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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Model Trains

Starter sets, scenery supplies, and DCC systems for model railroaders. Build layouts in HO, N, and other scales.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Bachmann

HO Scale Starter Set

4.6 (23,456 reviews)

Everything you need to watch your first train circle the layout. Bachmann sets include quality locomotives that run reliably for years. The E-Z Track snaps together without tools. Your gateway to a lifelong hobby.

Scale

HO (1:87)

Track

E-Z Track oval

Power

DC (DCC ready)

Contents

Loco, cars, track, power

Pros

✓ Complete running set
✓ E-Z Track included
✓ DCC ready

Cons

✗ Small oval layout
✗ Basic rolling stock
✗ Expansion needed

$180

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
HO Scale Starter Set Best Bachmann	4.6	$180	View
N Scale Starter Set Kato	4.8	$250	View
Scenery Learning Kit Value Woodland Scenics	4.7	$40	View
DCC Starter System Digitrax	4.6	$200	View
HO Expansion Track Pack Atlas	4.5	$35	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Bachmann

HO Scale Starter Set

4.6 (23,456 reviews)

Scale

HO (1:87)

Track

E-Z Track oval

Power

DC (DCC ready)

Contents

Loco, cars, track, power

Pros

✓ Complete running set
✓ E-Z Track included
✓ DCC ready

Cons

✗ Small oval layout
✗ Basic rolling stock
✗ Expansion needed

$180

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Premium Pick

Kato

N Scale Starter Set

4.8 (12,345 reviews)

When space is limited but standards aren't. Kato's Japanese engineering produces the smoothest-running N scale equipment available. Unitrack requires no fussing—it just works, every time.

Scale

N (1:160)

Track

Unitrack

Power

Quality

Japanese engineering

Pros

✓ Japanese precision
✓ Smooth Unitrack
✓ Exceptional detail

Cons

✗ Smaller scale harder to detail
✗ Premium price
✗ Limited US prototypes

$250

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Best Value

Woodland Scenics

Scenery Learning Kit

4.7 (15,678 reviews)

Transform flat plywood into convincing landscape. This kit teaches the techniques used by master modelers—ground foam, rock castings, static grass. The skills transfer to any future project.

Contents

Foam, ground cover, trees, rocks

Instructions

DVD included

Scale

Universal

Techniques

Multiple

Pros

✓ Complete terrain system
✓ Instructional DVD
✓ Multiple techniques

Cons

✗ Learning curve
✗ Messy process
✗ Small quantity of materials

$40

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Digitrax

DCC Starter System

4.6 (8,765 reviews)

Upgrade from DC to DCC and never look back. Run multiple trains independently, control sound and lights, simulate realistic operations. Digitrax sets the standard for hobby DCC systems.

Type

DCC command station

Capacity

Multiple locos

Features

Sound, lighting control

Expandable

Yes

Pros

✓ Run multiple trains
✓ Sound capability
✓ Expandable system

Cons

✗ Complexity increase
✗ Locomotives need decoders
✗ Learning curve

$200

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Budget Pick

Atlas

HO Expansion Track Pack

4.5 (19,876 reviews)

Grow beyond the starter oval. Atlas track has equipped model railroads for decades with reliable, realistic-looking rail. Code 83 rail is the modern standard that won't overwhelm locomotive detail.

Scale

Type

Code 83 flex

Pack

Mixed sections

Compatibility

Universal HO

Pros

✓ Quality code 83 track
✓ Various sections included
✓ Realistic appearance

Cons

✗ Requires roadbed
✗ Layout planning needed
✗ Turnouts extra

$35

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Model Trains

How to Start Model Railroading

Model trains combine engineering, artistry, history, and that primal satisfaction of watching something you built actually work. The hobby can be as simple or complex as you want, from a circle on the floor to a room-filling empire.

Choosing Your Scale

Z Scale (1:220): Tiny, fits in briefcases. Limited selection.

N Scale (1:160): Small but detailed. More layout in less space.

HO Scale (1:87): Most popular worldwide. Huge selection of everything.

O Scale (1:48): Large, detailed, expensive. Often uses Lionel or MTH equipment.

G Scale (1:22.5): Garden railways. Outdoor-rated equipment.

For beginners, HO is the safest choice—massive selection, reasonable prices, visible detail.

### Starter Set vs Components

Starter Sets: Everything included, ready to run. Good for testing interest.

Components: Choose exactly what you want. More expensive initially but no compromise.

Start with a set, then buy quality components as you learn preferences.

### DC vs DCC

DC (Traditional): One train per power district. Simple, affordable, limited.

DCC (Digital Command Control): Multiple trains on one track, sound, lighting control. Modern standard.

Most new locomotives are "DCC ready"—chips can be added. Consider DCC if you plan to expand.

### Layout Planning

Benchwork: The foundation. Plywood on frames, hollow core doors, or foam board.

Track Planning: Software helps (SCARM, AnyRail). Ensure minimum curves for your locomotives.

Wiring: Plan for expansion. DCC simplifies wiring significantly.

### Scenery Transforms Everything

Bare track looks like a toy. Add scenery—ground cover, structures, figures—and it becomes a world. Woodland Scenics products dominate because they work. YouTube tutorials teach professional techniques for free.

### Budget Expectations

Starter Set: $150-300
- Basic Permanent Layout: $500-1500
- Room-Filling Empire: $5000+

The hobby grows with you. Start small, expand as passion grows.

Frequently Asked Questions About Model Trains

What scale should a beginner choose?

HO scale (1:87) is the best starting point—massive selection of locomotives, rolling stock, and scenery at reasonable prices. N scale works if space is very limited. O scale requires significant space and budget. Start with what interests you visually.

How much space do I need for a model railroad?

A 4x8 foot table fits a meaningful HO layout. N scale can work in half that space. Shelf layouts along walls maximize space. Many modelers start on hollow-core doors (readily available at home centers). Dream big, start small.

Should I get DCC or DC?

If you plan multiple locomotives and want sound, go DCC. For a simple circle of track with one train, DC works fine. Most new locomotives are DCC-ready—you can upgrade later. DCC adds complexity but dramatically expands possibilities.

How long does it take to build a layout?

A simple loop: one weekend. A detailed layout: months to years. Most model railroads are never "finished"—that's part of the appeal. The journey of building and improving is the hobby. Enjoy the process.

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