What is the best Lego train control system?
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- Опубліковано 27 чер 2024
- I've been planning this video since last year, once I got going it took a few weeks to complete. I've seen people ask which system they should use to control Lego trains and it's quite a question to answer. I wanted to present as much info as possible so Lego train fans can make the best informed decision. Like I said in the video I could not have done this without help from all the creators listed below. Be sure to check them out!
Links (in order of appearance or mention)
-- intro --
@Reker1million
Lego 12v train layout #12- part 2: 7730, 7745, 7755
• Lego 12v train layout ...
-- 9v Trains --
@FxBricks
FXBricks visits Norway
• Fx Bricks visits Norway!
Power Station Technology Preview
• Fx Bricks - Power Stat...
@AustrianBrickFan's interview with Michael Gale
• LEGO compatible FX Bri...
Lego DCC
lgauge.com/article.php?articl...
@BrickTsar's Tons of Tipper Trucks
• 1493 LEGO Sets Train R...
@almightyarjen's Automated Coal Terminal
• HUGE Lego train coal t...
@danielrepond3959's Swedish Iron Ore Train with Dm3
• Part 1: Swedish Iron O...
www.eurobricks.com/forum/inde...
Music by Henrik Kildahl
My video upgrading the 9v Train Speed Regulator
• Upgrading Lego 9v Trai...
-- RC Trains --
@BrickTsar's 7897 ICE Passenger Train review
• LEGO City 7897 ICE Pas...
@leggomyjameso6082's 7898 Cargo Train Deluxe review
• One of the FIRST Lego ...
-- PF Trains --
@BrickTsar's Double Crossover switch track review
• LEGO City Train 7996 D...
@bananenbuurman - The Awesome LEGO Train Set Layout
• The Awesome LEGO Train...
@eggybricks - solving the LEGO city train problem (no room for loops!)
• solving the LEGO city ...
My video on controlling multiple PU trains at once
• Controlling Multiple L...
My video on controlling trains from a PC (Brick Automation Project)
• Controlling Lego Train...
@novakasa5011 Brickrail LEGO train automation - Alpha release trailer
• Brickrail LEGO train a...
Github Page
github.com/Novakasa/brickrail...
Eurobricks discussion
www.eurobricks.com/forum/inde...
My ridiculous train layout video
• Take a ride through a ...
Music
Chill Synthwave - Sunshine Karl Casey @WhiteBatAudio
• Chill Synthwave - Suns...
Search 'n' Rescue by my favorite slug @RRSlugger
• Search 'n' Rescue ~ Or...
Untitled track for Daniel Reponds 9v layout by Henrik Kildahl
Music: "Sandviken Stradivarius, Starmachine2000, Valentine" by Wintergatan
These tracks can be downloaded for free at www.wintergatan.net
Free License to use these tracks in your video can be downloaded at www.wintergatan.net
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LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Group of companies which does not sponsor, authorize or endorse this content
00:00 Intro
01:38 9v Train system
05:43 RC Train system
06:08 Power Functions system
08:22 Powered Up system
11:47 Conclusion - Наука та технологія
I must say this is the best 15 second video I ever saw.
Ok, My wife. That was longer than 15 seconds.
The ad i got was 20 sec 💀
Well.. its actually the 4.5V system... ohh.. aa best. Not worse
And most informational
Trains are a pathway to many abilities that some consider to be unnatural
Is it possible to learn this power?
@@BatteryPoweredBricks not from a Jedi.
I was in my local used LEGO store recently and saw a 12v power system that had been modified by a previous owner to have an American style plug in. Crazy the lengths folks will go to in order to use that system! 😱
(We didn't plug it in to test it - it honestly looked pretty sketchy, haha)
Ha! I've modified the 9v train controllers to supply 12v (mostly for pneumatic compressors) but I really want a 12v train motor to test it out 😁. Tell them to send it to me, after working on Pinball machines and arcade monitors no amount of sketch will scare me 😂. Also thanks for allowing the use of your song in this, it's really easy to loop cleanly 😁. Some songs are a real pain!
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Of course! This video is great - love the humour and presentation! I'll admit that motor functions in LEGO aren't really the most interesting aspect of the hobby to me, but you present it well; it's really cool seeing the pros and cons of each train system here!
I'll be sure to share this one around. 😊
Thanks! I even snuck in a prequel meme... twice 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks This is getting out of hand - Now there are two of them!
We should not have made this bargain!
I grew up with 9Volt. A buddy of mine had the older 12Volt system with the middle contact and all these fancy accessories. But it always had contact issues while we played with it as kids. So we played mine very very often, made crashed, handled it pretty rough. But it withstands and I still have it. Only one cable broke, and was available for cheap. Now I have a son, he is 7 years old, and he still can play with it.
The Duplo control system is one of my favourites.
Not to forget, the 9V controller can control ANYTHING you connect to it. I have seen those controlling motors on Great Ball Contraption Models and it worked extremely good because they could control the speed of the motors like they want and even let them run backwards when necessary.
For sure! I have a playlist of videos on the 9v train speed regulator and mods 😅
It’s just a shame that Lego doesn’t sell steam locomotives anymore.
They’re releasing one later this year, Lego Ideas Orient Express
@@CookieChook Sweet, I hope they sell real life based ones like big boy though.
