10 Best Toy & Model Soldiers for Kids Reviewed in 2024
If you’ve got little ones playing with action figures, it’s a pretty solid bet that at some point (if not most of the time), those action figures will be engaged in a dramatic, sound-effect-heavy battle. Much of creative role-playing revolves around conflict and conflict resolution, and what is more emblematic of that than actual, physical fighting? Kick your kids’ creative game up a notch with a set of toy soldiers to really bring those battles to life. If you’re scanning the field for top-quality toy soldiers, we’ve got the groundwork for a plan of attack. Below, you’ll find the 10 best toy soldiers and toy soldier sets currently available on the market. These have been judged by recent customers as the most excellent products that manufacturers are offering. We’ve got historically significant sets, classic little green men, action figures with great articulation, and tons more. A-ten-hut!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 21 hrs of research
Stimulates imagination
Encourages social play
Container keeps pieces stored away
Pieces are durable
- Elite Force Battle Group Army
- TimMee Plastic Army
- Liberty Imports Army World War II
- Imagination Generation 260-Piece Tiny Troopers
- TimMee Plastic Army C130 Playset
- WWII - Big Bucket of Army Men
- Elite Force Marine Recon
- Pixar Toy Story Bucket
- True Heroes Ultimate Military Playset
- Sunny Days Entertainment Elite Force
10 Best Toy & Model Soldiers for Kids Reviewed
1. Elite Force Battle Group Army
Stimulates imagination
Encourages social play
Container keeps pieces stored away
Pieces are durable
Soldiers cannot fit inside the tanks or helicopter
With over 120 pieces in total, this set means your little one will be ready for battle! It includes tanks, helicopters, trucks, fences, soldiers, and other battlefield equipment. The set even includes a transparent container for easy storage and transportation when the soldiers need a rest! Each solider measures roughly two inches and they come in both green and tan so you can easily divvy them up and station them accordingly.
Read moreThe army men come in green and tan, so your little one can pick a color and battle their friends. While some are designed with rifles, others may have a pair of binoculars, radio, or even a telephone. Your child can position their men behind the walls and fences to prevent the enemy from seeing them. The army men that are standing are designed with a piece of plastic on the bottom of their feet. The plastic allows the soldiers to stand freely on any terrain. You won’t have to worry about the pieces being scattered throughout the floors in your house because they come inside a container that serves as storage when your child is not playing with them.
Ease of use
The container is designed with a sturdy carrying handle that can easily be gripped by tiny hands. Your child can carry these soldiers anywhere to play and act out many battlefronts and scenes.
Entertainment value
Not only will they be stimulating their imagination through pretend play, but children will also be increasing their valuable social skills when playing with others. Each soldier is equipped with an accessory.
Durability
Composed of highly durable plastic, these soldiers can survive countless battles. Even the roughest play will not make these brave soldiers and accessories show signs of wear or use.
Design
With the soldiers coming in two different colors, your child is encouraged to battle their friends along enemy lines. The multiple fences and tanks ensure each side is prepared for battle.
2. TimMee Plastic Army
LDPE plastic retains durability
Helps in developing tactical skills
Made in the USA
Great to purchase as a collector’s item
Number of figurines may not be as described
Choking hazard for kids under 3 years old
The 100 piece TimMee plastic soldier set includes 50 soldiers each in two different colors. Choose between Black vs Blue, Cyan vs Rust, Green vs Bright Green, Olive Green vs Tan, Red vs Gray, and an all-Pink set. Each figure measures just over two inches, making the scale approximately 1:35. Every set is packaged in a poly bag with a cardboard header so make sure you invest in a storage system as well!
Read moreThe roles of each soldier encompass an entire company that includes infantrymen with a light machine gun, kneeling rifleman, crawling rifleman, a rifleman with a bayonet, bazooka operator, flame-throwing soldier, radio operator, and commanding officer equipped with field glasses. Equally distributed number of soldiers in each color to fully enact a properly staged battle scene. It can give a child the rudimentary blocks when it comes to strategy and war games. The classic design by the manufacturer has garnered it a spot in the National Toy Hall of Fame. This makes it a great gift for all ages.
Ease of use
When kids see these incredible toys, they instantly begin to think of ways to place them for battle. It does not take much to begin a whole scene of war with this simple to use set that is so accommodating to all sorts of props.
Entertainment value
It connects kids to a bygone era and can also be used as a collectible for adults that used to play with such figures. Goes well with homemade accessories and game boards. This shows the old adage that “if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.”
Durability
Children will be able to play with these numerous pieces for long and hard play continuously. Each part is very sturdy and long-lasting because the manufacturer knew what kind of battle treatment they would most likely receive from kids.
