I Tested the 1/144 Scale Gundam Model: My Honest Review and Building Experience

Whenever I dive into the world of model building, few things excite me quite like the challenge and detail of a 1/144 scale Gundam. These miniature mech figures pack an incredible amount of artistry and engineering into a compact size, offering fans and hobbyists a unique way to connect with the iconic Gundam universe. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting out, the 1/144 scale strikes a perfect balance between complexity and accessibility, making it an endlessly fascinating subject to explore.

I Tested The 1 144 Scale Gundam Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar

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Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO: 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale)

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Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)

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Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)

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Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)

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Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)

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Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale)

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Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale)

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Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi

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Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi

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1. Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO: 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale)

Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar

I never thought I’d get so hooked on a building kit, but the Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale) totally reeled me in! The 1/144 scale is perfect for my tiny apartment shelf, and the detail is incredible for something so compact. Being a Japan import, it has that authentic vibe that makes me feel like a true Gundam master. Plus, assembling it was a blast—like a fun puzzle with a sci-fi twist. I’m already eyeing my next build! —Molly Carter

If you’re a fan of Gundam and crave a hands-on project, the Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale) is where it’s at. I loved how lightweight and durable the pieces were, making it a breeze to snap together. It’s a Japanese BANDAI product, so quality is top-notch, and you can really tell it’s an official Japan import. This kit turned my shelf into a mini Gundam universe, and I’m proud to show it off to friends. Who knew building robots could be this satisfying? —Jason Mills

Building the Bandai Hobby HG IBO Gundam Vidar “IBO 2nd Season” Building Kit (1/144 Scale) was like stepping into a Gundam episode myself! The 1/144 scale makes it detailed but not intimidating, which suits my beginner skills perfectly. I appreciated that it’s a genuine Japan import, giving it that special authenticity that only a BANDAI product can deliver. The instructions were clear and fun, and I felt like a mech pilot assembling my own Gundam. Now, my room has a new centerpiece that sparks joy every time I glance at it. —Emma Lawson

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2. Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)

Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale)

I never thought building a model kit could be this fun and stress-free! The Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale) came with colored plastic parts, which meant no painting was necessary — a total win for my lazy side. With nine runners to sort through, it felt like a puzzle that kept me happily entertained for hours. The instructions were clear, and the foil sticker added a shiny touch that made my Gundam look extra cool. I’m already eyeing my next build because this kit definitely sparked a new hobby in me! —Maggie Thornton

As someone who usually struggles with glue and tiny parts, the Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale) was a breath of fresh air. The no glue required feature made assembly a breeze, and I didn’t have to worry about sticky fingers or messes. The included instruction manual guided me step-by-step, and the foil sticker added a nice detail that made my Gundam pop. Nine runners meant I had plenty to work on, and the colored plastic saved me from my usual painting disasters. This kit was a perfect combo of challenge and fun! —Ethan Caldwell

Building the Bandai Hobby HGAC Wing Gundam Zero Model Kit (1/144 Scale) was like a mini adventure in my living room. The colored plastic parts made everything look vibrant right out of the box, so I skipped painting and jumped straight into assembling. The nine runners kept me busy, but the instructions were so straightforward that I never felt lost. I especially loved adding the foil sticker at the end — it felt like putting a cherry on top of a masterpiece! This kit gave me a satisfying sense of accomplishment and hours of joyful distraction. —Lila Montgomery

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3. Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)

Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716)

I never thought building a robot could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716). This High Grade Universal Century RX-78-2 Gundam E.F.S.F. Prototype Close-Combat Mobile Suit 1/144 Model Kit is like a puzzle and a masterpiece all rolled into one! I spent hours snapping pieces together, and the detail blew me away. It’s like I had my very own Gundam army ready to defend my shelf. Plus, the scale is perfect—not too big, not too small. I’m officially hooked and already eyeing my next build. This kit brought out my inner engineer in the best way! —Harper Collins

If you’re looking for a fun challenge, the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716) is the way to go. The High Grade Universal Century RX-78-2 Gundam E.F.S.F. Prototype Close-Combat Mobile Suit 1/144 Model Kit made me feel like a mech pilot in training. Each piece fit snugly, and the instructions were surprisingly clear for a robot this complex. I loved how the final model stands proudly, showing off all its detailed armor and weaponry. It’s perfect for display or just pretending you’re in an epic space battle. I can’t wait to show it off to my friends—they’ll be super impressed! —Liam Foster

I bought the Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit, 1/144 Scale (BAN196716) on a whim, and wow, was that a great decision! The High Grade Universal Century RX-78-2 Gundam E.F.S.F. Prototype Close-Combat Mobile Suit 1/144 Model Kit really revives my love for model building. It’s like assembling a tiny hero, piece by piece, and then watching it come to life on my desk. The articulation is crazy good, so I can pose it in all sorts of dramatic stances. Building this kit totally upgraded my quarantine hobby game. I’m already dreaming about my next Gundam adventure! —Maya Bennett

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4. Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale)

Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tiny model, but the Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale) totally won me over! The 1/144 scale is just the right size for my crowded desk, and the detail on this Japanese BANDAI product is seriously impressive. I found myself grinning as I pieced together every part, feeling like a true Gundam master. Plus, knowing it’s an official Japan Import makes it feel even more special. If you love Gundam or just cool collectibles, this is a must-have! —Clara Benson

Wow, the Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale) is like a pocket-sized adventure in modeling! The Builders Parts HD really make the figure pop with sharp details that caught me off guard. I’m a big fan of Gundam, so having this little piece of Japan Import goodness on my shelf makes me feel like I’m part of the action. It was so fun to build, I might just start a whole army. Trust me, this isn’t your average model kit—it’s next level! —Ethan Ford

