PG Unleashed Nu Gundam vs RX-78-2: Which Should You Buy?

PG Unleashed RX-78-2: the better first PG Unleashed

The RX-78-2 started the line for Gunpla's 40th anniversary. You build it in five stages, from a bare frame to finished armor, with opening hatches all over the body.

It costs well under half as much as the Nu in Japan, includes LED lighting and a light-up beam saber, and at about 30 cm it fits on a normal shelf. With 662 parts it is a big build, but a realistic one for anyone who has finished a few Master Grades.

Best for: A first PG Unleashed, fans of the original Gundam, and builders who want lighting without paying extra.

See: Every PG Unleashed kit · Every PG kit

PG Unleashed Nu Gundam: the biggest, most impressive kit

The Nu Gundam is the 45th anniversary kit and has more than twice the parts of the RX-78-2. Its fin funnels are fully built out, and with them spread the model is about 56 cm tall, so it needs real display space.

It comes with a display base and metal detail parts, but the LED unit costs extra, which pushes the total higher still. Expect it to take roughly twice as long to build as the RX-78-2.

Best for: Experienced builders, Char's Counterattack fans, and anyone who wants a true centerpiece.

See: Every PG Unleashed kit · Every PG kit

Display space and budget: the deciding factors

Measure your shelf first. The RX-78-2 fits a standard 35 cm-tall shelf; the Nu Gundam with its funnels deployed needs about 60 cm of height and extra width.

Then add up the full cost. The RX-78-2 is complete out of the box. For the Nu Gundam, most buyers also want the LED unit, and some add the fin funnel and clear armor set.

See: Upcoming PG Unleashed add-ons on the release tracker

Which should you buy?

1. Never built a PG? Get the RX-78-2 first, and build a few Master Grades before that.
2. Already own the RX-78-2 and loved it? The Nu Gundam is the natural next step.
3. Short on space or budget? The RX-78-2 is the clear choice.
4. Want one showpiece and money is no issue? The Nu Gundam plus its LED unit.

Tools: Both kits snap together, but you'll want good single-blade nippers, a hobby knife, sanding sticks and a large, clear work area. Plan on several weekends for the RX-78-2 and longer for the Nu Gundam.

Frequently asked questions

Is the PG Unleashed Nu Gundam bigger than the RX-78-2?

Yes, much bigger. With its fin funnels spread it is about 56 cm tall, compared with about 30 cm for the RX-78-2, and it has more than twice as many parts.

Does the PG Unleashed Nu Gundam come with LEDs?

No. The LED unit is sold separately (¥15,400 in Japan). The RX-78-2 includes its LED unit and a light-up beam saber in the box.

How much does the PG Unleashed Nu Gundam cost?

¥66,000 in Japan including tax. US retail prices are higher and vary by store and stock.

Is the PG Unleashed RX-78-2 still available?

Bandai restocks it from time to time, including a 2025 Premium Bandai reissue. A Gundam Base color version is due in February 2027.

Which PG Unleashed is better for a first Perfect Grade?

The RX-78-2. It is cheaper, smaller, includes lighting and has about half the parts of the Nu Gundam.