Gundam Grade Guide Hg Vs Mg Vs Pg Which Kit Should Beginners Start With

Building Gunpla—Gundam plastic model kits—is more than a hobby; it’s a gateway to precision, creativity, and mechanical appreciation. For newcomers, however, the sheer variety of grades can be overwhelming. The most common labels—HG, MG, and PG—refer to different tiers of complexity, detail, and price. Choosing the wrong one can lead to frustration or wasted money. Understanding the distinctions between these grades isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for a satisfying first build.

The answer to “Which grade should a beginner start with?” isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are clear patterns in what works best based on experience, budget, and goals. This guide breaks down each grade’s strengths, limitations, and ideal user profile so you can make an informed decision without guesswork.

Understanding Gundam Grades: What HG, MG, and PG Mean

Gundam model kits, officially known as Gunpla (short for *Gundam Plastic Model*), are produced by Bandai and categorized into grades that reflect scale, articulation, internal structure, and overall complexity. While other grades exist—like RG (Real Grade) or SD (Super Deformed)—the core three for serious builders are:

• HG (High Grade) – 1/144 scale, affordable, beginner-friendly
• MG (Master Grade) – 1/100 scale, detailed, intermediate to advanced
• PG (Perfect Grade) – 1/60 scale, highly complex, premium investment

These grades aren’t just about size—they reflect design philosophy, engineering depth, and intended audience. Each offers a different building experience, from quick assembly to multi-week projects involving wiring, frame construction, and intricate paneling.

High Grade (HG): The Smart Starting Point

HG kits dominate store shelves for good reason. At 1/144 scale, they’re compact, typically priced between $15 and $35, and designed with accessibility in mind. Most modern HG kits use snap-fit technology—no glue required—and include color-molded parts, meaning green armor stays green, red stays red, and so on. This eliminates the need for painting in many cases.

Beyond affordability, HGs offer surprising articulation and structural integrity. Many feature inner skeletons similar to their larger counterparts, allowing dynamic posing. Popular lines like HGUC (Universal Century) and HG Build Fighters cater to both classic fans and new audiences.

Tip: Start with an HG kit labeled \"Revive\" or \"Ver.Ka\"—these updated versions have improved engineering and better fit quality.

One major advantage of HG for beginners is time investment. A typical HG build takes 2–6 hours, making it easy to complete over a weekend. If you lose motivation halfway through a project, starting small increases your chances of finishing—and finishing builds confidence.

Master Grade (MG): Where Detail Meets Challenge

At 1/100 scale, MG kits are nearly 50% taller than HG models and packed with engineering sophistication. They often include multi-layered inner frames, hydraulic-like pistons, interchangeable hands, and LED compatibility. The surface detail is sharper, the polycaps (plastic joints) more numerous, and the sense of accomplishment greater upon completion.

But this comes at a cost—both financial and temporal. MG kits range from $40 to $90, and building one can take 10–30 hours depending on complexity. Some, like the MGEX Full Armor Unicorn or MG Sinanju, involve over 1,000 parts. Instructions are denser, and mistakes—like misplacing a joint or skipping a step—are harder to fix.

“MG kits reward patience. They’re not just models—they’re mechanical sculptures.” — Takashi Moriyama, Gunpla Designer at Bandai Spirits

While tempting for enthusiastic beginners, MGs are better suited for those who’ve completed at least two or three HG kits. The learning curve is steep: understanding part numbering, managing sprue removal, and handling delicate pieces all improve with practice. Jumping straight into MG can lead to snapped pins or lost screws.

Perfect Grade (PG): The Pinnacle of Gunpla Engineering

PG kits represent the peak of Bandai’s model engineering. At 1/60 scale, they stand over 24 inches tall when completed and contain up to 2,000 parts. What sets them apart isn’t just size—it’s the fully articulated metal-reinforced inner frame, working cockpit hatch, and often, built-in LED lighting systems powered by coin batteries.

Only a handful of PG kits are released each year, and they command prices between $250 and $400. The PG RX-78-2 Gundam or PG Unicorn are considered masterpieces, with every panel, thruster, and weapon meticulously recreated. These aren’t just display items—they’re collectible tech-artifacts.

For beginners, PG is almost never recommended. The build process demands advanced tools (side cutters, tweezers, screwdrivers), excellent eyesight, and sustained focus. One misplaced gear can affect arm movement; incorrect wiring can disable lights. Even experienced builders treat PGs as long-term projects.

