Best O Gauge Track For Model Railroad Trains in 2024 – Reviews

Name: Best O Gauge Track For Model Railroad Trains in 2024 - Reviews
Item: Best O Gauge Track For Model Railroad Trains in 2024 - Reviews
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Author: calvzz

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O Gauge Tracks are widely used by model train hobbyists who want to create a realistic model train layout at a smaller scale. These tracks are designed to replicate a train scene with a scale size ratio of 1/48. And O gauge train tracks are just perfect for producing complex layouts with meticulous and detailed sceneries.

For the last few decades, the use of O gauge train rail tracks has been pushed for their durability, wide availability, and ease to use. They have also been widely used because they are capable of withstanding frequent use and heavy loads with low breaking and failure rates. Train enthusiasts just love the various styles of O Gauge tracks. These include straight, curved, and switch tracks, along with accessories like crossings and bridges, which offer endless design possibilities. Additionally, the different market-available O gauge control systems are engineered to ensure smooth and accurate train control for a satisfying model train experience. All of these factors make O Gauge track a reliable and popular choice for any gauge model railroad enthusiast.

However, because these tracks are so popular, many manufacturers are fighting to get a market share with so many different offers. And they are so O tracks that it is problematic to choose the best O Gauge track for model trains. This is why we have researched, tested, and shortlisted the top O Gauge tracks on the market so that you can make an informed decision when buying one.

Best O Gauge Track Model Train Layout Reviews

#1. Lionel FasTrack Electric O Gauge Track – Best Straight Tracks

When it comes to the best o gauge track, we highly recommend that you try out the Lionel FasTrack Electric O Gauge Track. Let’s get real, this is pretty much the gold standard in the industry. Lionel is definitely one of the top-tier brands in this industry and offers all sorts of different styles o gauge tracks for you to pick from. Needless to say, they are all quality.

But no matter what style o gauge track you get from Lionel, one thing remains clear: these tracks are really easy to put together and just seem to last longer than other brands. They are certainly built with quality in mind and we are sure the price tag reflects that a bit. And we like the patented center locking mechanism to ensure the tracks lock in place.

PROS:

Ease of use
Good conductivity – You can 140+ feet and 11 switches all under track power from a single terminal
Stable – No need to fasten the track or screw it down on a board
Easy to break down and take it away to another location
Lionel switches are bulletproof – Not causing issues

CONS:

A bit expensive but it is of good quality
Noise can be an issue but that’s a train (it’s normal)

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#2. Lionel O-31 FasTrack Curve Bulk – Best Curved Track

Next up, we have another Lionel-branded product that works really well for those who need the best o scale track that is curved. We just can’t get enough of Lionel-branded tracks and this particular one is one of our favorites. It works perfectly in conjunction with other straight tracks.

What most people like about the Lionel O-31 is that it is just built like a tank and definitely doesn’t result in your train falling out of the tracks. It is also built for endurance and lasts longer. And finally, we just find these tracks a lot more flexible in fit and design compared to other curved tracks, although just keep in mind that you are paying a premium.

PROS:

Ease of use
Good conductivity
Nice curve – Trains do not derail
Long-lasting

CONS:

A bit expensive but it is of good quality

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#3. Atlas O Gauge Model Railroad Track – Best Brand

Another nice option when it comes to the best o gauge track is the Atlas branded O Gauge tracks. It takes 16 pieces to make a full circle and has an O-72 diameter curve. Atlas is another solid player in the model train industry and their O gauge tracks are solidly built. We love how these tracks are extra stable with superior rust prevention and electrical conductivity.

Additionally, many people like the snap lock system which allows the track to be joined easily. Also, the snap lock system makes it easy for you to know when it has snapped in place. Lastly, we just want to comment a bit on how realistic these tracks are. The plastic brown track ties have a realistic wood grain appearance, which is just really pleasing to the eyes.

PROS:

Ease of use
Very realistic tracks
Good conductivity
Long-lasting
Top-notch reliability

CONS:

Switches are not as good
Probably the most expensive but it is of good quality

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#4. MTH Trains RealTrax O Gauge Railroading Track – Best Value

The MTH RealTrax O Gauge Track is another one of these brands that are worth mentioning if you are looking for the best o gauge tracks for your model train set. Many people like it because it is just great value and has really quick snap-together connections. In other words, it requires no track pins or rail joiners.

The RealTrax has an intricately detailed ABS roadbed and nice Nickel-Silver rails. It weighs 2 pounds and is recommended to be used for 8 years and up.

In general, we are pretty happy with the quality of this o gauge track although for sure the quality could be better. But for the price, you just can’t beat this bargain. All we ask is that you keep your expectations a little lower than normal and don’t expect Lionel’s quality tracks. That way, you won’t be disappointed with the MTH track.

PROS:

Ease to assemble
Good conductivity
Long-lasting
Rugged design

CONS:

The tracks are a little tight
A bit noisy

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#5. Lionel Delux Track Pack O Gauge – Best Complete Track Set

The Lionel Delux Track Pack O Gauge is one of the best Lionel O gauge track types for avid Lionel train collectors and enthusiasts. This type of track is designed to provide users with a unique and immersive experience when building the train set track.

