Gunpla 101 — aniTime Guide
Gunpla 101 — aniTime Guide
HG, RG, MG, PG —
Which Gunpla Grade Should You Buy?
Whether you're just getting into Gundam model kits or shopping for someone who builds them — this guide tells you exactly what each grade means, who it's for, and what to expect before you open the box.
What does "grade" mean in Gunpla?
Gunpla (Gundam plastic model) kits are organized by grade — Bandai's system for communicating the scale, complexity, detail level, and build difficulty of each kit. Higher grade generally means more parts, better articulation, greater detail, and a longer build time. Knowing the grade means knowing what you're actually getting before you open the box.
All grades are official Bandai products. None require glue. Every kit can be built with just the runners included in the box — though a good pair of nippers makes a real difference from HG grade and above. We stock GodHand nippers in store, which are the standard for serious builders.
The grades, explained
Entry Grade (EG)
Best for beginners and kids
Entry Grade kits are Bandai's most accessible line. They snap together cleanly, require no nippers or tools, and come pre-colored so you don't need to paint anything. The finished model looks great on a shelf and holds together well.
Who it's for: Kids, first-timers, anyone who wants to try Gunpla without committing to a bigger build. Also a solid gift if you're not sure what level the person is at. You cannot go wrong here as a starter.
Popular kits: RX-78-2 Gundam, Strike Gundam, Freedom Gundam SEED Freedom
Shop Entry Grade kits
High Grade (HG)
The everyday kit — the most popular grade
HG is the most popular grade for good reason. The selection is enormous — almost every suit from every series has an HG version — and the price is accessible. They snap together without glue, look great straight out of the box, and there is real articulation at this level. Good nippers make the build cleaner but are not required.
Who it's for: Beginners who want more challenge than Entry Grade, returning builders, and collectors who want variety without spending $100+ per kit. HG is also the go-to for builders who like to paint and customize.
Popular kits: Unicorn Gundam, Barbatos, Aerial (Witch from Mercury), Zaku II
Shop High Grade kits
Real Grade (RG)
Maximum detail in minimum space
Same 1/144 scale as HG, but a completely different experience. Bandai packs in an internal frame, multi-layered color separation, and articulation that rivals much larger kits. The parts are small and precise — mistakes are harder to hide at this scale.
Who it's for: Intermediate to experienced builders who want an impressive result in a compact size. RG kits photograph beautifully and are a favorite for collectors who want detail without the shelf space of an MG. Not recommended for young kids or first-time builders.
Popular kits: Sinanju, Wing Gundam Zero EW, Nu Gundam, Strike Freedom
Shop Real Grade kits
Master Grade (MG)
The builder's sweet spot
Master Grade is where serious builders spend most of their time. 1/100 scale means a noticeably larger kit with room for full inner frame construction, detailed panel lines, and genuine shelf presence. The build process is involved — MG kits reward patience and attention to detail.
Who it's for: Experienced builders who want a proper project. MG kits are also popular as display pieces — they are big enough to show real detail and impressive enough to hold their own on any shelf. If someone builds Gunpla regularly, an MG is almost always a great gift.
Popular kits: RX-78-2 Ver. 3.0, Wing Gundam EW, Strike Freedom, Barbatos
Shop Master Grade kits
Perfect Grade (PG)
The ultimate build
PG kits are Bandai's flagship — the largest, most detailed, most complex consumer-level builds available. A finished PG is a statement piece. Some include built-in LED systems, full mechanical inner frames, and articulation that feels closer to engineering than hobby building.
Who it's for: Experienced builders with time, budget, and a place to display something that commands attention. PG kits are multi-session projects, not casual weekend builds. The PG Unleashed Nu Gundam is one of the most technically impressive kits Bandai has ever released.
