom builds and kitbashing.
Discover Your Ideal Gundam Model Grade Now
Whether you’re just starting with SD, EG, or 30 Minutes Missions kits, or ready to tackle the intricacies of MG and PG, Bandai offers a model kit grade for every builder. Explore the world of Gunpla and 30MM, and find the perfect kit to match your skill level and creativity!
Dive into a carefully selected showcase that illustrates the variety and complexity of Gundam model kits, helping enthusiasts find their ideal build.