If you're looking for the best Gundam model kits, we've got you covered right here.
Gundam is arguably one of the first real forms of Japanese mecha anime, having originally been a television series that began its run in 1979.
Now, the Gundam franchise has spawned across several different mediums, including film, TV, and of course mech models, such as the ones we've listed in this article.
It's best to think of these models as being similar to some of the best Lego Star Wars sets - they're very intricate kits based around a highly popular franchise.
As a result, there are so many different models to choose from, and of course, many people will have differing opinions on what makes a great kit, as well as different interests.
These are simply a selection of our favourites that we believe are must-haves.
We've taken a look at what's available on the market today that aligns with what we think makes a brilliant Gundam model kit for adults, and selected a number of options based on everything from specs to reviews.
So, let’s get to it – here are some recommendations for the best Gundam model kits out there today.
Best Gundam Model Kits
- Bandai High Grade UC RX-78-2
- Bandai Wing Master Grade
- Bandai Master Grade Epyon EW
- Bandai High Grade Orphans
- Bandai EXIA Master Grade
- Bandai Real Grade Unicorn
- Barbatos Iron-Blooded Orphans Master Grade
Bandai High Grade UC RX-78-2
click to enlarge
+ 7The Bandai High Grade UC RX-78-2 looks to be an excellent all-round choice for those after a detailed Gundam model.
Its articulation looks to be fantastic, with this model able to replicate almost any pose you wish it to, alongside having seemingly easy assembly. Gundam models are actually built without the need for glue, and come with pieces of plastic that need to be snapped together.
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With this particular one, you not only get the fantastic-looking model itself, but also loads of additional decals and accessories such as beam sabers, a shield, and a bazooka, which all look fantastic.
Bandai Wing Master Grade
click to enlarge + 7The Bandai Wing Master Grade is arguably one of the best-looking Gundam model kits out there with some truly amazing detail.
It comes with some marvellous-looking wings that look almost angelic, as well as some more brutal accessories such as dual shoulder cannons and a pair of buster rifles to boot.
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Build quality here looks to be outstanding and assembly is a blend of being both easy enough to get started yet challenging enough to keep you engaged. As a Master Grade Gundam model, this one is also one of the more detailed and higher-quality models, too.
Bandai Master Grade Epyon EW
click to enlarge + 7The Bandai Master Grade Epyon EW is an incredible example of a Master Grade Gundam, and the quality on offer that comes with them.
This is arguably one of the best-looking Gundams out there with some large wings that look especially great, alongside featuring some removable armour and a complete inner frame, which also makes this immensely detailed.
This model also has the ability to transform into flight mode, which helps to show off its fantastic articulation, and definitely does Epyon's character justice.
Bandai High Grade Orphans
click to enlarge + 7For those after more of a minimalistic-looking figure, the Bandai High Grade Orphans figure should be a marvellous choice.
With a much less bulky design, this particular model has the advantage of being one of the most flexible Gundam kits out there, offering some of the best articulation available.
In addition, there are also oodles of customisation available in the box with decals aplenty to break up the larger planes, as well as some great melee accessories comprising of a katana and a rather large mace.
Bandai EXIA Master Grade
click to enlarge + 7The Bandia EXIA Master Grade has traditionally been quite a popular Gundam model, and this particular version looks to right the wrongs of previous iterations.
It offers a more balanced set of proportions compared to the older versions, which helps to offer a clean look, and its green colouring also looks great, too.
The articulation on offer here looks to be rather good, and you also get a decent set of decals to offset the green frame, including some holographic stickers to replicate the figure's GN cables, which can add another layer of detail.
Bandai Real Grade Unicorn
click to enlarge + 7If it's a Unicorn kit you're after, the Bandai Real Grade Unicorn model looks like a terrific choice.
It's a rather detailed model that comes with loads of decals so you can give it all the necessary anime touches, as well as featuring some great all-round attention to detail with a vast set of accessories on offer too.
These include a shield, beam magnum, hyper bazooka and beam sabres too, giving you all the right tools to make the model true-to-life. Combined with this, its articulation looks to be great, with convenient transformation on offer here.
Barbatos Iron-Blooded Orphans Master Grade
click to enlarge + 7The Barbatos Iron-Blooded Orphans Master Grade kit offers one of the most detailed Gundam models money can buy today.
It features everything from working pistons on the waist to a rich exoskeleton that proves how well-made the Master Grade figures are especially, with this one as a vital example.
The articulation with this model looks to be especially fantastic, and its white, red and yellow colouring is also sure to make this model stand out and have pride of place on your shelf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Gundam models hard to build?
Fortunately, Gundam Models are all designed so that the pieces can easily fit together. The grade of the model will affect the complexity, so if you're new to Gundam, we recommend starting with a lower grade. As long as you have the patience, putting Gundam together should be fun, not hard.
What is the highest-grade Gundam model?
The highest grade of Gundam models available is Perfect Grade, which is 1:60 scale, and typically the most detailed form of the kits out there, with metal detailing alongside higher quality plastics, for instance.
As you go down from there, you get Real Grade, Master Grade, High Grade, and Original Grade.
How much should I spend on a Gundam model?
This all depends on the grade of the model you go for. The higher-end Real Grade models can range between $75 and $100 depending on the character, while the Master Grades can be between $40 and $60.
What are Gundam Models made of?
Most of the models will be made of various kinds of plastics, like HIPS (High impact polystyrene) or polycarbonate for the transparent parts, and GPPS (General Purpose Polystyrene) for the coloured parts.
Other models include metal parts, like the PG Wing Zero, which has metallic wings made using a tin alloy.
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