Best Gunpla of 2025

The excitement of building a Gundam model, or "Gunpla" as it's affectionately known, is an experience that hobbyists and anime fans across the globe cherish. But what makes these models stand out from the rest? Let's deep-dive into the captivating world of Gundam models.

A Brief History of Gundam Models

Did you know that Gundam models have been around since the 1980s? Their rise paralleled the popularity of the "Mobile Suit Gundam" anime series. Over the years, they've become more than just toys; they're intricate masterpieces that builders take immense pride in.

Why Gundam Models Are So Popular

1) Cultural Impact

Gundam models aren't just plastic figures; they're a part of Japan's rich cultural tapestry. The phenomenon has spread globally, creating communities of enthusiastic builders everywhere.

2) Intricate Designs

Have you ever marveled at the detail on a Gundam model? These kits come with intricacies that are often awe-inspiring. Each piece, whether large or small, contributes to the majestic final look of the model.

3) Connection with the Anime Series

For many, building a Gundam model is a way to feel connected to their favorite anime series. Remember the excitement of watching a Gundam come to life on screen? Imagine that thrill, but now it's in your hands.

Types of Gundam Models

HG (High Grade)

These are great for beginners. They're less complex but offer a satisfactory level of detail, making them a popular choice for many.

MG (Master Grade)

Ever dreamed of a more detailed and complex build? MG models are for you. They're larger and offer more articulated parts.

PG (Perfect Grade)

For the ultimate builders, Gundam PG models come with a complexity that is second to none. If you're looking for a challenge, this is it!

RG (Real Grade)

A blend of HG and MG, RG models are compact but come with the detail of a Master Grade. A perfect middle-ground for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Updated 2025:P-REX Hobby Fan Poll: Top 5 Gundam Kits Voted by the Community

At P-REX Hobby, we’re passionate about bringing the Gundam community closer to the kits they love. To make this list truly reflective of fan preferences, we conducted a detailed survey featuring 30 of the most popular Gundam model kits on the market in 2025.

Fans from all over were invited to vote for their favorite kits, and the results were both exciting and insightful. From the survey responses, we compiled the Top 5 most beloved Gundam models for 2025, based on actual fan votes.

These selections represent the best of the best Gundam model kits that stand out not only in design and build quality but also in fan appeal and collector value. Lists are as follows: 

1) MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam

A pinnacle of Bandai’s MGEX line, the 1/100 MGEX Strike Freedom (released Nov 19, 2022) is a feast for fans of inner-frame detail and spectacle. It features exquisite metallic coatings, plated parts, and an arsenal that includes DRAGOONs, railguns, and Sabers—overwhelming in the best way.

Reviewers praise its engineering precision, articulation, and wing design, though some caution about the fragility of its gold HiMAT joints.

Why include it?
 It’s the current flagship MGEX model, known for aesthetic superiority and complex mechanics. A display-worthy kit that easily outshines earlier Strike Freedom versions.

Reviews From Gunpla Fans

•  I like everything about this kit, probably the pinnacle of bandai engineering right now. The visual and ability to pose is second to none and with the upcoming kosmos led, it will push the ceiling even higher.
• The MGEX Strike Freedom is a standout due to its advanced engineering and the beautiful gold inner frame. The level of detail in the dragoons and the sleek design make it one of the most visually striking kits. The combination of articulation and aesthetics is top-tier, making it a centerpiece in any collection.
• I have always been a big fan of the Cosmic Era timeline. Strike Freedom is one of my personal favorite suits.
• The build process brought back for me the excitement when I first successfully completed a kit. The details on both the inner frame and the armors are amazing. To me a very good blend of modern and classic designs

2) MG Sazabi Ver.Ka

A stunning 1/100 Master Grade “Ver.Ka” by Hajime Katoki, this Char’s ace comes with six funnels, beam tomahawk, rifle, sabers, and sleek shielding.

It features sliding panels exposing detailed internal mechanics, pop-open thruster hatches, and head LED compatibility. Modelers note its swift articulation despite its size, though friction maintenance is key

Why include it?
 A top-tier Classic UC kit, perfect for showcasing internal detail with Ver.Ka craftsmanship and dynamic posing.

