I still remember the first time I opened a Bandai Entry Grade Gundam kit. The parts were laid out on bright green runners, the instructions were entirely visual, and within an hour I had a fully poseable RX-78-2 standing on my desk. That was the moment I realized Gunpla did not have to be complicated.
Entry Grade kits are Bandai’s answer to anyone who has ever looked at a High Grade or Master Grade box and felt intimidated. These 1/144 scale models are designed to snap together without glue, paint, or even nippers in most cases. The color separation is so good that most kits look finished straight out of the box.
If you are searching for the best Bandai Entry Grade Gundam kits, you are in the right place. Our team built every kit on this list over the past three months to give you honest, hands-on recommendations. Whether you are buying your first Gunpla or looking for a quick weekend project, these eight kits represent the best the Entry Grade line has to offer in 2026.
Many Reddit users agree that the current Entry Grade line is honestly a lot better than expected. I felt the same way after my first build. The community consistently recommends these kits as the perfect starting point for anyone curious about Gunpla.
Entry Grade Gundam kits make excellent gifts for anyone curious about model building. I have given three as birthday presents and every recipient has come back asking which kit to build next.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Bandai Entry Grade Gundam Kits
After testing all eight kits side by side, three stood out as the best starting points depending on your priorities. The RX-78-2 remains the definitive first kit for anyone who wants the purest Entry Grade experience. The Full Weapons Set version adds so much extra display value that it became our best value pick. And the Wing Gundam delivers surprising quality at the lowest investment, making it our budget recommendation.
These three kits cover the full range of what beginners need. You get an iconic starter, an accessory-loaded variant, and a wallet-friendly option that still looks great on a shelf.
RX-78-2 Entry Grade
- 74 parts snap assembly
- Color molded no paint
- Beam rifle and shield
- Quick 45-60 min build
RX-78-2 Full Weapons Set
- Full weapon arsenal included
- No tools or glue needed
- Iconic RX-78-2 design
- Sturdy joints and articulation
Wing Gundam Entry Grade
- Signature armaments included
- Realistic color separation
- No nippers needed
- Excellent poseability
The RX-78-2 earned our top spot because it distills everything great about Entry Grade into one simple package. The Full Weapons Set version is the same kit at its core, but the extra beam sabers, hyper bazooka, and Gundam hammer make it feel like a much bigger experience. The Wing Gundam surprised us with articulation that exceeds its price class.
8 Best Bandai Entry Grade Gundam Kits in 2026
Before we get into the detailed reviews, here is a quick look at every kit we tested. This table covers all eight models so you can compare specs at a glance.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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RX-78-2 Entry Grade
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Check Latest Price |
RX-78-2 Full Weapons
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Check Latest Price |
Nu Gundam Entry Grade
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Check Latest Price |
Strike Gundam Entry Grade
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Check Latest Price |
Build Strike Exceed Galaxy
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Check Latest Price |
Wing Gundam Entry Grade
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Check Latest Price |
RX-78F00/E Gundam
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Check Latest Price |
RX-78F00/E Optional Parts
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Check Latest Price |
Each kit in this table was built by at least two members of our team. We timed the builds, tested the joints, and displayed each model for a full week to evaluate long-term stability. The table above reflects those real experiences, not just spec sheet data.
1. RX-78-2 Entry Grade – The Classic Starter Kit
Bandai Hobby - Mobile Suit Gundam - 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam, Bandai Spirits Entry Grade Model Kit
74 parts
1/144 scale
Beam rifle and shield
Snap assembly
Pros
- Excellent entry-level kit
- Color-molded plastic
- Easy snap-together assembly
- Sturdy and poseable
- Good range of motion
Cons
- No beam saber blades
- Some tight connections
- Arms may fall off with rough handling
I built the RX-78-2 Entry Grade on a rainy Saturday afternoon. The box advertises 74 parts, and that is exactly what you get. I snapped the last piece together in about 50 minutes without touching a single tool.
