KOSMOS FM Gundam Aerial LED Kit: Model A vs Model B — Which Should You Buy?
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KOSMOS FM Gundam Aerial LED Kit: Model A vs Model B — Which Should You Buy?
The complete comparison guide for choosing the right Phantom Light Set version for your Full Mechanics 1/100 Gundam Aerial
So you've built (or are building) the Bandai Full Mechanics 1/100 Gundam Aerial. You've seen the photos online — that glowing Permet Score effect, the floating GUND-BITs trailing light like comets. The KOSMOS Phantom Light Set promises to bring that anime magic to your shelf. But now you're staring at two options: Model A and Model B. Which one actually makes sense for your build?
What's the Difference? Model A vs Model B at a Glance
| Feature | Model A | Model B |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Lower | Higher (+~$15-20) |
| Body LEDs | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weapon/Shield LEDs | ✓ | ✓ |
| GUND-BIT Trail Lights | ✗ | ✓ |
| Best For | Core illumination | Full "anime scene" effect |
Model A: The Essential Experience
What you get: LED modules for the Gundam Aerial's main body, beam rifle, and shield. This covers all the "Permet Score" glow points — the signature cyan light bleeding from the head vents, chest intake, and limb joints that defines the Aerial's on-screen presence.
Who it's for: First-time LED kit buyers, builders on a budget, those planning standard poses without GUND-BIT deployment, and modelers who prefer a cleaner build experience.
Model B: The Full Theater
What you get: Everything in Model A, plus the GUND-BIT trail lighting system. This adds LED strips to all 11 Escutcheon Bits, creating those dramatic light trails when the bits are deployed in floating attack formations.
The catch: The GUND-BIT lights add significant complexity. Chinese user reviews consistently describe this portion as "troublesome" or "complicated" — the wiring for 11 separate floating units requires patience and careful cable management.
Power & Control: What Both Versions Share
- 5 Dynamic Light Modes: Static, breathing, pulse, wave, and chase effects
- Dual Power Options: USB Type-C (continuous display) or 3×AA batteries (portable)
- Wireless Control: Physical remote + smartphone app
- Controller Box: Compact unit that hides inside the model or base
Final Verdict: Start with Model A, Upgrade If Hooked
For most builders, Model A is the right entry point. It delivers the iconic Aerial silhouette with that unmistakable cyan glow, at a lower price and with simpler installation.
Model B is a specialist's choice. It's spectacular when fully deployed, but that spectacle requires additional investment (the stand) and additional patience (the wiring). Buy it eyes-open, knowing what you're committing to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from Model A to Model B later?
Not with a simple add-on kit. The GUND-BIT lights are integrated into Model B's package. If you want the full effect later, you'd need to purchase Model B separately.
Do I need painting experience to use this kit?
No, but you should consider it. The FM Aerial has translucent yellow parts on the backpack and thighs that are designed to glow. If you paint over these with opaque colors, you'll block the light.
How long does installation take?
Model A: 2-3 hours for a careful first-timer. Model B: 4-6 hours, with the GUND-BIT wiring consuming most of that additional time.
Will this fit the Gundam Aerial Rebuild?
No. This kit is specifically designed for the original FM 1/100 Gundam Aerial. The Rebuild has different internal structure and part layouts.
Note: This is a third-party upgrade kit. Bandai FM 1/100 Gundam Aerial model sold separately. KOSMOS is an independent manufacturer not affiliated with Bandai.