The Differences Between N Scale and Z Scale Model Trains

Whether you’re just getting started in model trains or you’ve been a hobbyist for years, it can be difficult switching to a new scale. Many people immediately notice that scales take up different amounts of space, but there are also other considerations. Discover the differences between N scale and Z scale model trains below.

What Is Scale?

In case you’re still unsure what scale means, here’s a good way to remember it. Scale is the size ratio between a real train car and a model, measured from end to end. If you’re using a 1:160 scale, that means it would take 160 model trains lined up from end to end to equal the length of a real train car of that type.

Since N scale is 1:160 and Z scale is 1:220, N scale is the larger of the two. However, both are on the smaller end of the model train scale spectrum.

Major Differences

There are several things to keep in mind when deciding which scale to use for your next railroad layout.

Layout Size

For a long time, Z scale was the smallest train scale available in most countries. It is still one of the tiniest, and it works well in very small spaces or in instances when you want to put a model railroad into a container like a guitar case or vintage suitcase.

N scale is still small, but it has a bigger following than Z scale. It works well for hobbyists with limited space.

Small Size Means Less Weight

When you’re dealing with very small trains, it can be hard to get them to stay on track because of how little they weigh. This is more of a problem with Z scale than N scale trains. Even a tiny speck of dust on the track can derail your Z scale train.

It also means you should keep grades relatively low when you’re building inclines and declines.

More Realism

Real trains use very long stretches of track and much gentler curves than most model railroads can afford because of space limitations. The trains themselves can also be very long. It is possible to get a more realistic track layout with smaller scales than with larger scales.

Talk to the Model Train Experts

If you’re still unsure about the differences between N scale and Z scale model trains, give Midwest Model Railroad a call or send us an email. We love talking to people about their newest projects, plus we have an enormous supply of N scale freight cars, Z scale locomotives, scenery, battery packs, and whatever else you may need. We’re here to help newbies and veteran hobbyists alike!