Gundam Model Kits For Beginners Hg Vs Rg Grades Explained

For newcomers to Gunpla—the popular hobby of building Gundam plastic models—one of the first decisions is which grade of kit to start with. With several options available, including High Grade (HG) and Real Grade (RG), it’s essential to understand their differences in complexity, design, articulation, and value. While both are excellent entry points, they cater to different preferences and skill levels. This guide breaks down everything a beginner needs to know about HG and RG kits, helping you make an informed choice before your first build.

Understanding Gundam Model Kit Grades

Gundam model kits, officially known as Gunpla (a portmanteau of \"Gundam\" and \"plastic model\"), are produced by Bandai in multiple grades. These grades indicate scale, detail level, part count, and intended audience. The most common grades include High Grade (1:144 scale), Real Grade (also 1:144), Master Grade (1:100), and Perfect Grade (1:60). For beginners, HG and RG are the most accessible and widely recommended starting points.

Both HG and RG kits are built at the same 1:144 scale, meaning they result in similarly sized models—typically between 5 to 7 inches tall. However, beneath the surface, there are significant differences in engineering, internal structure, and overall experience. Understanding these distinctions helps set realistic expectations and guides new builders toward a satisfying first project.

High Grade (HG): The Classic Entry Point

Introduced in 1990, High Grade kits were designed to offer affordable, easy-to-assemble models with decent articulation and recognizable detail. Over the decades, the HG line has evolved significantly, especially with the launch of the HGUC (High Grade Universal Century) and HGIBO (High Grade Iron-Blooded Orphans) sub-lines. Modern HG kits often feature inner skeletons, color-molded parts, and snap-fit assembly—requiring no glue.

What makes HG ideal for beginners? Simplicity. Most HG kits contain between 100 and 200 pieces, making them manageable without overwhelming new builders. Instructions are clear and sequential, and the parts are generally sturdy. Many HG models also include basic gimmicks like transformable weapons or simple posing mechanisms, adding fun without complexity.

Tip: Start with a modern HG kit from the last 10 years—older versions may lack updated engineering and can be harder to work with.

Popular beginner-friendly HG kits include the HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam, HG Build Strike Freedom, and HG Barbatos Lupus Rex. These models balance ease of construction with visual impact, making them rewarding for first-time builders.

Real Grade (RG): Precision and Detail in a Compact Scale

Launched in 2010, Real Grade kits represent a leap in miniaturized engineering. Despite sharing the same 1:144 scale as HG, RG models incorporate features typically found in larger Master Grade kits—most notably a fully articulated inner frame made of polycaps and metal-like plastic joints. This allows for exceptional poseability and a sense of mechanical realism rarely seen at this size.

Rarely exceeding 200–300 parts, RG kits use advanced molding techniques to embed intricate details directly into runners. Parts are thinner and more delicate than those in HG kits, requiring careful handling. Some RG builds include light-piping elements (for glowing eyes or effect parts), layered armor, and even small screws in certain versions. While still snap-fit, RG assembly demands greater attention to part orientation and joint tension.

The trade-off for this sophistication is a steeper learning curve. First-time builders may struggle with tight fits or fragile limbs, especially when removing parts from sprues. However, the payoff is a model that feels dense, detailed, and highly poseable—often rivaling much larger kits in visual fidelity.

“RG kits are engineered like miniature masterpieces. They’re not just models—they’re functional sculptures.” — Takashi Hasegawa, Bandai Spirits Designer

Comparing HG and RG: Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	High Grade (HG)	Real Grade (RG)
Scale	1:144	1:144
Part Count	100–200	180–300
Inner Frame	Simplified skeleton (post-2000s)	Full multi-layered internal frame
Detail Level	Good surface detail, moderate depth	Exceptional panel lines, mechanical layering
Assembly Difficulty	Easy to moderate	Moderate to challenging
Poseability	Good range, standard joints	Excellent, near-MG articulation
Price Range	$15–$30 USD	$35–$50 USD
Best For	Beginners, quick builds, budget-friendly	Intermediate builders, detail lovers

This comparison shows that while both kits occupy the same physical space, their internal philosophy differs. HG prioritizes accessibility and speed; RG emphasizes authenticity and engineering finesse.

