Model building is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. With nearly a century of injection-molded plastic models available—from military vehicles and sports cars to anime robots and everyday objects—it's easy to be intimidated. Seeing the stunning creations of experienced modelers might suggest you need a fully equipped workshop, surgeon-like precision, and years of practice, but that's simply not true. This guide simplifies the process, offering a curated selection of kits perfect for getting started.
To make this enjoyable pastime more accessible, I've compiled a list of worthwhile kits, many based on personal experience. We'll start with kits requiring no glue or paint, then move on to options for those ready to get their hands a little dirtier. Finally, we'll cover essential tools and supplies, along with where to find these fantastic LEGO alternatives.
No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!
While model kits traditionally required glue and paint, that's no longer always the case. Many companies offer beginner-friendly kits that are pre-colored and easily snap together. Keep in mind that some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, but many still offer a satisfying challenge without messy adhesives or paints. Gundam kits are a prime example! If you're interested in a beginner-friendly approach and appreciate giant robots, the following kits are excellent starting points.
Under $25
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
41:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.
$15.14 save 14%
$12.99 at Amazon
Under $100
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
21:100 Scale. Recommended age: 15 years and up.
$59.20 save 13%
$51.50 at Amazon
Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). High Grade (HG) kits are typically $15-30 and around 6 inches tall, while Master Grade (MG) kits cost around $30-50 and are slightly taller, but far more detailed and complex.
High Grade
Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero
Includes twin buster rifle, beam sabers, pile driver shield, and machine cannons.
$20.99 save 24%
$16.00 at Amazon
Master Grade
Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos, Bandai Spirits MG 1:100
Features a reproduced Gundam frame and Ahab Reactor.
$54.69 save 0%
$54.69 at Amazon
Gunpla (Gundam plastic models) is incredibly popular. However, for those less interested in giant robots, similarly easy-to-build kits exist for other franchises.
Star Wars Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Bandai AT-ST 1:48 Scale Star Wars All Terrain Scout Transport Walker
See it at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing Starfighter Building Kit
$29.64 save 0%
$29.64 at Amazon
Bandai offers many pre-colored snap-together Star Wars kits. While some work better than others without paint, a basic wash or dry-brushing enhances detail on less colorful models.
Bandai Hobby Boba Fett, Bandai Spirits Hobby 1/12 Plastic Model Kit
$29.99 save 43%
$17.02 at Amazon
Boba Fett's colorful design looks great unpainted. Stormtroopers, however, benefit from customization.
Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits
Anime Model Kits
Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
$34.95 save 6%
$32.99 at Amazon
Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise Standard Model Kit
$32.58 save 0%
$32.58 at Amazon
Bandai's Figure-Rise line offers pre-colored snap-together kits of various anime characters.
Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren’t Gundam)
Kotobukiya Metal Gear Solid: Metal Gear Rex (Black Ver.) Model Kit
Prices from $154
Good Smile CompanyHorizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
Prices from $107.64 at Amazon
Good Smile CompanyAliens: Power Loader Moderoid Plastic Model Kit
Ellen Ripley included.
See it
Good Smile Company's Moderoid line offers pre-painted kits.
Bandai Hobby - Imaginary Skeleton – 1:32 Imaginary Skeleton Tyrannosaurus
$44.00 save 16%
$36.99 at Amazon
Bandai Store Triceratops
$46.00 save 0%
$46.00 at IGN Store
Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
$27.00 save 0%
$27.00 at Amazon
Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R Custom White 1:32 Scale Model Kit
$14.99 save 0%
$14.99 at Amazon
Aoshima offers a wide variety of snap-together kits.
Military Model Kits
Tamiya 35346 1/35 US Medium Tank M4A3E8 Sherman Plastic Model Kit
$44.99 save 0%
$44.99 at Amazon
Tamiya Models M1A2 Abrams Model Kit
$34.30 save 0%
$34.30 at Amazon
Tamiya offers high-quality military vehicle kits.
Hasegawa 1:72 AV-8B Harrier II Plus
$21.99 save 0%
$21.99 at Amazon
Hasegawa 1:48 AV-8B Harrier II
$36.89 save 0%
$36.89 at Amazon
Car Model Kits
Hasegawa BMW 2002 Tii 1:24 Model Kit
$25.50 save 0%
$25.50 at Amazon
Revell of Germany McLaren 570S
$34.99 save 0%
$34.99 at Amazon
Consider Revell of Germany kits over Revell USA kits.
Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 1:24 Scale Model Kit
$33.99 save 0%
$33.99 at Amazon
Aoshima Volkswagen 13AD Beetle 1303S ’73 1:24 Model Kit
$22.38 save 0%
$22.38 at Amazon
Aoshima Bunka Kyozai 1:24 Mobile Sales Series No. 8 Yakitori Ryuho Plastic Model
$19.77 save 52%
$9.58 at Amazon
How to Get Started with Model Kits
Tools:
BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tools Set
$7.99 save 0%
$7.99 at Amazon
anezus 12inch x 18inch Rotary Cutting Mat
$15.98 save 44%
$8.99 at Amazon
Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue
$8.99 save 0%
$8.99 at Amazon
Paint:
GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Surfacer 1000
$15.35 save 0%
$15.35 at Amazon
Vallejo Basic USA Acrylic Colors Paint Set
$59.99 save 43%
$34.04 at Amazon
Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint
$9.30 save 25%
See it
Model building is a rewarding hobby with a vast online community offering inspiration and tutorials. YouTube channels like SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks are great resources.
Model Kit FAQs
Where is the best place to buy model kits?
Several excellent options exist: Amazon (beware of inflated reseller prices), HobbyLink Japan (extensive selection but expensive shipping), MegaHobby (good selection and faster shipping), IGN Store (smaller selection, focusing on anime/pop-culture kits), and your local hobby shop (supports local businesses and offers expert advice).
