# Build A Train vs TrainSet 3D

The clearest difference is update cadence: Build A Train at every 3 months against TrainSet 3D's every 39 months. Build A Train also leads on ratings volume (69 vs 1) and iOS requirement (8.0 vs 18.0). TrainSet 3D's advantage is rating (5.0 vs 4.7) and review sentiment (100% vs 82%). On ads, in-app purchases, monetization model and device support there is nothing between them.

Build A Train costs $2.99 and TrainSet 3D $0.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.

TrainSet 3D holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.7. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: Build A Train has 69 ratings behind it against 1, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 82% of Build A Train's written reviews are positive against 100% of TrainSet 3D's.

Build A Train ships an update every 3 months, TrainSet 3D every 39 months. The most recent releases landed on September 26, 2026 and September 2, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Build A Train | TrainSet 3D |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | $2.99 | **$0.99** |
| Rating | [4.7 (69 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/build-a-train/id398937831/reviews) | **[5.0 (1 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/trainset-3d/id828955916/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | **69** | 1 |
| Positive reviews | 82.2% of reviews | **100.0% of reviews** |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Every 3 months** | Every 39 months |
| Monetization | Paid | Paid |
| Size | 52 MB | 116 MB |
| Requires iOS | **8.0** | 18.0 |
| Devices | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Playtend Apps LLP](https://appshunter.io/developer/320166203) | [Polyhedron Learning Media, Inc.](https://appshunter.io/developer/458882328) |

## What reviewers say

### Build A Train

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/build-a-train/id398937831)

Design and operate your own virtual train set. Choose engines and cars, then drive your creation through various environments, controlling switches and speed. Unlock new levels and enjoy a mess-free train experience.

**Highlights:** Select and customize train engines and cars, Drag-and-reorder car functionality, Drive trains in city environments, Control track switches and train speed, Pick up cargo and collect points, Unlockable bonus levels and maps, Night mode driving

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none

**What reviewers like**

- 👨‍👧‍👦 Excellent for young children and toddlers
- 🎮 Intuitive and easy-to-use controls
- 🚂 Engaging train-building mechanics
- 🎨 Good graphics and visual design
- 🧠 Educational value for problem-solving and planning

**What reviewers complain about**

- 🐛 Crashes on older iOS versions
- 🔊 Sound issues after updates
- 😑 Limited content depth for older children
- 🔁 Becomes repetitive and boring quickly
- 💰 Not worth the paid price point

**Reported bugs**

- App crashes on iOS 9 iPad Mini
- App crashes on iOS 8
- Sound not working after updates
- App not working after night mode update
- Progress/points deleted after updates

**Requested features**

- More trains and locomotives (steam trains, CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, SD-45, C44-9W)
- Ability to build custom tracks
- Longer trains with more than 3 cars
- Train reversal capability
- Cargo drop-off mechanics


### TrainSet 3D

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/trainset-3d/id828955916)

Design and operate your own railway layouts with a virtual steam locomotive. Enjoy a classic simulation experience where you can build intricate track designs and watch your trains run. Minor mishaps are easily fixed with a simple tap.

**Highlights:** Design custom train tracks, Operate steam locomotives, In-game repair functionality, Classic simulation gameplay, Suitable for all ages

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Build A Train free?

Build A Train costs $2.99, with no in-app purchases.

### Is TrainSet 3D free?

TrainSet 3D costs $0.99, with no in-app purchases.

### Which has better reviews, Build A Train or TrainSet 3D?

TrainSet 3D is rated higher. Build A Train averages 4.7 out of 5 from 69 ratings, while TrainSet 3D averages 5.0 from 1 ratings.

### Do Build A Train or TrainSet 3D have ads?

Neither Build A Train nor TrainSet 3D shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Build A Train or TrainSet 3D?

Build A Train ships an update every 3 months, and TrainSet 3D every 39 months. Most recently, Build A Train was updated on September 26, 2026 and TrainSet 3D on September 2, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*