Model Trains By Märklin

Train aficionados agree that Märklin trains are on the high end. One potential limitation of these engines is that they run exclusively on Märklin's own 3-rail AC system, incompatible with other systems. The US market is fairly limited for this manufacturer as they do most of their business in Europe, especially Germany. So while these are definitely top of the line locomotives, they might not be the best choice for casual American hobbyists.

Model Trains By Kato

One of the elements of train modeling that Kato has undoubtedly mastered is detailing. The unmatched minute features of their products are enough to keep any model engineer's eyes hungrily scrutinizing every millimeter. Founded in 1958, this Japanese manufacturer has always focused most on N scale, featuring unique models like Japanese bullet trains and European high-speed engines. For those model engineers who love to be a little different, this is the perfect brand for your collection.

Model Trains By Hornby

This company from the UK has been at it for over a century, founded in 1901. Model enthusiasts love Hornby as their go-to manufacturer for the simple reason that they make just about everything. From accessories, tracks, and of course, trains in the most popular scales, Hornby is the one-stop-shop for countless hobbyists.

Model Trains By Atlas

The great thing about Atlas trains is that they are based locally in the United States. They make all of their model trains in New Jersey. Which is great if you're an American and want to support an all American company. But what about the quality? They only make top-notch stuff. They've been in business since 1924. That should tell you something.

Model Trains By Lionel

Now proudly bearing the title of biggest train manufacturer in the world, Lionel Trains are often the first - and sometimes the last - word in scale locomotives. While their prices may be on the steeper end for some, it's definitely worth paying a little extra for the quality they deliver. Not only that, but their trains come in all different sizes. Once mainly a producer of models, the Lionel corporation was seen as little more than children's toys. Lionel now has some of the most beautiful and creatively inspired designs out there. Their toy trains have come a long way. The detailing of their freight cars and passenger cars is second to none.

Model Trains By Bachmann Trains

Bachmann might make quality engines such as the Spectrum GE 44-tonner, but this may not be the best manufacturer for beginners. In the rich and highly developed world of train modeling, it's often overwhelming for the uninitiated who might have no idea what to buy. That's generally the experience that newbies have with Bachmann. The latter often end up bloated with excessive purchases while still missing out on what they actually wanted. They are still the biggest manufacturer of model trains.

Model Trains By Athearn

Athearn trains have gotten a bad wrap over the years for having bad pickups.

Other problems include model trains that sometimes have a loud motor hum. One trip to your local hardware store and you can usually debug the issue, but it's not something a new hobbyist should have to deal with. They do sell many different types of trains.

Best Model Train Manufacturers By Scale

Best N Scale Trains

One of the smallest scales available, these miniatures are built at a mere 1:160 scale. This size was first made commercially available in Germany by the Arnold Company in 1962. This was an exciting year for model train enthusiasts everywhere: Never before had there been a model train that could fit comfortably in such compact spaces. This quickly became the locomotive of choice for studio apartment dwellers and others with little hobby room. Now, N scale is the second-most-popular model size for model train sets - after HO, of course.

Kato, Atlas, and Micro-Trains are the top names for N scale. Each manufacturer has a knack for surpassing expectations when it comes to quality, realism, and operability. Bachmann and LifeLike are two manufacturers that can work if you're on a budget. They're definitely not the first picks for seasoned modelers who expect movie quality, but both companies have been working to improve their product offerings. They have made some impressive new locomotives and other rolling stock that's worth considering.

Best HO Scale Trains

This is by far the most sought-after scale for model trains. HO trains, designed at 1:87 of a real locomotive, this size is hugely desirable for model engineers. That's because it's right in the Goldilocks zone - large enough for all the gorgeous details but small enough to fit in the average hobbyist's train room.

When it comes to HO scale, you can't go wrong with Athearn Genesis or Atlas. Both manufacturers' lines are top quality in realism and functionality. Athearn Genesis trains are known for the painstaking attention to detail that they're built with, in everything from the texture to the whistle's sound. Atlas is just as devoted to realism. It's also the more versatile of the two brands, offering more variety for modelers with highly complex and ambitious sets.

Best O Scale Model Trains

Atlas also has a hand in the O scale world. Their locomotives and rolling stock are regarded as museum quality due to their superior craftsmanship and detailed accuracy. Since Atlas is a family-owned business, you can feel good about supporting them with confidence. You'll get stellar service, a fantastic product, and customer support that you can actually get ahold of.

There are a handful of other key manufacturers to keep an eye on for this scale. Lionel and MTH are certainly among the most popular brands in the US. Bachmann also has their own O scale offering, known for its E-Z Track, Silver Series, and Spectrum lines. While Bachmann has historically been regarded as a superior manufacturer, its current quality is somewhat questionable, particularly when it comes to critical pieces like track pins.

Woodland Scenics is an excellent brand for those who love recreating the beauty of nature. Refreshing pinewood texture gives each of their products a rustic and natural look and feel. Their lines offer plenty of details and features like tunnels and crossings that add layers of life to your miniature outdoor world. While Woodland Scenic doesn't offer any trains or cars, they're a fantastic provider of practically everything else in O scale.

Best S Scale Model Trains

This might not be the most popular scale nowadays, but it is one of the oldest sizes for model railroading. Many of the manufacturers of these locomotives are smaller and sometimes seasonal. So it's best not to wait around if there's a particular car or accessory that you've got your heart set on. These 1:64 scale models have recently seen an uptick in sales, which has led to more available products, so now's the time to hop aboard the S scale.

American Models is a prime example of 1:64 scale, known for designing models that genuinely look the way they're supposed to. BTS is another quality manufacturer of S scale trains, accessories, and scenery. Hobbyists of all levels love their kits for the fun and rewarding experience of putting them together and admiring them with friends and family once the careful work is done.

Best G Scale Trains

Lehmann Gross Bahn (LGB), USA Trains, Piko, and Aristo-Crafts are the top brands to turn to for G scale. A key feature that attracts the most outdoorsy hobbyists to this size is the ability to operate them outside. You don't have to worry much about curious little creatures or unpredictable weather. You'll be able to enjoy your models out in the wild, creating an unbeatably authentic experience.

LGB's trains are praised for their smooth action, beautiful tracks, and plenty of options for additional cars and scenery. USA Trains design beautiful cars and locomotives that you'll be proud to have in your collection.