High Grade (HG)

After FG, the
quality of the molding of plastic was improved and HG (High Grade) level kits
were introduced in 1990, providing greater posability. These models are mostly
in 1:144 scale, though some older kits are in or 1:100 scale. It is important
to note that the SEED and SEED DESTINY 1:100 scale models do not have HG listed
anywhere on the box or manual, but they are considered HG in terms of quality.

High Grade
Universal Century (HGUC)

The highly
anticipated HG Universal Century series, commonly called the HGUC series, was
released in May 1999. Created in an easy to collect 1:144 scale, it represented
a chance to release versions of many Mobile Suits for the first time in kit
form using refined designs and modern injection moulding technology. The high
quality of the HGUC series makes it the rightful heir of the HG series released
in the 1990s. New designs, with new mechanical improvements, continue to be
introduced in the series even today. Furthermore, all modern 1/144 HG models,
such as the Gundam SEED line, are built to the same quality of early HGUC
models. Starting in 2010 the HGUC line incorporated mobile suits from the
alternate timelines that had not received an HG release. In 2013 Bandai
launched the "All Gundam Project" in conjunction with the release of
Gundam Build Fighters to release all lead Gundams with the universal joint
technology in the High Grade line.

Real Grade (RG)

In July 2010,
Bandai introduced the 1:144 Real Grade (RG) line as part of the "Gundam 30th
Anniversary", which takes design elements from the Master Grade and
Perfect Grade line such as an inner skeletal frame. This Gunpla line achieves
the largest range of motion in each joint.

Master Grade
(MG)

The next level
is designated as Master Grade (MG), which was introduced in 1995, and are only
offered in 1:100 scale. These kits are manufactured using higher quality
plastic and the resulting molds are of a greater standard. However, the model
is more expensive, complicated and takes longer to construct. The finished
models offer a superior range of motion compared to the lower level kits to
provide for an even wider range of poses, thanks to an inner frame. Some of
them actually include specially designed stands for added display ability.
Master Grade kits are very presentable assembled straight from the box, but
adding paint and detailing can greatly improve the appearance of the finished
model.