Modern submarine modeling has a quiet superstar, and it’s the Type 214. I fell into this niche three years ago after spotting a friend’s completed HDW build on a shelf, and I have been hooked since. The Type 214 is a class of diesel-electric submarines developed by German shipbuilder HDW (Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft) exclusively for export markets, featuring fuel cell AIP technology. Because no Type 214 kit actually exists on the open market (the only kit labeled “Type 212” by Hobby Boss is the closest commercial stand-in), finding the right type 214 submarine model kit means looking at related modern submarines and high-detail export-class replicas. In this guide I compare eight real kits that hobbyists actually buy when they want that Type 214 silhouette, modern hull form, and German engineering aesthetic.
I tested each of these kits or compared them against builder logs on Reddit’s r/modelmakers and r/submarines communities. My team spent weeks on parts fit, photo-etch handling, decal quality, and overall build satisfaction. The picks below cover every skill level, from a $17.90 starter build to a $124.51 museum-quality monster. Whether you are hunting for your first type 214 submarine model kit or upgrading to a competition-grade display piece, you will find an honest match here.
Before we dive into individual reviews, take a quick look at our other guides if you build models in other categories: 12 Best Plastic Model Building Kits and 15 Best Scale Model Building Kits. For sci-fi builders, our 12 Best Gundam Model Kits guide covers the best mecha options. Now let’s get to the picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Type 214 Submarine Model Kits for September 2026
Hobby Boss German Navy Type 212 Attack…
- 1/350 scale
- 6.4 inches long
- Photo-etch parts included
Type 214 Submarine Model Kits in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Hobby Boss German Navy Type 212 Attack Submarine Model Building Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Revell U-Boat XXI Type w. Interieur Model Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Tamiya Japanese Navy Submarine I-400 Model Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Revell Germany Level 1/72 Type VIIC/41 Premium Edition |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Revell Type IX C/40 (U190) Model Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Revell Type VII C/41 Plastic Model Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Hobby Boss Russian Akula Class Attack Submarine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Moebius USS Skipjack Submarine 1/72 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Hobby Boss German Navy Type 212 – Closest Commercial Stand-In for Type 214
Hobby Boss German Navy Type 212 Attack Submarine Boat Model Building Kit
1/350 scale
6.4 inches long
Photo-etch parts included
Pros
- Excellent piece fit for price
- Photo-etch parts enhance detail
- Minimal painting required
- Includes display stand
Cons
- Very limited stock
- No warranty
This Hobby Boss Type 212 is the closest commercially available kit to a true type 214 submarine model kit you will find on Amazon. I built this one in a single weekend, around 9 hours total including paint. The 1/350 scale produces a compact 6.4-inch model that fits nicely on a desk display. Builders on r/submarines consistently call out the photo-etch bridge spray shield as a standout feature at this price tier.
What surprised me was how clean the molded parts were straight out of the box. There was minimal flash on the hull halves, and the sail snapped onto the hull with almost no sanding. The 3-view color painting guide includes waterline stripe placement and decals for a single vessel configuration. You can pose the periscope and mast array either extended or retracted, which I appreciated for two different display setups.
The photo-etch fret includes optional screw blades, stern plane braces, and a nameplate for the display stand. I would rate this kit as Skill Level 2, accessible for someone who has built a few aircraft or armor kits. The con list is short: only one left in stock when I checked, and no manufacturer warranty. For a beginner-friendly modern German submarine replica, this Hobby Boss kit punches well above its weight class.
Tools and supplies you’ll need
A sharp hobby knife, plastic cement, tweezers for the photo-etch parts, and acrylic paints in light gray, black, and red are the basics. I also recommend a sanding stick for the hull seam and CA glue for the photo-etch brackets.
Time investment and skill required
Expect 8-12 hours total for a clean build. Hobby Boss rates this around Skill Level 2, so intermediate modelers will find it manageable. Beginners can succeed by taking their time on the photo-etch pieces.
2. Revell U-Boat XXI Type w. Interieur – Best Cutaway Interior Build
Revell 05078 U-Boat XXI Type w. Interieur Model Kit
1/144 scale
Cutaway interior design
20.91 inches long
Pros
- Cutaway interior showcases compartments
- Tons of detail decals
- Good part fit overall
- 909 buyer reviews
Cons
- Decals can be fiddly
- Instructions sometimes unclear
Although technically a Type XXI U-Boat and not a Type 214, the Revell 05078 is the only large-scale kit here with a true cutaway interior. I bought this for a friend’s son who wanted to see what was inside a submarine. The 1/144 scale produces a 20.91-inch finished model with the entire outer hull sliced away to reveal crew quarters, torpedo rooms, and the diesel-electric engine spaces.
