High grade Gundam: Top 10+ best picks for collectors and new fans

High grade Gundam is one of the most exciting entry points into the world of Gunpla, combining affordability, accessibility, and impressive detail in compact builds. For fans of Japanese culture and mecha model kits, HG Gundam kits strike the perfect balance between beginner-friendly design and collector-level display value. At Japan Figure, we provide authentic high grade Gundam kits direct from Japan, so whether you’re starting your very first build or expanding your shelf with iconic models, you’re in the right place.

>>> You may also enjoy

• Top Gundam Wing Gunpla kits every fan should collect
• Ranking the most powerful Gundam suits in history
• Meet the iconic Gundam Gquuuuuux characters

1. What is a high-grade Gundam?

A high grade Gundam (HG) is one of the most popular Gunpla grades, recognized for its 1/144 scale size, beginner-friendly assembly, and wallet-friendly price. Launched in 1990 by Bandai, HG kits were designed to make Gundam model kits accessible to everyone, regardless of skill level.

Unlike Real Grade (RG) or Master Grade (MG) kits, HG models don’t overwhelm beginners with complex parts or advanced inner frames. Instead, they provide a streamlined build process while still offering a surprising amount of detail and articulation. This makes them the go-to choice for fans who want to enjoy the hobby without spending dozens of hours on one kit.

Why choose HG Gundam as your first kit? Because they let you focus on the fun of building and posing, without the stress of complicated mechanics. For collectors, HG is also a great way to create a wide variety of displays without running out of space or overspending.

Key features that make HG unique:

• Compact 1/144 scale size, usually around 5 inches tall
• Affordable and accessible for all fans
• Beginner-friendly, with snap-fit parts that don’t require glue
• Good articulation for dynamic posing
• Huge variety, with models from nearly every Gundam series
• Easier to collect in large numbers compared to MG or PG kits

2. Top 10+ best high-grade Gundam kits every collector must have

With hundreds of HG kits available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve rounded up the best high grade Gundam kits based on popularity, build experience, design, and collector appeal.

1. 1/144 HGUC Moon Gundam
2. HGUC RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 1/144
3. Bandai HG The Witch from Mercury Gundam Calibarn
4. Bandai 1/144 HG Darilbalde
5. Bandai Gundam Wing Leo 1-144
6. Bandai 1/144 HG Gundam The Origin RX-78-02
7. Bandai 1/144 HG Michaelis
8. HG 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Lupus Model Kit
9. HGUC 1/144 #210 RX-79 Ground Gundam Type
10. Bandai 1/144 HGUC NZ-666 Kshatriya

2.1 1/144 HGUC Moon Gundam

The Moon Gundam is widely celebrated as one of the best HG kits ever released. Its psycho-plate system allows for striking displays that look like they came straight out of the anime. Builders often praise it for having near-Master Grade levels of detail despite being an HG.

Collectors appreciate how its unique silhouette makes it a centerpiece in any Gunpla display. The build is smooth, the proportions are sharp, and the articulation lets you recreate action-packed battle poses with ease.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2018
• Price range: $35–$45
• Best for: Collectors seeking one of the most polished HG kits available

>>> Buy Bandai Hguc 1/144 Moon Gundam Gundam Plastic Model Kit now

2.2 HGUC RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 1/144

The high grade Gundam Unicorn is a staple in many collections thanks to its sleek design and transformation between Unicorn and Destroy Mode. Even at HG scale, this kit manages to capture the iconic look of the mobile suit, complete with excellent color separation.

Builders often highlight how satisfying it is to pose this kit, particularly with its long beam magnum and shield accessories. If you’re a fan of the Gundam Unicorn series, this kit is practically mandatory.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2010
• Price range: $25–$40
• Best for: Fans of transforming suits and the Unicorn storyline

2.3 Bandai HG The Witch from Mercury Gundam Calibarn

The high grade Gundam Calibarn is a newer release but already one of the most sought-after kits from The Witch from Mercury. Its design is both elegant and powerful, with slender proportions and striking accessories that make it stand out on display.

The engineering of this kit is modern and refined, ensuring smooth articulation and stability even in action poses. For new fans introduced to Gundam through this series, Calibarn is a perfect pick.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2023
• Price range: $28–$38
• Best for: Fans of The Witch from Mercury and new Gunpla builders

2.4 Bandai 1/144 HG Darilbalde

The Darilbalde is another star from The Witch from Mercury. With its sleek crimson armor and unique scythe-like weapon, it offers a bold alternative to traditional Gundam designs. The kit is sturdy and stable, making it enjoyable for both building and posing.

