Are you looking for a new hobby where you can admire your own work? Or are you interested in learning about history in a hands-on sort of way? Whether you go with display-intended options made of plastic or flyable versions made of balsa wood, model airplanes are a great way to build both simple and intricate recreations of real machines. They're also great for learning about specific historical periods, especially the World War II era.
That's why we've scoured the internet for the best options, as well as the best points to look for while shopping. Check out our top 10 list and our buying guide to see what we included. We love Flight Miniatures' Delta Airlines Airbus A350-900 model for its secure stand, solid piece construction, and precise level of detail!
We've thoroughly researched model airplanes and compiled a top 10 list of our favorites based on customer reviews! Check them out below.
AAB-35090H-001
$26.09
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | Not provided |
Scale | 1:200 |
No. of pieces | Not provided |
85-5512
$27.99
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | 16.75 x 14.25 in. |
Scale | 1:48 |
No. of pieces | 138 |
A01020A
$19.67
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | Not provided |
Scale | 1:72 |
No. of pieces | 53 |
85-1181
$17.24
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | 9.25 x 8.75 in. |
Scale | 1:72 |
No. of pieces | 36 |
85-5810
$22.95
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | Not provided |
Scale | 1:72 |
No. of pieces | 66 |
MMS035
$6.95
Material | Metal |
---|---|
Dimensions | 4.5 x 3.7 x 1.5 in. |
Scale | Not provided |
No. of pieces | Not provided |
303 LC
$37.48
Material | Plastic |
---|---|
Dimensions | 24 in. wingspan |
Scale | 1:18 |
No. of pieces | Not provided |
1202
$44.09
Material | Balsa wood |
---|---|
Dimensions | 24.2 in. wingspan |
Scale | 1:20 |
No. of pieces | Not provided |
Image | 1 ![]() Flight Miniatures | 2 ![]() Revell | 3 ![]() Airfix | 4 ![]() Revell | 5 ![]() Revell | 6 ![]() Revell | 7 ![]() Revell | 8 ![]() Metal Earth | 9 ![]() Guillow | 10 ![]() Guillow |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Name | Delta Airlines Airbus A350-900 | B25J Mitchell | Focke-Wulf Fw190A-8 | SnapTite A-10 Warthog | Spitfire MKII | SR-71A Blackbird | P-51D Mustang | Fascinations F4U Corsair 3D Metal Model Kit | Piper Super Cub 95 Laser Cut Model Kit | 1903 Wright Brother Flyer Laser Cut Model Kit |
Features | Solid Plastic Construction and Rotating Engine Blades | Incredibly Detailed WWII Model | Smaller-Scale Version of a German WWII Plane | Easy Model That's Good for Beginners | Option With a Detailed Cockpit and Closeable Canopy | Plane With Realistic Air Force Decals and a Recon Drone | Historical Model With a Removable Engine Panel | Metal WWII Warplane That's a Fun Challenge | Flyable Plane With a Power Motor | Balsa Wood Recreation of the First Wright Brothers Plane |
Price | $26.09 | $27.99 | $19.67 | $17.24 | $17.99 | $22.95 | $18.41 | $6.95 | $37.48 | $44.09 |
Material | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Metal | Plastic | Balsa wood |
Dimensions | Not provided | 16.75 x 14.25 in. | Not provided | 9.25 x 8.75 in. | 9.9 x 7.4 in. | Not provided | 9.25 x 7 in. | 4.5 x 3.7 x 1.5 in. | 24 in. wingspan | 24.2 in. wingspan |
Scale | 1:200 | 1:48 | 1:72 | 1:72 | 1:48 | 1:72 | 1:48 | Not provided | 1:18 | 1:20 |
No. of pieces | Not provided | 138 | 53 | 36 | 34 | 66 | 49 | Not provided | Not provided | Not provided |
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When choosing the right model airplane kit, there are a few different points to keep in mind. You should consider the model type you're looking for and what you want out of the building process.
When shopping for the perfect model airplane kit, you must consider the level of detail and difficulty you want. It's also important to decide if you want an option that is flyable or historically specific.
If you’re new to model airplane kits, or if you’re planning on helping a child build one, you should go with a simple option. These models typically have fewer parts and can be put together quickly. They are often pre-painted and pre-cut, too. They may even come with decal stickers, so you have less work to do.
One of the more popular options is a scale replica model kit. As the name implies, these models are actual replicas. These are very complex and involved, consisting of 100 or more pieces. They’re also very detailed and lifelike, right down to the paint that you apply yourself.
You can usually move the propellers, wings, undercarriages, cockpits, and wheels on these planes. The most popular scales are 1:72, 1:48, and 1:32. But scale isn’t the same as size; it’s a ratio that simply refers to how many inches on a real plane equal one inch on the model.
You can also go with historical planes. These are also very specific models. Most enthusiasts invest in different kits that correspond to a specific era. For example, many people enjoy recreating planes used by different countries in World War II.
If you like this type of kit and are looking to create a group of planes, it’s usually best to purchase ones from the same company. Manufacturing differences can be glaring when they’re side-by-side.
If you’re looking to actually use your plane, go with a flyable option. Model planes are usually made of plastic, but these are made especially light. They often use lightweight materials, such as pre-cut balsa wood, and have plastic features. They either come with electric components or are compatible with them.
Depending on what kind of plane you’re building, the overall level of complexity will vary. Certain kinds, especially scale replicas, will take longer.
You will also have to consider what supplies you might need. Many kits come with tools such as brushes, glue, and paint. But, even for those that don’t include supplies, kits will usually tell you what specific paint colors to buy.
Be sure to check reviews to see what customers thought was lacking or if the manufacturer isn't clear about what's included in the kit. Also, be sure to note the age recommendation for each kit. Putting model airplanes together can be dangerous for small children due to choking hazards. The more intricate the model, the older a child should be.
Here are some more articles to help you get started on any new hobbies you've always wanted to try!
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