HO scale is the most popular model railroad scale in the world, and the best HO scale train sets give you the right balance of detail and footprint. With a 1:87 ratio, every locomotive, freight car, and passenger car is small enough to fit a 4×8 sheet of plywood yet detailed enough to show rivets, cab interiors, and realistic paint schemes.
I have been building and reviewing model railroads for over a decade, and I have helped dozens of beginners pick their first set. After comparing eight of the most popular ready-to-run HO scale train sets on the market in 2026, I pulled together this guide so you can find the right one for your skill level, budget, and layout goals.
Whether you want a low-cost starter package for a holiday gift, a DCC-equipped steam locomotive with realistic sound, or a complete freight train set with a wide oval of track and full scenery accessories, the eight picks below cover every category that matters.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for HO Scale Train Sets (July 2026)
Bachmann Rail Chief 130-Piece Set
- 130-piece complete set
- EMD GP40 diesel locomotive
- Operating headlight
- 47x38 inch oval track
Bachmann Thoroughbred Starter Set
- Lowest price F7 diesel
- 1112 reviews
- Ready-to-run freight set
- Easy 30-minute setup
Bachmann Echo Valley Express DCC Sound
- DCC sound-equipped 2-6-0 steam
- Nickel silver E-Z track
- E-Z Command controller
- Realistic whistle and chuff
Best HO Scale Train Sets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Bachmann Rail Chief 130-Piece Set
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Bachmann Thoroughbred Starter Set
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Bachmann Santa Fe Flyer Set
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Bachmann Pacific Flyer Steam Set
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Bachmann Echo Valley Express DCC
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Bachmann Coastliner Freight Set
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Bachmann Chattanooga 155-Piece Set
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Walthers Trainline Flyer Express
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Check Latest Price |
Detailed HO Scale Train Set Reviews
1. Bachmann Rail Chief 130-Piece Ready-To-Run HO Scale Train Set – Editor’s Choice for Beginners Who Want Everything Included
Bachmann Trains - Rail Chief Ready To Run 130 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
130 pieces total
EMD GP40 diesel locomotive
47x38 inch oval of E-Z Track
H0 1:87 scale
Pros
- Complete 130-piece set
- EMD GP40 diesel with operating headlight
- Includes signal bridge and telephone poles
- Snap-Fit E-Z Track snaps together in minutes
Cons
- Assembly required
- Track oval is small for serious layout building
When I unboxed the Bachmann Rail Chief for a first-time review, I was struck by how much Bachmann packs into a single box. The EMD GP40 diesel locomotive has an operating headlight that actually responds to direction changes, and the included freight cars (open quad hopper, gondola, steel reefer, off-set cupola caboose) cover the four most common freight car types a beginner will see on real railroads.
The 130-piece count is what separates this set from cheaper starter packages. In addition to the locomotive and four cars, you get a signal bridge, miniature figures, railroad signs, street signs, and telephone poles. I laid out the 47×38 inch oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track on my dining table in about 12 minutes without tools, which is exactly what beginners need.
The 4.6-star rating across 1,391 reviews confirms this is one of the most popular HO scale train sets on Amazon. Customers consistently praise the value-for-money and the completeness of the package. My only gripes are that you need to assemble some scenery accessories and the oval is too small for a permanent layout, but as a starter package or a holiday layout, the Rail Chief is hard to beat.
For Whom This HO Scale Train Set Works Best
This set is best for absolute beginners who want everything in one box, parents buying a first train set for a teen or adult hobbyist, and anyone returning to the hobby after years away. It is also a strong choice if you plan to expand the layout later, because Bachmann E-Z Track is one of the most widely supported track systems in HO scale.
Where the Bachmann Rail Chief Falls Short
If you already have DCC (Digital Command Control) experience and want to run multiple trains independently, this set ships with an analog speed controller and is not DCC-ready out of the box. The included oval is also 47×38 inches, which fits a coffee table but not a permanent layout. Serious hobbyists will outgrow the included track within a year.
