The Complete Buyer’s Guide to HO Scale Turnouts and N Scale Turnouts

 Looking for reliable HO scale turnouts and N scale turnouts? Explore this buyer’s guide covering types, sizes, wiring options, and expert tips for choosing the best model railroad switches.



When building a model railroad, nothing adds more operational realism than properly designed turnouts. Whether you’re working with HO scale turnouts or N scale turnouts, these critical track components allow trains to switch routes, enter sidings, or access yards. But with so many options on the market—different brands, frog types, and turnout sizes—choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming.

This guide will help you understand the essential differences, what to look for when buying, and how to ensure your turnouts perform reliably for years.

What Exactly Are Turnouts?

Turnouts, also called “switches,” are track sections that allow a train to move from one track to another. They consist of:

  • Points: The moving rails that direct wheels to the chosen path.

  • Frog: The section where rails cross, guiding wheel flanges through the intersection.

  • Guard Rails: Small rails that keep wheels aligned while passing through.

  • Throwbar: The mechanism that moves the points.

While they may look simple, turnouts are some of the most precise and complex components of any track system.

HO Scale Turnouts: What to Know Before You Buy

HO scale (1:87) is the most popular model train scale worldwide, meaning there’s a wide variety of turnout choices.

Key Considerations for HO Modelers

  1. Turnout Number (Geometry):

    • #4: Tight, good for yards and spurs.

    • #6: Standard for mainlines, smoother curve.

    • #8+: Gentle curves, perfect for long passenger cars and large steam locomotives.

  2. Code Compatibility:

    • Code 100: Sturdy and widely used, though less realistic.

    • Code 83: More prototypical in appearance.

    • Code 70 or 55: For fine-scale modeling.

  3. Electrical Frog Types:

    • Insulated Frog (DCC-friendly): Easier wiring but may cause stalling.

    • Powered Frog: Provides better reliability, especially for short-wheelbase locomotives.

  4. Brand Options:

    • Atlas: Affordable, easy to find, reliable.

    • Peco: Strong, spring-loaded points, great for long-term layouts.

    • Walthers/Shinohara: Realistic geometry for advanced modelers.

    • Micro Engineering: Fine detail but requires careful installation.

N Scale Turnouts: Small Size, Big Decisions

N scale (1:160) allows modelers to build expansive layouts in smaller spaces. However, smaller size means turnouts must be chosen even more carefully.

Key Considerations for N Modelers

  1. Turnout Size:

    • #4: Compact but sharp, often problematic with longer cars.

    • #6: Standard, works well with most rolling stock.

    • #7 or #8: Smooth and reliable, ideal for mainlines.

  2. Track Codes:

    • Code 80: Durable, common in starter layouts.

    • Code 55: More realistic appearance, better for modern modelers.

  3. Brand Options:

    • Atlas: A solid choice with both Code 80 and 55 options.

    • Peco N: Known for durability and positive point action.

    • Kato Unitrack: Built-in roadbed, plug-and-play reliability.

    • Micro Engineering: Fine detail, excellent for serious hobbyists.

Manual vs. Powered Turnouts

When shopping, consider how you’ll operate your turnouts.

  • Manual: Operated by hand or ground throws. Best for small layouts or budget builds.

  • Powered: Controlled via switch machines or DCC. More realistic, ideal for large or complex layouts.

  • Remote Control (DCC): Allows turnout operation directly from your throttle or control system.

DCC-Friendly Considerations

Modern layouts often run on DCC (Digital Command Control), so turnout wiring is critical.

  • Insulated Frog: Simple to wire, but some locomotives may stall.

  • Powered Frog: Requires additional wiring or a frog juicer but ensures smooth running.

  • Switch Machines with Contacts: Brands like Tortoise include built-in electrical contacts for powering frogs.

Planning Your Layout with Turnouts

When buying HO or N scale turnouts, consider layout design first:

  • Mainlines: Use larger-number turnouts (#6 and up) for smoother operations.

  • Yards: Compact #4s save space but work best with shorter rolling stock.

  • Industries: Small spurs can use sharp turnouts, as long as your locomotives and cars can handle them.

  • Crossovers: Double turnouts create passing sidings, essential for operational flexibility.

Tips for Buying the Right Turnouts

  1. Match to Rolling Stock: Long passenger cars need larger-number turnouts.

  2. Consistency Matters: Stick to one brand and track code when possible for smooth alignment.

  3. Budget Smartly: Cheaper turnouts may work fine for hidden trackage; invest in higher-quality ones for visible mainlines.

  4. Future-Proofing: If you plan to upgrade to DCC, buy DCC-friendly turnouts now.

Maintenance and Longevity

Turnouts are an investment—proper care extends their lifespan:

  • Keep Rails Clean: Dirt and oxidation can cause electrical issues.

  • Check Points Regularly: Ensure they close fully against the stock rail.

  • Ballast Carefully: Avoid gluing moving parts.

  • Lubricate Sparingly: Use plastic-safe oil on hinges if needed.

Final Thoughts

Turnouts bring realism, flexibility, and operational excitement to model railroading. Whether you’re selecting HO scale turnouts for a detailed mainline or N scale turnouts for a compact layout, the key is choosing the right size, brand, and wiring setup for your needs.

Take time to plan your layout, consider your rolling stock, and balance budget with reliability. High-quality turnouts may cost more up front, but they pay off with years of smooth operation and fewer derailments.

By understanding the options available, you’ll be equipped to build a model railroad that looks authentic and runs like a dream.

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