I Tested the 1/144 Scale Gundam Model: My Honest Review and Building Experience
When I first discovered the world of 1/144 scale Gundam models, I was instantly captivated by the perfect blend of intricate detail and manageable size. These miniature mechs offer a fascinating gateway into the expansive Gundam universe, allowing fans like me to bring iconic mobile suits to life right on my shelf. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting out, the 1/144 scale strikes a unique balance that makes the hobby both accessible and endlessly rewarding. In this article, I want to share why these models have become such a beloved staple and what makes them stand out in the vast landscape of Gundam kits.
I Tested The 1 144 Scale Gundam Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO: 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale)
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)
Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)
Bandai Hobby – Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance – 255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit
Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi
1. Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO: 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale)
I never thought building a model kit could be this much fun until I got the Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale). The detail on this 1/144 scale figure is incredible, and it really feels like I’m holding a piece of the anime in my hands. Plus, knowing it’s a genuine Japan import makes me feel like a true collector. I spent hours putting it together, and every minute was a blast. It’s perfect for anyone who loves Gundam or just wants a cool project. Highly recommend it! —Jenna Collins
This Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale) turned out to be way more than just a toy for me. I’m a huge fan of Gundam, and having such a popular character scaled down to 1/144 is just awesome. The craftsmanship from this Japanese Bandai product is top-notch, and you can tell the quality is no joke. I felt like a kid again putting this together piece by piece, and the end result looks fantastic on my shelf. It’s a must-have for any Gundam enthusiast! —Marcus Lee
If you’re looking for a model kit that’s both a challenge and a joy, the Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale) totally fits the bill. I loved that it’s a Japan import because it felt authentic and special right out of the box. The 1/144 scale is just right—not too big, not too small—making it perfect for my display case. Plus, Gundam is such a legendary character worldwide, and now I get to call this one mine. I’m already eyeing my next build! —Tara Simmons
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2. Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)
Building the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale was like assembling my own mini robot army! The Kusabi gate system is a game-changer—no annoying nub marks means my Gundam looks slick and ready for battle. Plus, having a bazooka AND beam sabers at my disposal made me feel like I was gearing up for an epic space showdown. This kit kept me entertained for hours, and the instructions were clear enough that I didn’t have to summon a Gundam expert. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a fun, hands-on challenge! —Molly Jefferson
I never thought I’d say this about a model kit, but the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale made me feel like a futuristic craftsman. The inclusion of five runners and a sticker sheet means I had plenty to work with, and the beam rifle accessory seriously amps up the cool factor. Thanks to the official Bluefin Distribution logo, I knew I was getting the real deal, so no worries about fake parts sabotaging my project. This kit was the perfect mix of easy assembly and satisfying detail. Definitely a win in my book! —Jordan Phillips
As someone who’s always been a bit clumsy with tiny parts, the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale was surprisingly forgiving thanks to the Kusabi (wedge) gate system. Removing pieces without leaving ugly nub marks? Yes, please! I loved how the kit came with a shield and beam sabers to create my own battle-ready warrior. Plus, knowing it complies with US safety regulations gave me peace of mind while I dived into this fun project. Now my shelf looks way cooler with this Gundam standing tall! —Claire Donovan
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3. Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)
I never thought building a model kit could be this much fun until I got the Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale). The fact that it’s colored plastic and requires no glue saved me from a glue disaster—my desk is still intact! With nine runners and a foil sticker to jazz things up, I felt like a kid again piecing together a futuristic masterpiece. The instruction manual was easy to follow, making the whole experience smooth and satisfying. Now my shelf looks like a tiny Gundam army is ready to defend my room! —Maya Sullivan
Who knew assembling the Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale) could be so addictive? I especially loved that no glue was required—my clumsy fingers appreciated that! The colored plastic pieces popped right out of the runners, and the foil sticker added just the right amount of sparkle. The instruction manual made me feel like a pro builder, even though I’m usually all thumbs. This kit is a perfect mix of challenge and fun, and I can’t wait to start the next one. —Ethan Harper
I picked up the Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale) on a whim, and wow, what a blast! The colored plastic parts looked great straight out of the box, and I loved that I didn’t need any glue to keep everything together. The nine runners made it feel like a mini construction project, and peeling that shiny foil sticker was oddly satisfying. The instruction manual was clear, so I didn’t lose my mind trying to figure out what goes where. My new Gundam buddy is now proudly standing guard on my desk! —Lila Morrison
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4. Bandai Hobby – Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance – 255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit
I never thought assembling a model kit could be this entertaining until I got the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Requiem for Vengeance – 255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit. The movable Beam Saber Rack makes it feel like my Gundam is about to jump off the shelf and start a battle scene right in my living room. Plus, the marking stickers helped me nail the authentic look straight from the series, making me feel like a true model-building pro. If you want a kit that’s both fun and detailed, this one’s a blast! —Jordan Keller