Step-by-Step: Choosing Your First Kit

Selecting between HG and RG depends on your goals, patience, and interest in detail. Follow this decision-making process to find the best fit:

1. Assess your modeling experience. If you’ve never assembled a plastic model before, start with HG. It teaches core skills—part identification, clipping, and alignment—without frustration.
2. Consider your budget. RG kits cost nearly twice as much as most HGs. If you're testing the waters, an HG offers better risk-to-reward value.
3. Evaluate your tools. While neither requires glue, using nippers and a precision knife improves results. RG kits benefit more from proper tools due to smaller, tighter parts.
4. Think about display goals. Want a dynamic, poseable centerpiece? RG excels here. Prefer a clean, iconic look with minimal effort? HG delivers.
5. Check availability. Some RG kits are limited releases or region-exclusive. HGs are more consistently stocked worldwide.

Tip: Always buy from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit kits, which may have misaligned parts or poor color separation.

Mini Case Study: Alex’s First Gunpla Journey

Alex, a 24-year-old graphic designer with no prior modeling experience, wanted to start Gunpla after watching Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury. Excited by online images of highly detailed builds, he purchased the RG Aerial—a sleek, transformable suit with complex knee joints and a transformation gimmick. Within hours, he was frustrated: tiny parts broke during removal, the torso frame felt unstable, and the instructions’ color-coding confused him.

After pausing for a week, Alex switched strategy. He bought the HG Aerial Normal Type—a simpler version of the same mobile suit. This time, the build flowed smoothly. He learned how to sand nubs, align armor correctly, and appreciate the character’s design. Two months later, he revisited the RG Aerial with better tools and confidence—and completed it successfully.

Alex’s story highlights a common pitfall: letting enthusiasm override practicality. Starting with a forgiving HG kit built his foundational skills, ultimately enabling him to tackle more advanced projects.

Essential Checklist for New Builders

• ✔ Choose a modern HG kit for your first build (e.g., HGUC Zaku II, HG Wing Gundam Zero)
• ✔ Acquire basic tools: plastic nippers, tweezers, and a hobby knife
• ✔ Work in a well-lit area with a tray to catch clipped parts
• ✔ Read all instruction manuals thoroughly before starting
• ✔ Don’t force parts—misalignment means something is wrong
• ✔ Save extra parts and frames until the build is complete and displayed
• ✔ Consider test-fitting major sections before final assembly

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need glue or paint for HG or RG kits?

No. Both HG and RG kits are designed for snap-fit assembly using color-separated plastic. Paint and glue are optional upgrades for customization, but not required for a complete, stable model.

Which is more durable—HG or RG?

HG kits tend to be more robust due to thicker plastic and simpler joints. RG models, while precise, have finer parts that can snap if handled roughly. Once built carefully, however, both can last for years with proper display and handling.

Can kids build RG kits?

Rarely. RG kits require fine motor skills and patience. Children under 12—or adults new to models—are better served by HG or Even Grade (EG) kits, which are specifically designed for simplicity.

Expert Insight: Why Engineering Matters

The innovation behind RG kits isn’t just about looks—it’s about redefining what’s possible at 1:144 scale. Bandai’s engineers use CAD simulations and stress-testing to ensure every joint functions reliably despite the compact size. As one developer noted:

“The goal with RG was to bring MG-level satisfaction into a pocketable format. We didn’t want scaled-down compromises—we wanted scaled-down perfection.” — Kenji Ishida, Bandai Nano Universe Team

This philosophy explains why RG kits feel so substantial. They’re not just models; they’re demonstrations of industrial design excellence, where every gear, hinge, and connector serves a purpose.

Final Recommendation: Start Smart, Build Confidently

For absolute beginners, High Grade remains the optimal starting point. It offers affordability, manageable complexity, and a high success rate—critical for building confidence. That said, Real Grade kits are not off-limits. If you’re technically inclined, enjoy puzzles, and don’t mind a slower build pace, an RG can be a deeply satisfying first project—provided you approach it with patience and the right tools.

Ultimately, both grades reflect Bandai’s commitment to quality and accessibility. Whether you choose the straightforward charm of HG or the intricate allure of RG, you’re engaging with a hobby that blends creativity, engineering, and storytelling. The Gundam universe is vast, and your first kit is just the beginning.

🚀 Ready to begin your Gunpla journey? Pick a High Grade kit today, master the basics, and unlock the door to increasingly sophisticated builds. Share your first creation online—every expert builder started exactly where you are now.