HG vs RG: which Gunpla should you buy?

High Grade and Real Grade kits are the same 1/144 size on the shelf, yet they feel like completely different hobbies. Here is how to choose.

The short answer

Buy an HG if it is one of your first few kits, if you want a relaxed evening build, or if you like to pose and handle your models. Buy an RG when you are comfortable with small parts and want the most detail you can fit in a small space.

Detail

RG kits pack Master Grade-style detail into a 1/144 model. They use an inner frame, many small color-separated parts and very fine panel lines. An HG has simpler armor with larger parts and usually relies on stickers for some colors. Displayed side by side, the RG looks closer to a finished, painted model.

Difficulty

This is where most beginners get caught out. RG parts are tiny, thin and easy to lose or break. Removing nub marks cleanly takes more patience, and some parts fall off when you pose the kit. HG parts are thicker and more forgiving, which makes them a better place to learn cutting, sanding and panel lining.

Build time

A typical HG takes two to four hours. An RG often takes six to ten hours, sometimes more if you clean every nub carefully.

Durability

HGs are the better choice for kids or for anyone who wants to play with the model. RGs are display pieces: pose them once, then leave them on the shelf.

Our recommendation

Build two or three HGs first. If you enjoyed the process and want more detail, try a Master Grade before an RG: you get the inner frame experience with bigger parts. Then move to Real Grade.