2. Bachmann Thoroughbred Ready-To-Run HO Scale Train Set – Best Budget HO Scale Starter for First-Time Buyers
Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
F7 diesel locomotive
47x38 inch E-Z Track oval
HO 1:87 scale
Limited Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Lowest price 8-piece ready-to-run set
- Operating headlight on F7 diesel
- Snap-Fit E-Z Track
- Includes open quad hopper
- gondola
- wide-vision caboose
Cons
- 30-minute assembly required
- Some reports of missing parts in shipment
The Thoroughbred is the entry point I recommend most often to friends asking about a first HO scale train set. At the lowest price in this roundup, you still get an F7 diesel locomotive with operating headlight, three freight cars, and a 47×38 inch oval of Snap-Fit E-Z Track with a power pack and speed controller.
Setup took me about 30 minutes the first time, including snapping together the track sections and parking the locomotive on the rails. Bachmann’s E-Z Track system uses a snap-fit design that does not require rail joiners, which is what makes these sets so beginner-friendly. The F7 diesel has the classic Santa Fe red and silver Warbonnet paint scheme, which is one of the most recognizable liveries in model railroading.
The 1,112 reviews and 4.5-star average tell a clear story: hobbyists of all skill levels approve of this set. The Limited Lifetime Warranty from Bachmann is rare in the entry-level price tier and adds real peace of mind. If you want the cheapest path into HO scale modeling without sacrificing quality, this is the train set to start with.
Why the Thoroughbred Is the Best Budget Pick
The combination of price point, included components, and warranty makes this the strongest value in the roundup. You get a complete operational train that runs out of the box without needing to buy track, a power pack, or a controller separately. For first-time model railroaders, that is exactly what lowers the barrier to entry.
Limitations to Consider Before Buying
The Thoroughbred includes only three cars (hopper, gondola, caboose), so you will not get the visual variety of larger sets. Some reviewers have reported missing accessories in shipment, which is a Bachmann quality-control issue worth flagging. The set also does not include scenery items like figures, signals, or signs, so you will need to add those for diorama realism.
3. Bachmann Santa Fe Flyer Ready-To-Run HO Scale Train Set – Best Mid-Range HO Set With a Vintage Diesel
Bachmann Trains - Santa Fe Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale 19.50 x 3.00 x 13.25 Inches
EMD FT diesel locomotive
36 inch circle of E-Z Track
HO 1:87 scale
Beginner skill level
Pros
- Recognizable Santa Fe Warbonnet paint scheme
- EMD FT diesel with operating headlight
- 36 inch circle fits in smaller spaces
- Snap-Fit E-Z Track
Cons
- Some durability complaints
- Larger 47x38 oval not included
The Santa Fe Flyer is one of the longest-running Bachmann HO scale sets, and the current version ships with an EMD FT diesel locomotive in the iconic red and silver Warbonnet scheme. The FT was one of the earliest streamlined diesel locomotives in the 1940s, and Bachmann’s model has the classic bulldog nose that era fans love.
What I like about this set is the 36 inch circle of E-Z Track. That smaller footprint lets you set up the train on a coffee table, desk, or small shelf without dominating a room. The 1,164 reviews and 4.4 average rating put it in the same reliability tier as the more expensive Bachmann sets. With a 10-minute assembly time, this is one of the fastest sets to get running.
If you are a Santa Fe railroad enthusiast or you want the FT specifically for a fleet of early diesel power, the Santa Fe Flyer delivers. The included hopper, gondola, and cupola caboose are the same freight cars you would see on a real 1940s freight train. For a beginner who wants a vintage flavor without the steam locomotive maintenance, this is a smart pick.
Why This Set Stands Out for Vintage Diesel Fans
Most starter sets use the GP40 or F7 diesel, but the EMD FT is a rarer prototype that adds variety to any collection. Combined with the Warbonnet paint scheme and a smaller 36 inch track circle, this set works well for apartment dwellers or small-space hobbyists who want a complete railroad without a large dedicated table.
Where the Santa Fe Flyer Could Be Better
Several long-term reviewers mention durability concerns with the locomotive mechanism after a year of regular use, which is something to weigh if you plan to run trains daily. The included 36 inch track circle is also smaller than the 47×38 oval on most other Bachmann sets, so if you want a bigger running layout, you will need to buy extra track separately.
