Best Hobby Train Diesel Locomotives of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Hobby train diesel locomotives are a popular choice for model train enthusiasts. These miniature versions of the powerful vehicles used to transport goods and passengers across the country offer a unique and exciting addition to any train collection. Built with intricate detail and realistic features, hobby train diesel locomotives are available in a variety of scales and designs, from classic steam engines to modern freight trains. With the ability to be customized and upgraded, these locomotives allow for endless possibilities for hobbyists to create their own unique train layouts and scenarios.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model EMD GP15-1 - CSX Cover #TOP 1
Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model EMD GP15-1 - CSX
ftb score rating icon 9.9
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - N Scale Cover #TOP 2
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - N Scale
ftb score rating icon 9.8
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive by Bachmann Cover #TOP 3
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive by Bachmann
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Hobby Train Diesel Locomotives

#TOP 1

Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model EMD GP15-1 - CSX

931-2503
Emd Gp15-1 - Csx
Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model EMD GP15-1 - CSX Cover
Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model EMD GP15-1 - Standard DC - CSX (YN3; Blue, Yellow, White

The Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model is a hobby grade product that offers an authentic and realistic experience for train enthusiasts. With its heavy die-cast metal frame, this model provides added pulling power, allowing it to handle even the toughest terrains. The all-wheel drive and electrical pick-up ensure smooth and reliable operation, while the body-mounted magnetic knuckle couplers make it easy to connect and disconnect cars. Equipped with Rp-25 metal wheels, this model delivers excellent performance on the tracks. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, the Walthers Trainline HO Scale Model is a great addition to any train collection.

What We Like
Authentic
Reliable
Durable
#TOP 2

EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - N Scale

63563
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - N Scale Cover
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive SANTA FE #3808 (blue & yellow) (with dynamic brakes) - N Scale

The EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive in N Scale is a great addition to your hobby train collection. It features operating directional dimming headlights, all-wheel electrical pickup and drive, a skew wound motor with bronze bearings, and a die-cast chassis. The locomotive performs best on 11.25" radius curves or greater and has a scale of 1:160.

What We Like
Realistic operating directional dimming headlights
All-wheel electrical pickup and drive for smooth operation
Skew wound motor with bronze bearings for durability
#TOP 3

EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive by Bachmann

63562
Prototypical Yellow
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive by Bachmann Cover
EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive UNION PACIFIC® #508 (without dynamic brakes) - N Scale

The Bachmann EMD GP40 is designed for a smooth and reliable operation, perfect for your N scale model train setups. It features directional headlights that dim according to the direction of travel, enhancing realism during operation. With all-wheel electrical pickup and drive, you can expect consistent power delivery, ensuring your locomotive runs smoothly on the tracks. The skew wound motor with bronze bearings provides durability and efficiency, allowing for quieter and longer-lasting performance. Additionally, this model performs best on curves with a radius of at least 11.25 inches, making it a great addition to your layout.

What We Like
Directional dimming headlights
Smooth all-wheel drive
Durable motor design
Best on larger curves
#TOP 4

Walthers Trainline EMD HO Scale GP9M Ready-to-Run Sante Fe

931-103
Emd Gp9m Sante Fe
Walthers Trainline EMD HO Scale GP9M Ready-to-Run Sante Fe Cover
Walthers Trainline EMD HO Scale GP9M Ready-to-Run Sante Fe, unisex-children

The Walthers Trainline EMD HO Scale GP9M is a hobby grade product that is ready to run and features dual fly wheels, knuckle couplers, and 1:87 HO scale model. It is made of quality construction and securely packed for protection during shipping. Users are advised to handle with care when removing from the package to avoid breakage.

What We Like
Ready to run
Quality construction and features
Securely packed for protection during shipping
#TOP 5

Walthers Trainline GP9M Burlington Northern #1709

Walthers Trainline GP9M Burlington Northern #1709 Cover
Walthers Trainline EMD GP9M Standard DC Burlington Northern #1709 Collectable Train

The Walthers GP9M Train is a collectible model that measures approximately 4.3 cm in length, 11.9 cm in width, and 25.7 cm in height, making it a great addition to your hobby train collection. This standard DC locomotive is designed for enthusiasts who appreciate quality and detail. The compact size allows for easy display or integration into existing layouts, providing versatility for your train setup. Manufactured in China, this product comes as a single unit, ensuring you receive a complete piece without the hassle of additional purchases.

What We Like
Compact size for easy display
High-quality collectible model
Single unit packaging
Versatile for train setups
#TOP 6

Hallmark 1950 Santa Fe F3 Locomotive

QX6145
Multicolor
Hallmark 1950 Santa Fe F3 Locomotive Cover
1997 Hallmark 1950 Santa Fe F3 Diesel Locomotive

The Hallmark Santa Fe Locomotive is a delightful 1997 ornament that showcases the classic 1950 Santa Fe F3 Diesel design. As the second installment in the Lionel Train Series, it adds charm to any collection. The locomotive measures 4 inches in length, making it a perfect size for display on a shelf or in a train-themed setting. Additionally, it arrives with its original box and packing materials, ensuring that it remains protected and can be stored easily when not in use. Although the box shows slight shelf wear, this does not detract from the beauty of the ornament itself.