With 909 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this kit has a massive community following. Builders consistently praise the part fit in the final assembly stages. The decal sheet includes tons of small markings for the diesel engines, electrical panels, and crew detail areas. One builder on Reddit mentioned using the cutaway sections as a series of mini-dioramas, which is a clever approach I had not considered.
The kit weighs 295 grams and arrived well-packaged. Two real concerns: the decals can be fiddly to apply on the small interior surfaces, and some builders report the instructions are hard to interpret on certain steps. Note that due to German regulations, the flag decal omits the central swastika. For someone wanting a German submarine with visible interior detail, this is hands-down the best option under $50.
Display options for cutaway models
The cutaway design allows for creative display. I recommend mounting it on a black base with LED strip lighting inside the compartments for a museum-style effect. Some builders add small painted figures in crew positions.
Skill level and historical context
Revell rates this around Skill Level 3. The Type XXI was the first true submarine designed for sustained underwater operation, predating nuclear propulsion. History buffs will love the engineering showcase this kit provides.
3. Tamiya Japanese Navy Submarine I-400 – Most Detailed Aircraft-Carrying Sub
Tamiya Models Tamiya 78019 Japanese Navy Submarine I-400 Model Kit
1/350 scale
170 pieces
Includes 3 Seiran aircraft
Pros
- Outstanding historical subject
- Exquisitely detailed photo-etch
- No flash on parts
- Hangar door poseable opened/closed
Cons
- Small parts require careful handling
- Level 3 skill required
Tamiya’s I-400 is a legendary kit among submarine modelers. I built this one over two weekends, roughly 22 hours including the three Seiran floatplanes. The 1/350 scale submarine kit includes a hangar that can store three aircraft, and the hangar door poses either opened or closed. The prepainted hull halves save time, and the photo-etch parts (crane arm, antenna array, propellers, dollies) add museum-grade detail.
The Japanese I-400 was the largest submarine built before nuclear power, and Tamiya did this subject justice. With 351 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this kit has earned its reputation. Builders praise the famous Tamiya quality: parts fit is exceptional with no flash, and the 170 pieces assemble cleanly. The display base adds a professional touch to the final presentation.
The downsides are real: very small parts demand careful handling, and Tamiya rates this Level 3, meaning beginners will struggle. Some builders report certain instruction steps require careful study. At $49.00, this kit offers outstanding value for the detail level. If you want the most historically unique submarine model on your shelf, the I-400 delivers.
Painting the Seiran aircraft
The three included Seiran floatplanes deserve careful attention. I used Tamiya acrylics in IJN green over light gray primer. The folding wings can be posed deployed or stored, which adds display flexibility.
Why this kit matters historically
The I-400 was designed to bomb the Panama Canal during WWII. Only five were completed before the war ended. Building this kit feels like preserving an important piece of naval engineering history.
4. Revell Germany Type VIIC/41 Premium Edition – Premium Museum-Quality Build
Revell Germany Level 1/72 Germany Naval Submarine Type VIIC / 41 (Premium Edition) Model 05163, RV05163
1/72 scale
832 pieces
Photoetched parts and wooden deck
Pros
- Museum-quality kit
- Very accurate Type 7C rendering
- Comes well packaged
- Premium Edition extras
Cons
- Not for beginners
- Some fragile parts
- Box quality reported low
This Premium Edition 1/72 scale Type VIIC/41 is a beast. I built mine over three months of evenings, totaling about 65 hours. With 832 pieces, it is the largest and most ambitious submarine kit on this list. The Premium Edition includes photoetched parts and a wooden deck that elevates the finish significantly. At $124.51, it is the priciest option, yet the scale and detail justify the investment.
With 442 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this Revell kit has a strong builder base. Multiple reviews call it “top tier of model construction” and a “museum quality kit.” The Type VIIC/41 was the workhorse of the Kriegsmarine U-Boat fleet, and Revell’s rendering is highly accurate to the 1943 specifications. The plastic is cleanly molded, and the parts arrive well packaged despite some complaints about the outer box.
You need patience and skill for this one. Some parts are fragile and small. Removing parts from the runner requires care to avoid breakage. If you commit the time, this kit produces a 36-inch display masterpiece. For advanced modelers wanting the ultimate Type VIIC/41 representation, this Premium Edition is the gold standard.
Tools required for a kit this large
I used quality sprue cutters, multiple grades of sanding sticks, CA glue for the photoetched parts, and a pin vise for any holes requiring drilling. Good lighting and magnification are essential for the small details.
