The Most Popular Model Train Gauge, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the model train gauge you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 5, 2024 06:43
Are you a model train enthusiast, passionate about the intricacies of miniature railways, or simply curious about the most popular model train gauges? It's time to let your voice be heard! Jump on board and join us at StrawPoll, where we are hosting an exciting ranking that will finally determine "What is the most popular model train gauge?" Cast your vote, share your expertise, and watch as your favorite gauge climbs the charts. Don't see your preferred choice on the list? No problem! Simply suggest a missing option, and watch as fellow train aficionados rally behind it. Chug along with thousands of other fans and fuel your passion for model trains by participating in this exciting poll. Full steam ahead!
What Is the Most Popular Model Train Gauge?
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136votes
HO Scale
MarklinThe most popular model train gauge due to its versatility, affordability, and wide availability of accessories. It is also the most common scale used in model train clubs and exhibitions.The HO Scale is a widely popular model train gauge that represents trains in a ratio of 1:87. It is one of the most common scales used worldwide, offering a good balance between detail and space requirements.- Ratio: 1:87
- Track Gauge: 16.5 mm
- Prototype Track Gauge: 1,435 mm (standard gauge)
- Overall Size: Approximately half the size of the O Scale
- Length of a 40-foot Boxcar: 4.8 inches (122 mm)
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236votesA close second to HO Scale in popularity, N Scale is preferred by modelers who have limited space and want to create detailed layouts. It is also a good choice for those who enjoy running longer trains.The N Scale is a popular model train gauge that allows enthusiasts to recreate realistic miniature train layouts. It is known for its small size and high level of detail.
- Track Gauge: 9mm
- Scale Ratio: 1:160
- Model Train Length: Approximately 125mm to 140mm
- Minimum Radius: 9.75 inches or 248mm
- Prototype Gauge: Standard gauge trains reduced by a factor of 1:160
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330votes
Joe Schneid, Louisville, KY · CC BY-SA 3.0A larger gauge than HO and N, O Scale is popular among collectors and modelers who appreciate the detail and realism that can be achieved with this scale. It is also a good choice for those who want to run larger trains.O Scale is a model train gauge that represents trains at a scale of 1:48. It is one of the most popular and widely used scales in the model railroading hobby. The O Scale features realistic details and is known for its larger size, making it visually appealing and suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy building and operating model trains that are closer to the real-life counterparts. The O Scale offers a balance between detail and space requirements, making it popular among both collectors and operators.- Scale Ratio: 1:48
- Track Gauge: 1.25 inches (32 mm)
- Track Spacing: 1.772 inches (45 mm)
- Train Length: Varies, typically between 10 and 22 inches
- Train Width: Varies, typically between 2.5 and 4.5 inches
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421votesA popular scale for outdoor model railroads, G Scale is known for its large size and durability. It is also a good choice for those who want to create a garden railroad.The G Scale, also known as Garden Scale, is a popular model train gauge that is designed for outdoor use. It is a large scale of model trains, often used for garden railways. The G Scale is highly sought after by enthusiasts due to its realistic size and ability to withstand outdoor conditions.
- Scale Ratio: 1:22.5
- Track Gauge: 45 mm
- Track Radius: 600 mm
- Maximum Grade: 4%
- Recommended Power Source: Electricity or live steam
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521votesThe smallest commercially available scale, Z Scale is popular among modelers who have limited space and want to create highly detailed layouts. It is also a good choice for those who enjoy the challenge of working with small parts.The Z Scale is a popular model train gauge that is known for its small size and incredible level of detail. It is the smallest commercially available model train scale, with a scale ratio of 1:220. This means that every inch of track in Z Scale represents 220 inches of real-life track. Despite its small size, Z Scale trains are still fully functional and can be operated like larger scales.