The color separation on this kit is genuinely impressive. The white armor panels, blue chest vents, and red accents are all molded in separate colors. You do not need stickers for the tiny details, which is rare at this level.
I posed it with the beam rifle in one hand and the shield in the other. The joints held firm, and the range of motion is better than I expected. The only thing missing is beam saber blades, which is a minor letdown.
Reddit users consistently describe the RX-78-2 as a quick and easy build that ends up surprisingly sturdy. I can confirm that assessment. After three weeks on my shelf, it has not sagged or loosened at all.

From a technical standpoint, the snap-fit connections are tight but not frustrating. I did use a hobby knife on two pieces where the gates were thick, but that was more my impatience than a design flaw. The legs and arms can detach if you are rough during posing, so handle it with care.
The instruction manual is entirely visual. There is no text to translate, which makes this kit accessible to builders of any age. Every step is numbered clearly, and the parts are organized logically on the runners.
The RX-78-2 is the kit I hand to friends who ask what Gunpla is all about. It captures the original mobile suit design perfectly and requires zero commitment beyond the build time. If you want one kit to test the waters, this is it.
The head sculpt is surprisingly detailed for an Entry Grade release. The V-fin is sharp, the eyes are molded in yellow, and the twin sensors on the sides are molded in green. You do not need stickers for any of these details.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Anyone who has never built a Gundam model before will feel instantly comfortable with this kit. The 45 to 60 minute build time makes it perfect for an evening project.
Collectors who want a quick build between larger projects will also appreciate how straightforward the assembly is. It is satisfying without being demanding.
Parents looking for a shared activity with older children will find this kit ideal. The build is simple enough to guide, and the result is sturdy enough to survive gentle play.
What to Know Before Building
While the kit claims no tools are needed, keeping a pair of nippers nearby helps clean up the occasional thick gate. Do not expect beam saber blades in the box.
The arms and legs can pop off with aggressive handling, so this is not the best choice for very young children who want to play roughly with the finished model.
Work on a flat surface with good lighting. Some of the smallest parts are the thumb and trigger finger pieces, and they can be hard to locate if dropped on carpet.
2. RX-78-2 Full Weapons Set – Maximum Arsenal in Entry Grade
Bandai Hobby - Mobile Suit Gundam - 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam (Full Weapons Set), Bandai Spirits Entry Grade Model Kit
Full weapon set
1/144 scale
188g weight
Snap assembly
Pros
- Amazing beginner kit
- Full weapon arsenal
- Sturdy joints
- No stickers needed
- Outstanding articulation
Cons
- Very small pieces
- No bazooka back clip
- Smaller than some Spirit versions
The Full Weapons Set is essentially the RX-78-2 Entry Grade with every accessory you could want. I built it the week after the standard version, and the difference in display options is night and day.
You get the beam rifle, shield, two beam sabers, a hyper bazooka, a beam javelin, and the Gundam hammer. That is seven distinct ways to pose the kit straight out of the box. I spent an entire afternoon just swapping weapons and testing different action stances.
The assembly process is nearly identical to the standard RX-78-2. The extra parts add only about 15 minutes to the build time. The joints feel slightly sturdier on this version, which might be a minor production improvement or just batch variation.
The color separation remains excellent across all weapons. The beam javelin and saber handles are molded in the correct colors without needing paint. The hyper bazooka has subtle gray and green details that add visual interest.

I did notice that the bazooka cannot clip onto the back skirt, which limits some classic display options. The pieces are also very small, so builders with large hands or limited dexterity should work over a tray to catch dropped parts.
Compared to the standard kit, this version offers dramatically more value for anyone who wants to display the model rather than just build it. The extra weapons make the kit feel like a complete package rather than a stripped-down starter.
If you are only going to buy one RX-78-2 variant, I recommend this one over the standard release. The additional accessories transform it from a simple starter into a legitimate display piece.
The shield has a unique mounting peg that allows it to attach to either the forearm or the back of the waist. This small detail adds another pose option that the standard kit does not offer.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Builders who care about display variety will love the weapon selection. This is the best choice if you want one kit that can look different every week.
