I looked through the forum and didn’t find an answer to this, but based on the Newbie index I’m posting the below. If there was a posting about this already, I apologize!
Anyway, I am interested in getting a starter O Gauge set for myself and my kids (3 year old and 5 year old) especially for under the Christmas tree, but maybe more. I would like the best train for the money. I’ve read people bashing and/or loving Lionel and MTH. It’s difficult to know which one is better (or is there another brand that is better, even?). It’s very confusing, too!
A local MTH dealer of course says MTH is the way to go. They do look good, but I don’t know what to look for exactly. At around $350 for a set, I want to make sure I’d be getting the best. Then, I’ve seen ads for similar looking Lionel trains at around $200.
I’d like to get a set for less than $350, but if the $200 Lionel set is junk, then I’d be better spending the extra money on an MTH.
I’d like the bells/whistle sounds and smoke, but can probably live without them, if having them is not worth the effort.
So, I guess it comes down to which brand would give me the best value? Are there other things to consider about them that I’m not thinking about?
Thanks for your help,
Krister