Design
They have all the realism of soldiers that were on active duty during the height of the Cold War. Figures stand at approximately 2 inches and 1.35 inches to scale and have great details for figures so small.
3. Liberty Imports Army World War II
Highly detailed designed
Clear segmented bucket with handle
Plenty of pieces to keep kids preoccupied
More variety than average army playset
Historically inaccurate use of jet fighters
The Liberty Imports Set includes 124 total pieces modeled after World War II soldiers and artillery. You can select either the Deluxe Big Bucket, Soldiers and Vehicles, or Soldiers Only pack. All figures are modeled after the USA (green), British (blue), German (gray) and Japanese (red) soldiers, representing both the Axis and Ally powers. Each figure is just over two inches tall. This set is not only great for little ones looking for role-playing toys, but history enthusiasts as well!
Read moreThe green men represent America, the German soldiers are blue, the men in the red fight for Japan, and Germany is in grey. Along with the soldiers, there are tanks, jets, planes, and flags that represent each country. The toymakers even made sure to include a Scottish bagpiper. With 124 pieces and four different armies, your child is encouraged to engage in social play. The bucket is designed with a divider that allows your little one to keep the armies separate when stored. With the bucket being clear, your child can see where each army is located before they open it. The handle on the bucket makes it easy to transport from place to place.
Ease of use
All of the pieces in this set are lightweight and can easily be gripped by tiny hands. The variety of soldiers and accessories included in this set will provide your child with hours of imaginative play.
Entertainment value
A global or world war can commence in your child’s room or on the living room floor with this glorious and full set of soldiers. Some of the strongest countries are represented in full force ready to fight.
Durability
From the bucket to the soldiers and the many accessories, this wonderful set is long-lasting and sturdy to entertain for years. Kids will love that the set remains in the same great condition even after hours and hours of rugged battle.
Design
This playset comes with just the right number of figures that can set the stage for a more accurate depiction of historical war games. The tanks and planes are a bonus not consistent with a set such as this.
4. Imagination Generation 260-Piece Tiny Troopers
Well-made and great value for the price
Good for recreating historic battles
Playmat enhances imaginative play
Storage container keeps everything well organized
There may be a few defective or misshapen pieces in the lot
The Tiny Troopers Big Battle Drum Playset includes over 260 pieces total, ranging from army men and vehicles to provisions and a playmat. Four warring battalions duke it out over a 2.5 foot playmat. Green, khaki, red, and silver soldiers forge and break alliances, strategize, and try to outsmart their opponents. Trooper Tactics Inserts teach about tanks, fox holes, hedgehogs, and jets.
Read moreThe set is pretty generic, mixing up the technology and fortifications from all eras ranging from WWI, WWII, and down to the jets and helicopters of the Cold War and Vietnam era. Extensive little props and details such as sandbag fortifications, barbed wire blockades, machine gun nests, and a helipad are included. The generic armies are segmented into four color quadrants. An insert is included to teach all about the real-life uses of the pieces being used. The playmat enhances the aspect of imaginative play by giving texture to the backdrop on which the battles take place. Having little detailed minute accessories and an insert makes it not only fun but intellectually stimulating, as well to any child.
Ease of use
Kids get a nice playmat along with the multitude of accessories and soldiers to play on it. toy figures and props are so easy to utilize because the basis of the play depends on the imagination of the user.
Entertainment value
It provides your child with hours of fun while subtly promoting the development of fine motor skills. Exploring the many pieces of this set and discovering how to use them will keep most kids busy for a while.
Durability
As with most of these items listed, these pieces are constructed of plastic material. This type of build makes the toys easier to handle for kids and lighter to carry around and move into place.
Design
It’s a complete set when it comes to kids war games and tactical strategy. It quite literally maps out everything and offers new insight with the additional bonus of an insert explaining the how’s and why’s of the equipment and accessories in use.
5. TimMee Plastic Army C130 Playset
Historically accurate design
Good for display purposes
Durable yet functional details
Minimal assembly required
High price point-to-value
The TimMee Plastic Army Men C130 Playset is a smaller playset with a larger accessory draw. This package includes just 27 fighters but all of them fit easily into a giant military plane. The toys are all modeled after the USA soldiers and fighter planes. The plane measures 24.5 inches with a 26.5 inch wingspan, resulting in a 1:48 scale model, with 1:35 scale soldiers.