No it's not, because LEGO's own train models are atrocious. It's companies like BlueBrixx and COBI which show how brick trains are supposed to be built, especially if you zoom in at the 8 wide models only because they're vastly superior in terms of scale and detail level. LEGO produces children's toys while BlueBrixx' enormous offering of trains rivals the catalogs of companies like Märklin. Even LEGO's massive display model of the Hogwarts Express isn;t very good when compared with the absolute work of art that the COBI BR 52 is. Wich actually runs out of the box on larger radius tracks and can be converted to run on R56 curves without sacrificing the aesthetics.
@@classicallpvault8251 man, talk about lack of effort and laziness am I right?
@@classicallpvault8251 Actually, while you are mostly right about that, do not forget LEGO 10194 Emerald Night. In my opinion thats realy a nice steam train - the best lego ever made. Of course it costs a fortune...
This was great! I do appreciate you going into the pros and cons of each system and not actually just saying 9v is the best byeeeee (though that was a hilarious bit). When I was really getting into making train MOCs, I had decide what system to invest in and I chose PU since it was still available and not super costly like 9v.
Really have enjoyed your videos recently and this one was a great one with lots of information and humor. Looking forward to more from you!
Thanks so much! This video was a ton of work, and left me a bit burned out by the end of it 😅. I want to try to make an in-depth scripted video like this every month or so, I think that's the most I could commit to 😁
The only problem I have with powered up is that it drains the batteries very quickly. However, I like how it can be used in a wide variety of different locomotives. I mainly use 8-wide locomotives instead of the 6-wide Lego models because 8-wide allows me to better proportion my locomotives with minifigures.
I've definitely heard that complaint, I typically need enough battery just to make a video so they work well for me. There are DIY rechargeable solutions and the pricey Key Brick option. For anyone looking for long running sessions powered rails seems to be the way to go. Hopefully Fx Bricks can help with that 🙏
I recently found a temporary solution. See I work on a ferry and we just had to change all 200 lifevest lights because they expired. However they were never used and While playing with it I found out they contain just two simple varta professional AAA batteries.... So now I am riding through a shoebox with 400 free aaa batteries
If I could, I would rebuild all of my existing Lego trains with Soundtraxx BluNami Bluetooth dcc
The lego train systems from the 80's / 90's is where it's at. I'm thinking the 80's 12v system was the pinnacle. I have a lot (huge amount) of the Power Functions system. As you point out the RC signal can be easily disrupted by sunlight, fluro light and obstacles. But to me it was this era when it felt like Lego didn't take model trains seriously. The tracks available were bare bones if you wanted to make a serious layout. I found the battery compartment were quite picky which batteries you used, especially in the way the 'positive' nipple sat in the battery pack. Anyway I don't look at Lego stuff on UA-cam any more after I had legal threats from very nasty lawyers. It seems lego are very particular in how they let show off their amazing toys
I have heard Lego can be a very litigious company. It's really sad to see them attacking their biggest fans / communities. I'm working on building up my 12v supply, I have everything but motors / trains and many of the electronic accessories. It's pretty expensive to acquire here in the US. I do have a fair bit of 9v though and thoroughly enjoy running them 😁
@@BatteryPoweredBricks The Lego lawyers who had a good go at me were based in New York, I have a string of legal letters from them. They clearly outlined what they see has harmful to the Lego brand. My conflict was over copyright as they claimed I used parts of the Lego Ninjago animated series even though I always use totally self generated video. I requested from them timestamps of the offending video yet they couldn't supply any. It was the earlier days of the content ID system. I saw their interaction with me as a warning shot fired over my shoulder. Basically back off as your not part of the club. Their actions against my content caused me losses and I never received an apology. Lawyers never say sorry because that would implicate blame. From that time on I have ignored Lego and I ended up becoming a huge toy review channel.
I had a 12v system, and I remember that the 9v system was driving way smoother, the 12v drag contacts had its downsides for sure. But I also remember I had a powered switch and various lights I missed in the 9v system. I was soldering bycicle lamps to my 9v trains for cheap interior lights. (When I was 8 years old) Inmy opinion, they should have kept powered rails, and have optional custom wired or wireless controll, but keep the powersource the rail. It blew my mind when I first heared you needed batteries for all new lego trains, enormous downgrade, plus the track looks ugly, no metal look.
Yeah the metal on the 9v really does look good (as long as they aren't corroded 😅). Plastic rails just don't have that
This guy just made research fun, give him an award
This is so darn cool, I loved learning so much about each system, which was interesting as Power Functions is all I've ever known!
Your presentation is wonderful as well, video is so chill and interspersed with little fun moments, so much work must have been put into all the footage and editing
Thanks! I really wish I could pour this much time and effort into every video but it would have to be a full time thing at that point 😅. Luckily I had about a year and a half of previous videos I could pull clips from as well as the footage from other channels. Still it took about a month to produce / edit after I really got started, all while working on other videos to keep up with my schedule 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Gosh yeah it sure looks like it! Completely understandable that this is far too much effort to produce over and over again, but as a feat it is admirable :)
Great video references... A keeper!❤
Great video and great round up of creators to watch as well!
Thanks! Definitely couldn't have done this alone!
I really enjoyed this video. Great mix of your expertise + research + passion for a very specific topic. I am subscribed going forward.
Thanks! Welcome aboard 😁
This was a really great video, thank you for making it :) learned loads!