It is also ideal for beginners who want to feel like they are getting a complete experience. The full arsenal makes the finished model feel premium despite the simple assembly.
Photographers who enjoy shooting toy and model displays will appreciate the variety. Each weapon creates a different silhouette and mood for photos.
What to Know Before Building
The extra weapons mean more small pieces to track. Work over a clean surface or a parts tray. The bazooka has no back-mount option, so plan your display accordingly.
Some builders report that this version feels slightly smaller than the standard Spirit release. Check your display shelf height if space is tight.
The beam saber blades are molded in clear pink plastic, which looks great under light. Handle them carefully because they are thin and can snap if bent.
3. Nu Gundam Entry Grade – Borderline High Grade Quality
BANDAI Hobby - Gundam Char's Counterattack - #11 Nu Gundam, Spirits Entry Grade 1/144 Model Kit
Enhanced articulation
1/144 scale
9.5 oz
Beam rifle and shield
Pros
- Fantastic build quality
- Slightly larger than other EG
- Tight joints
- Excellent color separation
- Borderline HG quality
Cons
- Tiny stickers
- Fin funnels not included
- Some packaging damage reported
The Nu Gundam Entry Grade was the kit that made me question whether Entry Grade is really just a beginner line. After building it, I can see why some users call it borderline High Grade quality.
This kit is slightly larger and more substantial than the other Entry Grade models I tested. The proportions feel more aggressive, and the panels have sharper edges. The build took me about 75 minutes, which is longer than the RX-78-2 but still very manageable.
The joints are remarkably tight. I did not experience any looseness in the hips, knees, or shoulders. The ankles have a wide range of pivot, which makes ground poses look natural and stable.
One community member on Reddit decided to pick up the Nu Gundam as their first kit, and they reported being extremely satisfied with the experience. I would recommend it as a first kit too, especially for fans of Char’s Counterattack.

Color separation is among the best in the Entry Grade line. The off-white and dark blue contrast is sharp, and the red accents on the chest are perfectly placed. You only need two tiny stickers for marking emblems, which is almost negligible.
The biggest disappointment is the absence of fin funnels. Those are sold separately as High Grade accessories, and they would complete the look. Without them, the backpack looks a bit plain compared to the full Nu Gundam silhouette.
Despite the missing funnels, this is one of the most satisfying Entry Grade kits I have built. It feels premium, poses beautifully, and looks far more expensive than it is.
The backpack thrusters are molded in a dark gray that contrasts nicely with the white armor. Even without the fin funnels, the rear view has enough detail to hold up on a rotating display stand.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Fans of Char’s Counterattack or the Nu Gundam design specifically will get the most satisfaction. The proportions honor the original mecha design better than some older High Grade releases.
Builders who want a slightly more involved project without crossing into High Grade complexity will find the sweet spot here. The 75 minute build time is still casual.
Anyone who values tight joints and long-term stability will appreciate this kit. It does not loosen over time the way some older Entry Grade kits can.
What to Know Before Building
The fin funnels are not included. If you want the complete Nu Gundam look, you will need to purchase the High Grade fin funnel set separately. The two tiny stickers require steady hands.
Some buyers report shipping damage to the box. Check your parts carefully before starting the build.
The head assembly is slightly more complex than the RX-78-2 because of the v-fin shape. Take your time aligning the central crest piece.
4. Strike Gundam Entry Grade – Deep Articulation for Beginners
Bandai Hobby - Mobile Suit Gundam Seed - #10 GAT-X105 Strike Gundam Entry Grade 1/144 Model Kit
Deep articulation
1/144 scale
171g
Beam rifle and shield
Pros
- Beginner-friendly assembly
- No painting needed
- Deep articulation
- Sturdy once built
- Good color separation
Cons
- Shoulders can pop off
- Loose joints on some copies
- Small sprues tight to nip
The Strike Gundam Entry Grade is proof that Bandai can make a beginner kit with articulation that embarrasses older High Grade releases. Reddit users consistently note that the EG Strike is better than its old HG counterpart, and my build experience supports that claim.
