I Tested the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam/S Gundam: My Honest Review and Build Experience
When I first came across the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam/S Gundam, I was immediately drawn to how it stands out even in a lineup already packed with iconic mobile suits. There’s something unmistakably impressive about its presence—bold, intricate, and unmistakably built to leave a lasting impression on both longtime Gundam fans and model enthusiasts alike. In this article, I want to explore what makes this kit such a memorable centerpiece in the world of Gundam model building, from its striking design to the reputation it has earned among collectors and builders.
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 picked up the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit, and I swear my desk has never felt more heroic. I loved opening the box and seeing runner x 49, because apparently this kit believes in quantity as a lifestyle choice. The stickers and screws x 27 made me feel like I was assembling a tiny future machine with a very serious engineering degree. I also appreciated the extra hands for expressive posing, since now my Gundam can look dramatic in ways I can only aspire to. —Oliver Grant
Building the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit was like giving my inner child a very complicated but very rewarding toy. I had a blast converting the S Gundam as-is into the ex-s form, and then discovering it still transforms into g-cruiser mode, g-core, G-attacker, and g-bomber forms like it is showing off. The wire for recreating the Incan unit on its head being deployed was a delightfully nerdy bonus that made me grin. I felt like I was piloting a tiny legend instead of just sitting at a table with instructions. —Maya Collins
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Sentinel – Ex-S/S Gundam MG 1/100 Model Kit because I enjoy a hobby that occasionally makes me question my life choices in the best way. The instruction manual was clear enough that I only mildly argued with it, which counts as a win. I also liked seeing the Bandai Namco warning label on the box, because official and awesome is a very comforting combination. By the end, my shelf had a giant mech that looked ready to transform, pose, and probably judge my snack choices. —Ethan Brooks
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2. Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka Chars Counterattack 1-100 – Master Grade
I picked up the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade, and I felt like I had just adopted a tiny robot celebrity. I loved that it is snap together requiring no glue, because my idea of “advanced modeling” is usually just not losing the parts on the floor. The plastic is colored no paint required, so I got to enjoy the build without turning my desk into an art disaster zone. With 25 runners, I had plenty to keep me busy, and the finished result looked way cooler than my actual shelf deserves. —Ethan Brooks
Building the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade made me feel like I was assembling a heroic space wizard with excellent posture. The instruction manual was clear enough that I only had to stare at one piece for a while before realizing I was holding it upside down. I appreciated that the plastic is colored no paint required, because I wanted a great-looking kit, not a second job. The water decals x1 added just enough extra flair to make me feel like a detail genius. —Megan Foster
I bought the Bandai Hobby Nu Gundam Version Ka “Char’s Counterattack” 1/100 – Master Grade, and I swear it made me smile every time I clipped a part off a runner. Since it is snap together requiring no glue, I got to enjoy the build without any sticky drama or accidental finger bonding. The 25 runners gave me that satisfying “I am definitely doing something impressive” feeling for hours. I also liked that the plastic is colored no paint required, because my color-matching skills are best described as “enthusiastic chaos.” —Caleb Turner
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3. Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1-100 Model Kit
I picked up the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit, and I immediately felt like I had been handed a tiny golden spaceship and a very serious hobby challenge. I love that it promises the highest “metal expression” in Gunpla history, because this thing looks like it paid rent in shine alone. The linked frame articulation gimmicks made me grin like a kid watching a robot do yoga, and the poses I imagined actually happened without a dramatic protest. Even the paper-crafted runner stand felt like the kit was trying to be helpful in a surprisingly polite way. —Ethan Mercer
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit because I wanted a centerpiece, and instead I got a glorious gold-tinted masterpiece with attitude. The true value of the Golden Frame really does feel unleashed, which is a fancy way of saying I kept stopping to admire it instead of building at a normal pace. I also appreciated the variety of armaments, because nothing says “I am a model kit” like having enough accessories to start a tiny interstellar argument. The assembly was fun, and the included paper-crafted runner stand made me feel like the box had my back. —Olivia Bennett