Read moreThe model size itself is 24x26 inches with a wingspan of approximately 2ft. It comes with one model tank that stands at 1.48 inches and 24 soldiers standing 1.35. In total, it’s a 27-piece set. The plane has functional spinning propellers and wheels, metal axles on the landing gear, rotating barrel turrets, cockpit entrance, and rear loading ramp. Very good historical accuracy! Down to the details of the exact model of the cargo plane, to the design of the Patton tank, the loading ramp, and the 1950s-era Air Force sticker decals that don the wings of the plane.
Ease of use
All 27 pieces of this combination toy are simple to use for play acting and storytelling, plus they can act out countless scenes. Highly portable and movable from area to area, children will interact with this item easily.
Entertainment value
The interesting and detailed soldiers would be plenty of kids to enjoy this product, but the main item is the toy replica of the warplane. If your child is interested in the least bit in aviation, this would make a great gift or present.
Durability
The manufacturer guarantees the durability of this superb toy and even recommends an assembly video that can easily be searched and found on YouTube. It’s an accurate replica.
Design
The wonderful group includes a large roomy transport plane that can fit all of the accessories just as it’s real-life counterpart would have. In addition, the functional details can make it good enough to be a stand-alone collector’s item, too.
6. WWII - Big Bucket of Army Men
200 mini soldiers
Four different nations
Color-coded, with country’s flag
Bucket holds soldiers and divides for sorting
Various poses and kinds of soldiers in each camp
Some of the soldiers are top-heavy with their guns and tip over
This SCS Direct Bucket includes over 200 soldiers from four different countries. The set brings to life military men from the USA, Great Britain, Germany, and Japan. Set the flags of each country up and watch the soldiers push forward and retreat back as the war wages on. This package is perfect for school projects or dioramas, or simply to set up and enjoy the wonders of creative role play!
Read moreMachine gunners, riflemen, commanders--you’ll get a wider variety of figurines in each camp. Set them up on a table to battle, or pack a few and take them along on trips. These soldiers provide the opportunity for families to talk about the history and are likewise a great set for children who are already highly interested in history or are just plain excited by the idea of 200 little soldiers to play with. These are pretty close to the classic “army men” we all think of when someone mentions toy soldiers.
Ease of use
The strong and useful bucket makes storage easy and comes with four sub-dividers, so you can sort the soldiers into their respective countries when you’re cleaning up as well.
Entertainment value
This bucket provides the perfect opportunity to open dialogue and discussion about the second major world war or is the ideal gift for a child who is already something of a history aficionado.
Durability
Akin to the little green figures hopping around in Toy Story, these are designed in a simple, vintage style, but are well-made, a feature of a variety of poses and weaponry, and seem to be pretty accurate in their details.
Design
Each set of interesting soldiers is a different color so you can tell them apart, plus they come with the flag of their nation. The sightly and strong soldiers all stand roughly two inches tall.
7. Elite Force Marine Recon
Weaponry positioned in a realistic manner
Affordable set that can extend into a collector’s series
Accurate uniform design
Helmets are interchangeable
Weapons don’t stay in the figure’s hands
Articulated joints take time to loosen
The Elite Force Marine Recon Action Figures might be small in number but they are mighty in strength. Five pieces in total, this set includes four marines and one secret sniper. Unlike the cattle call sets, these figurines are hyper-realistic with a 1/18 scale model make and detailed paint jobs. Each figure is also fully poseable with 14 points of articulation!
Read moreTheir helmets and gear are removable and can be mixed and match. The accuracy of the detail is down to the bandana and night vision goggles of two marines and specified use of weaponry that can be easily identified. Each marine stands about five inches tall and their equipment consists of two M203 Machine guns, two rocket launchers and an M82 machine gun with a tripod. The realistic style of gear and uniform for contemporary desert and mountain warfare.
Ease of use
The joints of these figures are a great bonus to put them in any position while playing. This can be good when paired with other figures from the series or other accessories that can be found.
Entertainment value
This superb toy should be relatable to any kid that has a parent or any other relative who is currently serving in the military. It can provide them with a connection to their purpose and give them a sense of pride in serving.
Durability
These five marvelous figures are so well-made and long-lasting that they will surely be handed down to other relatives as time passes. Made of strong materials, they can withstand rough play from youngsters well.
Design
This is a contemporary design that gives more realism to our current military. It is something that can be very relatable to kids now who can point to an example of a hero.
8. Pixar Toy Story Bucket
Design is realistic of the Toy Story movies
Easy to clean and comfortable in the hands
Equipped with working parachutes
Develops fine motor skills
Some parents find this product to be expensive
Hup, hup! The Toy Story Army Men are ready to file out and scan the perimeter for lost toys and mischievous pets. This set includes 72 green plastic soldiers in a variety of poses, all modeled after the classic Toy Story characters. They are scaled to the 12” Buzz Lightyear toy so you can play with other Toy Story figurines in realistic scenes! The soldiers come with working plastic parachutes and are true to the details of the movie.
