Best Model Train Electric Locomotives of 2025

Edward West Avatar
Edward West
Last Updated: 10 Feb 2025

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Model train electric locomotives are miniature versions of real-life locomotives that run on electric power. These locomotives are designed to run on model train tracks and come in a variety of sizes, styles and colours. They are popular with hobbyists and collectors alike, as they offer a realistic and exciting way to recreate the experience of operating a train. With their intricate details, smooth operation and realistic sound effects, model train electric locomotives are a must-have for any serious model train enthusiast.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Kato 176-6036 P42 Amtrak Model Loco Cover #TOP 1
Kato 176-6036 P42 Amtrak Model Loco
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Hornby Class 91 Diesel Locomotive, 91101 Cover #TOP 2
Hornby Class 91 Diesel Locomotive, 91101
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hornby RailRoad Plus Colas Rail Class 67 Locomotive Cover #TOP 3
Hornby RailRoad Plus Colas Rail Class 67 Locomotive
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Model Train Electric Locomotives

#TOP 1

Kato 176-6036 P42 Amtrak Model Loco

Kato
176-6036
Kato 176-6036 P42 Amtrak Model Loco Cover
Kato 176-6036 P42 Loco Amtrak PhI 161 w/50th Logo N Gauge

The Kato P42 Loco offers an award-winning DCC friendly mechanism, ensuring smooth and reliable operation. Its powerful five-pole motor driven flywheel drive provides excellent traction and performance, ideal for model train enthusiasts. You will appreciate the gold and white LED headlights and pre-printed illuminated number boards, which enhance visibility and realism during your runs. Additionally, the body mounted Kato magnetic knuckle couplers make it easy to connect and disconnect your train cars, adding convenience to your layout setup.

What We Like
Award-winning mechanism
Powerful motor performance
Realistic LED lights
Easy to connect couplers
#TOP 2

Hornby Class 91 Diesel Locomotive, 91101

R30165
Multicolor
One Size
Hornby Class 91 Diesel Locomotive, 91101 Cover
Hornby LNER, Class 91, Bo-Bo, 91101 'Flying Scotsman' - Era 10. Locomotives, Multicolor, (R30165)

The Hornby Class 91 is a detailed model train that captures the essence of the real diesel locomotive. With a scale of 1:76 and built to 00 gauge, it fits seamlessly into your model railway layout. You will find one locomotive in the box, making it an excellent addition to your collection. Operating under the VTEC banner during the era of 2006-2017, this model is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate realistic detail and historical accuracy. Enjoy bringing your railway to life with this impressive piece.

What We Like
High-quality detailed model
1:76 scale for realistic display
Fits 00 gauge layouts
Era-specific design
Single locomotive included
#TOP 3

Hornby RailRoad Plus Colas Rail Class 67 Locomotive

R30184
Orange
One Size
Hornby RailRoad Plus Colas Rail Class 67 Locomotive Cover
Hornby RailRoad Plus Colas Rail, Class 67, Co-Co - Era 10. Locomotives.

The Hornby Class 67 Locomotive is a 1:76 scale model that offers excellent detail for collectors and enthusiasts alike. With just one locomotive included in the box, it is perfect for those looking to enhance their model train layouts. Operating under the Colas Rail brand, it reflects the era of Network Franchising from 2006 to 2017, allowing you to recreate a specific period in railway history. This electric locomotive is designed to provide smooth operation, making it a joy to run for users of all ages.

What We Like
Detailed 1:76 scale model
Ideal for collectors
Represents specific railway era
Smooth electric operation
#TOP 4

Revell 02166 Standard Express Locomotive Kit

02166
Multicolor
Medium
Revell 02166 Standard Express Locomotive Kit Cover
Revell 02166 Standard express locomotive 03 class with tender 1:87 Scale Unbuilt/Unpainted Plastic Model Kit

The Revell 03 Class Locomotive offers highly detailed surfaces that enhance its visual appeal, making it a standout addition to your model train collection. With its authentic decal set, you can customise your locomotive for a realistic look, adding a personal touch to your display. The highly detailed body styling ensures that every curve and feature is accurately represented, providing an immersive experience as you build. This level of detail not only satisfies collectors but also brings joy to those who appreciate craftsmanship in model trains.

What We Like
Highly detailed surfaces
Authentic decal set
Realistic body styling
Customisable features
#TOP 5

Hornby Class 47 Blue Electric Locomotive

R30040TTS
Blue
Hornby Class 47 Blue Electric Locomotive Cover
BR, Class 47, Co-Co, 47583 ‘County of Hertfordshire’ - Era 7

The Hornby Class 47 is a stunning model train that brings the iconic blue electric locomotive to life at a 1:76 scale. With its DCC TTS fitted status, you can enjoy seamless digital control, enhancing your model railway experience. The CO-CO wheel configuration ensures smooth running and stability on tracks, making it ideal for various layouts. Designed by Brush, this model not only looks impressive but also adds a touch of authenticity to your collection.

