日本語：ガンプラ初心者におすすめの選び方｜EG・HGの違いと最初の1体
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate advertisements. As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. The cover is an AI-assisted illustration created for this site.
A good first Gunpla is a design you want to build with requirements you are comfortable meeting. An ENTRY GRADE (EG) kit can offer a simple start, including tool-free removal on some products. A HIGH GRADE (HG) kit may be the better choice when a particular mobile suit, weapon or feature interests you. The grade alone is not a complete difficulty rating.
This guide compares the standard EG RX-78-2 Gundam, standard EG Strike Gundam and standard HG Gundam Aerial. It is based on manufacturer specifications, not a claim that we built and timed all three kits for a hands-on comparison.
EG or HG: decide what you want to make first
Choose a mobile suit you actually like, then check how its parts are removed, which tools are required and what equipment comes in the box. There is no compulsory rule that you must finish an EG before attempting an HG. A manageable set of instructions and a subject that interests you matter more than following a grade ladder.
| Question | Considering EG | Considering HG |
|---|---|---|
| Getting started | Some products specify tool-free part removal | Check for plastic-model nippers and other required tools |
| Main reason to choose it | A design you like with a relatively straightforward approach | A particular design, weapon configuration or mechanism |
| Version check | Standard, Light Package and equipment variants differ | Standard, rebuild, limited-colour and large-set products differ |
Three standard-version candidates
EG RX-78-2 Gundam: the original design
The standard version linked here includes a beam rifle and shield. Check the box name rather than assuming that a Light Package version or Full Weapon Set has identical contents. The manufacturer describes a touch-gate design that allows removal without nippers; follow the actual instructions rather than twisting parts off indiscriminately.
EG Strike Gundam: a SEED starting point
This is Strike’s basic configuration, with a rifle and shield. It is not an Aile Strike product containing the winged Aile Striker backpack. If that is the silhouette you want, resolve the equipment difference before ordering. A familiar character’s mobile suit can be a more satisfying first choice than an unfamiliar kit selected only because it is called easy.
HG Gundam Aerial: for Witch from Mercury fans
This is the original Aerial, not Aerial Rebuild or Calibarn. Its shield can separate into Bit Staves, and its shell-unit construction involves specific parts and stickers. Follow the manual’s sequence before experimenting with more elaborate display arrangements. Starting with the basic completed form gives you a clear first milestone.
Separate required tools from optional purchases
The two EG products discussed here advertise tool-free assembly features. You do not need to purchase an expensive nipper merely to make a kit whose instructions do not require one. For a kit that does require cutting tools, see our beginner tool guide and check the tool’s intended materials.
Paint and glue are not automatically part of a first shopping list. Read the box and instructions, prepare what that kit requires, and add optional finishing supplies only when you have a reason to use them. Check the product’s age guidance and the tools’ instructions separately.
Check these details before buying
- The exact mobile suit, grade and version.
- Included equipment, especially rifles, shields and backpacks.
- Whether the listing is one retail package or a multipack.
- Required tools and the individual product’s age guidance.
- Condition, seller, shipping cost and dispatch timing—not just the displayed item price.
Frequently asked questions
Does every EG need no tools or stickers?
Check the individual product. A series name does not guarantee that every item or package variant has identical requirements and contents.
Is HG automatically too difficult for a beginner?
No. HG kits vary in part layouts, size and mechanisms. Looking at the actual manual and working through one small stage at a time is more useful than treating all HG kits as one difficulty level.
Once you have chosen a kit, continue with our first-build assembly guide. If display space is limited, read the case measurement guide before buying storage or display accessories.
More guides for building and displaying Gunpla
- How to Build Gunpla: Instructions, Parts and Your First Straight Build
- Gunpla Nub Removal: Two Cuts, Sanding and Stress Marks
- How to Pose Gunpla: Natural Stances and Supported Action Poses
- Gunpla Display Cases: Measure the Kit, Weapons and Base First
- No Room for Gunpla? Small-Space Displays and Rotation Storage
Comments