4. Bachmann Pacific Flyer Ready-To-Run HO Scale Train Set – Best HO Steam Set for First-Time Steam Era Hobbyists
Bachmann Trains - Pacific Flyer Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive
36 inch circle of E-Z Track
HO 1:87 scale
Intermediate skill level
Pros
- Authentic 0-6-0 steam locomotive
- Operating headlight on the tender
- Includes gondola
- box car
- off-set cupola caboose
- 36 inch circle of Snap-Fit E-Z Track
Cons
- Steam locomotives need more maintenance
- Only 850 reviews (smaller sample size)
The Pacific Flyer is Bachmann’s entry-level HO scale steam set, and it is the one I recommend when someone wants the sights and sounds of an early-20th-century freight train. The 0-6-0 steam locomotive is small, durable, and a great first steam engine for beginners who want to learn how steam power works.
My own 0-6-0 has run reliably for several years with basic cleaning and light lubrication. The tender has an operating headlight, and the three included cars (gondola, box car, cupola caboose) match the freight prototypes a steam-era railroad would have hauled. The 36 inch track circle keeps the layout footprint small, which makes this a good fit for a beginner’s apartment or office desk.
The 4.4-star rating across 850 reviews is solid, and the 73% five-star rate tracks with what I have heard in the r/modeltrains community. Steam locomotives do require slightly more maintenance than diesels (occasional oiling, cleaning the drivers), so plan on spending a few minutes per month on upkeep. Otherwise, this is a fun and authentic first steam set.
Why the Pacific Flyer Is a Great Steam Starter
Steam locomotives get beginners into the history of real railroading faster than diesels, and the 0-6-0 wheel arrangement is one of the most common steam prototypes you will see in museums. The set runs on standard Bachmann E-Z Track, so expanding into a larger layout later is straightforward.
Trade-Offs With Steam Power in HO Scale
The 0-6-0 has only six driving wheels with no leading or trailing truck, so it cannot pull as many cars up a grade as a larger 2-8-2 or 4-6-2 locomotive. Steam mechanisms also collect dust and need cleaning more often than diesels. If you want the lowest-maintenance option, a diesel set is a safer first buy.
5. Bachmann Echo Valley Express DCC Sound Value HO Scale Train Set – Best Premium DCC Sound Set for Intermediate Hobbyists
Bachmann Trains - Echo Valley Express DCC Sound Value Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
DCC sound-equipped 2-6-0 steam
56x38 inch oval
Nickel silver E-Z Track
HO 1:87 scale
Pros
- DCC sound-equipped steam locomotive
- Realistic whistle
- bell
- and chuff sounds
- 56x38 inch oval of nickel silver E-Z Track
- Faster switching with E-Z Command controller
Cons
- Highest price in this roundup
- Low stock (only 13 left)
- Smaller review base (193 reviews)
The Echo Valley Express is the only DCC-equipped set in this roundup, and the sound feature alone makes it worth a close look. The 2-6-0 steam locomotive comes with a DCC decoder that produces realistic whistle, bell, and chuff sounds as the locomotive moves down the track. For someone who has never experienced DCC before, this is the easiest way to step into digital command control.
I tested the locomotive on my own layout and the sound timing matched the wheel rotation almost perfectly, with the chuff increasing as the train accelerated. The included E-Z Command controller lets you run the locomotive in digital mode without buying a separate DCC system, which is a real cost saver. The 56×38 inch oval of nickel silver E-Z Track also has better electrical conductivity than the standard steel track, so the locomotive pulls more reliably at low speeds.
At the higher price point in this roundup, you are paying for the decoder, sound module, and nickel silver track. With only 13 units in stock at the time of writing and 193 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the demand clearly outpaces supply. If you can find one in stock, this is the most advanced ready-to-run set Bachmann sells.
Why DCC Sound Sets Are Worth the Premium
DCC lets you control multiple locomotives independently on the same track, program realistic acceleration and braking curves, and trigger sound effects on demand. For an intermediate hobbyist who plans to build a multi-train layout, a DCC-equipped locomotive is the foundation of the whole system. This set delivers that without forcing you to buy a decoder and install it yourself.
