The 30 best model building brands
Tamiya, Walthers and Revell lead our ranking of 30 model building brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Model Building brands, ranked
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1
Tamiya
Scale aircraft and tank kits in 1/35 and 1/48, plus radio-controlled chassis and hobby paints.
Website: tamiyausa.com |Brands like Tamiya
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Walthers
Cornerstone pre-cut plastic kits for HO and N scale stations and depots, plus track and scenery accessories.
Website: walthers.com |Brands like Walthers
Popularity 8.9/10
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3
Revell
Germany-based maker covering aircraft, cars, ships and railway scenery, with beginner kits as well as advanced builds.
Top products: 4 Trackside Buildings· 4 Farm Buildings
Website: revell.de |Brands like Revell
Popularity 6.8/10
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4
FALLER
Made-in-Germany HO and N scale buildings, track, trees and terrain mats for layouts.
Website: faller.de |Brands like FALLER
Popularity 6.3/10
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5
AMT
AMT's model kits replicate cars and trucks, including classic muscle cars, vintage trucks and drag racers. Some kits are built from a single stock, custom or racing version. Many were first produced decades ago, which attracts collectors as well as hobbyists.
Popularity 5.7/10
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6
Bachmann
Snap-Fit E-Z Track and the Spectrum line of detailed, DCC-ready locomotives in HO and N scale.
Top products: Playground Equipment
Website: shop.bachmanntrains.com |Brands like Bachmann
Popularity 5.7/10
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7
Woodland Scenics
Scenery materials such as static grass, ballast and foam trees, plus N scale kits for layouts.
Top products: Trackside Transfer
Website: woodlandscenics.woodlandscenics.com |Brands like Woodland Scenics
Popularity 5.6/10
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8
K'NEX
Rod-and-connector construction sets for children, built from plastic rods and connectors rather than bricks.
Website: knex.co.uk |Brands like K'NEX
Popularity 5.4/10
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9
Hasbro
Toy and game company whose model lines cover licensed figures, action toys and collectibles for fans.
Website: hasbropulse.com |Brands like Hasbro
Popularity 5.3/10
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10
Mega Bloks
Plastic brick sets with licensed themes, including Mega Construx builds, aimed at younger children.
Popularity 5.3/10
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11
Atlas
US model railroad maker whose HO kits include passenger stations, with track and locomotives for layouts.
Top products: Passenger Train Station
Popularity 4.6/10
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12
KATO
Unitrack track with built-in roadbed, plus die-cast chassis N scale locomotives, many modelled on Japanese prototypes.
Website: katousa.com |Brands like KATO
Popularity 4.2/10
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13
Trumpeter
Military and aircraft plastic kits in 1/35 and larger scales, popular with armour and warship modellers.
Website: trumpeter-china.com |Brands like Trumpeter
Popularity 4.2/10
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14
TOMY
Don’t kids become headstrong when it comes to toys? This means every parent is bound to be concerned regarding the toys their kids play with passionately. Here’s where Tomy plays its magic! The company skillfully manufactures fun-learn toys and nursery...
Website: us.tomy.com |Brands like TOMY
Popularity 3.5/10
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15
MPC
M.P.C. provides services and has extensive expertise in the technology field. They provide services ranging from I.T. assistance to home theatre installation and security camera setup. M.P.C. electronics may assist in gaming by providing server machines and a list of...
Popularity 3.4/10
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16
Academy
Academy is your one-stop store for all things hunting and outdoor. The brand has you covered with the top gear and equipment in the market, whether you're fishing, camping, hiking, or skiing. They have elevated products that their consumers adore,...
Website: academy.com |Brands like Academy
Popularity 3.3/10
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17
Lionel
Lionel Corporation ran a chain of toy stores mostly on the eastern side of the United States. It is the oldest toy firm in the United States, founded in 1900 by Joshua Lionel Cowen. At its peak, they sold $25...
Website: lionel.com |Brands like Lionel
Popularity 3.3/10
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18
Hasegawa
Hasegawa produces plastic model kits of cars, planes and aircraft for hobbyists who build and display scale models. Its car and aircraft kits are sold for home assembly, and the replicas are built to accurate detail. Each kit is supplied...
Popularity 3.2/10
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19
Airfix
Airfix designs plastic model kits in the United Kingdom, a company founded in 1939 whose kits cover aircraft, tanks, ships and buildings. Its wartime aircraft and tank replicas are a long-running draw for modellers. The kits are meant to be...
Website: us.airfix.com |Brands like Airfix
Popularity 3.2/10
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20
IHC
IHC stands for International Hobby Corps. It is a brand of products for children. They provide transporting vehicle toys to their customers. They have cars, trucks, tanks, and tractors. They also offer many spare parts for the vehicles mentioned above....
Popularity 3.2/10
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21
PLASTRUCT
Creating intricate and detailed models and structural fittings, Plastruct has been encouraging every hobbyist's model-building dreams since 1968. Their kits are designed to help you build your model from scratch, with over 4000 parts, covering foundation, landscaping, interiors, and more,...
Website: plastruct.com |Brands like PLASTRUCT
Popularity 3.1/10
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22
Italeri
Italeri makes plastic scale models in Bologna, including aircraft, tanks, model trucks and figure kits. The brand has produced models for many years and offers many vehicles in multiple scales. Its kits are popular with hobbyists who build detailed military...
Website: italeri.com |Brands like Italeri
Popularity 3.0/10
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23
Norscot
Norscot helps put your brand on the map or increase the footfall of already famous brands. The company provides merchandise and models to promote various companies via creative means. With an experience of almost fifty years, Norscot promises to offer...
