The world of Gunpla has exploded beyond Bandai's official releases. Third party Gundam kits, made by independent manufacturers, offer exciting alternatives—from unique color schemes to improved articulation. But they also come with risks. In this buying guide, we'll break down the pros and cons, compare them to Bandai, and give you tips on what to look for before you hit that buy button.
Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting, understanding the landscape of third party kits can save you money and frustration. Let's dive in.
What Are Third Party Gundam Kits?
Third party Gundam kits are model kits produced by companies other than Bandai, the official creator of Gundam plastic models. These kits often feature original designs, variant color schemes, or improved engineering that Bandai hasn't released. Some are direct copies of Bandai kits with modifications, while others are entirely original takes on classic mobile suits.
Popular third party brands include Daban, SuperNova, and Changlong, each with their own reputation for quality. For example, the Daban 8814 MB Style MG 1/100 Astray Red Frame Gundam Powered Arm offers a Metal Build style aesthetic at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, the Changlong 7701 1/100 MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam Midnight Coating Version provides a premium look with a unique coating.
Daban 8814 MB Style MG 1/100 Astray Red Frame Gundam Powered Arm
- Original designs or modified versions of existing kits
- Often more affordable than Bandai equivalents
- May include extra parts, accessories, or effect parts
Pros of Third Party Gundam Kits
The biggest advantage is cost. Third party kits are usually cheaper than Bandai's official releases, especially for rare or premium variants. For instance, a third party Metal Build style kit like the KMR Metal Robot Spirits Style 1/144 Metal Frame Regenes Destiny Impulse Gundam Model Kit gives you a metal frame and detailed appearance without the premium Bandai price tag.
Another pro is variety. Third party manufacturers often produce color variants or design tweaks that Bandai never releases. The Bandai China Limited MG 1/100 GUNDAM ASTRAY CROSS CONTRAST COLORS [WHITE] is an official exclusive, but third party kits like the Zero Boundary Model 1/100 DW-01 Dark Wave offer unique original designs that stand out on any shelf.
Finally, some third party kits have improved engineering or better articulation than the original Bandai versions. This can be a huge draw for builders who want a more dynamic pose.
- Cost-effective alternative to rare or expensive Bandai kits
- Unique color schemes and designs not available from Bandai
- Sometimes better articulation or additional features
Cons of Third Party Gundam Kits
The main downside is quality inconsistency. While some third party kits are excellent, others suffer from poor plastic quality, bad fitting, or misaligned parts. You might need to do extra sanding, gluing, or even modify parts to make them fit properly. This can be frustrating for beginners.
Another issue is the lack of official support. If a part is missing or broken, you can't contact Bandai for replacement. However, some stores like Cool Dragon Hobby offer replacement parts for Gunpla models and Metal Builds, which can be a lifesaver.
There are also legal concerns. Third party kits often infringe on Bandai's intellectual property, so in some regions, they may be seized by customs or not sold at all. Always check your local laws before purchasing.
- Quality can vary widely between brands and even between kits from the same brand
- No official warranty or replacement parts from Bandai
- Potential legal issues due to copyright infringement
Third Party vs Bandai: Key Differences
When comparing third party kits to Bandai, the most obvious difference is price. Bandai kits are generally more expensive, but you pay for guaranteed quality, perfect part fit, and official branding. Third party kits are cheaper, but you take a risk on quality.
Another difference is availability. Bandai kits are widely available and often get reprints. Third party kits are produced in limited quantities and can become rare quickly. If you see a kit you like, it's best to grab it before it's gone.
Finally, consider the building experience. Bandai kits are designed for a smooth build, while third party kits might require more skill. If you're a beginner, sticking with Bandai is safer, but experienced builders often enjoy the challenge of third party kits.
- Price: Third party is usually cheaper, but not always
- Quality: Bandai is consistent, third party varies
- Availability: Third party can be harder to find later
What to Look For in a Quality Third Party Kit
Before buying, research the brand and specific kit. Look for reviews from other builders, check unboxing videos, and see if there are any known issues. Forums and social media groups are great resources.
Check the plastic quality. High-quality kits use ABS or PS plastic similar to Bandai. If the plastic feels brittle or has a strange smell, it's a red flag.
Examine the part separation and color accuracy. Good third party kits have parts that match the original design closely, with minimal flash or excess plastic. Also, check if the kit includes water slides or decals. If not, you might want to pick up some aftermarket decals like the Evo RG Gundam 00 Raiser XN (00RXN) Water Decal or the MGSD Destiny Gundam EVO Water Decal to enhance the look.
- Read reviews and watch build videos before purchasing
- Inspect the plastic quality and part fit if possible
- Consider the included decals; if lacking, buy aftermarket ones
Popular Third Party Brands to Consider
Daban is one of the most well-known third party brands, producing many MG and PG style kits. Their MB style kits, like the Daban 8814, are popular for their detailed appearance.
SuperNova is another brand that focuses on original designs, often with a more aggressive aesthetic. Their kits are generally well-regarded for quality.
Changlong is known for their MGEX style kits, like the Changlong 7701 Strike Freedom, which feature unique coatings and effect parts. These are often considered premium third party options.
- Daban: Wide range of MG and PG style kits, good value
- SuperNova: Original designs, high quality
- Changlong: Premium coatings and effect parts
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Third party kits are not officially licensed by Bandai, so they may infringe on copyrights. In some countries, importing or selling these kits is illegal. Even where it's legal, there's an ethical debate about supporting companies that copy Bandai's designs.
However, many third party kits are original designs that only take inspiration from Gundam, which can be seen as a form of fan art. It's up to you to decide what you're comfortable with.
If you're concerned about legal issues, you can look for kits that are clearly original, like the Zero Boundary Model DW-01, or stick to official Bandai releases and support the official hobby.
- Check your local laws regarding third party kits
- Consider supporting official Bandai products if you have concerns
- Original designs are generally safer legally
Third party Gundam kits offer a tempting mix of affordability and variety, but they come with risks. By doing your research and knowing what to look for, you can find quality kits that enhance your collection. If you're ready to explore, check out our selection of third party kits like the Daban 8814 or the Changlong 7701, and happy building!
