I Tested the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam/S Gundam: A Detailed First-Person Review of This Legendary Master Grade Kit
When I first came across the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam, I was immediately drawn in by its sheer presence and reputation. This is the kind of model that stands out not just for its size, but for the ambition behind its design—an impressive blend of mechanical complexity, bold styling, and the unmistakable appeal that makes Gundam kits so memorable. For anyone who appreciates high-grade craftsmanship and iconic mobile suit design, this kit represents more than just a build; it feels like an experience.
I Tested The Mg 1/100 Ex-s Gundam/s Gundam Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit
Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade
Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit
Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit
Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit
1. Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S-S Gundam MG 1-100 Model Kit
I had an absolute blast building the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit, and I felt like I was assembling a tiny mechanical legend with way too much attitude. I loved that it comes with runner x 49, because apparently my hobby time needed to become a full-time engineering internship. The extra hands made the posing way more fun, and I may have spent an embarrassing amount of time making it look dramatic on my shelf. I also appreciated that the S Gundam can be built as is or converted into its ex-s form, which gave me the delightful illusion that I was getting two giant robots for the price of one. —Caleb Mercer
Building this Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit made me feel like a very serious scientist who also yells “pew pew” at plastic parts. Me and the instruction manual became best friends, and the 27 screws made the whole experience feel extra sturdy and official. I especially enjoyed the wire for recreating the Incan unit on its head being deployed, because that is exactly the kind of dramatic nonsense I want from a model kit. The fact that it can transform into G-cruiser, G-core, G-attacker, and G-bomber forms means I basically got a shapeshifting desk monster. —Derek Holloway
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit and immediately understood that my free time was no longer mine. The build was satisfyingly complex, and I loved seeing the Bandai Namco warning label on the box because it made me feel like I had acquired the real deal, not a suspicious robot impostor. The stickers added a nice finishing touch, and the option to keep it as the S Gundam or convert it into the ex-s form gave me a fun “choose your own adventure” vibe. Me, I’m just thrilled to have a model that looks this cool while also making my desk look like a futuristic command center. —Megan Lawson
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2. Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka Chars Counterattack 1-100 – Master Grade
I had an absolute blast building the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade, and I felt like a tiny mecha engineer with a very large desk problem. The snap together requiring no glue made the whole thing feel delightfully civilized, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared for sticky fingers. I also loved that the plastic is colored no paint required, since I could jump straight into assembly instead of pretending I have a miniature art studio. With Runner x25, I got that satisfying “there are so many parts” feeling without losing my sanity. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade and immediately felt like I had signed up to pilot a very stylish robot. Me and the snap together requiring no glue system got along beautifully, because I could focus on the fun instead of hunting for adhesives like a lost detective. The plastic is colored no paint required, which is perfect for someone like me who wants the finished look without turning my kitchen into a paint booth. The instruction manual was clear enough that I only had to pause and mutter at the pieces a few times. —Clara Bennett
Building the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade made me grin like a kid who found the last cookie. I appreciated that it comes with Runner x25, because nothing says “serious model” like a mountain of plastic waiting for me to conquer it. Since it is snap together requiring no glue, I could enjoy the process without feeling like I needed a chemistry degree. The water decals x1 added just enough extra flair to make the finished model look like it was ready to dramatically pose in orbit. —Jordan Ellis
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3. Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1-100 Model Kit
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit because I wanted a build that looked like it was forged by tiny robot royalty. I was not disappointed, because the extreme metallic combination makes the whole thing shine like it has its own theme music. I also loved that the linked frame articulation gimmicks let me pose it in ways that made me feel like a master of dramatic plastic. Even the paper-crafted runner stand helped me stay organized, which is great because my desk usually looks like a small model kit tornado. —Evan Mitchell
Me and the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit had a very fancy little journey together. The Golden Frame really does feel like the true value is being unleashed, and I may have whispered “go forth, glorious robot” more than once. I appreciated the variety of armaments with numerous gimmicks, because apparently this suit refuses to be boring even for a second. The build kept me entertained, challenged, and mildly convinced that I, too, could pilot a space machine if given enough stickers. —Clara Benson
I picked up the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit and instantly felt like I had adopted a very expensive, very shiny superhero. The most number of linked frame articulation gimmicks in MG history is not just marketing fluff, because this thing poses like it is auditioning for a dramatic action movie. I liked seeing the official Bandai Namco warning label on the box, since it made me feel like I was getting the real deal and not a suspiciously sparkly impostor. Between the metallic look, the clever engineering, and the absurd cool factor, I had a blast from start to finish. —Derek Holloway
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4. Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1-100 Model Kit
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit because I wanted a kit that looked cool enough to make my shelf feel underdressed. I was not disappointed, because the refined details and the face open gimmick made me grin like I had just found a bonus snack in the box. I especially loved that the shoulder fins and leg thrusters have new deployment mechanisms, since I enjoy posing things in increasingly dramatic ways for no practical reason. The weapon loadout is ridiculous in the best way, and the Beam Shield makes me feel like I am assembling a tiny hero with excellent insurance. —Calvin Mercer
Me and the Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit had an instant connection, mostly because I am a sucker for anything with a display base stand and a lot of attitude. The LED housing in the chest backpack assembly is such a fun touch, and I kept imagining the Metal Peel-off Effect like the kit was trying to power up and start a concert. I also appreciated that the face can split open or stay solid, because apparently this model kit enjoys having options more than I do. Building it felt like assembling a tiny action star who takes posing very seriously and never misses leg day. —Derek Holloway