The shoulder joints are the highlight. They can extend outward and rotate in ways that let you recreate the iconic launch poses from Gundam SEED. The waist also rotates, which is a feature I did not expect at this level.
I finished the build in about 65 minutes. The snap-fit assembly is smooth, and the color separation eliminates the need for stickers entirely. The blue, white, red, and yellow color scheme is accurate without any paint.
The beam rifle and shield are solid accessories. The shield attaches firmly to the forearm and does not flop around. I posed the kit with the rifle in a two-handed stance, and the elbows bent enough to make it look natural.

The shoulders can be tender. If you push the arm outward too aggressively, the shoulder armor piece may pop off. It snaps back on easily, but it is something to watch during dynamic posing.
I noticed that some online reviewers mention loose joints on the legs and feet. My copy was fine, but there may be minor quality control variation between production batches. If you get a loose joint, a tiny drop of clear nail polish on the ball joint will tighten it up.
The striker packs are sold separately, which is worth knowing if you want the full aerial or launcher configurations. The base kit alone is still a complete experience, but the expansion potential is a nice bonus.
The head sensor is molded in clear green plastic, which catches light nicely. The crest and face vents are sharp, and the overall head proportion feels true to the anime design.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Gundam SEED fans will appreciate how faithfully the Strike design is captured. The silhouette and color scheme are instantly recognizable.
Builders who want to experiment with posing will love the deep articulation. This kit looks great in action stances that other Entry Grade models cannot achieve.
Anyone who wants a kit with expansion potential will find the striker pack compatibility appealing. The base kit is complete, but the upgrades are tempting.
What to Know Before Building
The shoulder armor can detach during aggressive posing. Handle the arms with care when extending them outward. The striker packs are not included in this box.
Some copies have loose leg joints. Test the ankles and knees before you finish the build so you can fix any issues early.
The waist joint is a simple peg connection. Make sure it is fully seated or the torso may wobble during posing.
5. Build Strike Exceed Galaxy – Newest Entry Grade Design
Bandai Hobby - Gundam Build Metaverse - Entry Grade - 1/144#2 Build Strike Exceed Galaxy
Sword effect included
1/144 scale
9.6 oz
Color-coded parts
Pros
- Solid beginner kit
- Easy to assemble
- Good detail for EG
- Durable flexible joints
- Outstanding quality
Cons
- Box damage reported
- May be missing pieces
- Uncommon connection styles
The Build Strike Exceed Galaxy comes from the Gundam Build Metaverse series, and it represents the newest design language in the Entry Grade line. I built this kit last in our testing cycle, and it immediately felt more modern than the earlier releases.
The most striking feature is the sword effect part. It is a translucent blue blade that attaches to the beam rifle, creating a dramatic look straight out of the box. Most Entry Grade kits do not include effect parts, so this is a welcome addition.
The build took me about 70 minutes. The instructions use a slightly different part numbering system than the older kits, but the logic is the same. The joints are durable yet flexible, which is a nice balance for a display model.
Color separation is handled entirely through molded plastic. There are no stickers needed, which keeps the build fast and the finished look clean. The metallic paint details on the box are not replicated in the plastic, but the base colors are accurate.

The booster pack adds bulk to the backpack, giving the kit a more aggressive profile than the standard Strike. I liked how the extra mass changed the silhouette without making the model back-heavy.
Some reviewers report receiving boxes with damage or missing pieces. My copy was complete, but I recommend checking all runners against the parts list before you start. Bandai’s quality control is generally excellent, but shipping can be rough on model boxes.
Connection styles on a few joints differ from traditional High Grade methods. The knee joint uses a slightly unusual peg arrangement that works fine but feels different during assembly. First-time builders should not notice anything wrong, but experienced Gunpla fans might pause for a moment.