Read moreThe bucket comes in handy as it keeps all of the men stored in one place. As your child grips the figures and drops the two with parachutes, they will be increasing their fine motor skills. Along with the design of the soldiers staying true to the movie, the parachuting men are the best part of this set. The working parachutes allow your child to take the fun and their imagination to new heights.
Ease of use
Wherever the battle takes these tiny men, the soft plastic allows them to easily be wiped clean after. This allows parents to keep them clean and in pristine condition for any time play.
Entertainment value
The bright green color of the soldiers makes it easy for your child to keep up with their men during battle as they can easily be spotted. Green is associated with armies of many nations, so it is a general color for uniforms.
Durability
The men are made of a softer plastic that provides a better feel for your little one’s hands without compromising the durability of the toys. This makes them much more desirable for play.
Design
The poses may seem familiar to your little one as they were designed to mimic the soldier’s poses in the Toy Story movies. The set even includes two soldiers with working parachutes.
9. True Heroes Ultimate Military Playset
Great for independent and social play
Container for transport and to keep pieces together
New battle scenes made with the mat and accessories
Durable and easy to clean plastic material
The mat could be made thicker to increase its durability
The TrueTanks Ultimate Military Playset has thought of it all. Not only does this set feature 100 assorted soldiers, tanks, and air assault accessories, but all of these fabulous toys come in their own plastic bin for easy cleanup and storage. There’s even a 33” x 27” plastic mat for the soldiers to duke it out on! These figurines come in two colors and each measures roughly two inches.
Read moreAll 100 pieces fit nicely inside the storage container. The mat can easily be folded down to fit inside as well. The lid locks to the container thus guaranteeing all of the pieces stay secured inside. As your child creates scenes for battle, they will be stimulating their development through the use of their imagination. Your child won’t grow tired of the playset because they have the opportunity to create a new battle scene each time they unfold the mat. Your child can independently play with the armies or share with a friend.
Ease of use
Not only does the storage box keep all of the pieces together but it also contains everything your child needs to create a battle. You will not have to find a suitable box to fit them in for transporting or storing.
Entertainment value
The variety of pieces and playmat allow your child to create a new war every time they open the box. Thus, it allows countless battles to be carried out for hours and hours of bloody battles that your child wants to reenact.
Durability
The mat, soldiers, and battle accessories are all composed of plastic which makes them easy to clean and long-lasting. You can expect these wonderful pieces to be in great condition for giving to younger kids when the time comes.
Design
Along with the mat, the playset includes 60 green and tan soldiers, tanks and aircraft. Members of both armies can take cover behind rocks, barbed wire fences, or dugouts.
10. Sunny Days Entertainment Elite Force
Four total soldiers
Guns, helmets, and assorted accessories included
K9 figurine included
6 inches tall with 12 points of articulation
Great detail
Small accessories are very easy to lose – watch around siblings under 3 years of age
The Sunny Days Entertainment Elite Force Army Rangers includes four hyper-realistic army men. Each figurine has 14 points or articulation and the unit even has their own specially-trained K9 pal. They are 1/18 scale figures with machin guns, helmets, and night vision goggles.
Read moreThe soldiers are equipped with weapons and assorted military gear. The helmets and guns are all detachable. These soldiers look realistic, with beautiful paintwork and detailing, and they move easily and freely, to allow children to sit them, stand them, put them in various battle poses, and work alongside them to save the day. The addition of the dog makes the set truly stand out in a sea of soldiers. Some of the pieces are small, so be prepared to store them carefully, but all in all, these are a top-notch choice when you’re looking for a more realistic, well-articulated soldier figurine. Their accessories and the presence of the Ranger K9 also give this a little boost over some of its competitors. These soldiers are a nice break from the blockier vintage counterparts.
Ease of use
With detachable gear and points of articulation, kids can pose these soldiers into many stances for defending their country and home. These added features give the child an easier time with using the toys and added enjoyment.
Entertainment value
These soldiers will allow your child hours of imaginative role-playing. They’re highly detailed and easy to play with thanks to multiple points of articulation that allow them to be put in numerous poses.
Durability
Army toys such as this one must be made sound and strong because of the type of play they promote. Manufacturers know how rough kids can be with active toy soldiers, so these are constructed for durable use.