- Scale Ratio: 1:220
- Track Width: 6.5mm
- Track Spacing: 25mm
- Minimum Track Radius: 195mm
- Track Voltage: 12V DC
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615votes
S Scale
American FlyerA scale that is larger than HO but smaller than O, S Scale is popular among collectors and modelers who appreciate the detail and realism that can be achieved with this scale. It is also a good choice for those who want to run medium-sized trains.The S Scale is a popular model train gauge that represents a scale ratio of 1:64, where 1 inch on the model represents 64 inches in real life. It is known for its versatility in accommodating both indoor and outdoor layouts with realistic details and proportional sizes.- Scale ratio: 1:64
- Track gauge: 0.884 inches (22.45 mm)
- Prototype gauge: Standard gauge
- Common materials: Die-cast metal and plastic
- Common power source: DC (Direct Current)
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77votes
Liesel · CC BY-SA 3.0TT Scale
Helmut WegmannA lesser-known scale that is slightly larger than HO, TT Scale is popular among modelers who want to create layouts with a more realistic scale. It is also a good choice for those who want to run longer trains on a smaller layout.The TT Scale is a popular model train gauge that is larger than N scale but smaller than HO scale. It is known for its versatility and ability to accommodate detailed models in a compact space. The letters 'TT' stand for 'Table Top,' as this scale was originally designed for tabletop layouts.- Scale ratio: 1:120
- Track gauge: 12 mm
- Prototype gauge: Standard gauge (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in)
- Minimum radius: 280 mm (11 in)
- Minimum turnout radius: 425 mm (16.75 in)
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815votes
On30 Scale
Bachmann IndustriesA scale that uses O Scale trains on HO Scale track, On30 Scale is popular among modelers who want to create layouts with a narrow-gauge feel. It is also a good choice for those who want to run larger trains on a smaller layout.The On30 Scale is a narrow gauge model train scale that is based on the American O scale, with a track gauge of 30 inches. It is designed to replicate the appearance of narrow-gauge railways, which were commonly used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.- Scale: 1:48
- Track Gauge: 0.6496 inches (16.5 mm)
- Prototype Gauge: 30 inches (2 ft 6 in)
- Minimum Radius: 9.75 inches
- Power System: DC or DCC
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90votesA scale that uses HO Scale trains on narrow-gauge track, HOn3 Scale is popular among modelers who want to create layouts with a narrow-gauge feel. It is also a good choice for those who want to run smaller trains on a larger layout.The HOn3 scale is a popular narrow gauge model train scale that represents a track width of 3 ft (3 feet) in 1/87 scale. It is commonly used to model narrow gauge railroads, especially those found in the Western United States. The HOn3 scale offers a compact layout size while allowing for intricate detailing and realistic operations.
- Scale: 1:87
- Track Gauge: 0.65 inches (16.5 mm)
- Prototype Width: 3 ft (3 feet)
- Model Track Gauge: 0.40625 inches (10.3 mm)
- NMRA Standard Compliant: Yes
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103votes
F Scale
Justus RoeA scale that is larger than G Scale, F Scale is popular among collectors and modelers who want to create large, highly detailed layouts. It is also a good choice for those who want to run very large trains.The F Scale, also known as the Fine Scale Railroad, is considered the largest commercially available model train gauge. It is designed to accurately replicate a narrow-gauge rail system in a smaller scale.- Scale ratio: 1:20.32
- Track gauge: 90mm (3.54 inches)
- Prototype gauge: 3 feet
- Real-world size: Approximately 1.5 inches per foot
- Commonly used for: Garden railways and large-scale indoor layouts
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Ranking factors for popular model train gauge
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Availability of models and accessoriesThe popularity of a model train gauge is often influenced by the range and variety of models, tracks, and accessories available for that gauge. This includes the number of manufacturers producing products for the scale, as well as the types of trains, cars, and scenery available.
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PriceCost can be a significant factor when determining the popularity of a model train gauge. Affordable options may be more popular among entry-level enthusiasts, while more expensive gauges may cater to experienced modelers and collectors who are looking for a higher level of detail and quality.
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Detail and realismThe level of detail in the models and accessories of a given gauge can affect its popularity. Many enthusiasts prefer a model train gauge that offers lifelike and accurate representations of real trains, objects, and scenery.
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Ease of use and maintenanceA popular model train gauge should be easy to work with and maintain. This includes factors such as the ease of assembling and disassembling track pieces, the compatibility of different brands' products, and the general upkeep of trains and tracks.
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Space requirementsThe size of a model train gauge will determine the amount of space required to set up and display the layout, which can influence its popularity. Larger gauges may be more popular among enthusiasts who have ample space for their hobby, while smaller gauges may be preferred by those with limited space.
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Community and supportA popular model train gauge often has an active community of enthusiasts and hobbyists who share their knowledge, tips, and experiences with others. Support from retailers, online forums, and clubs can also enhance the popularity of a particular gauge.
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Historical significanceSome model train gauges have gained popularity due to their historical significance. For example, some scales may be used to model specific era or geographic regions, attracting enthusiasts who have an interest in those specific categories.
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Compatibility with other gaugesIn some cases, a model train gauge's popularity may be influenced by its compatibility with other gauges. This can make it easier for enthusiasts to switch between different gauges or mix and match components from different systems.
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Target audienceThe popularity of a model train gauge may also be determined by its target audience. For example, some gauges may be geared towards beginners who are new to the hobby, while others cater to experienced modelers and collectors.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular model train gauge. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or gauge is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2266 views
- 189 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each gauge once every 24 hours. The rank of each gauge is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular model train gauge
Model trains have been a popular hobby for generations, with enthusiasts of all ages creating intricate layouts and collecting various trains and accessories. One important aspect of model trains is the gauge, which refers to the size of the train and the track it runs on. The most popular model train gauges include O gauge, HO gauge, and N gauge, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. O gauge trains are larger and more detailed, while HO gauge trains are more versatile and easier to store. N gauge trains are the smallest and most space-efficient, perfect for those with limited space or looking to create a highly-detailed layout. Ultimately, the choice of gauge often comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the hobbyist.
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