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The 8 Best hobby train sets of 2024

Are you trying to find hobby train sets among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!

We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling hobby train sets on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 21 hours of research and did 21 hobby train sets tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!

An overview of our top picks

Table of contents

The best hobby train sets you can buy today

SaleNo. 1
Bachmann Trains - Rail Chief Ready To Run 130 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
1,205 Consomer Reviews
Bachmann Trains - Rail Chief Ready To Run 130 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run 130 Piece Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Open Quad Hopper Car, Gondola Car, Steel Reefer Car, Off-Set Cupola Caboose, Signal Bridge, Miniature Figures, Railroad Signs, Street Signs, and Telephone Poles
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 2
Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
974 Consomer Reviews
Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a F7 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Open Quad Hopper Car, Gondola Car, and Wide-Vision Caboose
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 3
Amazon Basics Remote Control Steam Engine Hobby Train Set with Tender and Gondola and Caboose Smoking, working light and realistic sounds Age 3 or up Perfect for Kids, Multicolor
  • Remote control hobby train set with full feature controller using the latest 2.4GHz frequency to control speed and activate sound
  • Oval track system with 24 curved and 4 straight plastic track pieces
  • Fully decorated engine with a tender, gondola and caboose
  • Working headlight and realistic sounds
  • This train has water vapor smoke effect
  • Batteries Required: Two (2) AA batteries for controller and eight (8) AA batteries required for train (Batteries not included)
  • Track dimensions: 50 x 64 inches
  • A great Christmas train, perfect for under a tree or for a gift for kids aged 3 and up.
SaleNo. 4
Lionel Pennsylvania Flyer LionChief 5.0 0-8-0 O Gauge Freight Train Set with Bluetooth Capability
  • Pennsylvania Flyer Electric O Gauge Bluetooth 5.0 Train Set with Remote is the champion of the rails with a powerful 0-8-0 engine leading the rugged freight smoothly around a full oval of FasTrack. This set has been upgraded with Bluetooth 5.0 technology that allows you to operate your train using voice control and gives you the option to record and live stream your own custom announcements.
  • This (19) piece Pennsylvania Flyer Electric Train Set includes (1) 0-8-0 Steam Locomotive, (1) Tender, (1) Three-dome Tank Car, (1) Boxcar, (1) Caboose, (8) Curved FasTrack sections, (2) Ten-inch Straight FasTrack sections, (1) Terminal FasTrack section, (1) Plug-Expand-Play Power Lock-on section, (1) Wall-pack Power supply, and (1) Remote Control.
  • Operation Technology via the Lionel LionChief App includes Bluetooth 5.0 that allows you to operate your train via any compatible smart device, Lionel Voice Control (LVC) allows you to run your locomotive by speaking commands into a smart device. Voice Streaming and Recording (VSR) allows you to record your own voice to generate custom train announcements, or stream your voice live through the engine.
  • RailSounds RC Sound System that controls steam chuffing and background sounds, whistle, bell, and user activated announcements. FasTrack System featuring a fantastic prototypical look and a snap together locking mechanism for tight, reliable connections.
  • Features include an electric locomotive controlled by remote control, powerful maintenance-free motor, on/off switch for smoke and sounds, operating couplers, steam chuffing and background sounds, whistle, bell, user-activated announcements, puffing smoke, operating headlight, opening doors on boxcar, metal handrails and ladders on tank car. Remote features a forward and reverse speed control knob, (3) buttons for whistle, bell and special announcements and requires (3) AAA alkaline batteries (not included).
  • Train Set requires (3) AAA Alkaline Batteries (not included). Phillip screwdriver required to access battery compartment on remote control (not included). Lubricate wheels, axles, and linkage regularly to avoid squeaks and wear. Wipe with a soft cloth occasionally after use to keep track and wheels free from dirt and grease. Remove all batteries when the train will not be used for an extended period of time. Recommended for ages 14 years and up.
SaleNo. 5
Bachmann Trains - Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set - N Scale Multi ,Medium
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Steel Reefer Car, Three-Dome Tank Car, and Wide-Vision Caboose
  • 24" Circle of Nickel Silver E-Z Track , Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • N Scale 1:160
  • Recommended For Ages 14 & Up
No. 6
Bachmann Trains - Durango & Silverton Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale, Yellow
  • Complete Ready To Run Old-Time Passenger Train Set