Thanks! I doubt I'll ever top this video 😅
Amazing video - thank you for going to such lengths to bring us an overview! I myself am a 9V fan, but just recently bought my first 12V set and systems - I have a lot to learn!!
Thanks! I can't wait to take the 12v plunge, one of these days 😁
I'm subscribed so I'll keep en eye out! I'll be documenting my journey just as well - there's just not enough content out there about them!@@BatteryPoweredBricks
First time to this channel... gutta admit, very informative. And you killed me when you went back for those batteries!!! Awesome!!
Thanks! This was a fun video to make, but WAY more work than I can put into EVERY video. It's definitely brought a lot of new folks in. It's always fun to add a bit of humor as well 😁
This was very exciting! Thanx!
Thanks for watching!
Good overview of the systems. There are also a few DIY solutions, like rewiring 9V motors to use Power Functions Controls with them, which IMO is the best (unfortunately not off the shelf) solution. I'm seriously looking forward to FXtracks 9V switches in autumn and eventually their motors.
All of that said, I really need to look into the Powered UP Pybricks script you mentioned, that allows disabling the watchdog.
Idk what it is but your comments keep getting held for review 🤷♂️. At least it keeps me in the habit of checking. The power pickup bogies from FX Bricks look intriguing as well!
Thank you very much for this video. So much valuable information.
No worries, this was one of my favorite videos to make
There is passion and there is power!@@BatteryPoweredBricks
Very useful video - thanks!
Thanks for watching!
A very good overview, thanks.
I remember drooling over that train station in the catalogs!
For sure!
The 12v system was the best: hands down. I spenf all my childhood playing with those trains. Some of them are now 40 years old and they are still running.
It was certainly an amazing system. Since this video I've been stocking up on 12v parts for a simple layout, but I still need a motor and train 😅. I do have a decent bit of track and a couple power transformers
I really do love that intro! 9V. that's it and deal with it! :D
Every system has its advantages and disadvantages:
12V: you'd never guess but the smell that comes of those engines is just awesome, brings me right back to my childhood! The disadvantage is the constant derailings.
9V: runs so much smoother than 12V! That's why I made that my "basis of design".
PF: multiple trains on the same track with different speeds: yeah! But batteries and no signal in tunnels or in clear sunlight...
PU: no separate receiver and BT has no connection problems. Still batteries though...
I hope to at least get a small loop for a 12v setup, pretty sure my modified speed regulator would power it fine. I'd love to test it someday. For PF issues in sunlight I almost used a clip of you at the beach with BANANENBUURMAN 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Haha, you should have used the clip!
I think the clip was a bit short or something, a prime example for sure!
"you'd never guess but the smell that comes of those engines is just awesome"
If it's what I think it is, that's the motor slowly burning out. Different type of product but same situation, I have a Dapol Britannia in N scale that came from the factory with a shorted motor. We only found that out because it reeked of ozone and kept getting stuck at the exact same point in its rotation. Ended up having to completely replace the motor. It's definitely a nostalgic smell, but it does indicate a bad, cheap or old motor.
Arjen, your parents must have been rich, 12V system was very expensive already when it was new. I usually got a fl 50,- item for my birthday, you couldn't even buy one train (track) switch for that money. Only on very special occasions did I get something in the >100,- range
Straight slammed the like and watching the whole thing because of that intro! Goated!
I don't think I will ever be able to top it 😅
I had the green freight train RC set, I loved that thing. I remember the power functions system wasn't particularly well loved when it first came out.
Probably true of all systems when they first released
Great video and thnx👌🏻😎
LOL, the intro was great! Great video and overview of the control systems. I like 9V, but I find my self going back to Power Function system. But I have realized that ultimately the future will be Powered Up, at least for me. I have not gotten into the 3rd party systems yet, and the only thing that will probably get me there will be a 9V system with a remote i.e. a DCCS style system. Glad the Trash bag was clean. LOL PS I love FX Bricks 9v Track, and Brick Tracks RC track.
Thanks! The real trick is knowing the best system for a given situation. Hopefully this video can help people make that determination. It took me quite a while to learn all the ins and outs 😅
I was pleasantly surprised of how well was this video constructed. Also jokes were great. Keep it up!
Thanks! Hoping to do more scripted videos like this in the future for big topics but man are they a lot of work! 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Yeah I know a thing or two about that :D However if you put a work in, the growth on YT is usually exponential, so don't loose strenght! :D
after I get the flood mess cleaned up, ill get back into the videos and trains , this gave me some insight into get my butt going again. also I like all the version of control so far, they all has +/- as you have said buddy.
oh man hate to hear that. Just after I moved to a new place I had issues with water but it was never more than an inch or so. Hope you get things sorted soon!
When Search'n'Rescue started playing I had to check the description to make sure my brain wasn't hallucinating, great choice!
I've been waiting for a good opportunity to use some of Slugger's music for a while now. I think it fit in pretty well in this video 😁
Yay! Always wanted to know, why I haven’t seen much of RC systems, as I had one as a kid)))
This was really cool! The train could go super-fast, falling off the rails not even on the last speed mode😅
It was a "play feature" 😅 full speed ahead!
