The HO train is the most popular type of model train in the world. Thats because its considered and excellent middle ground between size and level of detail.

When looking at the various sizes of model trains the HO scale train stands out over smaller model trains for several reasons. The size is easily handled by smaller children and the larger pieces are not likely to be swallowed by younger kids. This makes it a much safer choice while still being easy to handle by smaller hands. Thinking of the enjoyment of different age groups playing with the train set makes the ho scale a good fit for everyone.

Another advantage of the HO train over smaller trains is the level of detail that it allows. Because its relative larger size, its easier for both manufacturers and owners to decorate the trains and give them more details to make them look even more like their real counterparts. In addition, less specialized tools are required to fix them, assemble them and paint them. Audiences can also see those details better than in smaller scales, which makes them more attractive to the public.

Another advantage of the ho scale is its easier to product by manufacturers and that makes them cheaper to buy. They are also more readily available.

On the other hand, an HO train is preferred over bigger trains because it needs much less space in order to run a more or less elaborate track layout. While an HO train layout can be set in a part of a room, larger scales require a big room or a garden to have a decent track run.

Larger trains require more material to product while the price increase is not much greater. The ho scale train takes about the same amount of manufacturing labor and less material making it a much more affordable set.

The large production numbers bring the price down to cheaper levels making it a good choice for consumers. Its high demand and popularity give it a much broader appeal.

Of course, price also depends a lot of the manufacturer, the quality and the model of the train too, so its a good idea to compare.

Many wonder where the term HO comes from. It is half the size of an O scale train and for years has been called HO.