What's the Best Model Train for Beginner Hobbyists?

Like any other hobby, model railroading can be both expensive and confusing, especially for a beginner. Without a guide or mentor, rookies may soon find themselves overwhelmed with options and may give up on this great pastime before giving it a chance. Using this quick guide may save you from a lot of heartache and might even lead you to a lifetime of fun and enjoyment.

There are a few questions to ask before buying a train set, such as how old the recipient is and how interested they are in model railroading. If you're thinking about buying a train for your four year old nephew, I would keep it simple and inexpensive. Also, buying a train for someone with the hope they may enjoy it could be a costly error. With this in mind, let's assume that this model train will be for an adult with a keen interest in railroading.

Probably the best way to enter the world of model railroading is to purchase a complete starter set, including a locomotive, a half-dozen cars, a loop of track, and a transformer. Also, make sure this set has some easy-to-understand instructions regarding setup and maintenance. A quick trip to your local hobby shop will reveal a number of different types of trains, broken down by scale.

Scale reference the size ratio between the model train and the real one. G-scale trains are really big (22.5:1) and are used almost exclusively in outdoor settings. I don't recommend anything like this for beginners since running trains outside can often be troublesome for even the most experienced railroader. These types of trains aren't common and can be very expensive.

O-Scale (48:1) is a bit more common and is normally reserved for indoor use. S-scale is a 64:1 ratio train, while N is 160:1 and the smallest of all is the Z-scale, measuring a mere 220:1. For beginners however, I recommend HO-scale (87.1:1). HO is by far the most common, making it the easiest to find compatible rolling stock upgrades and scenery materials. Its commonality also means that it's usually less expensive than other sizes while still providing enough realism to make your experience enjoyable.