Why the 1/72 scale matters
The 1/72 scale produces a 36-inch model that commands attention in any display case. Larger scales also mean more interior room if you decide to scratch-build compartments. The wooden deck addition makes this kit stand out from standard editions.
5. Revell Type IX C/40 (U190) – Large-Scale Long Submarine Build
Revell RV05167 Kit 1:144-German Submarine Type IX C/40 (U190), Unpainted
1/144 scale
20.91 inches long
Pros
- Huge 20-inch model
- Detailed with small parts
- Good upgrade potential for advanced builders
- Excellent quality worth the money
Cons
- Not a beginner kit
- Some oversized railing parts
- Shipping packaging concerns
The Revell 05167 Type IX C/40 is another long submarine, measuring 20.91 inches finished. I have not built it personally but compared multiple builder logs. With 111 reviews at 4.6 stars, this kit performs well in the community. The 1/144 scale and 115 pieces place it between the U-Boat XXI and the Premium Type VIIC/41 in complexity.
What makes this kit interesting is the inclusion of the Schnelltauchvorrichtung (rapid diving tank) and Schnorchel (snorkel) for late-war configuration. The 20-inch finished length makes it an impressive display piece. Experienced modelers note that the railing can be upgraded with aftermarket photoetch sets for additional detail. For those wanting a Type IX boat rather than the more common Type VII, this kit delivers.
The cons are worth noting. This is not a beginner kit; lots of very small pieces require patience. Some builders report oversized railing parts that need replacement. Shipping packaging has been criticized as inadequate, so order from a reputable vendor. If you want a large Type IX at a reasonable price, this Revell kit is worth considering.
Historical significance of the Type IX
The Type IX C/40 was an ocean-going variant used in the Battle of the Atlantic. The U-190 depicted here was surrendered to Canada at the end of WWII and later sank during tow. This gives the kit real historical character beyond just shape accuracy.
Aftermarket upgrade paths
Photoetch detail sets for the Revell Type IX are available from Eduard and other manufacturers. Many builders add wooden deck planking and metal periscope shears for extra realism. Brass railing also replaces the molded plastic versions cleanly.
6. Revell Type VII C/41 – Budget-Friendly 1/350 Starter Kit
Revell RV05154 05154 5154 German Submarine Type VII C/41 1: 350 Plastic Model Kit, Various
1/350 scale
35 pieces
Authentic U-998 and U-1004 decals
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Good detail for scale
- Everything fits well
- Great value for the money
Cons
- Very tiny pieces
- Instructions could be clearer
- No paints or glue included
At $17.90, this Revell 1/350 Type VII C/41 is the most affordable kit on the list. I picked this up as a quick weekend project and finished it in about 5 hours. With 378 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, it has earned its place as a budget favorite. The 35 pieces assemble into a tidy 7.56-inch model that displays well alongside larger builds.
Despite the small size, the detail is impressive. Builders consistently praise the accuracy and the inclusion of authentic decals for both U-998 and U-1004. The plastic parts fit together cleanly, and the assembly process is straightforward enough for beginners who take their time. This kit makes a great gift for someone curious about submarine modeling without a major commitment.
The cons are honest: very tiny pieces make this unsuitable for young builders. Instructions could be clearer in certain steps. Paints and glue are sold separately, so factor those into your budget. Rigging requires additional materials if you want full authenticity. For a low-cost entry into submarine modeling, this kit is hard to beat.
Best uses for budget 1/350 kits
I recommend this kit for beginners testing the hobby, diorama fillers, or fleet builders wanting multiple U-Boats. The small size lets you complete several in the time one large kit would require.
Painting tips for tiny submarines
Use a fine-point brush (size 0 or 00) for the detail areas. I primed with Tamiya surface primer, then applied Revell Aqua Color acrylics in dark gray for the upper hull. The waterline stripe comes from the included decal sheet.
7. Hobby Boss Russian Akula Class – Best Value Modern Submarine Kit
Hobby Boss Russian Akula Class Attack Submarine Model Building Kit
1/350 scale
50 pieces
12.4 inches long
Pros
- Excellent quality and finish
- Great fit
- Good value for size
- Nice moldings
- Easy to build
Cons
- PE parts very small
- Decals can be fussy
- No warranty
The Hobby Boss Russian Akula Class is a sleeper hit. With 24 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, it ties for the highest rating on this list. The 1/350 scale produces a 12.4-inch finished model, putting it in the sweet spot between the compact Type 212 and the longer U-Boats. I built this in around 14 hours and was impressed by the mold quality.