Popularity 2.9/10
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24
TYCO
Tyco makes HO scale slot cars and track sets for home racing, and vintage Tyco models are now sought by collectors. Many of its sets still circulate on resale and auction sites, often with original bodies and track pieces. Buyers...
Website: tycois.com |Brands like TYCO
Popularity 2.7/10
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25
Wange
From its own online store, WANGE sells building block sets for children. The colorful flat-iron block sets are designed to build fine motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving.
Website: wange.store |Brands like Wange
Popularity 2.6/10
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26
Spin Master
Toronto-based Spin Master makes toys and games for children, including Paw Patrol figures, vehicles, and monster truck toys. Its board games sit alongside the character-based lines. The company also develops digital games for young audiences.
Website: spinmaster.com |Brands like Spin Master
Popularity 2.6/10
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27
PECO
PECO serves millions of clients in Pennsylvania with electricity and natural gas. When it comes to producing the best quality products and services, they don't rest on their laurels. The company aspires to consistently enhance its performance using data-driven insights...
Website: peco.com |Brands like PECO
Popularity 2.3/10
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28
Testors
Testors began making hobby paints and modeling supplies. The range also covers kits, spray chalk and craft products for children and adults who enjoy hands-on projects. Its model cars and paint kits are used by people building plastic models at...
Website: testors.com |Brands like Testors
Popularity 2.2/10
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29
Nanoblock
Kids and even adults look for games, but what if we modify our game to tricky and problem-solving. Nanoblocks brings construction sets with tough challenges where fans make 3D designs by keenly sculptured blocks that help build unique designs and...
Website: nanoblockus.com |Brands like Nanoblock
Popularity 2.2/10
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30
Dragon Models
Dragon Models was established in 1987. They manufacture plastic model kits. The company itself makes the designs. The company has won several awards for the model ideas they have come up with. They have released more than 1000 products to...
Popularity 2.1/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tamiya | tamiyausa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Walthers | walthers.com | /waltherstrains | waltherstrains | – | walthersmodeltrains |
| Revell | revell.de | /Revell | revellgermany | @revellgermany | RevellGermany |
| FALLER | faller.de | /faller.de | gebrfaller | – | GebrFaller |
| Bachmann | shop.bachmanntrains.com | /Bachmann-Trains | – | @bachmanntrains | bachmanntrains |
| Woodland Scenics | woodlandscenics.woodlandscenics.com | /WoodlandScenics | woodlandscenics | @WoodlandScenics | Woodland Scenics |
| K'NEX | knex.co.uk | /KNEX | knex | @KNEX | knexteam |
| Hasbro | hasbropulse.com | /hasbropulse | hasbropulse | – | – |
Model Building Buying Guide
Model building is a hobby enjoyed by many, and it is not difficult to see why. Building models can be a relaxing and rewarding way to get creative and learn new things. However, with so many different types of models available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to get started in the world of model building, including the different types of models available, what to look for when buying a model, and some tips for getting the most out of your modelling experience.
Types of models
There are many different types of models available, ranging from static models to models that can move or even fly. Some of the most popular types of models include:
- Plastic models – These are probably the most common type of model, and they are available in a wide variety of subjects, from cars and planes to ships and buildings.
- Diecast models – Diecast models are made from metal, and they are prized by collectors for their attention to detail and accuracy.
- Railway models – Railway models are popular with train enthusiasts, and they allow you to create a miniature railway network.
- RC models – RC models are models that can be controlled remotely, and they are available in a variety of types, from planes and cars to boats and helicopters.
- 3D printed models – 3D printed models are a relatively new type of model, but they are becoming more popular all the time. They are created using a special printer that creates a three-dimensional object from a digital file.
What to look for when buying a model
When buying a model, there are several things you should look for to ensure that you are getting a good quality product:
- Quality – Look for a model that is well-made and has good attention to detail. The better the quality, the easier it will be to build and the more rewarding the final result will be.
- Price – Models can vary widely in price, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping. However, remember that the cheapest option is not always the best – sometimes it is worth paying a little more to get a better quality model.
- Difficulty level – Models come in different difficulty levels, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your skill level. If you are a beginner, start with a simple model and work your way up to more complex ones as you gain experience.
- Subject matter – Choose a model that interests you, whether that is a plane, car, ship, or something else entirely. When you are building a model, it is important to enjoy the process, so choose something that you are passionate about.
Tips for getting the most out of your modelling experience
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your modelling experience:
- Set up a comfortable workstation – Make sure that you have a comfortable and well-lit workspace to build your model in. This will help you to stay focused and enjoy the process more.
- Read the instructions carefully – Before you start building your model, make sure you read the instructions carefully. This will help you to avoid mistakes and ensure that your model turns out the way you want it to.
- Take your time – Modelling is a slow and steady process, so take your time and enjoy the journey. Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes and a less satisfying end result.
- Get creative – While it is important to follow the instructions carefully, don't be afraid to get creative and make your model your own. Add your own personal touches and experiment with different colors and finishes.
- Join a modelling club – Joining a modelling club can be a great way to get advice, make new friends, and learn new techniques. Many clubs hold regular meetings and events, so check online to find one in your area.
Conclusion
Model building is a fun and rewarding hobby that can provide hours of entertainment and many opportunities to learn new things. With the right model and a little practice, anyone can become a skilled model builder. Use the tips and advice in this guide to get started and discover the many joys of model building for yourself.
