Difference Between Model Trains And Toy Trains

For anyone who is not really into model trains, it can be hard to distinguish the difference between a toy train set and a model train set. If you ever call an enthusiasts model train set a toy train set, they will promptly correct you I assure you. It's a bit of an insult actually, as we don't consider what we do playing with toys.

Toy trains are marketed towards little kids and children, model trains are much more sophisticated and intricate. Toy trains how ever are a good stepping stone for children to get into model trains. Toy trains how ever don't have the realism of model trains. Model trains are actually a replica of the real thing, just in a smaller scale.

Toy trains have been around since the 19th century in parts of Europe and then America. They were usually powered by a wind up device and even by steam sometimes.

Things started to change with toy trains though. They started developing realistic characteristics of real trains. They were able to change their direction, had real smoke and started to become more and more like the real thing. In the 1950's things started to change rapidly.

In modern times there a many different gauges and scales of model trains available. Realism and detail like you would not believe. It's like you are looking at the real thing only smaller. Lots more scenery and accessories available as well.

Most of the really sophisticated model trains now are able to be run by computers and set on timetables just like real trains. There are also hundreds of clubs and associations based around this hobby as well.