Bachmann vs. Hornby Trains | What's the Difference?

Today, a detailed comparison between the two major manufacturers of British model steam trains. Clearly specific models can't be directly compared, so this video represents a general investigation into the typical standards of each manufacturer in terms of detail level, build material, mechanism and price.

Thanks for watching!

Contents:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Build Material
3:49 Detail Level
6:57 Mechanism
12:25 Price

[DoubleX]

As a Swiss that mainly grew up with Märklin and got a Hornby starter set just two years ago on a school trip, I'll pick Hornby. They have some very affordable models like the Railroad range that I absolutely love. I find British locomotives so fascinating, mainly because of the different liveries, colours and the individual companies before becoming BR. Bachmann is just too expensive for my tight wallet, but they do make some amazing models. Interesting comparison as always, Sam 👍 ;) Also I decided to join your channel Membership to support your great work

[basicallystupid]

As a beginner model-er, this will definitely help out as I JUST began to think to make of an railway. Definitely based around the time where steam engines were waay more common than diesels, around when they just began.

[RzMK]

I found your channel recently and I truly admire your effort in making these videos :) I'm also a model-railroader and I find all these British locos so different from our continental European ones!
Greetings from Poland :)

[petermurry]

Great site Sam, I'm 77 & used to have model trains years ago. So what I wold like to ask you is for complete run down on the best loco for each class related to my time train spotting days at Bournemouth in I think it was 1960 I think ?? & I decided to change to aviation (where I have been lucky to work within most of my career) A GREAT site Sam & only recently found it.

[robinleach]

Every time I start to watch one of your videos, my wife shouts 'Hello Sam' from the other room!

[Ensign_Redshirt]

This is spot on consumer information, and proof that both companies can produce good products when challenged. Watching and reading reviews of the Bachmann and Heljian (providing you get a later example) narrow gauge engines are good examples of two companies working out of their normal comfort zone. From what I've seen you seem to get very well engineered and well thought out tiny models. Considering how much of a slating Heljian get for build quality it is proof that when they do it right they really do it right.

[davidstrains]

Great comparison Sam if I’m honest I would say that all models that are made are great

[jacobditmars]

Sam you goofed at 12:49 (called a tank engine a tender engine) but apart from that good video.

[michaelricks]

Really excellent review. Well researched and very thorough. Pointed out many things I was totally unaware of and will be very helpful in making future purchases. The manufacturers could watch and learn a lot her - and I hope they do! Thanks a lot for sharing.

[Fabianoeight]

This is very helpful! Im planning to start making custom model engines and a model railway myself! This is very helpful, Thanks Sam!

[peteryoung]

Another interesting video Sam. I think if, I was modelling 00 (I have N gauge) I'd go for Hornby. I hope the manufactures watch your reviews.

[Kuriboh]

It's weird how Thomas the tank engine can mould you into a model train enthusiast

[Fatduck-nmjj]

This is what I wanted to see since 2017

[robmasterman]

Sam, you really are the Best thing that's happened in our Hobby for years, your Reviews are second to none, giving so much useful information to help people with future purchases, which at the prices of items these days, is becoming so important. You are unbiased in your views, and I, as one of your thousands of followers, are extremely grateful, for your invaluable help...Keep up the Great work...Bob

[masterofsouthern]

Personally I prefer Hornby over Bachmann as you can easily replace loco parts for a bargain and The prices of their products are considerably cheaper especially with their mechanism
Thanks for this Sam I have been waiting for this 🙂🙂

[masterofsouthern]

Also at least Hornby understands their audience by Doing a Railroad range and premium one so customers can experience a good range of products without paying a fortune 🙂🙂

[edwardlawrence]

Seeing the hornby 08 reminded me, for the love of all things model railways you have to try a hornby 08, they are just amazing! Would love to see a review of that!

[alanriley]

Am delighted to have found your channel Sam.
Your commentary is thorough and educational.
Thanks.

[gs]

I'd like to add two points...
1.hornby try to be all things to all men. From cheapo train set locos right up to amazing top detailed stuff . And yes I agree it's not always made clear what market each loco is aimed at.
2. Bachmann diesels are great, but so many of their steam locos woddle down the track like an angry duck!

[liamcalder]

Hi Sam. I have been a supporter of Hornby since i first started in model railways but i have bought a few Bachmann locos such as the Crab and the 43xx and i really like them. the detail is good and the running is great but deep down im still a hornby fan. Thanks Liam