3:27 so good to see someone is maintaining compatible track and engines. I had the metro liner set as a kid, and invested in SO much track - however sadly the engine/motor has seized :(
There are a number of 9 volt motors available on BL, a bit price but well worth keeping that metroliner of yours running. I try to keep 2-3 spare 9 volt motors at hand just in case. So far I have only had to replace one. BTW if you ever wish to get rid of the metriliner let me know 😀
a few years ago i got one of those old powered rail ones as a gift from my aunt and it is pretty cool it definitely stands out in comparison to the rest of the stuff with that big yellow control wheel.
I spent so much time as a kid drooling over them in the catalogs. I finally got one of the last 9v train sets when I got my first job. It wasn't until the last 2 years or so when I started buying more
@@BatteryPoweredBricks the one i got was set 4558 it was ancient when i got it so there were some missing parts for the trains themselves but other than that i had everything
The RC train was my first one. Still own this set! Also have the powerfunctions snd powerd up trains!
I totally agree!
Wait... on which part 😅
Amazing video, I love the use of wintergatan as well, love their music
Thanks! I as very excited when Martin announced they were allowing the use of their music 😀 It's featured in most of my videos
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Yeah, I like to feature their music in as many ways as I can
Great vid and very informative! Loved hearing Sluggers music in the background ahahaha.
Thanks 😁 I've been waiting for a segment that felt right with his music
Great video showing the pros and cons of each system, for myself personally 9v was the best system and never got to reach it's full potential, sadly this can be said of many of the LEGO Train systems as they are generally only supported for around 10 years before being dumped for a new system such as Power Functions, that said TLG's mentaltity is they are developing systems for chlidren to use over a typical childhood, not a long lasting system that will be used by adults in the more traditional model railway format. I loved my period of LEGO train building and the things I was able to accomplish personally and as part of a club in the exhibition circuit, but the constant chopping and changing of systems and the overall lack of support by TLG towards longterm users such as myself prompted me to leave LEGO Trains and go back to traditional model railways. Das Steinkopf
I can certainly understand that. At least nowadays we have third parties stepping in with solutions for Adult fans of Lego trains. Lego releasing a passenger train and a cargo train every 3 years and changing the system every 10 just isn't enough to keep the hobby going
@@BatteryPoweredBricks what about the 4,5V system? did you get that in the Americas? We , in Europe had that as a cheaper alternative for kids in the 12V era. Only rich kids got the 12V stuff, it was already very expensive when it was new.
@@Blackadder75 I'm not sure if the 4.5v system was sold here, I would have been far too young.
I had both RC Trains and i was in love with them cuz i way a kid lmaoo. But sometimes i think about building the trains & a nice track again
Never too old 😁
really cool to hear wintergatan in the back!
They are in pretty much all my videos 😁 props to them for allowing its use 👍
Wintergatan🤘❤️ cool vid, keep up the good work
Thanks! Always Wintergatan 😁 They had just announced they were allowing the use of their music when I revived the channel
What a great video!
I personally have a 12 volts layout but Im also used to 9 volts because my friend has some. In my opinion power funktions is the best.
There are certainly a lot of Lego train fans that prefer Power Functions. It's my least favorite system personally but everyone will have different needs / goals. I'd love to get into 12v trains at some point but the cost is far too high at the moment
I've always been a hardcore simp for Power Functions. No need to worry about shorting out the track or anything, meaning balloon loops are possible, and movable bridges don't require isolation or forcing connections. The third-party accessories for tracks are just so much broader than 9v as well. The one thing that saves PF from being bested by PU's Bluetooth is the cost of PF elements, which is kinda irrelevant because of BuWizz's power bricks having Bluetooth & being compatible with both systems.
That, and PF hits me right in the nostalgia, because of my Horizon Express set
LEGO 9v switches are power-routing on the inside rail, that makes doing a balloon loop with them surprisingly easy if you're willing to get creative. You'd just need to electrically isolate the outside rail within the loop from the rest of the layout, connect the outside rail to power via a double-pole double-throw switch (power functions reversing switch works great), connect the turnout lever to the power reversing switch, and then just remember to stop the train in the loop and change the switch every time the train goes through.
A lot of the problems the 9V guys seem to have have already been solved by the model railroading community.
Power functions is my favourite as well, because it's just so flexible. The ability to use adapters to connect both the PF motors and older 9V motors, use large technic motors hooked up to train controllers and just the very good flexibility of the system makes me like it a lot. Admittedly I haven't tested a lot of Powered Up electronics since I only have the Crocodile, but with some modding it would probably be a good alternative since you don't need a bulky IR receiver.
I have noted one very useful thing with the 9v RC motors--you can dual-motor a 9v locomotive quite effectively via an extension wire from the track powered motor's top studs, run through the structure to the other motor. The RC motors perform just as well with that track power, and are a LOT cheaper.
Potentially could use a couple wires, plus another stacked in to add lighting, but I haven't tested that.
Pretty sure I have my first 9v RC motor on its way from a Bricklink order. I feel like I've heard varying opinions on them but I'll try it for myself. As long as it performs ok the only downside is having less axles picking up power from the tracks, but as long as they are pretty clean it shouldn't be an issue
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Yeah, less axles for pickup is a thing, but I also figured one of the advantages is perhaps a bit more traction with the newer wheels (and with axles, you could even add third party wheels with beefier traction tires).
This is the first video of yours I see, did you just start? you should have 100K subs, you are a talented video maker. I am not really interested in LEGO trains, but the quality of this video makes me want to see more. in other words: great job!