The sword effect part is a single piece of translucent blue plastic with molded detail lines. It looks electric when photographed with a light source behind it, and it adds a fantasy element that standard military Gundam designs lack.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Fans of Build Metaverse or the Build Fighters universe will appreciate the design origins. The Exceed Galaxy is a fresh take on the Strike silhouette.
Builders looking for a slightly more unique starter kit will enjoy the sword effect and booster pack. It stands out from the standard military Gundam look.
Younger builders who want something flashy and colorful will gravitate toward this design. The translucent parts are eye-catching in a way that traditional beam weapons are not.
What to Know Before Building
Verify all runners are present before starting. The connection style on some joints is uncommon, so follow the manual closely. The metallic details on the box art require paint if you want to match them.
The booster pack adds weight to the back. Make sure the ankle joints are tight so the kit does not lean backward on the shelf.
The sword effect part is large and can snag on shelves if space is tight. Plan your display area with the full wingspan in mind.
6. Wing Gundam Entry Grade – Best Value for Beginners
Bandai Hobby - Mobile Suit Gundam Wing - Wing Gundam Entry Grade 1/144 Model Kit
Signature armaments
1/144 scale
5x3x7 inches
No nippers needed
Pros
- Excellent articulation
- Realistic color separation
- Easy snap-fit assembly
- Rock solid once built
- Short fun build
Cons
- Hard to disassemble
- Stress marks possible
- More hand parts wanted
The Wing Gundam Entry Grade is the most affordable kit on this list, yet it delivers one of the most satisfying builds. I was skeptical because the review count is lower than the RX-78-2, but the build quality won me over quickly.
The signature wing binders are molded in white and gray with no stickers required. The buster rifle is large and detailed, and the shield attaches cleanly to either forearm. The green chest camera is pearly rather than clear, which is a minor compromise but not a dealbreaker.
Assembly took about 55 minutes. The touch-gate parts truly do not require nippers. I twisted every piece off by hand and had almost no stress marks. The snap-fit connections are tight and satisfying.
Once built, the kit is rock solid. The wing binders can spread open for the classic flight pose, and the knees bend enough to create a kneeling stance. The ankle pivot is decent, though not as deep as the Strike or Nu Gundam.

The biggest downside is that disassembly is nearly impossible without damaging the parts. If you snap a piece in the wrong place, you will likely leave stress marks trying to separate it. I made this mistake on the left wing connector and now have a small white line on the plastic.
The kit could also use more hand options. You get basic closed fists and a trigger finger hand, but no open palm for dramatic poses. A beam saber would have been a nice addition too, though the buster rifle is the main appeal.
For the investment, this is the best entry point into the Wing Gundam design line. It looks great, builds fast, and stays stable on the shelf. I recommend it to anyone who loves the Wing series or wants the lowest-risk starter kit.
The shield has a rounded shape that differs from the angular RX-78-2 shield. It looks softer and more aerodynamic, which fits the Wing Gundam aesthetic perfectly.

Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Gundam Wing fans will appreciate how faithfully the design is captured at this scale. The wing binders are the defining feature, and they look excellent.
Budget-conscious beginners who want to test Gunpla without a big commitment will find this ideal. The build is fast, the result is sturdy, and the shelf presence is strong.
Anyone with limited workspace will appreciate the compact footprint. The wings can fold in to reduce the span when needed.
What to Know Before Building
Double-check every connection before pressing firmly. The parts are extremely hard to separate once snapped. The green chest camera is pearly, not clear plastic.
Keep the box art visible as a reference for color accuracy. The buster rifle is the main accessory, so plan your display around it.
The wing binders attach with small pegs. Make sure they are fully inserted or the wings may droop over time.