  • Powered by a 2-8-0 Locomotive and Tender with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Open Excursion Car, Old-Time Combine Car, and Old-Time Coach Car
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 7
Bachmann Trains - Pacific Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a 0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive and Tender with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Gondola Car, Box Car, and Off-Set Cupola Caboose
  • 36" Circle of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 8
Bachmann Trains - Super Chief Ready To Run Electric Train Set - N Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a F7-A Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Box Car, Steel Gondola Car, Off-Set Cupola Caboose
  • 24" Circle of Nickel Silver E-Z Track , Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • N Scale 1:160
  • Recommended For Ages 14 & Up
SaleNo. 9
Bachmann Trains - Jingle Bell Express Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Holiday Train Set
  • Powered by a 0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive and Tender with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Single Dome Tank Car, Box Car, Quad Hopper Car, and Off-Set Cupola Caboose
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
  • Complete Ready to Run Electric Train Set
  • Features a Holiday Decorated Locomotive
  • Includes Bachmann's exclusive E-Z Track system makes set-up quick, easy and fun!
  • E-Z Mate Couplers
  • HO Scale 1:87
SaleNo. 10
Lionel The Polar Express LionChief 5.0 Electric O Gauge Train Set with Bluetooth & Remote
  • Lionel The Polar Express Electric O Gauge Model Train Set with Remote and Bluetooth 5.0 Capability allows you to operate your train using voice control and gives you the option to record and live stream your own custom announcements.
  • This (24) piece The Polar Express Electric Train Set includes (1) 2-8-4 Locomotive, (1) Tender, (2) Coach Cars, (1) Observation Car, (4) Articulated Movie Character Figures, (8) Curved O36 FasTrack sections, (1) FasTrack Terminal section, (1) Straight Ten Inch FasTrack Plug-Expand-Play Power Lock on section, (2) Straight Ten Inch FasTrack sections, (1) Wall Pack Power supply, (1) LionChief Remote for Locomotive, and (1) Polar Express Bell.
  • Operation Technology via the Lionel LionChief App includes Bluetooth 5.0 that allows you to operate your train via any compatible smart device. The Lionel Voice Control (LVC) allows you to run your locomotive by speaking commands into a smart device. The Voice Streaming and Recording (VSR) allows you to record your own voice to generate custom train announcements, or stream your voice live through the engine. The FasTrack System features a fantastic prototypical look and a snap together locking mechanism for tight, reliable connections.
  • Features include an electric locomotive controlled by remote control, diecast metal locomotive body, powerful maintenance-free motor, on/off switch for sounds and smoke, operating couplers, steam chuffing and background sounds, whistle, bell, user-activated announcements, puffing smoke, operating headlight, traction tires, soft molded diaphragms between cars, interior illumination, window silhouettes, and a rounded observation platform.
  • Troubleshooting tips: 1.When opening the train set, locate the product instruction manual and follow the guide for setting up the track and connecting the power supply a. Ensure that the track is fitted together snugly and that the wall pack barrel jack is securely inserted into the male hole on the power track.
  • 2. If using the included remote control, be sure that the batteries are new and inserted in the correct orientation in the battery compartment
  • 3. Place the engine and rollingstock on the track, making sure all wheels are making the proper connection and lined up.
  • 4. Power up the track. The engine should begin to beep to look for the remote or Lionel LionChief App. – Once it is connected to a source, the beeping will stop
  • 5. Follow the troubleshooting tips within the manual on page 34 or contact 1-800-454-6635 and any of our call center agents will be able to assist and walkthrough setup
  • Recomended for ages 14 years & up
SaleNo. 11
Bachmann Trains - Spirit Of Christmas Ready To Run Electric Train Set - N Scale 0.5 Liters
  • Complete Ready To Run Holiday Passenger Train Set
  • Powered by a 0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive with Tender
  • Includes Holiday Decorated; Old-Time Combine Car, and Two Old-Time Coach Cars
  • 34" x 24" Oval of Nickel Silver E-Z Track , Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • N Scale 1:160
  • Recommended For Ages 14 & Up
  • Complete ready to run train set
  • Powered by an 0-6-0 steam locomotive and tender
  • N Scale
  • Includes nickel silver roadbed track
  • Great first time set
SaleNo. 12
BABY HOME Metal Alloy Model Train Set, Electric Train Toy for Boys Girls, with Realistic Train Sound,Lights and Smoke, Gifts for 3 4 5 6 7 8+ Year Old Kids
  • Includes:  locomotive steam engine, a passenger coach , a cargo vehicle, a coal car,tracks ,Traffic signs,European architecture and figures.Dimension: 71.2’’ (L) x 30.7’’ (W) long oval layout of track ,+ inner loop expansion