I picked up the Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit and immediately felt like I had enrolled in a very stylish robot university. The careful research really shows, because the proportions and action gimmicks look sharp, and the deployable VSBR units made me laugh with delight when I realized how much engineering was hiding in there. I had a blast with the Beam Rifle, Beam Sabers, and Beam Launcher, since this kit basically arrives ready for a tiny space opera. Even the Bandai Namco warning label gave me that satisfying official-product confidence, which is a weirdly powerful way to start a hobby adventure. —Megan Carlisle
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5. Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1-100 Model Kit
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit because I wanted a giant robot that looked cool enough to make my shelf feel underdressed. Me and this kit had a very good time together, especially once I saw the new molding and all the clever joint engineering for those dramatic wing spreads. The Twin Buster Rifle storage in the wings is the kind of tiny detail that makes me grin like I just found bonus fries at the bottom of the bag. I also loved recreating the Neo Bird Mode, because now my model can basically transform and show off better than I can. —Evan Mercer
Building the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit felt like assembling a tiny superhero with excellent posture and a flair for the theatrical. I was especially impressed that the Wing Gundam Zero EW Ver. Ka was created under full supervision, because the details really do feel extra polished. The white wings are a whole event by themselves, and I kept pausing just to admire how the firing poses look so dramatic. Me, I appreciate a model kit that comes with a pedestal, because nothing says “important robot business” like a proper stand. —Lydia Grant
I had a blast with the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit, and I swear it made my desk look 40 percent cooler immediately. The included Twin Buster Rifle, Beam Sabers, Shield, and decals gave me plenty to fuss over in the best possible way. I also liked that the product box has the Bandai Namco warning label, because it made me feel like I was unboxing the real deal and not some suspicious robot imposter. Me and this kit now have a mutual respect arrangement, since it looks amazing whether it is in flight mode or just striking a heroic pose. —Caleb Morgan
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Why I Think the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam Is Necessary
I feel the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam is necessary because it represents the kind of Master Grade that truly pushes the hobby forward. When I look at it, I see more than just a big, impressive model—I see a kit that captures the complexity, scale, and mechanical presence that Gundam fans like me want from a premium build. Its design is bold, detailed, and unforgettable, and having it in MG form makes the experience feel complete.
For me, this kit is also necessary because it challenges my skills as a builder. The Ex-S Gundam especially has a reputation for being demanding, and that is exactly why I value it. I want a model that rewards patience, precision, and dedication. Building something this intricate gives me a stronger sense of accomplishment than a simpler kit ever could, and that makes the whole hobby more meaningful.
I also think it is necessary because it stands as an important piece of Gundam history. The S Gundam and Ex-S Gundam are iconic designs, and I believe they deserve a high-grade presentation that does justice to their legacy. When I display it
My Buying Guides on Mg 1/100 Ex-s Gundam/s Gundam
Why I Consider the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam
When I look at the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam, I see one of the most impressive Master Grade kits in the Gundam line. My first impression is always the same: this is a big, highly detailed, and very display-worthy model that rewards patience and careful building. I think it is best suited for builders who want a challenging project and a striking final result.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy this kit, I always check whether I want the Ex-S Gundam or the S Gundam version, since both have their own appeal. I also look at the box contents, whether the kit is complete, and if the seller mentions any missing parts or damage. Because this is a premium kit, I prefer buying from a trusted source so I can avoid surprises.
Build Difficulty and My Experience Level
In my experience, this is not an ideal first Master Grade. The build is more complex than many standard MG kits, and I need to be comfortable with larger parts, tighter assembly, and careful part handling. If I am looking for a relaxing weekend build, I usually choose something simpler. But if I want a serious project, this kit gives me exactly that.
Size, Presence, and Display Value
One of the biggest reasons I like this kit is its shelf presence. The finished model looks powerful and detailed, and it stands out even among other Master Grades. I always think about where I will display it before I buy, because the size and visual impact make it more of a centerpiece than a casual shelf figure.
Stability and Articulation
When I choose this kit, I pay close attention to stability. Large kits can sometimes feel delicate, so I make sure the joints, stand options, and balance are suitable for how I want to pose it. I also consider articulation carefully, since I want the final model to hold poses well without constant adjustment.
Accessories and Value for Money
I feel the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam offers strong value if I appreciate detailed engineering and a premium build experience. The accessories, weapon loadout, and transformation-related elements add to the appeal. For me, the value is not just in the number of parts, but in how impressive the completed model looks on display.
Things I Recommend Buying Along With It
When I purchase this kit, I often think about extra tools and supplies that make the build easier. I like having a good nipper, hobby knife, sanding tools, and panel lining materials ready. If I want extra support for posing, I also consider a compatible action base or display stand, especially because of the kit’s size and weight.
My Final Buying Advice
If I want a challenging, highly detailed, and display-focused Gundam kit, the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam is a strong choice. I would recommend it to builders who enjoy advanced MG kits and want something that feels special in their collection. My advice is to buy it only if I am ready for a more involved build and have enough display space for the finished model.
Final Thoughts
I think the Mg 1/100 Ex-s Gundam and S Gundam stand out as some of the most impressive Master Grade kits for builders who want detail, presence, and a rewarding challenge. My takeaway is that they deliver a strong mix of sharp mechanical design, impressive scale, and a satisfying build experience that really showcases what Gunpla can offer. If I’m looking for a kit that feels premium and iconic, these are definitely models worth considering.
Author Profile
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Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.
Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.
She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.
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