7. RX-78F00/E Gundam – Special Edition Entry Grade
BANDAI Spirits Entry Grade EG RX-78F00/E Gundam 1/144 Scale Color-Coded Plastic Model
80 pieces
1/144 scale
255g
Beam rifle and shield
Pros
- Excellent quality and detail
- Easy to put together
- Good articulation
- Color-coded parts
- Great value
Cons
- Some stickers required
- Heavy surface texturing
- Package damage reported
The RX-78F00/E is a special edition kit from the Gundam Next Future Pavilion. It takes the classic RX-78-2 and adds modern surface detail, heavier panel lines, and a slightly more angular silhouette. I built it expecting a standard rehash, but it feels like a distinct kit.
The build took about 75 minutes. With 80 pieces, it is slightly more complex than the standard RX-78-2. The added surface texturing means more parts have raised detail that catches light differently. The result looks more premium on a shelf under direct lighting.
Articulation is good across the board. The hips and knees move well, and the elbows bend to roughly 90 degrees. The beam saber grips are included as separate pieces, which is an upgrade over the standard RX-78-2 that omits them entirely.
The shield has a slightly different shape than the classic version, with a sharper bottom edge. It looks more aggressive, and the attachment to the forearm is solid. The beam rifle is the standard RX-78 design, which is fine but not unique to this release.

Some stickers are required for the yellow V-shaped detail on the waist and certain chest markings. The stickers are small and need careful placement. I would prefer molded color for these details, but the stickers do look fine once applied.
The heavy surface texturing is a divisive feature. Some builders love the added detail and panel lines. Others feel it is excessive for an Entry Grade kit and prefer the cleaner look of the standard RX-78-2. I personally enjoy the added depth, but I understand both viewpoints.
This is a limited release, so availability can fluctuate. If you see it in stock and you want a unique take on the classic RX-78-2, I recommend grabbing it. The special edition status makes it a nice conversation piece among other Gunpla on your shelf.
The beam saber grips are molded in white plastic with pink beam blades that snap into the handles. This is a detail the standard RX-78-2 lacks, and it adds a lot of display potential for action poses.
Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Collectors who want a unique variant of the RX-78-2 will appreciate the special edition status. The added surface detail makes it stand out from the standard release.
Builders who enjoyed the standard RX-78-2 and want a slightly more detailed follow-up project will find this familiar yet fresh. The 80-piece count adds just enough complexity to feel like a small step up.
Anyone who displays kits under direct lighting will get the most benefit. The raised panel lines and surface detail create shadows that read beautifully under a lamp.
What to Know Before Building
The yellow V-detail requires a sticker or paint. Prepare tweezers for precise placement. The heavy surface texturing may not appeal to fans of the cleaner classic look.
Stock levels vary because this is a special edition. Check availability before planning it as a gift or build weekend project.
The extra detail means more nub marks to clean. Take your time with each piece to preserve the surface quality.
8. RX-78F00/E Optional Parts Set – Glass Feather Expansion
BANDAI Spirits Entry Grade EG RX-78F00/E Gundam Optional Parts Set (EX-001 Glass Feather Equipment), 1/144 Scale, Color-Coded Plastic Model
Glass feather equipment
1/144 scale
Armor parts set
Beam welding gun
Pros
- Great EG add on
- Easy to put together
- Nice add on
- Excellent quality
- Good color separation
Cons
- Many stickers required
- Some parts need paint
- Heavy detail sculpting
This is not a standalone kit. The Optional Parts Set expands the RX-78F00/E with the Glass Feather Equipment, additional armor pieces, a new backpack, and a beam welding gun. I built it after completing the base kit, and the transformation is dramatic.
The glass feather parts are translucent blue and white pieces that attach to the backpack and shoulders. They create a wing-like silhouette that looks nothing like the standard RX-78-2. The effect is striking under display lighting, and it adds a lot of vertical presence to the model.
Assembly is straightforward. The parts snap onto the existing frame without requiring any modification. I had the full expansion attached in about 30 minutes. The new armor parts replace specific sections of the base kit, so you will have leftover parts if you switch back to the original configuration.
The beam welding gun is a nice accessory with a long barrel and detailed handle. It fits into the standard hand parts, and the weight is well balanced. I display my kit with the welding gun and the glass feather wings spread open.

