High Grade [HG]

First introduced in 1990 to mark the 10th anniversary of Gunpla, the High Grade line has grown into the largest and most diverse grade in Bandai's catalogue. At 1/144 scale, a completed HG kit stands between 12 and 16 cm tall — compact enough to display without taking over a shelf, but detailed enough to reward a closer look.

 

First introduced in 1990 to mark the 10th anniversary of Gunpla, the High Grade line has grown into the largest and most diverse grade in Bandai's catalogue. At 1/144 scale, a completed HG kit stands between 12 and 16 cm tall — compact enough to display without taking over a shelf, but detailed enough to reward a closer look.

What sets HG apart from every other grade is its breadth. While Master Grade and Real Grade tend to focus on landmark mobile suits, the High Grade line covers virtually every mecha from every series — from the iconic RX-78-2 Gundam to the latest kits from Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX and Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance. If a mobile suit exists in the Gundam universe, there is almost certainly an HG version of it.

Builds typically take two to four hours depending on part count. The colour-separated plastic means you get a display-ready result without a paintbrush, and the snap-fit system means no glue is ever needed. Sticker sheets are included for extra detail. For newer builders, the instruction manuals are clear and well-illustrated. For experienced builders, HG is the perfect canvas for panel lining, hand painting, and weathering without the time investment of a Master Grade.

Whether you are just starting out, building a complete series collection, or looking for a quick weekend build, High Grade is the foundation of any Gunpla shelf.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is High Grade (HG) Gunpla?

High Grade is Bandai's entry-to-intermediate Gunpla line, introduced in 1990. HG kits are built at 1/144 scale and cover the widest range of mobile suits across every Gundam series. They are designed to be accessible without sacrificing the detail and poseability that make Gunpla enjoyable.

What scale are HG Gunpla kits?

HG kits are built at 1/144 scale, making a completed standard mobile suit roughly 12 to 16 cm tall. Some HGUC and HGCE kits may vary slightly depending on the mobile suit's in-universe size.

Are HG kits good for beginners?

Yes. HG kits are one of the best starting points for new Gunpla builders. They require no glue or paint, the part counts are manageable, and the instructions are clear. If you want the most beginner-friendly option of all, Entry Grade kits are slightly simpler — but most people find HG very approachable from the start.

What is the difference between High Grade and Real Grade?

Both HG and Real Grade kits are built at 1/144 scale, so the finished models are a similar size. The key difference is complexity. Real Grade kits include a pre-assembled inner frame and significantly more parts, resulting in greater detail and articulation at the cost of a longer, more challenging build. HG is the more accessible option; RG rewards builders who want more from the same scale.

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