Daban PG Unleashed RX-78-2 vs Bandai PG Unleashed: Which Should You Buy?

Quick Answer

If you're on a tight budget and enjoy refining parts, the Daban PG Unleashed RX-78-2 offers a similar 1/60 scale build at a fraction of the price. But if you want the original Bandai engineering, guaranteed plastic quality, and a smoother out-of-box experience, the official PG Unleashed is worth the extra cost.

The PG Unleashed RX-78-2 is one of the most anticipated Gundam kits ever, but its official price can be steep. Daban, a well-known third-party manufacturer, offers their own version at a significantly lower cost. This comparison helps you decide which path fits your budget and building style.

We'll look at what you get with each kit, the trade-offs in quality and experience, and who each version is best for. Remember, third-party kits are not official Bandai products, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

Price and Value: The Biggest Difference

Price is where Daban and Bandai diverge most. The Daban PG Unleashed RX-78-2 typically costs around USD 72.00, while the official Bandai kit can be two to three times more. For budget-conscious builders, that saving is huge, but it comes with compromises.

You're not just paying for the plastic with Bandai; you're paying for precision engineering, high-quality materials, and a refined assembly experience. Daban offers a similar scale and complexity for less, but you may need to handle tighter tolerances and invest more time in cleanup.

• Check the runner quality and part fit early—sanding or trimming may be needed on the Daban kit.

Build Experience: Engineering vs. Effort

Bandai's PG Unleashed is famous for its innovative inner frame, LED unit, and near-perfect part separation. The build is designed to be intuitive and satisfying, even for a PG. Daban's version replicates the look but not always the precision. You might encounter flash, tight joints, or pieces that need coaxing.

For experienced builders, these issues are often manageable and even part of the fun. For beginners, the extra work can be frustrating. If you want a relaxing, high-quality build out of the box, Bandai is the safer choice.

Materials and Details: What's in the Box

Both kits are 1/60 scale and include water slides and other accessories. However, Bandai uses high-quality ABS plastic that holds detail well and feels sturdy. Daban's plastic is generally acceptable but can be softer or more brittle, affecting how parts snap together and how the final model poses.

The Daban kit includes the same core accessories as the official version, but the finish may not be as crisp. If you plan to paint or customize, the Daban kit can be a great base since you won't worry as much about ruining an expensive original.

Trade-offs at a Glance

• Budget: Daban costs roughly half the price of Bandai, making it accessible to more builders. If price is your main constraint, Daban is the clear winner.
• Build quality: Bandai offers superior plastic quality and precise engineering, leading to a smoother build. If you value a premium out-of-box experience, invest in Bandai.
• Customization potential: Daban's lower cost makes it a less risky canvas for painting and modification. If you love customizing, Daban can be a smart choice.

Product Facts at a Glance

• Daban PG Gundam Unleashed RX-78-2 Model Kit: Material: ABS Scale: 1/60 Includes: Model kits for the gundam, Water slides, Other accessories This confirms the Daban kit is a full 1/60 PG-scale build with water slides, so you get the essentials for a detailed build at a budget price.
• Pianxin Model 1/100 MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam Midnight Coating Version Model kit (Third Party, Not Original Bandai Kit): Material: ABS Scale: 1/100 Includes: 2 beam rifles, 2 beam sabers, hand assembly type, 2 humanoid types (Kira Yamato, Lux Klein), movable base, 2 pet stickers (for beam shield), sticker for base, water sticker, etched sheet sticker, metal 3D sticker, paper folding panel storage rack This third-party MGEX kit shows that some third-party offerings pack in extra accessories and figures, which can offset quality concerns—similar to what you might consider when comparing Daban and Bandai.

Which Kit Fits You?

Best for

• Budget-conscious builders who are comfortable with extra cleanup and part adjustment.
• Customizers who plan to paint or heavily modify and want a cheaper base kit.

Not for

• Beginners who want a smooth, frustration-free build straight out of the box.
• Collectors who value official Bandai quality and brand authenticity.

Choosing between the Daban and Bandai PG Unleashed RX-78-2 comes down to your priorities. If you're on a budget and ready to put in some work, Daban offers incredible value. If you want the definitive PG experience with minimal fuss, Bandai is worth the premium. Consider your skill level and what you want from the build, and you'll make the right call.