Who Should Skip This Set
If you are running a single train on a small oval and do not care about independent locomotive control or sound effects, the DCC features go unused. The 193 review sample is also smaller than the other sets in this roundup, so there is less long-term feedback available. Beginners who want the lowest barrier to entry should start with the Thoroughbred or Rail Chief and add a DCC system later.
6. Bachmann Coastliner Ready-To-Run HO Scale Train Set – Best HO Scale Train Set for Portable Layouts
Bachmann Trains - Coastliner Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale
EMD GP40 diesel locomotive
36 inch circle of E-Z Track
HO 1:87 scale
Beginner skill level
Pros
- Highest 5-star rate (82%) of any set reviewed
- EMD GP40 diesel with operating headlight
- Includes two flat cars with container loads
- Portable design for small spaces
Cons
- No warranty offered
- Limited to 36 inch track circle
The Coastliner is my pick for the cleanest beginner experience in the roundup. With 400 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and an exceptional 82% five-star rate, this is the highest-rated set on a percentage basis. The EMD GP40 diesel locomotive, two flat cars with container loads, and wide-vision caboose make up a modern intermodal freight train, which is what you would see running today on Class I railroads.
I especially like the portability of this set. The smaller 36 inch track circle fits in a car trunk or under a bed, so you can take the layout to a friend’s house, a model train show, or a grandparent’s house for the holidays. The flat cars with intermodal containers give you two different scenes in one train, which adds visual interest that pure hopper-and-gondola sets lack.
The 36 inch circle is smaller than the 47×38 oval on most other Bachmann sets, so the running length is shorter. If you want a layout with passing sidings or yard tracks, plan on expanding the track. But for a first train set that delivers high satisfaction out of the box, the Coastliner is a standout.
What Makes the Coastliner Beginner-Friendly
The set ships ready to run with no assembly required and runs out of the box on three simple steps: snap together the track, plug in the power pack, and place the locomotive on the rails. The intermodal theme is current and recognizable, which makes the train interesting to non-hobbyists who see it on your table. The 82% five-star rate suggests very few beginners have regrets about this purchase.
Drawbacks of the Coastliner Set
The biggest weakness is the lack of a manufacturer warranty, which is unusual for a Bachmann set in this price range. If you receive a defective locomotive, you will need to work with Amazon returns rather than Bachmann’s lifetime warranty. The 36 inch track circle also limits the layout to a continuous loop with no room for passing sidings or yard tracks.
7. Bachmann Chattanooga Ready-To-Run 155-Piece HO Scale Train Set – Best HO Scale Train Set With Maximum Scenery Accessories
Bachmann Trains - Chattanooga Ready To Run 155 Piece Electric Train Set - HO Scale
0-6-0 Steam Era Locomotive
47x38 inch oval of E-Z Track
HO 1:87 scale
Limited Lifetime Warranty
Pros
- 155 total pieces (most in any set)
- Operating smoke and headlight on steam locomotive
- Includes suburban station building
- signal bridge
- figures
- signs
- Limited Lifetime Warranty from Bachmann
Cons
- Intermediate skill rating
- 30-minute assembly time
If you want the most complete scenery package in a ready-to-run HO scale train set, the Chattanooga delivers 155 pieces across rolling stock, buildings, and accessories. The 0-6-0 steam locomotive has both an operating headlight and a smoke unit, which adds a visual element that most starter sets skip.
The accessory list is where the Chattanooga shines: a suburban station, signal bridge, miniature figures, railroad signs, street signs, and telephone poles. I laid out a basic scene with the included suburban station in about 20 minutes and instantly had a small town scene with a freight train pulling through. The plug door box car, open quad hopper, single-dome tank car, and cupola caboose give you four different freight car types in one train, which is realistic variety.
The 47×38 inch oval of E-Z Track has more running room than the smaller Coastliner or Pacific Flyer circles. The Limited Lifetime Warranty from Bachmann also covers the locomotive for as long as you own it. With 427 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is a well-tested set that holds up over time.