  • Locomotive Features:Battery-powered, Authentic train sounds ,working headlights and realistic smoke to make the game process more exciting and funny. Also train set comes with an bonus-empty water bottle, you can add water into the container that behind chimney, then real smoke will be produced from chimney. Locomotive Engine require 4 AA Batteries, not included.
  • Develops important skills:The Flexible Designs will improve your creativity, Intelligent development,and cognition of Vision, hearing. Playing the train can also help children learn about and understand their environment in a fun way.
  • You will play in any occasions: is fit for most family Christmas trees and any table during Festival ,Assemble the modular rail track parts into your own railroad shape and layout,then place the hooked train sets on the tracks precisely, finally turn on the switch, the train set will move on the track steadily, smoothly. Great gift for birthday and christmas gift for boys & girls.
  • Safe and Durable :The train construction set is made of non-toxic and eco-friendly materials,Pass the US toy CPSIA and ASTM test. All trains are made from a metal alloy for both impact resistance and durability. Perfect Gift for Train Lovers
No. 13
Lionel Winter Wonderland Express LionChief Electric O Gauge Train Set with Bluetoth and Remote
  • Lionel Winter Wonderland Express Electric O Gauge Train Set with Remote and Bluetooth Capability is ornamented with snowflakes, trees and sleigh bells while highlighting the notorious red, white, and green colors of Christmas. This set includes a unique oval of white FasTrack that measures forty by sixty feet that makes it a truly special set to add to your holidays.
  • This (19) piece Winter Wonderland Electric Train Set includes (1) Winter Wonderland Steam Locomotive, (1) Tender, (1) Sleigh Bells & Co. Boxcar, (1) Whimsical Winter Mix Tank Car, (1) Winter Wonderland Caboose, (8) Curved FasTrack sections, (2) Ten-inch Straight FasTrack sections, (1) Terminal FasTrack section, (1) Plug-Expand-Play Power Lock-on section, (1) Wall-pack Power supply and (1) Remote Control.
  • Operation Technology via the Lionel LionChief App includes Bluetooth that allows you to operate your train via any compatible smart device. Lionel Voice Control (LVC) allows you to run your locomotive by speaking commands into a smart device. RailSounds RC Sound System that controls steam chuffing and background sounds, whistle, bell, and user activated announcements. FasTrack System featuring a fantastic prototypical look and a snap together locking mechanism for tight, reliable connections.
  • Features include an electric locomotive controlled by remote control, powerful maintenance-free motor, on/off switch for smoke and sound, operating couplers, puffing smoke, steam chuffing and background sounds, user-activated announcements, opening doors on boxcar and operating headlight. Remote features a forward and reverse speed control knob, (3) buttons for whistle, bell, and special announcements.
  • Remote control requires (3) AAA Alkaline Batteries for operation (not included). Phillip screwdriver required to access battery compartment on remote control (not included). Lubricate the wheels, axles, and linkage regularly to avoid squeaks and wear. Wipe with a soft cloth occasionally after use to keep track and wheels free from dirt and grease. Remove all batteries when the train will not be used for an extended period of time. Recommended for ages 14 years and up.
No. 14
Bachmann Trains - Chattanooga Ready To Run 155 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
394 Consomer Reviews
Bachmann Trains - Chattanooga Ready To Run 155 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run 155 Piece Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a 0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive and Tender with Operating Smoke and Headlight
  • Includes; Plug Door Box Car, Open Quad Hopper Car, Single-Dome Tank Car, Off-Set Cupola Caboose, Suburban Station, Signal Bridge, Miniature Figures, Railroad Signs, Street Signs, and Telephone Poles
  • 47" x 38" Oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
SaleNo. 15
JONEALA Train Set with Remote Control,Electric Train Track Around Christmas Tree W/Cargo Vehicle,Light & Sounds,Alloy Steam Locomotive Engine Train Toy Gift for Boys Girls 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
  • 【Steam Locomotive Engine Train Set】The electric train kits is luxury,included alloy steam engine train, 2.4GHz remote controller,passenger car, coal car, cargo vehicle,21pcs tracks,water bottle,USB cable and others scene accessories.Upgraded equipment enriches your playing experience.
  • 【Remote Control & Electric model train】 The train railway set comes with a remote controller,which features start switch trumpet/atomization switch,backward/forward and speed adjustment ,these functions provides most convenient and most interesting for kids entertainment.
