An Expert's Guide to the Best Model Kits For Adults in 2025

Model making is a fantastic hobby, but knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. With nearly a century of injection-molded plastic models available – encompassing everything from military vehicles and sports cars to anime robots and everyday objects – it's easy to feel intimidated. Seeing the stunning creations of experienced modelers might suggest you need a fully equipped workshop, surgeon-like precision, and years of practice. But that's simply not true. To demystify this rewarding pastime, I've compiled a list of kits perfect for getting started. Many of these recommendations are based on my personal experience.

We'll begin with kits requiring minimal supplies – no glue or paint needed! Then, we'll explore options for those ready to embrace the more involved aspects of model building. Finally, I'll detail essential tools and supplies, along with where to find them, offering a great alternative to LEGOs.

No Paint? No Glue? No Problem!

Historically, model kits demanded glue and paint. Today, many companies offer beginner-friendly, pre-colored snap-together kits. While some "beginner" kits are overly simplified, plenty provide a satisfying challenge without the mess of glue and paint. Gundam kits are a prime example! If you're drawn to giant robots, either of these kits is a great starting point.

Under $25
Bandai Hobby HGUC RX-78-2 Gundam Revive Model Kit
1:144 Scale. Recommended age: 15+.
$12.99 at Amazon

Under $100
Bandai Hobby MG Gundam RX-78-2 Version 3.0 Action Figure Model Kit
1:100 Scale. Recommended age: 15+.
$51.50 at Amazon

Gundam kits are graded (HG, MG, RG, EG, PG). High Grade (HG) kits are typically $15-30 and around 6 inches tall. Master Grade (MG) kits cost roughly $30-50, are slightly taller, and offer more detail and complexity.

Bandai Hobby 174 Wing Gundam Zero (HG)
$16.00 at Amazon

Bandai Hobby Gundam IBO Gundam Barbatos (MG)
$54.69 at Amazon

Gundam's popularity warrants its own dedicated list, but for those less interested in giant robots, I've included kits with the same ease of assembly applied to other themes.

Star Wars Model Kits

Bandai Hobby AT-ST 1:48 Scale
See it at Amazon

Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1:72 Y-Wing
$29.64 at Amazon

Bandai offers many Star Wars snap-together kits. While some benefit more from painting than others, a basic wash or dry-brushing can enhance detail.

Bandai Hobby Boba Fett 1:12 Scale
$17.02 at Amazon

Boba Fett's colorful design looks great unpainted. However, my colleague and I customized some Stormtrooper kits:

Bandai Stormtrooper Model Kits

Anime Model Kits

Bandai Hobby Son Goku Figure-Rise
$32.99 at Amazon

Bandai Hobby Uzumaki Naruto Figure-Rise
$32.58 at Amazon

Bandai's Figure-Rise line extends beyond robots to include anime characters from various series.

Giant Robot Model Kits (That Aren't Gundam)

Kotobukiya Metal Gear Rex
$154.00 at Amazon

Good Smile Company Horizon Forbidden West: Thunderjaw
$107.64 at Amazon

Good Smile Company Aliens: Power Loader
See it

Good Smile Company's Moderoid kits are pre-painted but pricier.

Bandai Hobby Imaginary Skeleton T-Rex
$36.99 at Amazon

Bandai Store Triceratops
$46.00 at IGN Store

Bandai Store 1:1 Cup Noodle
$27.00 at Amazon

Aoshima Nissan C110 Skyline GT-R
$14.99 at Amazon

These dinosaur skeletons and the Cup Noodle kit are snap-together and pre-colored. The cars are also easy to assemble and a good starting point for painting.

Military Model Kits

Tamiya M4A3E8 Sherman Tank
$44.99 at Amazon

Tamiya M1A2 Abrams Tank
$34.30 at Amazon

Tanks are forgiving subjects for painting, and weathering techniques can add realism.

Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II Plus (1:72)
$21.99 at Amazon

Hasegawa AV-8B Harrier II (1:48)
$36.89 at Amazon

Model scales vary; common scales for vehicles are 1:24, 1:32, and 1:35. Aircraft are often 1:48 or 1:72.

Car Model Kits

Hasegawa BMW 2002 Tii (1:24)
$25.50 at Amazon

Revell of Germany McLaren 570S
$34.99 at Amazon

Revell of Germany kits are generally preferred over Revell USA kits.

Aoshima Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4
$33.99 at Amazon

Aoshima Volkswagen Beetle 1303S
$22.38 at Amazon

Aoshima Yakitori Ryuho Food Truck
$9.58 at Amazon

Aoshima offers a wide variety of car kits.

How to Get Started with Model Kits

Tools:

BXQINLEN 8-Piece Model Tool Set
$7.99 at Amazon

anezus Cutting Mat
$8.99 at Amazon

Tamiya Extra Thin Cement
$8.99 at Amazon

Paint:

For painting, I recommend a combination of spray cans and water-based acrylics. Primer is crucial for paint adhesion. Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer is an excellent primer.

GSI Creos Mr. Hobby Mr. Surfacer 1000
$15.35 at Amazon

Vallejo Basic Acrylic Colors Paint Set
$34.04 at Amazon

Tamiya PS-34 Bright Red Spray Paint
See it

Water-based acrylics are easy to clean up. Tamiya offers a wide range of spray lacquers.

Model making is a rewarding hobby with endless possibilities. Many experienced modelers share their work and techniques online. Check out SpruesNBrews, NightShift, Jun’s Mini Garage, Laser Creation-World, and Minibricks on YouTube.

Model Kit FAQs

Where is the best place to buy model kits?

Amazon offers deals but watch out for inflated reseller prices. HobbyLink Japan has a vast selection but shipping can be expensive and slow. MegaHobby is another good option. The IGN Store has a smaller selection, primarily anime/pop-culture kits. Don't forget your local hobby shop!