Beginner’s Guide to Gunpla Grades
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Entry Grade vs HG vs RG vs MG vs PG
If you're new to Gunpla, one of the first things you'll notice is the word “Grade.”
Entry Grade.
HG.
RG.
MG.
PG.
They all look similar at first glance — but they offer very different building experiences.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the right starting point.
Entry Grade (EG)
Scale: 1/144
Difficulty: Absolute beginner
Build Time: 30–90 minutes
Entry Grade kits are designed specifically for newcomers.
No glue required.
No tools required (though nippers help).
Minimal stickers.
They’re simple, clean builds meant to introduce the basics without overwhelming complexity.
If you’ve never built a model kit before, Entry Grade is the easiest way to start.
Best for:
• First-time builders
• Younger hobbyists
• Quick, stress-free builds
High Grade (HG)
Scale: 1/144
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Build Time: 1–3 hours
High Grade kits are the most common Gunpla grade.
They’re affordable, widely available, and offer solid articulation with good detail for their size. HG kits rely more on stickers for color accuracy compared to higher grades, but they’re reliable and fun to build.
HG is where most builders start — and many never leave it.
Best for:
• First serious build
• Builders on a budget
• Expanding a collection
Real Grade (RG)
Scale: 1/144
Difficulty: Intermediate
Build Time: 3–6 hours
Real Grade kits are also 1/144 scale, but they add significantly more detail and complexity.
They often include inner frame components, advanced articulation, and better color separation. Because of the tighter tolerances and smaller parts, they require more patience and precision.
RG feels like a compact Master Grade experience.
Best for:
• Builders ready for more detail
• Fans of mechanical realism
• Display-focused builds
Master Grade (MG)
Scale: 1/100
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
Build Time: 5–10+ hours
Master Grade kits are larger and more detailed than HG and RG.
They include full inner frames, improved articulation, and stronger shelf presence. MG kits strike a balance between size, complexity, and display value.
Many builders consider MG the “sweet spot” of the hobby.
Best for:
• Builders who enjoy longer builds
• Detail-focused enthusiasts
• Display centerpiece kits
Perfect Grade (PG)
Scale: 1/60
Difficulty: Advanced
Build Time: 15–30+ hours
Perfect Grade kits are the largest standard Gunpla kits.
They feature extreme detail, complex inner frames, lighting options (in some kits), and a significant time investment.
PG kits are less about casual building and more about the full experience.
Best for:
• Experienced builders
• Long-term projects
• Showpiece displays
Which Grade Should You Start With?
If you’re brand new:
Start with Entry Grade or High Grade.
If you want more detail without jumping to something massive:
Try Real Grade or Master Grade.
If you want the ultimate build experience:
Perfect Grade is the top tier.
The best grade isn’t about skill level — it’s about what kind of experience you want.
Start simple. Build confidently. Then grow from there.
Ready to Start Building?
If you're just getting started, here’s where to begin:
Shop Entry Grade Kits →
(Simple builds, no tools required.)
Browse High Grade Kits →
(Affordable and beginner-friendly.)
Explore Real Grade Kits →
(Compact size with advanced detail.)
View Master Grade Kits →
(Larger builds with full inner frames.)
Discover Perfect Grade Kits →
(The ultimate Gunpla experience.)
Not sure where to start?
Reach out — we’re happy to help.
— Mecha Hangar