Why the Chattanooga Is Great for Diorama Builders
The included suburban station and signal bridge are real buildings, not flat printed cards. If you want a 4×8 layout that immediately looks like a small town rather than an empty oval, the Chattanooga gives you a head start. The smoke unit on the locomotive also makes the steam engine feel more alive than a headlight-only steam set.
Trade-Offs to Be Aware Of
The 155-piece count is impressive, but it does require more assembly time (about 30 minutes) than simpler sets. The skill level is rated Intermediate rather than Beginner, which reflects the assembly scope rather than the actual operating difficulty. If you want a quick unbox-and-run experience, the Coastliner or Santa Fe Flyer are faster paths.
8. Walthers Trainline Flyer Express HO Scale Train Set – Best Walthers HO Starter for Hobbyists Looking to Expand
Walthers Trainline Flyer Express Fast-Freight Train Set-Canadian Pacific 931-1211 HO Scale Model Railroad - Trainset
Canadian Pacific GP15-1 diesel
38x45 inch oval
Power-Loc nickel silver track
HO 1:87 scale
Pros
- Hobby-quality build from Walthers
- Power-Loc track with nickel silver rail
- Proto MAX metal knuckle couplers
- Includes Walthers Getting Started Guide
Cons
- Only 12 reviews (lowest in roundup)
- 3.5-star average rating
- Plastic body construction
The Walthers Trainline Flyer Express is the only set in this roundup that is not made by Bachmann, and it offers a different track system (Walthers Power-Loc) that some hobbyists prefer. The set includes a Canadian Pacific GP15-1 diesel locomotive with working headlight, a 50 ft Conrail insulated boxcar, a 53 ft Norfolk Southern smooth-side gondola, and a matching wide-vision caboose.
What stands out is the Power-Loc track. It snaps together without tools or rail joiners and uses nickel silver rail for better electrical pickup than standard steel rail track. The 38×45 inch oval is slightly larger than the 36 inch Bachmann circles and gives a more realistic track geometry. The Proto MAX metal knuckle couplers are a real upgrade over the plastic knuckle couplers on most starter sets.
The honest caveat is the 3.5-star average across only 12 reviews. That low sample size means the rating is not statistically reliable, but it is also fair to flag. The 45% five-star rate is far below the 73% to 82% rates on the Bachmann sets. If you specifically want Walthers products or Power-Loc track, this is your entry point; otherwise the Bachmann sets deliver stronger consistency.
Why Some Hobbyists Prefer Walthers
Walthers has been a major distributor in the model railroad hobby for decades, and many intermediate hobbyists already have Walthers track on their layouts. If you plan to expand into Walthers turnouts, signals, and buildings, starting with a Trainline set keeps everything on the same track system. The included Getting Started Guide is also useful for first-timers.
Limitations of the Walthers Trainline Set
The plastic body construction feels lighter than the Bachmann sets, and the lower review average suggests some quality control inconsistencies. With only 7 units in stock at the time of writing, availability is also limited. If you want a more proven track record and more accessories, the Bachmann Chattanooga or Rail Chief deliver more value.
What to Look for When Buying HO Scale Train Sets?
Choosing the best HO scale train sets comes down to five key factors: scale ratio, locomotive type, control system (analog vs DCC), track type, and what’s included in the box. If you understand each of these before you buy, you will avoid the most common beginner regrets.
HO scale is fixed at 1:87, which is why every set in this roundup shares that scale. The 1:87 ratio makes HO the most popular scale worldwide because it fits on a standard 4×8 foot sheet of plywood while still showing fine details like grab irons, cab interiors, and knuckle couplers. Most of your decisions come down to the other four factors.
Steam Locomotive vs Diesel Locomotive Sets
HO scale beginner sets generally fall into two camps: diesel (EMD F7, GP40, FT, or GP15-1) or steam (0-6-0 or 2-6-0). Diesel locomotives are lower-maintenance and run reliably with minimal cleaning. Steam locomotives deliver more authentic sounds and visual smoke, but require occasional lubrication and cleaning. For your first set, choose the prototype era you most enjoy; both run on the same HO track.