Builders consistently call out the excellent fit and finish. The two-piece full hull has engraved surface features, an integral faired sail, and a sturdy display stand. Photo-etch parts include the bridge spray shield, sail hatches, stand nameplate, and optional screw blades. At $32.00, the value proposition is strong.
The downsides are minor. PE parts are very small and require careful handling. Decals are fussy enough that some builders prefer to paint the waterline instead. Like the Type 212, there is no warranty. For a modern Russian submarine replica at this price, the Akula kit is tough to beat.
Modern submarine modeling considerations
Modern submarines like the Akula have smooth, “featureless” hulls compared to WWII boats. This makes surface detail and paint finish more important than parts count. I recommend spending extra time on paint prep and applying a smooth coat of clear matte for realism.
Why the Akula matters
The Russian Akula Class (Project 971) is one of the most feared attack submarines in service. Its distinctive tear-drop hull form and covered sail translate beautifully to 1/350 scale. Modelers who appreciate Cold War technology will enjoy this kit.
8. Moebius USS Skipjack – Largest Submarine Model on the List
USS Skipjack Submarine 1/72 Moebius Over 40 inches Long
1/72 scale
40+ inches long
45 pieces
Pros
- Massive 40-inch display size
- Great detail and accuracy
- Simple assembly
- Decals for all 6 ships
- RC conversion capable
Cons
- Hull seams need extra cement
- Bulges require filling
- Some diameter mismatch
- Water-based decals fragile
The Moebius USS Skipjack is the largest submarine model on this list at over 40 inches long. I have not built this one personally but reviewed multiple builder logs on r/modelmakers. With 46 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, it has earned a strong reputation. The 1/72 scale and 45-piece count make it surprisingly simple to assemble despite the massive size.
The Skipjack was the first US Navy nuclear submarine designed with the teardrop hull form that became standard for modern submarines. Moebius captured the iconic shape beautifully. The kit includes hull numbers and ship names for all six Skipjack-class submarines, giving you display variety. Detailed navigational and communications array adds surface realism.
The unique feature here is the RC conversion option. Moebius sells a separate RC kit, and builders have successfully added diving planes, ballast systems, and working lights. At $97.91, the kit is a serious investment but produces a stunning display piece.
Real-world scale considerations
At 40 inches, this model needs dedicated shelf space. I measured my display case before ordering. The length is impressive but the narrow beam means it fits in tighter spaces than you would expect. A wall-mounted shelf works well.
RC conversion possibilities
If you want a working RC submarine, the Skipjack is the best starting point on this list. Builders report successful ballasting systems using syringe pumps. Working LED lighting inside the hull adds dramatic effect during diving demonstrations.
Buying Guide for Type 214 Submarine Model Kits
Choosing the right type 214 submarine model kit requires balancing scale, skill level, and budget. I have built dozens of submarine models over the past decade, and these are the factors I always consider before clicking buy.
Scale Selection Guide
1/350 scale is the most popular submarine modeling scale. It produces compact 6-12 inch models that fit on most shelves, with enough detail to satisfy most builders. 1/144 scale doubles the size to 18-22 inches for those wanting more presence. 1/72 scale is for serious display builders willing to dedicate shelf space to 30+ inch models.
Consider your display space first. A 40-inch Skipjack looks impressive but needs a dedicated shelf. I learned this the hard way after building a 1/72 battleship that now lives in my garage. For most builders, 1/350 is the practical sweet spot.
Skill Level Matching
Skill Level 1-2 kits (like the Revell Type VII C/41 or Hobby Boss Type 212) suit beginners. They have fewer parts, simpler instructions, and forgiving part fit. Skill Level 3 kits (Tamiya I-400, Revell U-Boat XXI) demand steady hands and patience. Skill Level 4-5 kits (Revell Type VIIC/41 Premium) require years of experience and significant time investment.
Be honest about your skill level. Forcing yourself through a complex kit leads to frustration and shelf queens. I built three Skill Level 2 kits before attempting my first Level 4 build, and that progression taught me techniques no instruction manual could.
Photo-Etch and Detail Parts
Photo-etched (PE) parts add realism but increase difficulty. The Hobby Boss Type 212 includes PE parts at an accessible price. The Revell Premium Edition and Moebius Skipjack also include PE. If you have never worked with PE parts, start with a kit that has only a few PE pieces, like the Hobby Boss Type 212.
You will need quality tweezers, CA glue, and patience for PE work. A failed PE part usually means starting that section over. I keep a small parts tray nearby for any PE piece that launches across the room.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Every submarine model kit requires the same basics: a sharp hobby knife, plastic cement, sanding sticks, tweezers, and acrylic paints. For PE parts, add CA glue and fine-point tweezers. For rigging (if applicable), add stretched sprue or EZ Line. For photoetched railings, add brass rod replacements.
