Your Guide to the Best Model Railway Brands – Quality, Detail & Realism

Your Guide to the Best Model Railway Brands – Quality, Detail & Realism

A Blog by Justin Carlo Ponti

For model railway enthusiasts, finding the right brands can make all the difference in building a layout that’s not just visually stunning but also mechanically sound. Also, choosing quality brands ensures your model railway is both realistic and reliable.

At Hobbyco, we’ve been supplying Australia’s railway modellers with top-tier brands and products since 1935. In this guide, we’re taking a closer look at some of the best model railway brands available today, covering locomotives, rolling stock, tracks, scenery, and accessories.

Hornby – Model Rail Excellence

Few names in model rail have the heritage and reputation of Hornby. Founded in 1901, this UK-based brand has long been a staple in model railway collections, offering highly detailed locomotives, rolling stock, and starter sets.

Why Choose Hornby?

  • Iconic Locomotives – From classic steam trains to modern electric units, Hornby captures the essence of model railways.

  • High-Quality Detailing – Their models are meticulously crafted, ensuring accuracy in every design.

  • User-Friendly for Beginners – Hornby offers a great range of starter sets, making them perfect for those new to the hobby.

  • DCC-Ready Models – Many of their locomotives support Digital Command Control (DCC), allowing advanced train operation.

Whether you're looking to build a nostalgic UK-themed layout or add a legendary steam engine to your collection, Hornby remains a solid choice.

Auscision – Australian Railways Brought to Life

For those who want to model the Australian railway scene, Auscision is the gold standard. As an Australian brand, they focus on delivering authentic locomotives and rolling stock that reflect the country’s rich railway history.

Why Australian Modellers Love Auscision

  • Accurate Australian Locomotives & Rolling Stock – Their models reflect real-life counterparts from NSW Rail, Victorian Railways, and more.

  • Unmatched Detail – Features such as finely printed liveries, realistic weathering, and working headlights make their models stand out.

  • Limited Runs – Each Auscision model is made in limited quantities, making them valuable collector’s items.

  • Perfect for Australian Layouts – If you're building an Aussie rail network, this is the brand to choose for authenticity.

Auscision caters to serious collectors and hobbyists who demand precision and realism in their Australian-themed layouts.

Dapol – The Innovators in Rolling Stock & Accessories

Dapol has built a strong reputation for its high-quality rolling stock, wagons, and accessories. Based in the UK, this brand stands out for its commitment to both traditional and modern railway modelling.

What Makes Dapol Stand Out?

  • Variety of Scales – Produces models in OO, O, and N gauge, catering to different layout sizes.

  • High-Tech Innovations – Their locomotives include features like LED lighting and smooth motorised performance.

  • Affordable Quality – Offers excellent detailing at a price point that appeals to both beginners and experienced modellers.

  • Essential Accessories – From signal boxes to station platforms, Dapol provides crucial finishing touches to any railway setup.

If you’re expanding your railway collection with additional rolling stock or station details, Dapol has plenty to offer.

Noch – Breathtaking Scenery for Your Layout

No railway layout is complete without scenery, and Noch is one of the best brands in the business. Founded in Germany, Noch specialises in top-tier landscaping products, including grass mats, trees, tunnels, and weathering materials.

What Makes Noch Essential for Model Railway Scenery?

  • Hyper-Realistic Materials – Noch’s grass tufts, rock formations, and trees add unparalleled realism to any layout.

  • User-Friendly Kits – Pre-made scenery elements allow easy integration into layouts of any scale.

  • Durability – Made from high-quality materials, Noch’s scenery elements hold up well over time.

  • Versatility – Works well with various model railway brands and scales, from N gauge to HO scale.

If you want to bring your railway to life with lush forests, realistic roads, and rocky landscapes, Noch is the go-to brand.

Faller – The Masters of Architectural Details

Faller is all about structures and fine details. Since 1946, this German brand has been producing model railway buildings, bridges, tunnels, and even moving parts like working car systems.

Why Faller is a Must-Have

  • Highly Detailed Buildings – From historic train stations to modern urban architecture, Faller’s kits make layouts come alive.

  • Easy to Assemble – Many structures come in pre-coloured parts, making assembly straightforward.

  • Animated Accessories – Faller's moving elements, such as carnival rides and motorised vehicles, add dynamic action to a scene.

  • Scales for All Layouts – Compatible with HO, N, and other popular model rail scales.

If you want to create a bustling railway town or a realistic station setting, Faller is an essential brand.

Peco – The Gold Standard in Model Railway Track Systems

Founded in the UK in 1946, Peco offers precision-engineered track systems that ensure smooth operation for any scale. However, Peco is more than just track—offering a full range of model railway products, including locomotives, rolling stock, scenic accessories, and more.

Why Peco is the Leading Track Brand

  • High-Quality Track Systems – Made from durable nickel silver, Peco tracks provide smooth and reliable performance, reducing derailments and ensuring long-term durability.

  • Wide Range of Track Options – From flexible track to pre-formed curves, points, and turnouts, Peco caters to layouts of all sizes and complexities.

  • Realistic Locomotives & Rolling Stock – Peco produces a range of highly detailed locomotives and wagons, ensuring compatibility with major model railway brands.

  • Innovative Turnouts & Accessories – Their points, switches, and signal systems allow for complex and realistic railway operations.

It doesn't matter if you're building a simple loop or an intricate railway network, Peco tracks ensure smooth, derailment-free operation.

Start Your Model Railway Journey with Hobbyco Today

At Hobbyco, we pride ourselves on being Australia’s most trusted model railway store since 1935. Whether you’re looking for the latest locomotives, realistic scenery, or premium track systems, we’ve got everything you need to bring your railway vision to life.

With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of model train products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.

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Your Guide to the Best Model Railway Brands – Quality, Detail & Realism

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