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What Are the Types of Model Trains?

When most people talk about model trains they are referring to electric trains. There are other types like toy trains, though. The first toy trains appeared in the 1800s and were generally pull toys. Electric trains first appeared late in that century. There are a number of variants in terms of style of train, in other words, the type of train that is being produced, but the key differences are scale and controllers.

Controllers
- The original controller for model trains was a transformer with a knob for speed and a type of control to reverse the train. In that type system multiple trains on the same track could only be controlled in tandem without special track design and multiple controllers. A more modern control system is a newer system that allows each train to be controlled separately from one control system. Some companies produce computer systems that allow PC's to control model trains.
G Scale
- The largest scale for model trains is the "G" scale. G scale is modeled at a ratio of 1:22.5, meaning that each inch of model train relates to 22.5 inches in real life. While G scale trains are made for indoor use, there are also "element resistant" versions designed for use as garden trains. For indoor use, G scale is, due to its large size, not well-suited for layouts with limited space considerations.
O Scale
- O scale is the second largest scale, but it's not as universal as G. In fact, the ratio for O scale in the United Kingdom is 1:43. In the rest of Europe it is 1:45, and in the United States it is 1:48. Like G scale, O scale is not recommended for layouts in an area where space is a concern.
S Scale
- S scale is still a large scale, but it is considerably smaller than either the G or O scale. S scale has a model ratio of 1:64. While it can be used in smaller space than either O or G scale, it is considerably larger than the next scale and, for that reason, isn't well suited for train layouts in small areas.
HO Scale
- HO scale is the most popular scale. That popularity makes it a good choice for model railroaders because there are more trains and accessories available for HO than for any other scale. HO is set at a 1:87 scale -- half of O scale, hence the "HO" designation. That means that, while some room is still required for an involved layout, it doesn't need nearly as much space as the larger scales. It's still large enough to allow for detailed models,.
N Scale
- There is a some variance in the model ratio of N scale with some coming in at 1:147 and some at 1:160. Since the 1960s the size has been fairly uniformly set at 1:160, but older versions still remain. N scale takes up much less space than HO scale, making it better for enthusiasts with less space for creating a train layout. N scale is popular, but not as widely used as HO.
Z Scale
- The smallest of all the common scales, Z scale is well-suited for layouts in small areas. The model ratio for Z scale is 1:220. The small size of Z scale, though, means that its parts are more delicate and require a gentler touch and better eye for detail than any of the other scales. Small bits of dirt can make a big difference, so they require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Model Railroads