First off, i’d like to thank those ones who answered my last post. Thanks a lot[:)] Now, my questions are, What are the pro and cons of lego trains? and How would they compare to model trains,like would it be easier and more cost-wise to get lego or model trains? Your thoughts as all ways are greatly appreciated.
Stephen
Hi, Stephen,
I had to look at your profile to find your “last post.” I also noticed that you’re in your mid-late 20’s (like me). I’m guessing that you’re interested in trains and just want to get into the hobby. I also assume that you’re getting the trains for yourself and not for a kid (i.e. a son or daughter).
I personally would stay away from Lego trains, unless you really dig Lego products. If what I’ve seen is correct, it would actually be much more expensive than “regular” model trains. Also, the Lego trains and track are nowhere near prototypical. If looking realistic is remotely important to you, the Legos will not work out.
The biggest problem with the Lego trains is that you end up with a really expensive blocky Lego train set that bears little resemblance to the real thing. I realize there are big Lego enthusiasts out there who really appreciate this kind of product, but personally, I’d rather have my stuff look as much like the real thing as possible.
I think you’ll get much more bang for your buck by getting some Atlas “Snap Track,” a power pack, and some Athearn engines and rolling stock. Nowadays, the track is very easy to assemble. You can get your engine & rolling stock “ready-to-roll,” meaning that they can go straight from the box to the track. Or, if you want to save some cash, you can get Athearn “Blue Box” model kits, which are less expensive and require only minimal assembly skills (easier than a snap-together model airplane).
Just my two cents. Hope it helps.
Cheers,
I had a Lego train as a child. I really liked it. But it was very limited–proprietary I’d say today. The Lionel and HO stuff I received about 40 years ago still runs, and I use them to this day. The Lego stuff is still around, too. But it doesn’t have the same “staying power.” For example, I can still say to my family, remember when I ran this L&N loco to fast and scared the dog who knocked over the tree?
Memories that last–can’t beat that! [^]
If you still enjoy playing with Legos, building structures, planes, etc then Lego trains are your thing. Lego trains compare to model railroading like blocks compare to woodworking.
I think you’ll find model railroading fascinating long after the novelty of Lego trains wears off.
Enjoy
Paul