Design
They’re built to a scale of 1:18, and the set includes four army ranger figures, as well as their special Ranger K9. They articulate well, look realistic, and the K9 unit is a pretty great touch.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Ease of Use
Kids have been playing with toy soldiers for centuries, and continue to do so even know, in an era of flashy, tech-heavy products. Something about toy soldiers feels classic and timeless. Little ones love a toy that is straightforward and purposeful. It does not take much effort on the child’s part to simply pick up these lightweight and heavily detailed toys and start role-playing their favorite movie scenes. Because they can be carried anywhere, these small soldiers and accessories can be shoved in pants pockets and backpacks to be used anywhere the child goes.
Entertainment Value
Now that the technology and skill sets have become more accessible for higher-quality dollmaking, we’re finding more realistic figures with joint articulation. This ups the ante for both kids and adult collectors alike. Toy soldiers are a staple in any movie about toys. The Toy Story saga features little green men hopping in a line and parachuting onto the scene. Small Soldiers is an entire feature dedicated to what would happen if toy soldiers actually came equipped with artificial intelligence and military-grade technology. As you can see, the possibilities for all-day play in timeless battles on the front can be had for your kids with these simple and classic toys.
Durability
The incarnation that evolved in the United States, known as the Army Men, is by far the most popular and familiar with the last three to four generations. They were, and are, by far the cheapest to make. They reached their zenith in production around 1968. The plastic is cheap and durable. You can afford to lose a few because they’re easily replaced. Although most of these listed items are small and made of various materials, you can count on them to last for years to hand down to future generations in great condition. Even playing with them continuously and daily will not cause much wear to show on these super sturdy and long-lasting toys.
Design
As stated earlier, kids have probably played soldier and war games since the beginning of time. It’s hardwired. It’s what most little boys--and a lot of girls--are into. Before there were craftsmen or toy manufacturers, there was always something to make a sword and shield out of. In fact, according to the data we have, toy soldiers can be found in ancient Egyptian tombs. There is just something magical in creating your own battle scenes and acting them out with hundreds of soldiers and props for entertainment. Kids love to do this over and over because it gives them a chance to be creative and use their imaginations.
Play fighting and war games are beneficial in developing a healthy sense of competition and cooperation if supervised and with set rules and standards placed from the beginning.
One of the classic ways to engage in healthy play is to get your kid to be more interactive with their figures and accessories.
Other Factors to Consider
Portability
Kids love to bring their toys with them when they are away from home or just outside to enjoy the sun and shade. These small soldiers and accessories are highly portable for just this purpose. In the car, kids can entertain themselves well with stories and scenes of battle, while you drive the vehicle. Other places such as offices or doctor visits are ideal for kids to bring along these miniature toys to keep them from being bored. They fit so easily in packs, bags, and pockets that they are easily accessible and never in the way of anything.
Educational Value
We find that engaging in the simple activities of playing make-believe when it comes to war games, deeply aids children in their cognitive abilities. This is especially the case when it comes to strategy and problem-solving skills. It sparks curiosity and ought to be used in conjunction, or correlation, with a historical foundation supplied by teachers and parents. This is what typically leads to a lifelong passion for learning and societal engagement. These wonderful toys that are featured do much to promote these valuable skills in your child through every day play.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are these items available at a discounted rate?
Our website gives the best prices for your money--and top quality, as well. Not only can you purchase directly through Amazon, but there’s also a wide range of sellers worldwide that are affiliated with Amazon to give you the best offer.
q: If I wanted to buy the entire Elite Force Series, how expensive could that get?
These days the quality of craftsmanship on many of these items can bring a fairly high resale value depending on the condition they’re in. You can tell how much work has gone into making the Elite Force Series, too. The detail of the design is phenomenal.
q: Are there any accessories you can recommend to match these products?
As we hinted at earlier in the review, a few of these items are part of a series of toys and accessories that perfectly complement the items that you’ve already purchased. There are plenty of options out there, so be creative. Homemade props are just as fun as store-bought ones, so use some imagination and create some fun!
q: What is the most common negative remark from customers about these selected toys?
You would think that by looking at some of these sets with numerous pieces that they would be on the economical end of the price range, but you would be wrong. Many people complain about the cost of these soldier sets, as they can be quite expensive. Another problem that buyers have with this product category is that the pieces are so small they can be dangerous for infants and toddlers. Especially those that like to put things in their mouths, these items can be very hazardous to them.
Sources
- How GI Joe, Barbie, and Darth Vader Taught Children About War, Online Informative Article ,
- Young Children’s Play Fighting and Use of War Toys, Informational Article ,
- How Toys Impact Children's Development, Parenting Article ,
- Hughes H-4 Hercules, Wikipedia Page ,
- Dog tag, Wikipedia Page ,