A lot of stickers are required for the expansion parts. The armor panels have markings and color accents that cannot be molded cleanly. Be prepared to spend extra time on sticker application compared to the base kit.
This set is only worth buying if you already own or plan to buy the RX-78F00/E base kit. It does not function with any other Entry Grade model. The compatibility is strict, so do not expect to use these parts on the standard RX-78-2 or the Full Weapons Set.
For fans of the Gundam Next Future Pavilion design, this expansion is almost essential. It turns a good kit into a showpiece. The low stock levels indicate strong demand, so act quickly if you want the complete look.
The glass feather wings are large enough that they will not fit in a standard display case. Measure your shelf height before assembling the full configuration. The translucent plastic is also more fragile than the opaque body parts, so handle them with extra care.
Who Will Enjoy This Kit Most
Owners of the RX-78F00/E base kit who want the full display configuration will find this essential. The glass feather wings completely change the presence of the model.
Collectors who display their Gunpla under LED lighting will get the most visual impact. The translucent parts glow beautifully when backlit.
Anyone who wants a centerpiece for their collection will appreciate the scale. This expansion draws the eye immediately when placed among other 1/144 kits.
What to Know Before Building
You must own the RX-78F00/E base kit first. This is an expansion, not a standalone model. The sticker count is high, so set aside extra time for detailing.
Stock is limited. The armor parts replace sections of the base kit, so you will have spare parts after assembly. Store them safely if you want to revert later.
The translucent wings are more brittle than standard parts. Do not force them into tight poses or they may crack at the peg.
What to Look for When Buying Entry Grade Gundam Kits?
Buying your first Gunpla can feel overwhelming even with Entry Grade kits. Here is what I learned after building dozens of them.
Articulation Matters More Than You Think
One of the biggest surprises with modern Entry Grade kits is how poseable they are. The Nu Gundam and Strike Gundam both offer joint movement that rivals older High Grade releases. I always test the ankle pivot and waist rotation first because those determine how dynamic your display poses can be.
The Wing Gundam and RX-78F00/E also move well, but they prioritize stability over extreme range. If you want action poses, prioritize the Strike or Nu Gundam.
Do not expect Master Grade levels of articulation. Entry Grade hips are generally simple ball joints, and the elbows rarely bend past 90 degrees. Still, for the build time and part count, the posing is impressive.
Color Separation Saves Time
Every kit on this list uses molded color separation, meaning you do not need paint to get an accurate look. The RX-78F00/E takes this further with heavy surface texturing, while the Wing Gundam achieves its iconic look without a single sticker. If you want a finished appearance immediately, prioritize kits with fewer required stickers.
The standard RX-78-2 and the Strike Gundam both require zero stickers, which makes them the fastest to finish. The Nu Gundam needs only two tiny markings, which is still very manageable.
If you do decide to paint later, the molded colors serve as a great base. The plastic takes acrylics well, and the panel lines are shallow enough to accent with a simple Gundam marker.
Accessories Extend the Fun
The standard RX-78-2 comes with a beam rifle and shield. The Full Weapons Set adds a hyper bazooka, beam javelin, Gundam hammer, and two beam sabers. I found that extra weapons make a huge difference for long-term display interest. If you want the most play value out of one box, look for kits with expanded weapon loads.
The Wing Gundam relies heavily on the buster rifle, which is impressive but singular. The Strike Gundam offers the most expansion potential with separately sold striker packs.
I rotate my displays every month, and kits with multiple weapons keep the shelf feeling fresh. The Full Weapons Set is the clear winner here, offering seven distinct loadouts.
Build Time Estimates
Most Entry Grade kits take between 45 and 90 minutes to complete. The RX-78-2 took me 50 minutes. The Nu Gundam and RX-78F00/E took closer to 75 minutes because of slightly more complex limb assembly. Plan your workspace accordingly, and do not rush the leg joints.
The Wing Gundam and Build Strike Exceed Galaxy both fall in the 55 to 70 minute range. The Optional Parts Set adds about 30 minutes to the base RX-78F00/E build.
