Z Scale Trains

From the trains on the rails to the smallest details beside them, explore the different parts of the Trainz Z Scale selection:

Z Scale model trains are built around a 1:220 modeling ratio and run on 6.5mm gauge track. That tiny size is more than a novelty—it changes what is possible when planning a model railroad. Longer runs, sweeping scenery, towns, industries, yards, and multiple destinations can all fit into spaces that would be much more restrictive in a larger scale.

Z Scale can work for a compact railroad where space is the priority, but it can be equally impressive when given more room. Instead of simply making the layout smaller, the scale can be used to make the railroad itself feel larger.

Z Scale railroading reaches well beyond the locomotive categories with dedicated pages. Along with steam and diesel power, Z Scale can include electric locomotives representing equipment from European and other electrified railways. Freight cars, passenger cars, train sets, and other rolling stock make it possible to model many different types of railroad operation in 1:220.

The international side of the hobby is particularly important in Z Scale. Marklin has played a major role in Z Scale railroading, while Micro-Trains is another important name for Z Scale equipment. Trainz inventory can span different manufacturers, railroad eras, road names, and regions rather than being limited to one style of 1:220 modeling.

Locomotives and rolling stock may get the attention, but a working Z Scale railroad also depends on track, power, control, and maintenance. Inventory can include transformers, power supplies, controllers, control equipment, track components, replacement parts, and other items used to operate or maintain a Z Scale railroad.

Compatibility matters when working with equipment from different manufacturers or generations. Track systems can vary in rail code, geometry, connectors, and design, while power and control requirements can differ between locomotives and systems. When adding to an existing railroad, matching the new piece to the equipment you already own is more important than simply seeing “Z Scale” on the box.

One of Z Scale's greatest strengths is the amount of scenery and environment that can surround the railroad. Buildings can establish towns and industries, figures and vehicles add activity, and trees, roads, signals, lights, freight loads, and other accessories help connect one scene to the next.

That extra visual space can make trains appear to travel farther between destinations. Instead of having a station immediately beside an industry or town, Z Scale gives modelers more opportunity to create separation and make a compact layout feel like a much longer journey.

Decades of Z Scale production have left behind locomotives, cars, sets, track, structures, parts, and accessories that may no longer be produced. For someone completing an older train, matching a discontinued road name, expanding an established layout, or simply collecting earlier Z Scale models, those older pieces can be every bit as important as current releases.

Trainz buys pre-owned model train collections, so the Z Scale selection can change as collections arrive. Alongside newer products, shoppers may find used trains, vintage equipment, discontinued releases, new old stock, assorted lots, replacement parts, and hard-to-find pieces from earlier generations of Z Scale railroading.

If you have Z Scale trains or a larger model railroad collection you're ready to sell, Trainz buys qualifying collections that can include locomotives, rolling stock, train sets, track, controls, parts, buildings, scenery, accessories, Marklin, Micro-Trains, and other Z Scale equipment. Learn how to get started with Sell My Trains.

What scale are Z Scale trains?

Z Scale model trains are typically built to a 1:220 modeling ratio and operate on 6.5mm gauge track.

How small are Z Scale trains?

Z Scale is one of the smallest established model railroad scales. Its compact size allows longer trains and more railroad to fit into relatively small spaces.

Is Z Scale good for a small layout?

Yes. Space efficiency is one of Z Scale's biggest advantages, making it possible to build a complete railroad in an area that may be restrictive for larger scales.

What types of Z Scale trains are available?

Z Scale can include steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, train sets, and other rolling stock, along with track, controls, parts, structures, scenery, and accessories.

Who makes Z Scale trains?

Marklin and Micro-Trains are two important names in Z Scale, with other manufacturers also producing 1:220 locomotives, rolling stock, track, structures, and accessories.

What gauge track does Z Scale use?

Z Scale uses 6.5mm gauge track. Track can be produced with different rail codes and system designs, so pieces from different manufacturers are not necessarily directly interchangeable.

Are Z Scale trains only European?

No. European and German railroading are important parts of Z Scale, but American and other railroad prototypes are also available in 1:220.

Can I find vintage or discontinued Z Scale trains?

Yes. Trainz's changing pre-owned inventory can include used, vintage, discontinued, new old stock, and hard-to-find Z Scale trains and equipment.