HG vs RG vs MG: Which Grade Should You Pick?

The Big Three

When it comes to Gunpla, three grades dominate the conversation: High Grade (HG), Real Grade (RG), and Master Grade (MG). Each offers a fundamentally different building experience.

Let's break it down.

High Grade (HG) — The Workhorse

• Scale: 1/144
• Height: ~13cm
• Build Time: 1-3 hours
• Price Range: $12-$35
• Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate

The Good: HGs are the bread and butter of Gunpla. With the widest selection of mobile suits available, there's an HG for almost every design in the Gundam universe. They're affordable, quick to build, and the modern HGUC/HGCE lines have excellent articulation.

The Less Good: Detail is naturally limited at this scale. Out-of-the-box, they can look a bit plain without panel lining or painting.

Best For: Beginners, collectors who want variety, and builders who enjoy customizing/painting.

Real Grade (RG) — The Detail Monster

• Scale: 1/144
• Height: ~13cm
• Build Time: 3-6 hours
• Price Range: $25-$50
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

The Good: RGs cram Master Grade-level detail into a High Grade-sized package. The included realistic decals, inner frame, and mechanical detail are extraordinary. Recent RGs (Nu Gundam, Hi-Nu, Sazabi) are some of the best kits Bandai has ever made.

The Less Good: Earlier RGs (pre-2018) can be fragile and fiddly. The small parts require patience and careful handling.

Best For: Experienced builders who love detail but prefer the smaller 1/144 scale.

Master Grade (MG) — The Gold Standard

• Scale: 1/100
• Height: ~18cm
• Build Time: 5-15 hours
• Price Range: $40-$120
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

The Good: MGs are the prestige line. Full inner skeleton frame, incredible mechanical detail, superior articulation, and a satisfying build experience. The larger scale means more room for detail and easier handling of parts.

The Less Good: They cost more and take up more shelf space. Some older MG designs (early 2000s) haven't aged as well.

Best For: Builders who want the most rewarding build experience and impressive display pieces.

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Quick Comparison Table

• Budget pick: HG
• Best detail per dollar: RG
• Best build experience: MG
• Most variety: HG
• Best for display: MG
• Best for small spaces: HG or RG

Our Recommendation

If you're just starting out, grab an HG to learn the basics. When you're ready for a challenge, try a modern RG (anything from 2018 onwards). When you want a truly premium build, treat yourself to an MG.

Check out all three grades in our shop.