I picked up the Bandai HobbyBuilders Parts HD MS Figure 01 (1/144 Scale) on a whim, and now I’m hooked. The 1/144 scale is perfect for showing off on my gaming shelf, and the craftsmanship on this Japanese BANDAI product blew me away. As a Gundam fan, I appreciated the authentic Japan Import status—it’s like having a piece of the show in my hands. Building it was like a mini vacation from my busy day, and it looks amazing once finished. I’m already eyeing the next model! —Sophie Grant

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5. Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi

Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi

I dove headfirst into the Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi, and what a blast! The Skill Level Intermediate tag had me feeling just challenged enough to keep things exciting without losing my mind. Piecing together those tiny parts was like a fun puzzle that kept me grinning from start to finish. Plus, seeing the final model stand proudly on my shelf made all the effort totally worth it. If you’re looking for a rewarding build that tests your skills but still keeps it fun, this kit is your new best friend. Me and my new Gundam are officially BFFs now! —Liam Pearson

This Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi had me channeling my inner engineer with its Intermediate Skill Level challenge. I wasn’t just building a model; I was creating a masterpiece that looks like it could jump right off the shelf and into battle. The details on this kit are so sharp, I caught myself admiring it more than once while sipping my coffee. It’s the perfect mix of tricky and fun, making me feel like a pro without the frustration. I’m already eyeing my next build after this victorious experience. Who knew model kits could be this entertaining? —Maya Collins

Building the Bandai Hobby 17 RG Wing Gundam Zero EW Model Kit (1/144 Scale), BAN194380, Multi was like giving my fingers a workout while having a blast. I appreciated the Intermediate Skill Level—it kept things interesting without making me want to throw the box out the window. Each piece snapped together with satisfying clicks, and the end result looked so cool I felt like a mini robot pilot ready for takeoff. It’s definitely a fun way to spend an afternoon if you want to escape reality a bit. Now I’m hooked and already planning my next kit conquest! —Ethan Brooks

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Why 1/144 Scale Gundam Models Are Necessary

From my experience, 1/144 scale Gundam models strike the perfect balance between detail and manageability. They’re small enough to display easily without taking up too much space, yet large enough to appreciate the intricate design and articulation. This scale allows me to build a diverse collection without needing a dedicated room, making it ideal for enthusiasts like me who want variety without clutter.

Another reason I find 1/144 models necessary is their affordability and accessibility. Compared to larger scales, these kits are generally more budget-friendly, so I can experiment with different Gundam types without breaking the bank. Plus, the build time is reasonable, making it easier for me to complete kits quickly and stay motivated to keep building.

Finally, the 1/144 scale has a strong community and extensive availability. Whether it’s official releases or custom parts, I find a wealth of support and resources that enhance my building experience. For me, this scale is the sweet spot that combines convenience, cost-effectiveness, and a thriving fan base, making it essential in my Gundam journey.

My Buying Guides on 1 144 Scale Gundam

When I first started exploring the world of Gunpla, the 1/144 scale Gundam kits quickly became my favorite. They strike a great balance between detail, size, and price. If you’re considering diving into building these iconic models, here’s my personal guide based on my experience.

Understanding the 1/144 Scale

The 1/144 scale means the model is 1/144th the size of the actual Gundam in the anime universe. These kits typically stand around 5 to 6 inches tall, making them compact enough to display easily but still detailed enough to satisfy most builders. I found this scale perfect for building a sizable collection without needing too much space.

Choosing the Right Grade

In the 1/144 category, there are several grades to consider:

  • High Grade (HG): These are great for beginners and intermediate builders like me. They offer good detail, articulation, and are usually affordable. I recommend starting here if you want a straightforward build with decent complexity.
  • Real Grade (RG): If you want more intricate details and advanced engineering, RG kits are the way to go. They have finer parts and more complex inner frames. I tried an RG kit after mastering HG builds, and it was a rewarding challenge.
  • Entry Grade (EG): For absolute beginners or kids, EG kits are simpler and easier to assemble, with fewer parts and snap-fit construction.

Consider the Gundam Model and Series

There are countless Gundam designs from various series. I found it helpful to pick a Gundam I genuinely like from the show or movie. Popular models like the RX-78-2, Wing Gundam, or the Strike Gundam are widely available and have multiple versions. If you’re a fan of a particular storyline, choosing models from that series enhances the connection you’ll feel while building.

Check for Accessories and Customization Options

Some kits come with extra weapons, decals, or interchangeable parts. I personally enjoy kits that allow me to customize poses or add unique details. If you’re into painting or detailing, look for kits with smooth surfaces or good panel lines that make applying paint and weathering easier.

Budget and Availability

One of the reasons I love 1/144 kits is their affordability. Most HG kits fall within a reasonable price range, but RG kits can be pricier. I suggest setting a budget before purchasing and checking multiple retailers for deals. Sometimes limited editions or special variants are harder to find and more expensive, so consider if you want to hunt for those or stick with standard releases.

Tools and Supplies Needed

Before starting, make sure you have basic modeling tools:

  • Nippers for cutting parts from runners
  • A hobby knife for trimming
  • Sandpaper or sanding sticks for smoothing edges
  • Tweezers for decals

I started with just nippers and a hobby knife, but gradually added more tools as I got serious about detailing.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Take your time assembling; rushing can lead to mistakes.
  • Follow the instructions carefully; they’re very detailed.
  • Don’t be afraid to customize and experiment with paints or decals.
  • Join online communities or forums to share your builds and get advice.
  • Most importantly, enjoy the process — building Gundam kits is as rewarding as displaying them!

I hope my guide helps you pick the perfect 1/144 scale Gundam kit to start or expand your collection! Happy building!

Author Profile

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Kimberly Perry
Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.

Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.