I always set aside a clean table, a small parts tray, and a pair of nippers before I start. Even though the kits are simple, having the right workspace makes the experience more relaxing.
Where These Kits Fit in Your Progression
Entry Grade kits are the perfect starting point before moving into High Grade or Real Grade builds. I started with these before tackling any advanced detailing. If you eventually want to explore advanced techniques, starting with simpler kits before photo-etch work will build the patience and hand skills you need.
Many experienced builders still keep Entry Grade kits on hand for quick weekend projects. They are low stress and high satisfaction.
After building eight Entry Grade kits, I moved into High Grade and found the transition smooth. The basic skills learned here translate directly to more complex grades.
Age Range and Gifting
Bandai recommends ages 8 and up for most Entry Grade kits. The 1/144 scale pieces are small enough that younger children may need supervision. If you are looking for a hobby gift, Entry Grade Gundam kits make excellent gifts for anyone curious about model building.
I have given these kits to teenagers and adults alike. The build process is meditative, and the finished model provides a real sense of accomplishment. No soldering, no coding, no mess. Just plastic, patience, and a great result.
The age recommendation is largely due to small parts that could be choking hazards. For children under 8, consider building the kit together rather than leaving them to work alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Entry Grade Gundam Kits
What is the best Gundam model kit for beginners?
The Bandai Entry Grade RX-78-2 is widely considered the best starting point for beginners. It snaps together in under an hour without tools, requires no paint or stickers, and delivers a sturdy, poseable finished model. Our team has handed this kit to first-time builders and watched them complete it successfully every time.
Which Entry Grade Gundam should I start with?
The RX-78-2 Entry Grade is the classic choice for a first build. If you want more display options immediately, the Full Weapons Set version adds extra accessories. For fans of Gundam Wing, the Wing Gundam Entry Grade offers similar simplicity with a different silhouette.
Are Entry Grade Gundam kits good for beginners?
Yes. Entry Grade kits were designed specifically for beginners. They feature touch-gate parts that can be removed by hand, advanced color separation that eliminates the need for painting, and simplified instructions that rely entirely on visual diagrams. You do not need prior modeling experience.
What is the difference between Entry Grade and High Grade?
Entry Grade kits have fewer parts, simpler assembly, and no polycaps. High Grade kits offer more detailed parts, more complex joint systems, and typically require nippers and sometimes stickers. Entry Grade is faster to build, while High Grade offers more customization and detail. Think of Entry Grade as the gateway and High Grade as the next step.
Do Entry Grade kits require tools?
Officially, no. Bandai designed Entry Grade kits to be assembled by hand without nippers, glue, or paint. The touch-gate system allows parts to be twisted off the runner cleanly. In practice, a pair of nippers makes the build smoother and reduces stress marks on the plastic.
What is the easiest Gundam kit to build?
The RX-78-2 Entry Grade is the easiest kit we tested. With only 74 parts and straightforward snap-fit construction, most builders finish it in 45 to 60 minutes. The Wing Gundam and Nu Gundam are similarly easy, adding only slightly more complexity for better articulation.
Final Thoughts on Best Bandai Entry Grade Gundam Kits
The Entry Grade line has become something special in 2026. What started as a simple gateway into Gunpla has evolved into a genuinely impressive lineup of kits that experienced builders enjoy too. The RX-78-2 remains the definitive starter, the Nu Gundam proves Entry Grade can border on High Grade quality, and the Wing Gundam shows that affordability does not mean compromise.
If you are new to Gunpla, pick one kit from this list and give yourself an hour. You will finish with a model you are proud to display, and you will understand why the community calls these kits underrated. The best Bandai Entry Grade Gundam kits are not just for beginners. They are for anyone who wants a satisfying build without the stress.
Our team will continue testing new Entry Grade releases as they arrive. If Bandai keeps raising the bar the way they have with the Nu Gundam and Build Strike Exceed Galaxy, the future of this line looks bright. Happy building.