What are the Different Model Train Gauges?

It’s a rite of passage for any hobby builder to stumble upon a new must-build model kit, only to hope that what meets the eye can also run on the same tracks. Perhaps as a beginner, you have been at a swap or a building session, and found a lot of terminologies that make you feel as if you might as well be learning another language. And, whether it is a card game or building a kit, it’s all fun and games only when everyone knows the rules and the terminology!

That’s because for any model train enthusiast, and especially those who are just starting to get their wheels turning, there is a lot to making sure even the smallest scale train runs smoothly. If you’re curious about model train fundamentals like “What are the different model train gauges?” and “How do I know what gauge my model train is?” consider this your platform to even more adventures ahead!

Types of Model Train Gauges

Two things are true: every hobby has its own lingo, and part of learning the lingo is learning its alphabet. Thankfully when it comes to figuring out what the different model train gauges are, as well as their size, you only have to know a handful of letters: G, O, S, HO, N and Z. Each of these letters represent how each part of your scene, from the trains themselves to the gauge, or how those trains run on the tracks, is built to scale. That scale is about how big the model would be in real life. Here’s the breakdown of the letter:

• G: These are the largest and excellent for outdoor or larger displays. G scale gauges have a ratio of 1:24, where the original would still be 24 times larger in real life.
• O: The ratio is 1:48
• S: The ratio is 1:64
• HO (or H0): HO means “Half of O,” and it is a 1:187 ratio.
• N: N scale is one of the most popular in Japan with a ratio of anywhere from 1:148 to 1:160.
• Z: Similarly, Z scale is especially popular because it is the smallest in ratio at 1:220!

Also, did you know there are different sized model train gauges for kids? Plarail lines are excellent options for young fans and those who love softer, more playful aesthetics.

How to Measure a Model Train Gauge

With a better understanding of what different kinds of model train gauges are available, you’ll likely want to find a way to measure a model train gauge. How you do it can take a few different forms, but it is important to do so that your train, as well as your hobby, doesn’t go off the rails. This is especially important if you’ve found yourself an excellent kit, but maybe its original packaging was gone and you’re still asking yourself “how do I know what gauge my model train is?”

The quickest way is to take out your ruler and use the metric side, especially for Japanese brands. By letter, here is the width of the different model train gauges:

• G: 45 mm
• O: 32 mm
• S: 22.5 mm*
• HO: 16.5 mm
• N: 9 mm
• Z: 6 mm

*Please note that S scale is more popular with American brands, which means you will be more likely to see sizing listed in inches rather than millimeters or centimeters. This also means that there can be a slight variation based on branding, even though the industry standard is in metric.

Despite how complicated sizing and scaling can feel at first, what’s great about different model train gauges is the customizability of the tracks, and especially for smaller scales where often more pieces are required for each bend in the tracks. This helps even the smallest of model trains glide quickly along even the most narrow of spaces!

Materials

Model train building is all about customization, and each trick to the track is all about how smoothly the train can run, because details matter in this hobby. Once you know how to measure a model train gauge and, overall, how to find what gauge your model train is, it’s important to select the right materials for the track. The most popular options include:

• Plastic: Plastic is the most popular due to its affordability and ease of customization. However, because plastic is not conducive to electricity, it can be a bit more challenging to ensure your model train runs.
• Steel: This option is more expensive but more durable than plastic, and it helps conduct electricity.
• Brass: Brass is even more conductive, but it is expensive and harder to maintain.
• Nickel, silver, and other more precious metals: This is usually the most expensive option, but it is also easier to maintain and highly conductive for electrical currents

What you ultimately choose depends on a combination of personal taste, budget, durability, and customizability.

Conclusion

We hope you found this introduction to model train gauges helpful. Instead of wondering, “What are the different model train gauges?” You can now select each train, track, and accessory with confidence—and show off all your cool train merchandise with even more pride!

Do you have more questions about how to make the most of your building? Do not hesitate to contact us. After all, it’s your hobby, so make sure you are not just a passenger, but the conductor driving your fun when it comes to that train kit in your box!

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