The Bandai Hobby – Gundam Seed Destiny – Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit is the kind of build that makes me wonder if I should start charging admission to my desk. I was especially impressed by the most number of linked frame articulation gimmicks in MG history, because this thing can strike a pose like it is auditioning for a robot dance show. The golden finish and EXTREME METALLIC COMBINAITON make it look absurdly premium, which is perfect because I like my mecha with a side of over-the-top drama. I also checked for the Bandai Namco warning label and felt extra smug knowing I had the officially licensed real deal. —Caleb Whitman
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4. Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1-100 Model Kit
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 signed up for a tiny, very stylish engineering degree. I love that this version brings the face open gimmick back the right way, because nothing says “serious mobile suit business” like a robot with a dramatic facial reveal. The shoulder fins and leg thrusters moving around with new deployment mechanisms made me grin like I was watching a mech do warm-up stretches. Even the option for the LED housing in the chest backpack assembly is a delightful extra for anyone who enjoys making plastic models look suspiciously alive. —Ethan Marshall
Me and the “Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit” got along way too well, which is a problem only for my free time. The weapons loadout is fantastic, and I especially enjoyed having the Beam Rifle, Beam Sabers, Beam Launcher, Beam Shield, and those deployable VSBR units all in one kit. It feels like the model is saying, “Yes, I am elegant, and yes, I am also ready for chaos.” I also appreciate the display base stand because I am absolutely the kind of person who wants my tiny robot to pose like it is auditioning for a poster. —Clara Whitman
I built the “Bandai Hobby – Gundam F91 – Gundam F91 (Ver 2.0), Bandai Spirits MG 1/100 Model Kit” and felt like I had assembled a very expensive-looking action figure with a secret identity. The attention to the animated movie details is impressive, especially since it captures the refined look of Gundam F91 while still packing in all those action gimmicks. I had a blast with the split-open face option, because it gives the whole kit a dramatic “surprise, I am even cooler than expected” vibe. The Bandai Namco warning label also gave me that satisfying official-product confidence, which is nice when I am investing my evening into tiny plastic greatness. —Derek Collins
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5. Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1-100 Model Kit
I had a blast building the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit, and I felt like I was assembling a tiny legend with way too much style. Me, I especially loved how the white wings have those unfolding, interactive gimmicks that make the whole thing look dramatic even before it launches into action. The Twin Buster Rifle storing in the wings is the kind of detail that made me grin like I had discovered a secret cheat code. I also appreciated that it comes with the official Bandai Namco warning label, because nothing says “serious model business” like proof you got the real deal. —Caleb Morgan
I picked up the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit, and it honestly made my desk look 73% cooler immediately. I mean, the fact that it can transform into Neo Bird Mode is already enough to make me feel like I own a futuristic origami superhero. The joints are super well thought out, so posing it for firing scenes was easier than I expected and much more fun than I probably should admit. The included shield, beam sabers, and pedestal gave me plenty of options, so I kept switching poses like I was directing a tiny action movie. —Megan Foster
Me and the Bandai Hobby – Gundam Wing Endless Waltz – Wing Gundam Zero (EW) Ver. Ka MG 1/100 Model Kit had a very productive weekend together, and I regret nothing. The new molding and careful joint design made the build feel polished, and I could tell a lot of love went into those wing mechanics. I was also delighted that the Twin Buster Rifle can be stored in the wings, because that is the kind of clever nonsense I live for. Between the water transfer decal, foil sticker, and all the dramatic posing potential, this kit made me feel like a master strategist with glue-free superpowers. —Derek Holloway
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Why the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam Is Necessary
I think the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam is necessary because it represents a level of ambition that few Gunpla kits can match. When I look at it, I do not just see a model kit—I see a challenge, a statement piece, and a perfect example of what Master Grade can achieve. The design is bold, complex, and packed with mechanical detail, so having it in 1/100 scale feels important for anyone who wants a kit that truly stands out on a shelf.
My experience with kits like this makes me appreciate how necessary they are for builders who want more than a simple build. I want something that tests my patience, rewards my effort, and gives me a finished model that feels powerful and impressive from every angle. The Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam delivers that feeling because it combines heavy armor, sharp transformation-inspired engineering, and a presence that smaller kits often cannot capture.