Thanks 😅. I revived the channel about a year and a half ago. This video is by far the most successful video I've made, but I certainly can't make one like it every week, this one took a while. I've also jumped around a bit from Mindstorms, Lego RC and GBC. That tends to hurt the channel overall and it's not uncommon to lose subscribers. I just make the videos I want to make and try to make them as entertaining / informative as possible 😃
So, I’ve been getting into making custom Lego trains lately. Recently, I started setting up a model track. I have the blue cargo train with the Power Function system. I had no idea they stopped making them, as I bought the train an extremely long time ago. I feel old now lol
Growing up I had the two City RC trains, the passenger and freight. Both of them are currently in pieces tho. As of now I currently have on PF train, the blue freight hauler to be exact.
Finally watched this after being on vacation for a week - excellent video, very comprehensive overview of all of the systems! Thanks for featuring 12v footage from my channel! Hopefully you can get a small loop of 12v track and a motor soon... then the addiction will kick in, heh heh heh... I mean what, 12v isn't an addiction
"Just one more 12v train... that's all I need... and the box for it... with inner trays..." 😂
@@BatteryPoweredBricks And tray lid... stickersheet too...
Best. Video. Yet. 💯
Nice video very informative, I would love to see a follow-up of the different software options.
I won't use the s word (soon) but it is something I plan on diving into!
I know humour is subjective but I can’t help but wish more UA-cam videos were a balance of informative and comedic like this. It makes the video go by fast but you walk away with a lot of information at the same time
Thanks! If I had to pick a primary influence it would have to be Clint of LGR. I've followed his content for over a decade. I always appreciate a bit of humor thrown in 😁
I've still got a huge bucket full of 12v centre rail Lego train stuff... I really liked the "piano" style controls for the accessories. Very tidy and simple to use. I had a gated crossing, 2 point motors, and a signal. I think thats all I had anyway.
And a working C battery 4.5v battery train system from before that... 80's stuff. Also had a signal and a reverser for that too. Signal raised a little bar between the tracks that pushed in a button under the motor and cut off power, and the reverser flipped the forward/reverse switch built into the battery box.
Dang, i feel old now.
The 12v system is great! I'd have a bunch if it wasn't so hard to come by! I would mind some 4.5v stuff either
My grandparents still have multiple sets of the 12v stuff in the attic. As well as more old lego sets. It's all 80's stuff my mom and aunt used to play with.
The RC trains were the first ones I had contact with, once I got a job and was able to start getting into the hobby. The main advantage to them is that they don't require line-of-sight to operate, unlike the Power Functions ones that followed, nor do you need to fiddle with pairing or phones like the Powered Up ones. The secondary advantage is that these were the first to include a horn sound, which was quite loud and which operated from the remote itself regardless of whether a train was operating or not. As you can imagine, it could be used to scare the crap out of others :|
However, you pay a pretty big price for it:
- The Remotes essentially have only 3 channels, so if you have more than 3 trains, tough tamales (the RC aspect even works against you there, as you need a considerable distance if you want to use a separate remote for 3 other trains, otherwise the signal just gets sent to whatever chassis units are using the same channel);
- There is no battery-box, the locomotive chassis is one large, integrated piece that has both the radio receiver and batteries, so if you, let's say, forget a bunch of batteries in it and they corrode and destroy the contacts, you're pretty much screwed as the whole thing is rendered useless;
- Because of the integrated chassis, the only other locomotives you can build out of it are other large locomotives with 2 carriage-sets, so you can't use it to make smaller models.
I do have some of the RC series parts. The train base with battery box and receiver built in and the RC remote. IIRC both have battery corrosion that needs cleaned and I don't have any of the pieces to build the trains from that era. At this point I don't really see the need since other channels have covered them and shown how they work. In upcoming videos I'll be using a TON of PU trains at once and even combining them to pull heavy loads. With PyBricks I think PU is my system of choice for the majority of my trains, with some 9 volt thrown in for good measure
Great video. Looks like, I have to make sure 9v monorail survives.
It survives here too, but I would consider it a separate system from the train systems
Mine (in the 1980's) had plastic tracks, with a (removable) double metal rail in between. The intersections (straight and split) had fixed metal parts.
Amazing to see what is possible nowadays. Thx.
The 12v system in the 80's was just awesome. I hope to get some one day
The separate metal tracks is one of the things that made 12 volt a bit....pesky.
Gotta love the intro!! Did I create a trend?! I also need to create the cool large train setups like you
Answer the question in the first 15 seconds 😁. My setups feel small after seeing some being posted in my Discord 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks your intro was amazing! And yes I feel like no matter how large our setups get there is always a bigger one haha
i only clicked at the video to comment 9V, thankfully the video made that clear in the first 12 seconds
Time is valuable! The full video is worth watching though 😅
I had the 9V cargo train when i was a kid.
I love that ive got the RC- system. But in all honesty that dont matter to me. Had a blast playing with it and i still got it. how ever ive since gone smaller to 1/160
Or if you having a steady model for example of music, sirens there has to be a constant power to the motor in order to play the song and then you have to be the buttons that can charge the dampers
I still have that double crossover collecting dust in the attic somewhere, didn’t know there was money to be made!
They are listed for high prices, idk if anyone is buying them with all the third party alternatives on the market 🤷♂️
Great intro 😂
Thanks 😁
I don't know if you missed it, but the biggest advantage to Power Functions is the ability to motorize highly-accurate steam locomotive models.