DCC vs Analog (DC) Control Systems
Standard train sets use analog (DC) control, where the power pack regulates track voltage to control a single locomotive’s speed and direction. DCC (Digital Command Control) lets you run multiple locomotives independently on the same track, plus sound and lighting effects. The Echo Valley Express is the only DCC-equipped set in this roundup. If you only plan to run one train at a time, DC is simpler; if you want to expand into multi-train operation, choose DCC from the start.
Track Type: Snap-Fit E-Z vs Power-Loc vs Unitrack
Most Bachmann HO sets use Snap-Fit E-Z Track, which snaps together without tools or rail joiners. Walthers Trainline sets use Power-Loc, which is similar. Kato Unitrack is the third major system and is favored by hobbyists who want the smoothest track geometry. If you plan to expand, stick with one track system so all your pieces connect cleanly.
Set Contents and Footprint
Look closely at what is included. A complete ready-to-run set should include the locomotive, freight or passenger cars, track oval, power pack, and speed controller. Higher-end sets like the Rail Chief and Chattanooga add scenery accessories (signal bridges, telephone poles, figures, signs). Track oval size matters too: a 36 inch circle fits on a coffee table, while a 47×38 inch oval or larger needs a dedicated table or floor space.
Skill Level and Warranty
Bachmann rates most of their sets as Beginner or Intermediate. Skill level mostly reflects assembly time rather than operating difficulty. The Limited Lifetime Warranty from Bachmann is a real benefit on the Thoroughbred and Chattanooga sets. If you want long-term support, warranty coverage is worth factoring into the price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand makes the best HO scale train sets?
Bachmann is the most popular brand for ready-to-run HO scale train sets and dominates this roundup with seven of eight picks. Walthers Trainline is the strongest alternative, with Power-Loc nickel silver track and metal knuckle couplers. Higher-end brands like Athearn, Kato, and ScaleTrains offer superior detail but require separate track and DCC purchases.
Are Bachmann or Lionel HO scale trains better?
Bachmann and Lionel target different markets. Bachmann specializes in HO scale (1:87) ready-to-run train sets with excellent value. Lionel focuses on O gauge and larger scales with traditional three-rail track. For HO scale specifically, Bachmann is the dominant brand. For O gauge holiday layouts, Lionel is the standard. Choose based on the scale you want to model.
How much should a good HO scale train set cost?
A good entry-level HO scale train set runs between $130 and $230 in this roundup. The Thoroughbred is the lowest at $129.99 with all essentials included. Mid-range sets like the Rail Chief, Coastliner, and Chattanooga sit between $215 and $225. Premium DCC sound sets like the Echo Valley Express reach $354. Plan extra budget for additional track, buildings, and DCC controllers if you want to expand.
What should I look for in a first HO scale train set?
For a first HO scale train set, prioritize a complete ready-to-run package with locomotive, cars, track, and power pack included. Choose a recognized brand with strong warranty support (Bachmann’s Limited Lifetime Warranty is excellent). Make sure the track oval fits your intended space (36 inch for small rooms, 47×38 inch for tables). Look for plastic-body construction with metal wheels and knuckle couplers for durability.
Is it better to buy DCC or analog train sets?
Analog (DC) train sets are simpler and cheaper for beginners running a single train. DCC (Digital Command Control) lets you run multiple locomotives independently and add sound effects, which is essential for serious hobbyists. The Bachmann Echo Valley Express is the only DCC sound-equipped set in this roundup. Start with analog if you are buying a first set, then upgrade to DCC when you want to run multiple trains.
Final Verdict
After testing eight of the best HO scale train sets in 2026, the Bachmann Rail Chief 130-Piece Set remains my top pick for most readers thanks to its 4.6-star average across 1,391 reviews, complete accessory package, and unlimited expansion potential with Bachmann E-Z Track. If you want the cheapest path into HO scale, the Bachmann Thoroughbred delivers the same essential components at the lowest price in this roundup. Premium hobbyists who want DCC sound should upgrade to the Echo Valley Express. Whichever set you choose, you are entering one of the most rewarding and longest-running hobbies in the world, with thousands of compatible locomotives, cars, buildings, and track pieces to grow into over the years.