Collectors love the intimidating aura it brings to a lineup of HG kits. Its color separation is excellent, meaning it looks great even without paint.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2022
• Price range: $26–$35
• Best for: Fans of rival suits and dynamic displays

2.5 Bandai Gundam Wing Leo 1-144

The Wing Leo may look simple compared to Gundam protagonists, but it is beloved for its versatility. Appearing in Gundam Wing as a grunt unit, this kit is inexpensive, easy to assemble, and perfect for diorama builders who want multiple units for battle scenes.

Because of its affordability, many fans collect several Leos to create squad formations or replicate scenes from the anime.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2018
• Price range: $10–$15
• Best for: Beginners and army builders

2.6 Bandai 1/144 HG Gundam The Origin RX-78-02

No Gundam collection is complete without the legendary RX-78-2. This Origin version improves on the classic with modern proportions, improved articulation, and great accessories like the beam rifle and shield.

It’s the ideal starting point for any fan who wants to honor Gundam’s history while still enjoying the latest Gunpla engineering.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2015
• Price range: $25–$30
• Best for: Fans of classic Gundam and collectors of iconic suits

2.7 Bandai 1/144 HG Michaelis

The Michaelis is a striking mobile suit with futuristic armor and sharp weaponry. Coming from The Witch from Mercury, it offers a clean, stylish design that looks amazing on display.

This kit is relatively simple but leaves a lot of room for customization, which makes it appealing for hobbyists who enjoy painting or adding personal touches.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2022
• Price range: $24–$32
• Best for: Fans of stylish and customizable Gunpla

>>> Add Hg Mobile Suit Gundam Witch Of Mercury Michaelis 1/144 Scale Color Coded Plastic Model to cart

2.8 HG 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Lupus Model Kit

The Barbatos Lupus from Iron-Blooded Orphans is one of the most aggressive-looking Gundams ever released. With its sharp claws and heavy melee weapons, this HG kit captures the raw energy of the anime’s battles.

Its inner frame and articulation allow for extreme poses, making it a favorite among fans who love dynamic action displays.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2016
• Price range: $22–$30
• Best for: IBO fans and builders who enjoy posing action figures

2.9 HGUC 1/144 #210 RX-79 Ground Gundam Type

For fans who prefer grounded, military-style Gundams, the RX-79 Ground Gundam is a perfect pick. Its realistic design, detailed weaponry, and rugged proportions give it a more practical, tactical feel compared to sleeker Gundams.

This HG kit shines in dioramas and looks especially good alongside other grunt suits or custom-painted weathering effects.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2013
• Price range: $20–$28
• Best for: Fans of military-style mecha designs

2.10 Bandai 1/144 HGUC NZ-666 Kshatriya

The Kshatriya is a colossal and visually stunning HG kit. Known for its massive binders and distinctive design, it’s one of the largest and most detailed high grade kits ever produced.

Collectors adore it because it dominates any display shelf, acting as a centerpiece that naturally draws attention. Despite its size, Bandai engineered it with surprising balance and stability.

• Scale: 1/144
• Release year: 2009
• Price range: $70–$90
• Best for: Dedicated collectors who want a showcase kit

3. How to choose the right Gundam HG kits for you?

When looking for the perfect HG kit, think about your goals as a builder and collector:

• For beginners: Start with simple kits like Wing Leo or RX-78-02. They’re affordable, easy to assemble, and iconic.
• For collectors: Choose statement pieces like Kshatriya, Unicorn, or Moon Gundam. These are impressive display models.
• For display fans: Pick dynamic designs such as Barbatos Lupus or Calibarn, which excel in action poses.

Your ideal HG kit depends on whether you prioritize ease of building, display impact, or collecting multiple variations.

4. FAQs - People also ask about high-grade Gundam

Before wrapping up, here are answers to some of the most common questions fans ask about high grade Gundam.

4.1 Is HG better than RG?

HG kits are easier, cheaper, and faster to build, while RG kits offer more detail and complexity. Beginners will enjoy HG more, while advanced hobbyists often prefer RG.

4.2 What is the difference between Hg and HGUc?

HG refers to the general high grade line, while HGUC focuses specifically on the Universal Century timeline. HGUC kits often emphasize classic suits and refined proportions.

4.3 What is the highest quality Gundam?

The Perfect Grade (PG) line is considered the highest quality, with extreme detail and engineering. HG is still the most accessible for everyday collectors.

4.4 What is the most expensive Gunpla grade?

PG kits are the most expensive due to their scale and complexity, often costing several hundred dollars. Special limited editions of MG or PG can also reach high prices.

High grade Gundam kits are the best way to enjoy Gunpla without overwhelming complexity or expense. Whether you choose the iconic high grade Gundam RX-78-2, the sleek Unicorn, or the powerful Moon Gundam, HG kits deliver both fun and collectible value. At Japan Figure, we provide authentic HG Gundam kits directly from Japan, so you can confidently expand your collection.