It was intentionally left out, I just wanted to cover the base systems using train motors. Steam locomotives can be motorized with Powered Up as well, you just have to use the PU app or PyBricks. It's something I'll get around to covering at some point, but I want more experience first
With the Power Functions, Lego also released a Rechargable Battery Box.
Ah good point. Although after all these years they are very hard / expensive to find 😬. Maybe I shouldn't tempt people with what they can't have 😅
12V has most beautiful trains, and best controlls. 9V AC driven has nicest looking tracks.. Gray and silver ist just so nice. 9V power functions are very practical but the trains are absolutely terrible. Here, solved it ;-)
the accessories in 12v were clearly the best, and I say this as a 9v fan.
I adore 9v, but... track availability is an issue (although 3rd party track is becoming easier to get).
"It's 9v. Thanks for watching" 👍💗
I'm making more and more progress on making 9v just as good as 12v 😀. Remotely controlling switches was easy and I have several solutions I like, it's things like decoupling that I haven't nailed down yet 😅. There are some good solutions out there but I haven't put a lot of time into experimenting yet
Actually, in my opinion the 9V-rail system is definitly the best solution for powering the trains. Whats missing is a decent motor system with a smal rechargeable battery and remote function. Using the 9v rail system with permanent 9V, but a smal rechargeble battery would allow smal segments without power in the rails, so you can construct any track design without shorting out.Also you could 3d print any special part you need without worying about having power there, if you combine rechargeble battery and 9V track. Also while permanently powered you might need extra cables to provide enough current, on the other side you could also connect signals, ligning and track switches to the rails. So the number of wires needed are much less than f.e. on the 12V system, if you do the controlls for motors remotely.
In my opinion the best option for remote control would be zigbee. This might be suprising, as I know no one actually discussing it at all for train control (it is more common for house automatisation, esp. ligning like Phillips Hue), but it has some realy nice features. It supports a lot of devices (255), builds a mesh (between all permernent powered devices), is low energy, bi-directional communication (so you actually have feedback) and multiple functions per device. Depending of the implementation, after setup it is even independent of a central hub (which is essential for its original purpose, as you do not want to be unable to controll the light at home just because the gateway does a firmware update or lost internet connection). It is also quite cheap. While sadly I lack the skills for myself, I certanly hope someone might develope something in the future. While model trains often use controlls much smaler, the scale of lego trains actually alow a scale for the controlers which would make DIY soldering much more easy (there are ready to program zigbee modules with 2,54 or 2mm pin spacing and of course cheap h-bridges as modules, so you "only" need to program the module and solder some wires). While Zigbee has a bit of latency, it should be fine for lego trains.
In the interview with Michael Gale mentioned in the video he talked of the possibility of a hybrid track / battery powered system. If it is something FxBricks plans to tackle I wouldn't think it would be any time soon. Product development takes a very long time. I've seen many custom solutions involving electronics / micro-controllers over the years. It's always interesting to see
3:47 Atlas, the manufacturer of model O, HO, and N scale track, produce electrical components to make 2 Rail reverse loops easy to install. I bet it would be easy to adapt all kinds of model railroading tech to LEGO train systems. Atlas also publishes “How-To” books for beginners that go into detail about 2 rail wiring.
Cool! I'll have to check them out. I've seen some solutions here and there for Lego but until I can get dedicated power pickup bogies I'll just stick to using reversing loops on my Powered Up trains
The next big thing would be wireless power or, depending on how efficient the motors are, ambient light power.
liked the vid explicitly for the no bullcrap answer lol
It's funny I still get lots of comments where people will say matter-of-factly what THE best system is... and none of them agree 😅. There may be a best system for one person but it doesn't make it the best system for everyone
The RC system trains were my introduction to lego trains, still have my ICE and also the other one but it fell off a shelf years ago and i never restored it
Oh no, any broken pieces or just needs reassembled? I have an RC train base I got in a lot but never had any of the trains
I honestly wish they didn't discontinue the power functions line.
I managed to get an used lego 4559 for cheap . I could said it's very efficient than battery althought I needs an adapter
Aftwr watching this video like 15-40 times, I still can't remeber what you said was the best.
So I will assume that you love 9 Volt, and that I will stick with Powered Up, with maybe some Power Functions adaptions in teh future.
11:47 I tend to use a mix of all Lego systems. Powered Up and 9v for trains and Power Functions / 9v for controlling switch tracks. The entire point of the video is to say I don't think there is a best system for everyone. Different Lego fans will have different needs and some systems may suit them better. By all means, feel free to watch the video a few more dozen times though, watch time definitely helps the channel 😁
I just subscribed to your channel. Excellent comparison video. My train collection is exclusively 9 volt. I have been collecting 9 volt since introduction and have most sets, multiple motors and speed regulators and 2 MISB 90' crossings. I hate batteries and so should the Lego Group. I also have a fairly large collection of original Lego monorail sets and track. And thanks for the site links. I will be taking a look at FX Bricks products.
Awesome! My hatred would be stronger for batteries if I had a permanent layout instead of just setting up for a video. Much less trying to run trains all day at a convention 😬. The only complaints I've heard about Fx Bricks is the price and the product development time, which really is to be expected from a company like them. Clearly a lot of time and money goes in to these products. I've yet to hear a complaint about quality, which is the most important factor to many
I'm currently building a layout in my basement. It's about 200 square feet of tables with room to expand. I feel lucky to have a house with a basement and glad I started collecting 9 volt when it was released.