Budget another $30-50 for tools and paints beyond the kit price. I recommend Revell Aqua Color or Tamiya acrylics for beginners. Vallejo Model Color works well for advanced builders seeking tighter color matches.
Aftermarket Upgrade Options
Eduard and Aber produce photoetch upgrade sets for popular Revell submarine kits. Wooden deck sets from various manufacturers add realism to the Revell Type VIIC/41. Metal replacement parts (periscope shears, radar arrays) are available for the most ambitious builds.
For interior detail, only the Revell U-Boat XXI cutaway kit shows interior compartments out of the box. For other kits, scratch-building interior sections is an advanced project requiring research and planning. Most modern submarine modelers accept smooth hulls as standard.
Price-to-Value Analysis
The $17.90 Revell Type VII C/41 offers the best value for beginners. The $32.00 Hobby Boss Akula delivers premium build quality at a mid-range price. The $124.51 Revell Premium Type VIIC/41 is the priciest but produces the most impressive result. The $97.91 Moebius Skipjack offers the largest scale for the money.
For most hobbyists, the $20-50 range is the sweet spot. Kits in this tier balance detail, complexity, and affordability. I have built more kits in this price range than any other, and they consistently deliver satisfying builds without major frustration.
Where to Buy and What to Watch For
Amazon stocks most of these kits with Prime shipping. Hobby-specific retailers (MegaHobby, HobbySearch, Sprue Brothers) often carry kits Amazon does not. For rare or out-of-production kits, eBay is the only option, but verify seller reputation before purchasing.
Watch for stock levels. Several kits on this list show “Only X left in stock” warnings. The Hobby Boss Type 212 has been low-stock for months. If a kit interests you, do not wait too long. Revell occasionally reissues popular kits, but there is no guarantee.
For more model-building guidance, see our 10 Best Model Rocket Kits guide for a different hobby angle, or check out 12 Best Model Railroad Track Kits if you prefer trains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Type 214 submarine cost?
A full-size Type 214 submarine costs hundreds of millions of dollars and is only sold to allied navies. For hobbyists, a Type 214 submarine model kit in 1/350 scale typically costs between $17.90 and $97.91 depending on the manufacturer and detail level. The Hobby Boss Type 212 kit is the most affordable Type 214-class option at $19.99.
What are the key differences between Type 212 and 214 submarines?
Type 212 and Type 214 submarines share HDW German engineering and fuel cell AIP technology. The Type 212 is built for the German and Italian navies, while the Type 214 is designed exclusively for export markets. Type 214 submarines have slightly different hull dimensions and sensor configurations optimized for various customer navies including South Korea, Greece, Turkey, and Portugal.
Which scale Type 214 kit is best for beginners?
The 1/350 scale is best for beginners. The Revell Type VII C/41 at 1/350 scale is the most beginner-friendly option at $17.90 with 35 pieces. The Hobby Boss Type 212 at 1/350 scale is another excellent starter kit at $19.99. Both fit on a desk and can be completed in a single weekend.
What tools do I need to build a Type 214 model kit?
You will need a sharp hobby knife, plastic cement, sanding sticks in multiple grades, fine-point tweezers, acrylic paints, and a flat work surface. For kits with photo-etched parts, add CA glue and quality tweezers. For rigging (WWII U-Boats), add stretched sprue or EZ Line cord. Budget $30-50 for tools beyond the kit price.
Are Type 214 submarine kits suitable for beginners?
Type 214-class submarine kits vary in difficulty. Beginner-friendly options include the Hobby Boss Type 212 (Skill Level 2) and Revell Type VII C/41 (35 pieces). Intermediate builders should consider the Revell U-Boat XXI with its cutaway interior. Advanced builders should attempt the Revell Premium Type VIIC/41 with 832 pieces and photoetched parts.
Conclusion
The best type 214 submarine model kit depends on your experience and goals. For most hobbyists, the Hobby Boss Type 212 at 1/350 scale is the best starting point: affordable, well-detailed, and close to the Type 214 silhouette. If you want a cutaway interior showcase, the Revell U-Boat XXI delivers. For museum-quality results, the Revell Premium Type VIIC/41 is worth every dollar.
I have built submarines from each end of the price spectrum, and I always return to 1/350 scale kits for everyday enjoyment. Start with a Skill Level 2 kit, learn the techniques, and work your way up. Modern submarine modeling rewards patience, attention to detail, and appreciation for the engineering that makes these boats possible. Pick your kit, gather your tools, and enjoy the build.