Sets vs. Layouts

In a previous post today, I discussed the difference between Model Railroads, Model Trains, and Toy Trains.

An article from Britain reminds me that I'd also like to tackle the difference between a train set and a train layout.

A train set is a collection of trains; it could be one singular box that holds an engine, railway cars, a power-pack, track, and even a few buildings - everything one could need to begin building a layout.

A model train layout is the collection, turned-into a model world. You could say that it's the "finished" product, and greater than the sum of it's parts, even though most modelers will tell you that there is no "finished" model railroad. No more so than a "finished" prototype city. Things change, new models are released, new techniques are created or discovered, and a modeler may go back and change something that he had previously completed on his layout.

Want a more graphic example?

Train Set














Model Train Layout
(work in progress)

Both use N scale equipment, but only a layout actually incorporates the equipment into a world that you yourself created.