There’s not one definitive model kit that meets the needs of every person — of course, the right choice depends on the modeler’s individual needs and interests…
In order to take this into account, I narrowed down the best model kits by:
While some modelers have a theme for their collection, others just build whatever seems interesting. I fall into the latter group…
The way I personally do things is first pick a random subject/theme that I find interesting (i.e. airplanes) and then pick the kit.
Once I have the subject picked, then I start narrowing it down based on several factors:
In this post, I took many of the factors above into consideration (among others).
Contents:
Best Model Car Kits
Interested in finding out more about the best model car kit brands? Check out this post:
5 Best Model Car Kit Brands/Companies in 2020 (My Personal Picks)
Best Model Airplane Kits
If you’re wondering, the most popular scale for a model aircraft is either 1/32, 1/48, or 1/72. For more choices, check out this post:
16 Best Model Airplane Kits in 2020 by Brand (Revell, Tamiya, Etc.)
Best Model Tank Kits
For more choices, check out this post:
Best Model Engine Kits
I wouldn’t recommend most beginners to start with a model engine kit. So in this section, I’ll list my preferred choice for experienced model builders:
This is a great choice for adults who want to experience the old days again, and perhaps even teach their kids how a gasoline engine works (i.e. what parts move inside, why the valves are arranged a certain way, etc.)
Best Model Kit Trucks
This replica of the Ford F-100 Street Rod from the 1950s is incredibly detailed. Most Americans in those days could have never imagined that 70 years later, people would still be painting/designing this classic pickup truck in different creative ways.
Best Star Wars Model Kits
This kit is based on Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. It looks fantastic and it’s quite easy to assemble. One reviewer even said it was their first ever model kit and they didn’t run into many problems when assembling it (since the instructions were detailed and straightforward).
A-Wing models are generally rare, so this could be a unique addition to your collection, especially if you’re a sci-fi/fantasy fan. Many reviewers have said the detail is top notch and it’s a great value at the price.
For more choices, check out this post:
21 Best Star Wars Model Kits in 2020 (My Personal Picks)
If you’re also a Star Trek fan, you may like this article:
Best Wooden Model Ship Kit
For more choices, check out this post:
Best Japanese Robot Model Kits
This kit is based on an anime TV show called Neon Genesis Evangelion. It’s worth noting that the instructions are in Japanese, but many reviewers said they had no problem assembling it based on the labels (i.e. numbers, letters, illustrations, etc.)
For more choices, check out this post:
9 Best Japanese Robot Model Kits in 2020 (My Personal Picks)
Best Motorcycle Model Kits
Motorcycle kits are usually harder to assemble because the parts are very delicate. I would recommend the following 2 choices for experienced model builders:
For more choices, check out this post:
Best WW2 Model Kits
This kit is unique because it includes a five man fire team in addition to the Armoured Personnel Carrier vehicle. As usual, Tamiya delivered a high quality model that’s extremely detailed.
This kit was designed really well, and it’s highly customizable. Some reviewers complain that it’s on the smaller side, but at the price, it’s an overall great value.
For more choices, check out the following post:
9 Best WW2 Model Kits in 2020 by Category (Airplanes, Tanks, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best model kit brand?
While there isn’t a definitive answer, my personal opinion (and the general consensus) is that Tamiya is the best model kit brand, and they consistently produce high quality and incredibly detailed kits. Keep in mind that every brand has their good and bad kits, so you should research each model individually.
If you’d like more details, check out this Reddit thread about the topic.
What are the most essential model building tools and equipment?
Here are some very important model building tools that most modelers have in their toolbox:
For more details and explanations on how/why use these specific tools, check out this helpful Reddit thread.
Also, here’s a useful video/tutorial for beginners about the most essential model building tools:
What is the most helpful resource for beginner modelers to learn about the ins and outs of the hobby?
If you’re just getting into model building, then I highly recommend that you give this Reddit thread a read.
It covers everything from A-Z, and includes topics like:
Daniel is the main author of HobbyBio
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