What We Like
Collectible Lionel Train Series
Original box included
Compact 4-inch size
Slight shelf wear
#TOP 7

Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive

60312
Prototypical Colors
Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive Cover
Bachmann Trains - EMD GP40 - DCC Equipped Diesel Locomotive - Southern Pacific™ #3086 (Speed Lettering) - HO Scale

The Bachmann EMD GP40 is a DCC-equipped diesel locomotive that enhances your model train experience. With its ability to control speed, direction, and lighting, you can easily customize your setup for a more dynamic operation. The locomotive features intricately painted bodies and precision graphics, ensuring it looks great on display or in motion. Its all-wheel drive and precision can motor provide smooth and reliable performance, making it a joy to run. Additionally, the dual flywheels improve stability during operation, giving you a seamless experience on your tracks.

What We Like
DCC equipped for easy control
Detailed and realistic design
Smooth and reliable performance
Stable operation with dual flywheels
#TOP 8

Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive

60315
Prototypical Colors
Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive Cover
Bachmann Trains - EMD GP40 - DCC Equipped Diesel Locomotive - CN #4011 - HO Scale

The Bachmann EMD GP40 is a DCC-equipped diesel locomotive that enhances your model train experience. With its ability to control speed, direction, and lighting, you can easily customize your train's operation. The locomotive features a highly detailed painted body, ensuring it looks great on your layout. Its all-wheel drive and precision can motor provide reliable performance, allowing for smooth operation on your tracks. Additionally, the dual precision-balanced flywheels contribute to better stability and control, making it easier for you to enjoy your hobby.

What We Like
DCC equipped for easy control
Highly detailed design
Smooth and reliable performance
Stability with balanced flywheels
#TOP 9

Bachmann Trains EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive

63570
Green
Bachmann Trains EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive Cover
Bachmann Trains - EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - MKT™ #231 (with Dynamic Brakes) - N Scale

The Bachmann Trains EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive, also known as the Bachmann Diesel Locomotive, is a highly detailed model that is perfect for hobby train enthusiasts. It features operating directional dimming headlights, which adds a touch of realism to your train setup. With all-wheel electrical pickup and drive, this locomotive ensures smooth and reliable performance on the tracks. The skew wound motor with bronze bearings and die-cast chassis contribute to its durability and sturdiness. The Bachmann Diesel Locomotive performs best on 11.25" radius curves or greater, allowing for flexible track layouts. With its N Scale 1:160 size, this locomotive is a great addition to any N scale train collection.

What We Like
Highly detailed model
Operating directional headlights
All-wheel electrical pickup and drive
#TOP 10

Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive

63566
Prototypical Colors
Bachmann EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive Cover
Bachmann Trains - EMD GP40 Diesel Locomotive - Conrail #3056 (with Dynamic Brakes) - N Scale

The Bachmann GP40 Diesel is a highly detailed model designed for hobbyists who appreciate realism in their setups. It features directional headlights that dim according to your train's movement, enhancing the visual experience. The all-wheel electrical pickup ensures smooth operation, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted runs. With a skew wound motor and durable bronze bearings, you can expect reliable performance, while the die-cast chassis adds stability. This model performs optimally on curves of 11.25 inches or more, making it a great choice for diverse track layouts.

What We Like
Highly detailed design
Smooth operation
Durable construction
Optimized for larger curves
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a toilet on a diesel locomotive?

Most diesel locomotives have a toilet onboard. However, older yard switchers may not have this facility.

2. What will replace diesel trains?

The decision has been made to replace diesel trains with battery trains. As trains reach the end of their economic life, they will be replaced with more environmentally friendly battery-powered trains. These new trains will be used on non-electrified lines during the transition.

3. How much does a modern diesel locomotive cost?

The price of a brand-new main line diesel-electric locomotive can be quite high, around $3 million each.

4. Do train toilets dump on the tracks?

Modern trains do not dump waste onto the tracks. However, older trains used a hopper toilet system that would deposit waste on the tracks. Nowadays, trains have more advanced toilets that collect waste in holding tanks.

5. How are train toilets emptied?

Train toilets on newer carriages use vacuum systems similar to those found in airplanes. Waste is pulled into a holding tank using a high-pressure pump.

6. Which is better, hydrogen train or diesel train?

Hydrogen trains are considered more energy-efficient compared to diesel trains. Hydrogen fuel cell technology has a higher energy conversion efficiency of 50-60%, while diesel engines have lower efficiency. Hydrogen trains also have regenerative braking systems, further contributing to their overall energy efficiency.

Editor's Notes

During our hobby train diesel locomotive research, we found 24 hobby train diesel locomotive products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,899 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hobby train diesel locomotives list. We found that most customers choose hobby train diesel locomotives with an average price of $108.64.

The hobby train diesel locomotives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hobby train diesel locomotives, including Walthers, Bachmann, Walthers Trainline, Hallmark. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.