Yeah we don't get many basements in Florida 😅. Do you post online anywhere? If you use Discord there's one linked in the description along with my other social media. I'd love to see the layout!
Unfortunately regulations (in the EU specifically I believe) are what forced LEGO to switch from powered rails to batteries. The regulations place restrictions on the minimum age that toys that plug into the wall can be marketed at/sold to.
@@jfwfreo I kind of figured there was a a reason like that. Just like how they have to have screws on the battery compartment of the newest Powered Up Technic hubs
For those who don’t want to pay for the 9v stuff today, I’m Ngl, the aftermarket PF stuff can be an awesome alternative. Cheap, rechargeable and super adaptable
For sure, I absolutely love 9v but I could never use it exclusively. There are just too many awesome plastic track options and they are a heck of a lot cheaper 😅
i like seeing all the available options for controlling Lego trains but i kind of like the system that gives you a wireless remote with the train so incase i wanted to bring only a train with me i can
There something called an "Atlas Selector" that basically works just like the signal on the lego 12v system (7860, If you want to look into it). If you pair it up with 5-6 9v GM transformers (9v transformers don't work, as they don't have screw terminals) can give you a feel for how the 12v system works and could, you know, get you into it.
Also, O gauge Rail Joiners are necesary.
I love to see that kind of stuff, for myself I stick to mostly Lego solutions. I will be dabbling in Lego 12v eventually 😁
@@BatteryPoweredBricks In the span of exactly 22 hours, I made it possible to wire it up with 9v transformers by removing the track connectors, then connecting the wires themselves to the Selector and using copper tape to connect the Selector to the track using @BrickRevolution's method right here ua-cam.com/video/CH3wwNFm7eQ/v-deo.html.
Programable bluetooth controll with powered rails would be the best. Or at least compact rechargable power packs. Like 2x4 brick sized with conncetors on studs for ability to stack them for higher power but ability to use single cells in tiny locos if needed.
powered tracks, outside of cheaper exploatation and less waste, teached kids principles of electricity. Many strange layouts could be made with insulating bits of plasticine, tin foil and wire. Mine set required converter replacement, rewireing of switches and power connectors but it would work today when dig up from bottom of my wardrobe. Voltage loss allowed for tracks between rooms from single supply and single motor was able to pull about 3kg weight on flat track. Sometimes magnetic couplers would give up before motor.
I do think that teaching kids basic electricity is important. I know it was for me growing up. I am looking forward to FxBricks power pickup bogie for using with other control systems
IMO, the actual best system would be to take 9V train motor blocks and convert them to DCC, much like you would a more conventional model train. But at that point it's not really pure LEGO anymore, and it's a real pain in the ass to open those things as well. Or, alternatively, convert to a hobby-grade RC system, which is a lot easier since you can use either the PF motor block as normal or the 9V motor block powered through its accessory port (I'm not sure about the PU one, that might require additional connections. This is why proprietary connectors suck), but you still have to wire up an appropriate connection.
The reason I'd say these are objectively better than pure LEGO methods is that both allow for multiple trains to be run on the same track independently, like the PF and PU versions, but without the hassle of working with an infrared remote and with a far higher capacity than just 3 trains. It's not like choosing between the three pure LEGO systems since those have their strengths and weaknesses compared to each other, DCC and hobby-grade RC are just flat upgrades for anyone with the necessary experience to install them.
DCC is definitely something I want to try out at some point. I tend to keep my videos as close to 100% Lego as possible so they can be helpful to a broad range of people. I haven't really seen many videos on DCC so maybe it is something I could do at some point 🤔
Good overview! I've got a largish layout which uses 9V track (hard to find straights, especially if you care about new dark bley versus old dark grey). So, I can run all 3 styles. I do have the freight RC train, but the engine is so heavy that it can't even pull a couple of cars over a turnout pair (wheels slip). I have full 9V dual-powered Metroliner and Santa Fe, plus one freight engine. I have the blue/yellow PF engine dual powered (I just flipped the center two wires of one motor connector), and it is my most powerful engine - with care I can pull 14 cars around my layout, which has hills. I've got 3 freight PoweredUp trains as well, and they are not bad for pulling. I do wish Lego would make a rechargeable PoweredUp Hub - replacing the batteries is a royal pain. I have 3 of the rechargeable Power Functions battery boxes, and one is in my blue/yellow dual-powered PF engine. I got them fairly early on from Shop @ Home, so they weren't tooooo expensive.
The local Lego group does a local train show each year. Depending on who is organizing it, it can be full DCC track. Some of the members build larger, detailed cars, and their trains need a pair of "consist"ed engines to pull them. They also have some small round rare-earth magnets that they insert between the Lego ones for more grip. I don't have any DCC myself, other than one engine with decoder inserted that can be used at the show. As you can see from my not-so-good videos, I do not build anywhere as much as I should. Other things take up my time.
I've heard good things about the third party KeyBrick rechargeable battery for PU hubs. They are fairly expensive, but still cheaper then buying used PF rechargeable batteries and won't be 10+ years old
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Given how rarely I actually run trains, the expense isn't currently worth it. I basically charge up all 3 PU hub NiMHs when someone is coming to look at the layout. Next is a couple of weeks, I think.
