If you've ever browsed a Gundam model kit aisle—either online or at a hobby shop like MRS Hobby—you've likely noticed labels like HG, RG, MG, and PG on the boxes. These aren’t just fancy titles—they represent the grade of the model kit, which determines the size, complexity, detail, and price.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned builder, knowing the difference between each Gundam grade helps you pick the kit that’s right for your skills and interests.

? What Does “Grade” Mean in Gunpla?

In Gunpla (short for Gundam Plastic Models), the grade refers to the level of:
- Detail and articulation
- Scale and size
- Parts complexity
- Required skill level

Grades are set by Bandai, the company that manufactures all official Gundam kits. Below is a clear breakdown of the most common grades.

? High Grade (HG) – Entry-Level and Accessible

- Scale: 1/144
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Build Time: 1–3 hours
- Price Range: $10–$30

High Grade kits are the most beginner-friendly Gunpla. They're designed for easy assembly without glue or painting (though painting is optional for customization). Despite being affordable, modern HG kits often have excellent articulation and poseability.

? Why Choose HG?
- Fast, fun builds
- Great for young hobbyists or quick projects
- Huge variety across Gundam series

? Real Grade (RG) – High Detail in a Small Package

- Scale: 1/144
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Build Time: 4–8 hours
- Price Range: $25–$45

Real Grade kits offer Master Grade-level detail but at a compact 1/144 scale. RG kits often include:
- Inner frame systems
- Complex articulation
- Advanced color separation

? Why Choose RG?
- Impressive detail and poseability
- Great for collectors with limited space
- A step up for experienced HG builders

⚙️ Master Grade (MG) – A Deep Building Experience

- Scale: 1/100
- Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Build Time: 6–15 hours
- Price Range: $40–$90+

Master Grade kits are a favorite among serious hobbyists. They’re larger, with more parts, inner frame structures, and optional customization. Painting and decals bring MG kits to life with stunning realism.

? Why Choose MG?
- Perfect for display
- Rich detail and realistic proportions
- A gateway into more advanced techniques like airbrushing and panel lining

? Perfect Grade (PG) – The Ultimate Gunpla

- Scale: 1/60
- Skill Level: Advanced
- Build Time: 20+ hours
- Price Range: $120–$300+

Perfect Grade kits are the most premium Gundam models. Built with cutting-edge engineering, PGs feature:
- Full mechanical inner frames
- LED units (in many kits)
- Extreme articulation and stability

? Why Choose PG?
- Unmatched accuracy and design
- Ideal for long-term hobbyists
- A true centerpiece for your collection

? Quick Comparison Chart

Grade	Scale	Skill Level	Key Features
HG	1/144	Beginner	Affordable, fast builds
RG	1/144	Intermediate	Advanced detail, inner frames
MG	1/100	Intermediate–Advanced	Complex build, great articulation
PG	1/60	Advanced	Extreme detail, large models

? How to Choose Your First Gunpla

If you’re just starting out, begin with an HG kit—they're quick, affordable, and easy to enjoy. Once you're more confident, move on to RG or MG kits to try new techniques. For experienced hobbyists, PG kits are the ultimate expression of the craft.

? Tip: Equip yourself with a basic toolset—nippers, hobby knife, sanding stick, and tweezers—for smoother builds at any grade.

?️ Shop Gundam Kits at MRS Hobby

At MRS Hobby, we carry a wide range of Gunpla kits across all grades—plus tools, paints, decals, and accessories to help you build with confidence.

? Browse our Gundam collection: www.mrshobby.com
? Visit us in Sandy, Utah or order online for nationwide shipping.

? Want More?

Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Instagram for:
- New kit arrivals
- Build tips & tutorials
- Monthly Gunpla highlights
- Customer showcase builds