# Best Sci-Fi Model Kits: Starships, Mechs, and Movie Icons Source: https://modelbuildlab.com/best/best-sci-fi-model-kits Updated: 2026-10-02 Publisher: Model Build Lab. Our score is an editorial rating out of 10 (fit 35%, features 25%, build 20%, value 20%), not a customer rating. Method: https://modelbuildlab.com/how-we-research#our-score Sci-fi model kits bring starships, mechs, and movie vehicles to the workbench, from Star Wars and Star Trek subjects to original mecha designs. They give scale modelers creative freedom that historical subjects do not, since there is no single correct paint scheme, and many builders add LED lighting to engines and windows. Kits range from simple snap-fit builds to complex studio-scale replicas. When choosing, look at panel detail and surface texture, whether the kit is engineered for lighting, the accuracy of the sculpt compared to the screen version, and the quality of decals or waterslides. This guide covers sci-fi kits that satisfy both casual fans and serious replica builders. ## Picks ### 1. Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1/72 X-Wing Star Fighter Building Kit (BAN191406) Our score: 8.6/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10) Bandai's Star Wars 1/72 X-Wing Star Fighter kit, a snap-fit sci-fi build with standout Bandai precision. Pros: - Bandai snap fit is so precise that glue is optional - Iconic X-Wing shape looks great with light weathering and panel washes - Molded color parts look good even before any painting Cons: - Small scale makes the pilot and cockpit tough to detail neatly - Bandai Star Wars kits can be harder to find and pricier over time Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B01N4PJD4T ### 2. Bandai Hobby Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter 1/72 Model Kit Our score: 8.6/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 8/10) Bandai's Star Wars Y-Wing Starfighter 1/72 model kit, a detailed rebel bomber build with exposed mechanical parts. Pros: - Exposed engine and hull detail make the Y-Wing a painter's favorite - Pairs naturally with Bandai X-Wing kits for a rebel fleet - Snap fit keeps the complex frame easy to assemble cleanly Cons: - Worn Y-Wing look needs heavy weathering to match the films - Thin engine struts can snap if handled roughly Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B00WW4FDBI ### 3. Polar Lights Star Trek USS Enterprise Refit 1:350 Scale Model Kit with Interior Docking Bay Our score: 8.4/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 7/10) Polar Lights' Star Trek USS Enterprise Refit 1:350 kit with interior docking bay, a large showpiece for Trek fans. Pros: - Interior docking bay adds a detail most starship kits leave out - Large scale Refit Enterprise has real display presence - Movie era design is a favorite among Star Trek collectors Cons: - Big model needs a sturdy stand and lots of display space - Aztec hull pattern is demanding to paint or decal neatly Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B0DV5Q8WHS ### 4. Bandai Hobby Star Wars Poe's X-Wing Fighter (Rise of Skywalker Ver.) 1/72 Plastic Model Kit Our score: 8.0/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 7/10) Bandai's Star Wars Poe's X-Wing Fighter (Rise of Skywalker Ver.) 1/72 kit, a sequel trilogy build with Poe's markings. Pros: - Sequel era X-Wing design differs clearly from the classic version - Poe's colorful markings make a vivid display without complex painting - Bandai engineering keeps the wing mechanism tidy and robust Cons: - Specific movie version may appeal less to original trilogy fans - Stickers are less durable than water-slide decals Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B07XQRHYG8 ### 5. Bandai Hobby Star Wars Resistance X-Wing Star Fighter The Force Awakens 1/72 (BAN202289) Our score: 8.0/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 7/10) Bandai's Star Wars Resistance X-Wing from The Force Awakens in 1/72, a precise snap kit of the newer sequel era fighter. Pros: - Force Awakens design complements an original X-Wing on display - Precise snap engineering suits sci-fi fans new to scale models - Great base for practicing chipping and exhaust staining Cons: - Similar looking to Poe's kit, so collectors may not need both - Tiny parts in this scale are easy to lose on a busy desk Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B014VTPPS2 ### 6. Bandai Hobby Star Wars 1/72 X-Wing Red Squadron (Special Set) Our score: 8.0/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 7/10) Bandai's Star Wars 1/72 X-Wing Red Squadron Special Set, a collector bundle for building multiple rebel fighters. Pros: - Special set focus lets you recreate a Red Squadron attack display - Shared Bandai quality means consistent fit across every fighter - Bundle is great for batch painting and weathering practice Cons: - Building the same ship repeatedly can feel repetitive - Check the exact set contents in the listing before ordering Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B01LX1Y3CA ### 7. Revell 04991 Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 (TOS) 1:600 Scale Model Kit Our score: 7.3/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) Revell's 1:600 scale U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 from the original Star Trek series, an unassembled plastic kit with detailed surfaces. A smaller, cheaper way to build the classic ship than a 1:350 kit. Pros: - The original series Enterprise in 1:600, a far more shelf-friendly size than the large 1:350 kits - Listing notes detailed surfaces and an illustrated step-by-step instruction manual in several languages - From Revell, an established kit maker, which adds a second brand to the Star Trek picks in this guide Cons: - Listing is sparse: no parts count, finished length, decal or lighting details are stated - Traditional unassembled kit that needs glue and paint, and neither is mentioned as included Details: https://modelbuildlab.com/product/B07JND5HC7 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.