Tip: If you're drawn to PGs, consider buying one later as a milestone—not a starting point.

Comparative Overview: HG vs MG vs PG

Feature	HG (1/144)	MG (1/100)	PG (1/60)
Average Price	$15–$35	$40–$90	$250–$400
Build Time	2–6 hours	10–30 hours	30–60+ hours
Part Count	100–250	500–1,200	1,500–2,000
Skill Level	Beginner	Intermediate+	Advanced
Articulation & Detail	Good for size	Excellent	Exceptional
Best For	Learning basics, quick builds	Detail lovers, display focus	Collectors, ultimate challenge

This comparison makes it clear: if you’re new to Gunpla, HG offers the best balance of cost, time, and satisfaction. It allows you to learn fundamentals without high stakes.

Step-by-Step Guide: Choosing Your First Kit

Selecting your first Gunpla shouldn’t be random. Follow this sequence to ensure a positive experience:

1. Assess your available time – Do you want to finish in a day? Go HG. Willing to spend weeks? Consider saving for MG later.
2. Set a budget – Stick to $30 or under for your first build. This reduces pressure to “not mess up.”
3. Pick a familiar design – Choose a Gundam you know from anime or games. Emotional connection boosts motivation.
4. Check the version – Look for “Ver.Ka,” “Revive,” or “2.0” labels—these indicate updated, easier-to-build molds.
5. Buy basic tools – A pair of side cutters and a hobby knife are enough to start. Avoid scissors—they crush edges.
6. Read the instructions carefully – Bandai’s manuals are visual and precise. Take it step by step.
7. Complete it before moving on – Finishing your first model builds discipline and pride.

Real Example: Alex’s First Build Journey

Alex, a 28-year-old graphic designer, saw Gunpla videos online and immediately wanted to try. He was drawn to the MG Barbatos from *Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans*—it looked powerful, detailed, and impressive. Ignoring advice, he bought it for $85. After four hours of building, he reached Step 17 and realized he’d installed the hip joints backward. Fixing it meant disassembling half the lower body. Frustrated, he set it aside.

Three months later, he returned with a new mindset. He purchased the HG Build Strike Freedom—$28, Revive version. This time, he followed instructions closely, used proper cutters, and finished in two sittings. The sense of achievement reignited his interest. Within six months, he completed five more HGs and finally returned to the MG Barbatos—with success.

His story isn’t unique. Many beginners fail not from lack of skill, but from starting too high. Success breeds motivation. Start simple, then scale up.

Essential Checklist Before Buying Your First Kit

• ✅ Budget under $35
• ✅ HG (1/144) scale selected
• ✅ Version is “Revive,” “Ver.Ka,” or “2.0”
• ✅ Includes color-molded parts (no paint needed)
• ✅ Snap-fit (no glue required)
• ✅ Based on a Gundam you personally like
• ✅ You have basic modeling tools ready

Checking these boxes dramatically increases your odds of a smooth, enjoyable first build.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start with an MG as a complete beginner?

Technically, yes—but it’s not advisable. MGs demand attention to detail, patience with complex assemblies, and familiarity with part organization. Most beginners who start with MG report frustration or abandoned builds. Complete 2–3 HG kits first to develop foundational skills.

Are PG kits worth the price?

For collectors and experienced builders, yes. PGs are engineering marvels with unparalleled presence and interactivity. But they’re not beginner-friendly. Think of them as destination builds—something to work toward after mastering smaller scales.

Do I need to paint my first Gunpla?

No. Modern HG and MG kits use color separation, meaning parts come pre-colored. Painting enhances realism, but it’s optional. Beginners should focus on clean assembly first. Add painting later as a skill upgrade.

Final Recommendation: Start with HG, Grow from There

The best grade for beginners is unequivocally High Grade. It offers low financial risk, manageable complexity, and fast gratification. HG kits teach core skills—part identification, sprue removal, joint assembly—that directly transfer to MG and PG builds later. They also allow you to explore different series and designs without overspending.

Think of HG as flight school. You wouldn’t start by piloting a jet fighter—you begin with a trainer aircraft. The same logic applies here. Master the basics, enjoy the process, and let your skills evolve naturally.

💬 Ready to start your Gunpla journey? Pick an HG kit of your favorite Gundam, grab a pair of cutters, and begin building today. Share your first build photos online—you’ll inspire others just starting out.