What We Like
High-quality design
Seamless DCC control
Stable wheel configuration
Authentic appearance
#TOP 6

Hornby LNER A4 Class 4491 Locomotive

R3992
Blue
One Size
Hornby LNER A4 Class 4491 Locomotive Cover
Hornby LNER, A4 Class, 4-6-2, 4491 'Commonwealth Of Australia' - Era 3. Locomotives., Blue, (R3992)

The Hornby A4 Class Locomotive is a stunning model train designed at a 1:76 scale and is perfect for enthusiasts. With one locomotive steam piece included in the box, you can easily add this beautiful item to your collection. Operating under the LNER, it represents the era of 3 Grouping from 1923 to 1947, making it a fantastic piece for historical displays. You will appreciate the attention to detail and the opportunity to recreate this iconic locomotive in your own railway setup.

What We Like
High-quality model construction
Rich historical significance
Perfect for collectors
1:76 scale for realism
#TOP 7

Gaugemaster GM2260201 ES-1 Electric Locomotive

GM2260201
Black
Small
Gaugemaster GM2260201 ES-1 Electric Locomotive Cover
Gaugemaster GM2260201 ES-1 Style Electric Locomotive BR E3682

The Gaugemaster ES-1 Locomotive is a remarkable model train electric locomotive designed specifically for modelling use. As it is not a toy, you can expect it to deliver a high level of realism and performance for your railway layouts. This model promises durability and precision, making it an excellent addition to any enthusiast's collection. You will find that its detailed design enhances the visual appeal of your setups, allowing for more immersive experiences during your modelling activities.

What We Like
Realistic design and performance
Durable for modelling use
Enhances visual appeal
Precision engineering
#TOP 8

Hornby BR Class 56 Electric Locomotive

R30082
Blue
Hornby BR Class 56 Electric Locomotive Cover
BR, Class 56, Co-Co, 56086 - Era 7

The Hornby Class 56 is a detailed model train in 1:76 scale, making it perfect for those who appreciate precision in their collections. It features the iconic BR Large Arrow livery, which adds an authentic touch to your layout. The DCC Ready 8 pin socket allows for easy digital control, enhancing your operational convenience. Additionally, the CO-CO wheel configuration provides excellent traction, ensuring smooth and reliable movement on your tracks. This model is ideal for both enthusiasts and newcomers looking to expand their railway systems.

What We Like
Highly detailed model
Authentic livery design
DCC ready for easy control
Stable CO-CO wheel configuration
#TOP 9

Lima E464 Frecciabianca Electric Loco Set

Lima
HL2663
Red/White
One Size
Lima E464 Frecciabianca Electric Loco Set Cover
Lima Expert - FS Trenitalia, 2-units pack E464 Frecciabianca livery, both motorized, ep. VI

The Lima E464 Loco Set is an impressive 1:87 scale model of the Trenitalia E464 Frecciabianca Electric Locomotive. It features finely printed livery details, allowing you to admire the intricate designs that enhance its realistic appearance. The installed lighting adds an extra touch of authenticity, making it a great addition to your model railway, especially in dim conditions. Being part of the HO Gauge range, this model ensures compatibility with other trains and tracks, providing you with flexibility in your layout. You’ll appreciate the high-quality craftsmanship that Lima is renowned for.

What We Like
Finely printed livery details
Installed lighting for realism
Compatible with HO Gauge tracks
High-quality craftsmanship
#TOP 10

Kato GE ES44DC Gevo Locomotive Canadian Pacific

Kato
K176-8945
Red, White
Kato GE ES44DC Gevo Locomotive Canadian Pacific Cover
Kato GE ES44DC Gevo Loco Canadian Pacific 8736 K176-8945 N Gauge

The Kato ES44DC Locomotive is designed with multiple body styles to cater to various railroad specifications, offering you a versatile addition to your model train collection. Its powerful five-pole motor with dual brass flywheels ensures smooth and efficient operation, allowing you to enjoy extended runs. Additionally, the directional headlight and illuminated number boards enhance visibility, making it easier to keep track of your locomotive during play. The illuminated ditch lights add realism, creating a more immersive experience as you navigate your model railway.

What We Like
Multiple body styles available
Powerful motor for smooth operation
Illuminated features for visibility
Realistic ditch lights included
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our model train electric locomotive research, we found 96 model train electric locomotive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,843 customer reviews through our big data system to write the model train electric locomotives list. We found that most customers choose model train electric locomotives with an average price of £185.87.

The model train electric locomotives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of model train electric locomotives, including Kato, Hornby, Revell, Gaugemaster, Lima.

Written by
Edward West Avatar

Edward's family owns a retail store in Edinburgh for toys and games. He grew up taking a very active part in the family's business. Edward earned his first income from writing web content on a toy related gig for an online company. When he was 18, he took over from his father, and since then, he has been in charge and management of the store and several others around England.