Oh, and I completely understand the pain of the time needed to make a video. That's why mine are not very good. If I can just glue together clips from my camera/phone, that's not too bad, but captions, etc......
Same here. I have over 100 rechargeable NiMH AAA's that I use. I just need them to last long enough to make a video 😁
For me making / editing videos is a big part of the hobby, maybe moreso than Lego itself. I just let UA-cam autogenerate the captions and hope for the best 😅
@@BatteryPoweredBricks Hmm. Clearly I'll have to look into what the UA-cam Creator stuff can do for me!
80s Grey era HANDS DOWN
You're not alone in that opinion
I grew up on (& get really nostalgic about) the RC System (2006). It's objectively horrible (clunky train base/battery case, horrible battery life, immense power use), but the one thing I do really like about this system is the remotes. The clicking sound the buttons make, plus the ability to make a train horn sound, but besides that, not very many redeeming qualities.
Nostalgia definitely plays a role. I spent so many years drooling over 9v trains as a kid when I finally got one in my teens I absolutely loved it. People have asked me why I have so many 9v regulators and spent time modifying them when there are better solutions, but it's part of the fun for me! I love that janky yellow knob!
the 9V system was the best in my opinion. Rugged, durable and it just flat out worked. Not to mention that the 9V motors had absolute insane amounts of traction and pulling power compared to the power functions system.
I converted a red 9 volt switcher engine to the new power up. Works great.
this video has made me up set aas i have never seen or heard about the 9v and the 12v --_--
Lego trains have been on a steady decline since the beginning, each system becoming simpler over time with less features 😒
When lego does another Industrial train with complete track, I'm gonna get my first train, I've always wanted to get one but I don't want to buy an older one because of price
I imagine it will be a while, the current cargo train (60336) just released last year. They typically release a city cargo and passenger train every three years or so. I wouldn't say the latest cargo train really has much of an "industrial" look though. I'd love to be surprised but Lego has kind of been doing the bare minimum as far as trains go for a while 😐
I got buffers from trixbricks Simple chip and clever.
Greatings from Poland
I've filled up a few carts and let them expire recently with money going elsewhere. They have a ton of new stuff I want to check out when I have the funds available 😀
When lego abandoned 9v, I lost any motivation to buy trains from lego. 9V is the best system, objectively. Modern systems needing mobile phones means I am now denied the ability to use them at all.
Well there's always the controllers, PyBricks or PC software for Powered Up. It's very useful to some folks. Still 9v was the most plug and play system and didn't require batteries. Just depends on a person's needs
I agree with all the positive comments. Best video ever. Best 15 sec video. 😂
The level of 3rd party acceptance in the Lego train community makes me wonder how GBC would be impacted if 3rd party components were also widely used.
Thanks! Quality over quantity, no one watches past 15 seconds anyway 😂. Yeah Lego gives train fans little choice but to look elsewhere 😅
I was wondering if youre where gonna mention the rc one i actually got the passenger train loved it still have all the pieces and track the tracks have seen better days tho
It's brief but I made sure to mention it. I have some of the components but not a complete set of them, luckily I had some friends who allowed use of their footage of the system
I am afraid this is going to sound like blasphemy but I have the old Euro Freight Line set from it's release year collecting dust in my mother's storage. I might have to go dig it up for the nostalgia. And thank my mother for buying such expensive christmas presents.
Go dig that thing out! 😅 Chances are the insulation on the wire that goes between the track and the speed controller may be deteriorating, even when stored well it's just a matter of time. Just make sure not to throw it away, they are very easy to fix 👍
The newest train control thing Generation isn't really cool because the battery gets empty fast.
So i like the older generations much better, like the 9 volt Generation, you can use it with your own elecrity, but it's expensive now.
Always a trade off. The Powered Up system works fine for me, with rechargeable batteries but I tend not to run my trains for hours on end. Once I get a broken motor or FxBricks releases a power pickup I'll be able to combine 9v track with the PF or PU system
Hi, I'm not shure,if it is available in the US, but if it is, there is another cool solution from a german company. Blue Brixx. It's based on Bluetooth with remote controls. It uses recharchable batteries and the controlfunction are inside the battery-pack. Please have a look on this system.
I haven't tried them yet, I do like some of their builds. Unfortunately shipping costs are quite high which has kept me from trying them so far. The amount of control I can get with Brick Automation Project and Powered Up puts a really high bar for any competitor to beat. Everything you see in my videos is paid for out-of-pocket so I wouldn't expect a review any time soon 😅
Ngl, i never had the 9V system (because i wasn't born when it came out lol) but it does look way better than the current system. You dont need batteries, no battery box that takes 80% of your train and no wireless issues. I wish Lego would make a new version of that system, with modern technology. Yknow, for automated stuff?
For sure. At least FX Bricks is making an effort to revive the 9v system. Still the cost keeps it out of reach for many. Even if Lego produced it I'm sure it would be expensive. I've often heard they lost money on many 9v components back in the day
Power Functions is my favourite and it's what most of my custom trains use as I run my trains in the garden.
Also I don't think you mentioned the PF rechargeable battery which is a life saver.
It's been pointed out I didn't mention the rechargeable PF battery, they are in very limited supply and very expensive as well. So I don't feel too bad about leaving it out of the video 😅