Pros and Cons of Buying SD Gundam Model Kits: A Comprehensive Guide for Hobbyists

Pros and Cons of Buying SD Gundam Model Kits: A Comprehensive Guide for Hobbyists

Reader’s Question:
What are the pros and cons of buying SD Gundam model kits? Personally, I think the advantages are that they are affordable and don’t take up much space. However, when compared to MG models, they do seem to lack some visual appeal.

My Thoughts on SD Gundam Model Kits

You
know, I’ve been on this Gundam model-building journey for a while now, and when it comes to SD (Super Deformed) Gundam kits, they definitely have their own charm and quirks. I remember my first encounter with them vividly. I was at one of those hobby shops in Osaka, the kind where the air is filled with the smell of plastic and dreams. I picked up an SD kit because it was cute and, let’s be honest, a little more affordable than the MG (Master Grade) kits I had been eyeing.

The Pros

First off, affordability is a big deal. SD kits usually come at a price that won’t break the bank, which is fantastic if you’re a parent like me trying to balance hobbies and family expenses. They’re also compact, which means they don’t take up much space. Perfect for my cluttered desk where my child sometimes decides to create their own “art installations” with my tools! Building them is a blast too. They’re simple and quick to assemble, perfect for those days when I don’t have hours to devote to a more intricate MG kit. I remember one night, after putting my little one to sleep, I cracked open an SD kit and just lost myself in the process. It was such a relaxing escape, the world of Gundam taking me far away from the chaos of parenthood.

The Cons

Now, let’s talk about some of the downsides. When you line up an SD next to an MG kit, the visual difference is pretty noticeable. The MG kits have that stunning level of detail and realism that SDs just can’t match. There’s a certain “wow factor” when you see the intricate designs and how the pieces fit together in MG kits. Sometimes, I find myself wishing SD kits had just a bit more of that finesse. Then there’s the issue of assembly. While they’re easy to put together, the join lines can be pretty prominent, and the lack of detail can make them feel a bit… well, less impressive. I still remember the first time I tried to paint one of my SD kits. I thought, “How hard can it be?” Spoiler alert: it was harder than I expected! I ended up with a couple of paint smudges that made my cute little robot look like it had been through a rough battle.

Conclusion

In the end, I think it all comes down to what you’re looking for in a model kit. If you want something that’s cute, quick to build, and won’t cost you a fortune, SD Gundam kits are a great choice. But if you’re after that intricate craftsmanship and stunning aesthetic, you might want to save up for an MG. What about you? Have you had experiences with SD or MG kits? Any tips or funny moments to share? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments!