Model Kit Difficulty Levels
Every model kit page at P-Rex Hobby has a Difficulty line with three facts: the skill level (Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced), whether the kit needs glue, and whether it needs painting. This page explains what each one means.
Skill levels
Beginner
Straightforward build with fewer, larger parts. A good first kit. Basic tools such as a pair of plastic nippers are enough.
Intermediate
More parts and finer details, often with an inner frame. Some building experience helps, and a hobby knife or file gives cleaner results where parts are cut from the runner.
Advanced
High part count with small, detailed parts and complex assembly. Best for experienced builders. Plan on several build sessions.
How kits are rated
Bandai Gunpla and other Bandai plastic kits are rated by product line:
- Beginner: Entry Grade, High Grade (HG), SD and 30 Minutes Missions
- Intermediate: Real Grade (RG), Master Grade (MG), RE/100, MGSD and 30 Minutes Sisters
- Advanced: Perfect Grade (PG) and MGEX
Other kits are rated by how they are assembled. Traditional plastic model kits that are glued and painted, such as many aircraft kits, are usually Intermediate.
For a side-by-side comparison of Gunpla grades, see Gunpla Grades Explained: HG vs RG vs MG vs PG.
Glue
- Snap-fit (no glue): parts press together. Gunpla and other Bandai plastic kits are snap-fit.
- Plastic cement required: parts are joined with plastic model cement. This is common for traditional scale models such as aircraft, cars, ships and military vehicles.
Painting
- No painting required: the kit is designed to look finished without paint. Painting is optional if you want extra detail.
- Painting required: parts come in a single color or bare plastic, and the kit is meant to be painted. Browse model paints.
Common questions
Which Gunpla grade should a beginner start with?
Entry Grade or High Grade. Both are rated Beginner, snap together without glue and need no paint. See Best Gunpla for Beginners.
Do I need glue to build Gunpla?
No. Gunpla kits are snap-fit.
Do I need to paint Gunpla?
No. Painting is optional. If you want to try it, see Gunpla Painting for Beginners.
What tools do I need?
For Beginner kits, plastic nippers are enough. See 5 Basic Tools Every Beginner Gunpla Builder Needs and our tools.