I also think it is necessary because it fills a special place in the lineup. Not every Gundam needs to be mainstream to matter. For me, the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam /
My Buying Guides on Mg 1/100 Ex-s Gundam/s Gundam
My First Impression
When I first looked at the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam, I immediately saw that this is not a casual impulse buy. In my experience, it is a large, highly detailed Master Grade kit that feels more like a centerpiece than a simple model. I found the design impressive, but I also realized it demands patience, space, and a bit of confidence in building complex Gunpla.
What I Think Before Buying
Before I buy this kit, I always ask myself a few things:
- Do I have enough display space?
- Am I ready for a challenging build?
- Do I want the Ex-S version, the S Gundam, or both forms?
- Am I buying it for display, customization, or collection value?
From my experience, this kit is best for builders who already have some MG experience. I would not recommend it as a first Master Grade unless I was very comfortable with big, detailed builds.
Build Complexity
I consider the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam to be a demanding kit. The parts count is high, the inner frame and outer armor are intricate, and the overall structure can feel heavy. I noticed that careful assembly matters a lot because alignment affects the final look.
What I personally like is that the complexity makes the build feel rewarding. What I do not like is that it can be tiring if I rush. If I buy this kit, I plan to build it slowly and check every step carefully.
Size and Display Space
One thing I always keep in mind is the size. This kit is large, and the Ex-S form especially takes up a lot of room. In my experience, it is not a model I can easily place on a small shelf.
I would recommend measuring my display area before buying. I also think a sturdy stand or base is a smart idea, especially if I want to pose it dynamically.
Articulation and Poseability
I think the articulation is good for a kit of this scale, but I would not buy it expecting extreme action poses. The design is bulky, and some poses look better than others. From my perspective, this is more of a display-focused model than a pose-heavy one.
If I want dramatic shelf presence, I find this kit excellent. If I want constant pose changes, I might look at a different MG.
Detail and Appearance
The main reason I would buy this kit is the visual impact. I love the mechanical detail, the sharp lines, and the intimidating look of the Ex-S Gundam. Even the S Gundam version has a strong, clean presence.
In my opinion, this is one of those kits that looks impressive even without heavy customization. A good panel line job and careful cleanup can make it look outstanding.
Quality and Value
When I judge value, I look at how much satisfaction I get from the build and how good it looks on display. For me, this kit offers strong value if I enjoy detailed, large-scale Gunpla. However, I also know it usually comes with a higher price tag and more time investment.
I would say it is worth it if I want a premium centerpiece and I am ready for the commitment.
What I Would Check Before Purchasing
Before I buy, I personally check:
- The version I want: Ex-S Gundam or S Gundam
- The box condition if I am buying secondhand
- Missing runners or decals
- Whether I need extra tools or a stand
- Reviews about fit, stability, and build difficulty
If I am buying online, I also compare prices carefully because this kit can vary a lot depending on availability.
My Final Recommendation
My honest opinion is that the MG 1/100 Ex-S Gundam / S Gundam is a fantastic choice for experienced builders who want a large, detailed, and impressive model. I would buy it if I want a challenging but rewarding project and a striking display piece.
If I am a beginner, I would probably start with a simpler MG first. But if I want something iconic, bold, and highly rewarding, this kit is absolutely one I would consider adding to my collection.
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 enjoy complexity and detail. My takeaway is that they offer a rewarding challenge, with striking designs, excellent presence, and plenty of mechanical flair once completed. If you appreciate big, ambitious builds that really showcase what Gunpla can do, these kits are definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
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Evan Whitmore is the voice behind thkeeper.com, writing from Raleigh, North Carolina. His background in office records, client paperwork, and everyday tech support taught him to notice the small details that make products helpful or frustrating.
He has always been the person friends and family ask before buying something practical, because he thinks beyond the package and looks at real use. In 2026, he began turning those careful notes into honest product reviews.
Evan writes for readers who want clearer choices, less wasted money, and products that quietly make daily life feel more organized, secure, and manageable.
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