Reviews From Gunpla Fans

• MG Sazabi Ver. Ka because it’s a huge kit! I’m a sucker for big kits. The articulation is amazing for its size. The small details are awesome especially if you’re painting it.
• It has a big commanding presence with lots of fun features like the beam saber holders in the wrists or the opening armor panels to expose the nice inner frame. one of my favorite Gundam animes is CCA with the finale of the Char and Amuro saga.
• MG Sazabi - also because it's the Sazabi! Sacrifices the posaibility but gains more shelf presence than RG Sazabi, as well as the insane hatch opening gimmicks. Basically MGEX before MGEX was a thing.
• All the Ver. Ka look amazing, and Sazabi is a personal all-time favorite.

3) MG Gundam Barbatos

This MG release brings Gundam Barbatos from Iron-Blooded Orphans into the 1/100 Master Grade lineup, with a fully realized inner frame, Dual Ahab reactor detailing, pistons, and robust color separation. Gunpla fans describe it as a “SO fun to build, pose, and stare at”, highlighting its smooth build and appeal to IBO and non-IBO audiences alike

Why include it?
 It’s the first MG for Barbatos, bridging high grade playability with advanced MG features like pistons and inner structure.

Reviews From Gunpla Fans

• If we have a beauty, there must also be the beast! I fell in love with how the anime portrayed Barbatos. Don't want to argue if it is stronger that whichever other gundam is, so don't start. I just love the series.
• Extremely detailed and great engineering by Bandai. Take your time with this one!
• Mg Barbatos, this kit looks insane and that fierce look is all it needs..
• I've only recently gotten into building Gundam but I love it already! I’ve done about 10 kits so far and the 5 I picked are all included, Barbatos is probably my favorite because it’s such a unique build compared to the others!

4) RG Hi-Nu Gundam

The 1/144 RG Hi-Nu from Char’s Counterattack – Beltorchika Children tackled RG modeling benchmarks by using a multi-link gimmick to simulate sliding armor panels and realistic movement.

Creators praise its consistency and engineering (“started a new era for RG”) despite slight weight issues.

Why include it?
 It’s one of RG’s most advanced kits, with MG-level articulation and precision in the smaller scale, perfect for collectors who value detail without going 1/100.

Reviews From Gunpla Fans

• RG Hi Nu Gundam is the God of Real Grades and happens to be one of my favorites because of the tanks and funnels. Very articulate and chunky! You can also detach the backpack and get some crazy poses out of it!
• The RG Hi Nu Gundam packs an incredible amount of detail and precision into a smaller scale, rivaling larger kits in articulation and finish. The proportions and color separation are spot-on, and the level of detailing on the RG frame makes this model feel premium and intricate. Its compactness doesn’t compromise its bold presence.
• I smile every time its leg armors split with the knee bend. I like that it has so many connected moving parts but remain a very solid and posable model.
• THE RG kit to grab amazing detail make it basically a mini PG.

5) PG Unleashed RX-78-2

Assuming you intended the iconic Perfect Grade Nu Gundam, the PG version is Bandai’s ultimate 1/60 scale masterpiece. While not one of your new verticals, it deserves mention as the flagship of full-scale technicity: LED systems, full inner frame, and massive presence. This kit is a landmark for dedicated builders seeking uncompromised detail and realism.

Why include it?
 It’s one of greatest kits, the upgraded level of PGs, with both perfect inner and outer design and builds.

Reviews From Gunpla Fans

• PG Unleashed - same amazing build experience (inner frame > armor) as the MGEX SF. Has tons of new innovations like the magnet and integrated LED unit. I'm also a sucker for the core fighter.
• Pgu, this one is solid enough to tank earthquakes, the details are beautiful feel. 
• PGU - many layers of inner frame that makes it look amazing.

Summary Comparison Table

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Which one will you build next?

Gundam FAQs

Q: What does "Gunpla" stand for?

A: It's a portmanteau of "Gundam plastic model."

Q: How long does it take to build a Gundam model?

A: It varies! A HG might take a few hours, while a PG could take days.

Q: Are Gundam models expensive?

A: Prices vary based on complexity and brand. Basic kits are quite affordable.

Q: Can children build these models?

A: Yes, but younger children might need supervision due to small parts.

Q: Are there limited edition models?

A: Absolutely! Limited editions are often sought after by collectors.