Short answer
The answer depends on what you count as a “model.” Among tabletop and garden model railways, the largest commonly sold sizes are G scale (large scale), Gauge 1 and the rarer Gauge 3. Beyond that are ridable miniature railways, where track widths are measured in inches and passengers sit on or in the train. These are often treated as a separate hobby.
Large scales used in garden railways
Gauge 1
Gauge 1 uses 45 mm track and is typically modeled at 1:32. It has a long history, with roots in early tinplate trains, and is used both indoors and outdoors.
G scale
G scale, also called large scale or garden scale, also runs on 45 mm track. The models are built at several ratios, commonly from about 1:22.5 to 1:32 depending on the maker and the type of prototype. Different ratios on the same track is one of the reasons “G” can be confusing. It is the most common choice for outdoor garden railways. For how G compares with smaller sizes, see model train scale sizes explained.
Gauge 3
Gauge 3 uses track about 2.5 inches wide. It is rare, with a small, dedicated following, and models are generally scratchbuilt or specialist-made.
Ridable miniature railway gauges
Larger still are the gauges used for live steam and battery or diesel locomotives that people can ride. Commonly cited widths include 3.5 inch, 4.75 inch, 5 inch, 7.25 inch and 7.5 inch, with larger sizes used by park and zoo railways. Exact names and standards differ between countries and clubs, so check local conventions if you plan to build. These railways usually need considerable land, heavy equipment and attention to safety.
Why are G scale trains so expensive?
Specific prices change, so treat these as general reasons rather than figures:
- More material goes into each model, and the parts are bigger and heavier.
- Outdoor use requires durable construction and weather-resistant parts.
- Production runs are often smaller than in HO or N, so costs are spread over fewer units.
- Many models include motors, electronics or sound systems built to cope with larger loads.
- Track, structures and groundwork also take more material.
What gauge are USA trains?
Most main-line railroads in the United States use standard gauge, 4 feet 8.5 inches. Models of these trains use scaled-down versions of that width, which is why HO runs on 16.5 mm track. There are also narrow-gauge prototypes, which hobbyists model with particular scale and track combinations.
What is the smallest train in the world?
For commercial model railroading, T gauge (about 1:450 on 3 mm track) is generally cited as one of the smallest, smaller than Z. Claims of “smallest” can also refer to novelty or custom builds.
Is Tom Hanks a model railroader?
Tom Hanks has spoken publicly about enjoying model trains, and he is often mentioned in the context of the hobby. For details on his own layout, rely on his interviews rather than secondhand summaries.
Considerations before going large
- Space and ground: Outdoor railways need level, drained roadbed and a plan for weather, plants and animals.
- Curves: Larger models generally need wider radius curves.
- Power and control: Battery, track power and live steam all have different needs.
- Cost and storage: Budget for track, structures and a place to keep equipment.
If you are unsure, start by comparing types of models and makers in model train types and brands.