  • 【DIY Train Tracks & Friendly Design】 There are 5 kinds of track accessories for you to assemble,they are Left-Y Tracks,Right-Y Tracks,X Track,Curved Tracks and Straight Tracks.Because of the kids friendly design,the tracks set are easy to assemble,children can free to assemble various tracks they like.Max train tracks size:97’’ (L) x 41’’ (W).
  • 【Light,Sound & Smoke】 The train model is equipped with authentic light, realistic sounds and real smoke(top and bottom),these features create a realistic driving atmosphere. What’s more,the smoke comes from the water, so it is non-toxic and harmless.In the meanwhile,you will use the remote control to achieve “one-button smoke, one-button sound”.
  • 【Rechargeable Battery】The coal car built-in rechargeable battery,pls charge it before playing.NOTE:Does not come with the pop out battery holder!Can not install any non-rechargeable battery!
  • 【Perfect Gift for Kids & Better Decorations】 This train set is a meaningful gift,not only just a kids toy, but also a classic industrial model.It is suitable for toddlers,boys or girls.When the Christmas/Birthday party or holidays is coming, it can be an ornament in your home.
SaleNo. 16
Bachmann Trains - The Stallion Ready To Run Electric Train Set - N Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a F7-A Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Gondola Car, Single-Dome Tank Car, and Wide-Vision Caboose
  • 24" Circle of Nickel Silver E-Z Track , Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • N Scale 1:160
  • Recommended For Ages 14 & Up
No. 17
Bachmann Trains - Santa Fe Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale 19.50 x 3.00 x 13.25 Inches
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a EMD FT Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Open Quad Hopper Car, Gondola Car, and Off-Set Cupola Caboose
  • 36" Circle of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 18
Kato KAT1060024 N ES44AC Freight Train Set, BNSF/Wedge
  • Expertly designed.
  • Precision engineering.
  • Kato quality.
  • True to life detail.
  • Brand new in factory packaging.
SaleNo. 19
Bachmann Trains - Coastliner Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
303 Consomer Reviews
Bachmann Trains - Coastliner Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
  • Complete Ready To Run Freight Train Set
  • Powered by a EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive with Operating Headlight
  • Includes; Two Flat Cars with Container Loads, and Wide-Vision Caboose
  • 36" Circle of Snap-Fit E-Z Track, Power Pack and Speed Controller
  • HO Scale 1:87
No. 20
Lionel North Pole Central battery-powered Train Set with Remote + 12-Piece Straight Track Expansion Pack
  • Set Includes: Battery-powered General-style locomotive and tender, Gondola with crate load, Center-cupola caboose, 24 curved and 20 straight plastic track pieces, RC remote control
  • Locomotive Features: Authentic train sounds, including bell and whistle, Working headlight, Requires six C cell batteries (not included)
  • Freight Car Features: Fixed knuckle couplers, Removable crate load in gondola
  • Remote Control Features: Designed for easy use, Clearly marked buttons allow train to go forward andreverse, sound the whistle, and ring the bell, Requires three AAA batteries (not included)
  • Ready-to-Play | Set Length: 50" x 73" minimum oval + extra straight pieces to expand | Recommended Age: 4 years +

How to choose a good hobby train sets

Does the idea of finding a fantastic hobby train sets make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!

Your presence here indicates that you are interested in hobby train sets. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top hobby train sets products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?

First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top hobby train sets on the market right now!

The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:

Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top hobby train sets brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.

Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top hobby train sets based on those.

Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.

Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.

Customer ratings:  Would it be accurate to suggest that the hobby train sets were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.

Customer Reviews: Like ratings,  provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.

Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good hobby train sets, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.

Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your hobby train sets.

Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting hobby train sets for months and years to come.

Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.

Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.

These are the standards by which we selected our hobby train sets. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.

Why should you believe us?

There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what hobby train sets should you purchase in 2022?

This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on hobby train sets.