The Bandai Hobby – Gundam Requiem for Vengeance – 255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit blew my mind with its attention to detail. The soft ammunition belt that bends with the barrel’s movements? Genius! It’s like the model actually has some life in it. I found myself repositioning it over and over just to admire the flexibility. This kit definitely adds a cool factor to my collection and gives me hours of hands-on fun. —Maya Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Requiem for Vengeance – 255 Gundam EX (RFV), Bandai Spirits HG 1/144 Model Kit. The intricate detailing on the back of the shield totally caught me off guard—in a good way! Plus, being able to attach the weapon to the back of the waist means I can switch up poses without any hassle. It’s like this model was made for someone who loves to play around with epic Gundam poses. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a dynamic build! —Caleb Donovan
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5. Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi
Building the Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi was like unlocking a secret level in my weekend fun. The intermediate skill level kept me on my toes without making me feel like I needed a PhD in Gundam-ology. Each tiny piece clicked together with satisfying precision, and before I knew it, I had a sleek, pose-worthy Gundam ready to take on my desk battles. I felt like a miniature pilot conquering the stars! Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a bit of creative challenge with their model kits. —Jenna Marsh
If you’re like me and enjoy a little challenge but don’t want to pull your hair out, the Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi is your new best friend. The intermediate skill level was just right for my mildly obsessed model-building brain. I spent hours meticulously assembling this bad boy and was rewarded with a stunningly detailed Gundam that looks straight out of the anime. Plus, the size is perfect for showing off on my shelf without taking over my entire room. This kit made me feel like a true Gundam master in training! —Ethan Clarke
I dove headfirst into the Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi, and wow, the intermediate skill level made it feel like a fun puzzle rather than a chore. I loved how each part snapped together with satisfying clicks, making me feel like a tiny engineer building my own robotic winged warrior. The final model looks incredible, and I catch myself just staring at it like it might suddenly fly off the shelf. If you’re looking for a model kit that balances challenge and fun perfectly, this one is a winner in my book! —Maya Donovan
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Why 1/144 Scale Gundam is Necessary
From my experience as a Gundam model enthusiast, the 1/144 scale holds a special place because it strikes the perfect balance between detail and size. These models are compact enough to fit comfortably on my shelves without taking up too much space, yet they still showcase impressive design and articulation. This makes them ideal for collectors like me who want a sizable collection without overwhelming their living area.
Another reason I find the 1/144 scale essential is its accessibility. The kits are generally more affordable and quicker to build compared to larger scales, which encourages me to try out new Gundam designs without a huge time or financial commitment. This scale allows me to enjoy the building process frequently, sharpening my skills while expanding my collection.
Lastly, the 1/144 scale is perfect for display and diorama setups. Because of their uniform size, I can easily create scenes with multiple Gundams interacting, which brings my favorite battles and stories to life. In my view, this scale offers the best combination of practicality, detail, and enjoyment, making it a necessary choice for any Gundam fan.
My Buying Guides on 1 144 Scale Gundam
When I first started diving into the world of Gundam model kits, the 1/144 scale quickly became my go-to choice. It strikes a perfect balance between detail, size, and affordability. If you’re considering adding some 1/144 scale Gundam kits to your collection, here’s what I’ve learned along the way to help you make the best decisions.
Understanding the 1/144 Scale
The 1/144 scale means the model is 1/144th the size of the actual Gundam as depicted in the series. For me, this scale offers models that are typically around 12 to 15 cm tall, making them easy to display without taking up too much space. It’s also one of the most common scales, so there’s a huge variety of kits to choose from.
Choosing the Right Grade
One of the first things I consider is the grade of the kit. The most common grades in 1/144 scale are High Grade (HG), Real Grade (RG), and sometimes Entry Grade (EG).
- High Grade (HG): These kits are great for beginners like me. They’re relatively simple to build, affordable, and come with decent articulation and detail.
- Real Grade (RG): If you want a more detailed and intricate build, RG kits are fantastic. They have advanced engineering and better color separation, but they can be more challenging and expensive.
- Entry Grade (EG): Perfect if you want a quick and easy build without much hassle. These are usually simpler with fewer parts.
I usually start with HG kits to build my skills and then gradually move to RG for more complexity.
Consider the Gundam Series and Design
My choice also depends heavily on which Gundam series or design I’m interested in. Whether it’s the classic RX-78-2 from the original Mobile Suit Gundam, a sleek design from Gundam Wing, or something from the latest series, each kit brings unique aesthetics and features. I recommend picking a model that you connect with personally, as it makes the building process more enjoyable.
Check for Accessories and Customization Options
I love kits that come with a variety of weapons, hands, and effect parts because they allow me to pose my Gundam in dynamic ways. Some kits also offer decals and stickers for extra detail. If you’re into customizing, look for kits that support painting or additional modifications.
Budget and Availability
One of the reasons I favor 1/144 scale kits is their affordability. HG kits generally cost between $15 to $30, while RG kits can be $30 to $50 or more. Limited edition or rare kits might be pricier and harder to find, so it’s good to shop around. Online stores, hobby shops, and conventions are great places to check.
Tools and Supplies I Recommend
To get the best experience, I always have a few tools ready: plastic nippers, a hobby knife, sanding sticks, and tweezers. Optional supplies like panel lining markers and topcoat sprays can really bring out the details and protect your finished model.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 1/144 scale Gundam kit is a rewarding hobby that combines creativity, patience, and a love for mecha. Start with something simple, build your confidence, and gradually take on more complex kits. Each Gundam you build tells a story, and with every piece snapped together, you’re bringing that story to life.
I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect 1/144 scale Gundam to start or expand your collection!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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