Popular kits: PG Unicorn Gundam, PG Strike Freedom, PG Unleashed Nu Gundam
Shop Perfect Grade kitsOther grades worth knowing
Super Deformed (SD)
Chibi-style, fast and fun
SD kits reimagine Gundam suits in a compact, chibi-proportioned style. Very beginner friendly, fast to build, and great for younger collectors or anyone who loves the aesthetic. They make an excellent desk display.
Shop SD kits
Full Mechanics (FM)
Full inner frame, lower price than MG
FM sits between HG and MG in price while offering a full inner frame at 1/100 scale. Limited selection but solid value for suits that have an FM release. A good option for builders who want that MG feel without the full MG price.
Browse all gradesQuick comparison table
| Feature | HG | RG | MG | PG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scale | 1/144 | 1/144 | 1/100 | 1/60 |
| Height | ~13 cm / 5" | ~13 cm / 5" | ~18 cm / 7" | ~30 cm / 12" |
| Parts count | 100 to 200 | 200 to 350 | 400 to 800 | 800 to 1000+ |
| Build time | 1 to 3 hrs | 3 to 8 hrs | 6 to 15 hrs | 15 to 40+ hrs |
| Price (CAD) | $25 to $60 | $45 to $90 | $80 to $160 | $280 to $900+ |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Intermediate | Intermediate+ | Advanced |
| Inner frame | Partial / none | Yes | Yes (full) | Yes (full) |
| Best for | Starting out, variety | Detail at small scale | Best all-around | Ultimate experience |
Prices are approximate CAD ranges and vary by kit. Check anitime.ca for current pricing.
Not sure which grade to pick?
Match your situation to a grade below. Still unsure? Send us a DM on Instagram or swing by the store — we are happy to help you figure it out.
Not sure what to buy?
Shopping for your partner, your kid, or someone who already has a shelf full of kits and you have no idea where to start? We get it. Send us a DM and tell us who it's for and your budget — we will point you to exactly the right kit. No guessing, no overwhelm.
Why buy your Gunpla from aniTime?
We are a small shop in Richmond, BC — which means a few things bigger retailers cannot offer.
Competitive pricing
We run lean, so we price aggressively. Check our daily flash deals — updated every day.
Real humans who build
Corey runs the floor and knows this hobby. Come in or DM us — you will get an actual answer, not a bot.
See it before you buy
Our Richmond store lets you see kits in person before committing. That matters, especially for your first kit or a gift.
Ships across Canada and the US
We ship everywhere with a low shipping minimum. Orders are fulfilled within 2 business days.
We carry what matters
HG, RG, MG, PG, Entry Grade, SD — if Bandai makes it, we either have it or can get it. Plus GodHand tools.
New arrivals and preorders
Restocks and preorders land regularly. Sign up for our email list to get notified first.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need tools to build a Gunpla kit?
Entry Grade kits can be built by hand. For HG grade and above, a pair of nippers makes a meaningful difference in how clean the build looks. We carry GodHand nippers in store — they are the standard for serious builders and make a great companion gift.
What is a good Gunpla gift for someone who already builds?
If they have been building HG, step them up to an RG or MG they do not own yet. If you know which series or suit they like, even better. Send us a DM with a bit of detail — we can point you to the right kit without you having to figure it out alone.
What is a good first kit for a teenager?
An HG kit of a suit from a series they already watch is almost always a great pick. The build is satisfying without being overwhelming, and the price is low enough that if they love it, you can always go bigger next time. Entry Grade is another safe option if you want something even more approachable.
What age are Gunpla kits suitable for?
Bandai recommends Entry Grade and SD kits for ages 8 and up, HG for 10 and up, and MG or above for 15+. These are guidelines — a motivated 12-year-old with patience can absolutely handle an HG kit. Come ask us and we will give you an honest read based on the specific person.
Do you do preorders?
Yes. Check anitime.ca/collections/preorder for upcoming releases. For specific kits that are not listed yet, send us a message — we can often arrange it.
Can I pick up in store?
Yes — we are located inside Smart N Save in Richmond, BC. In-store pickup is available. Check our Google map for current hours.
Leave a comment