The Lionel Delux Track Pack includes 20 curved track sections, 21 straight track sections, 1 terminal 10′ straight track section, 2×90 degree crossovers, and 2 half straight track sections.

This track is made from high-quality, durable materials that will last for years to come. If you want to build a unique and detailed train layout, the Lionel Delux Track Pack is the perfect starting point. This track layout is easy to work with, making it an ideal choice for beginners and experienced collectors alike.

Even better, the Lionel Delux Pack is designed to be expanded. This means that you can easily add additional track sections to your layout as desired. With its high-quality design and reliable construction, the Delux Pack is the right choice for any Lionel train collector who desires an immersive train set experience.

PROS:

Complete set – No need for anything else
A top best track for o gauge
Very easy to assemble
Easy to take apart
Works well on all surfaces including carpet, hardwood, or any flat surface
Good conductivity

CONS:

Can be a bit loud
A bit expensive

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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best O gauge track for model trains?

If you are looking for the best O gauge track system for your layout, there are several options available in the market. GarGraves Track and Ross Switches are known for their high quality and reliability. They are especially recommended for those who want a more realistic and scale-looking layout for their O gauge railroading. Atlas 3-Rail Track, on the other hand, is considered as the pinnacle of realism and performance. It has scale brown ties with simulated wood grain and a solid nickel-silver T-rail that offers superior conductivity to keep your trains running smoothly.

MTH Scale Trax is another excellent option that is easy to use and assemble. For those who prefer a more integrated look, the Lionel Fastrack is the easiest track system to use. Lastly, the high-end non-integrated track would have to be Atlas 21st Century Track (expensive but brilliant piece of engineering). It has very realistic ties and features a solid nickel-silver rail. Ultimately, the best O gauge track for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

What is the tightest O-gauge curve?

When it comes to O gauge layouts, the tightest curve is typically measured by its diameter. Known as O-xx, where “xx” signifies the diameter of the curve, O-27 is the smallest curve available. With a diameter of just 27 inches, this curve allows for sharper, more detailed layouts. Atlas tracks, Ross tracks, and Lionel tracks are just some of the top brands in the market that offer this tight curve as part of their track offerings. What you need to know is that all top brands of O gauge offer this curve.

While it may not be the easiest curve to work with, those who are willing to put in the extra effort will be rewarded with a more intricate and dynamic layout. Whether you need to fit your track into a smaller space or simply want to add more detail to your layout, the O-27 curve is very tight, but an excellent choice to have fun. Note that the risk is that you need to manage the speed at the turn, if not your train will derail. So it is a great curve to test your remote control skills.

Is O27 the same as the O gauge model train layout?

The O-27 track is often confused with the O gauge track due to its similarities in track types. The o-27 track is spaced at the same width as the O gauge track but is a little lower in terms of height and has thinner rails. The name O-27 is based on the size of the track’s curves. For instance, if you put together a circle made of 8 eight pieces of standard 45-degree curved O gauge track, this track will have a 31 inches diameter. On the other hand, if you interconnect 8 pieces of 45-degree curved O-27 track, you’ll get a smaller diameter of 27 inches (hence the name O27).

However, despite their similarities, it is important to understand that O-27 layouts are not the same as O gauge layouts. O-27 layouts are considered a form of O gauge but O locomotives have, at times, difficulties to negotiate the smaller curves. Both O gauge and O-27 offer a wide variety of scale train layouts to choose from, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual.

Can O gauge trains run on O27 track?

Yes, but it is best to avoid it. O gauge trains can run on the O27 track, but they can be hazardous with derailments. O gauge trains are designed to run on track widths of 1.25 inches, which is the standard size for O gauge tracks. O27 track is a type of O gauge track that has a wider center rail spacing of 27mm, hence the name. Although “standard” O gauge trains will fit on the O-27 track, some may not be able to negotiate the tighter 27” curves because of their greater length. The length of O gauge trains is typically longer than that of the O27 track, which can cause derailment when navigating tight curves. Despite this, with proper track planning and placement, O gauge trains can still run on the O-27 track, allowing for greater flexibility in layout design.

What companies make O gauge trains?

If you’re in the market for O gauge trains, you have plenty of options to choose from. Some of the biggest names in the industry include Lionel, LLC, MTH Electric Trains, Atlas O, and Weaver Models. These companies offer a range of train sets, locomotives, accessories, and more to fit any track plan and style of a model railroad. Some companies offer tubular tracks in the O Gauge scale too.

Other companies like Ross and Gargraves also offer very realistic-looking options with a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from. Some manufacturers even offer specialty tracks like turnouts and crossovers to add more complexity and interest to your toy train layout. In addition to the big brands mentioned above, many lesser-known companies around the world make O-scale trains, so you can always find something unique and interesting to add to your collection.