N Scale Model Train

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Pro-Series – N Scale MTR Model Train

The wait is over

The long-awaited N scale MTR model train has finally arrived! MTR officially announced the launch of its first-ever N scale model train – the iconic M-train.

Before the fleet of "Yellow Head" was even refurbished into the Mid-life Refurbishment (MLR) trains, we already started exploring professional railway modelling. (Well, we grew up riding the "White Head"!) At that time, we could only play with model trains from other countries because Hong Kong did not have its own. Sure, Hong Kong has produced some local professional model railways over the years, but not our favourite MTR trains. Some were discontinued a long time ago and are hard to find today, and their detailing can't compare to today's market standards. You can imagine our excitement when we found out MTR would be releasing professional motorised model trains.

Whether it's the new N scale M-train or the recently announced HO scale Disneyland Resort Line trains, these new models represent a new era for MTR's model trains and railway modelling in Hong Kong. Very soon, everyone will be able to run Hong Kong's own model trains on internationally standard HO and N scale tracks and share this experience with players from around the world, adding an important piece to the Hong Kong and Asian railway modelling puzzle.

🛤️ N Scale – 1:150 or 1:160?

N scale is the general term for 9mm gauge model railways, with scales typically ranging from 1:148 to 1:160. The exact scale depends on the actual railway system's gauge and vehicle dimensions in each country, as well as practical considerations during production, such as the design of the power system and the level of detail.

For Hong Kong, all MTR lines use standard gauge tracks of 1432mm or 1435mm, and heavy rail train cars are about 22–23 metres long and over 3 metres wide. These dimensions are closer to European trains, so the commonly used 1:160 scale in European model railways is generally most suitable. By contrast, Japan's regional railways often use narrow gauge tracks of 1067mm, with smaller train sizes than their European and American counterparts. In that case, the slightly larger 1:150 scale better balances finished model size and aesthetics.

Even if the scales differ slightly between countries, as long as their N scale model trains can run on internationally standard N scale tracks, they can, in principle, be played together.

🛤️ I'm new to this. Where should I start?

If you're new to the world of motorised model railways, we recommend starting with the N and HO scales.

N scale railway layouts require much less space. Even in a small area, trains can make full turns and run as complete formations. You can also build scenery around them to create your own miniature railway world, making N scale especially suitable for Hong Kong's compact living spaces.

The local N scale community is relatively well developed, so it is easy to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share ideas and gain inspiration. For beginners, a starter set, complete with train models, tracks and a controller, is a convenient way to dive in and enjoy an all-in-one experience.

With the wide array of N scale accessories and products readily available, and with many Hong Kong model railway shops focusing primarily on this scale, you won't need to worry about after-sales support or future expansion. Growing your railway empire is easy!

For those with more space and a love of precision, HO scale models offer greater details, from accurately reproduced windscreen wipers and handrails to subtle layers of paint and tiny lettering on the train body. HO scale models, being larger in size, feel more substantial in the hand and have a stronger presence whether on display or gliding along the tracks.

Beginners can get started with a DC analogue HO train-and-track system, bringing an exquisite miniature world to life at home. As your experience grows, the extensive range of HO scale accessories makes it easier to upgrade to DCC systems, adding realistic train operations and sound effects to your experience.

Ultimately, the scale you choose matters less than the enjoyment you get from building and running your railway. Plus, many hobbyists collect multiple scales. The most important thing is to enjoy the ride, so to speak, as much as your budget and available space allow. Be it N or HO, if you like it, we'd say, go for it!