Top 10 Best model rockets in 2026

Last Updated - 6/6/2026

🏆Best Choice

Estes

Estes 001478 Flash Rocket Launch Set

9.8

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.8

/ 10

Outstanding

Main highlights

•Activity set for launching model rocket
•Drag-resistant design for providing high performance with cloud-base flights over 925.0 feet on standard Estes engine (sold separately)
•Snap-together, plastic molded fin set with nose cone, attachable pre-colored body tube, and die cut, self-stick decals for ease of assembly
•Launch pad and controller for discharging rocket
•Measures 16.2”(L)
•Activity set for launching model rocket
•Drag-resistant design for providing high performance with cloud-base flights over 925.0 feet on standard Estes engine (sold separately)
•Snap-together, plastic molded fin set with nose cone, attachable pre-colored body tube and die cut, self-stick decals for ease of assembly
•Launch pad and controller for discharging rocket
•Measures 16.2"(L)

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$34.97

$38.09

-8%

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Estes

Estes 1225 Alpha Rocket-Building Kit, Intermediate Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+

9.7

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.7

/ 10

Outstanding

Main highlights

•INTERMEDIATE MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The 1225 Alpha Rocket-Building Kit offers kids ages 10+ a rocket model that is easy to build and fun to fly! This kit includes the rocket parts, design decals, recovery parachutes, and instructions. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 1,000 FT.: Our 1225 Alpha rocket model has an aerodynamic design to teach individuals with STEM interests. It features a 12.3-inch height and an altitude of 1,000 ft. (305 m) using a C6-7 Estes rocket engine (sold separately). It is also compatible with 1/2A6-2, A8-3, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, and C6-5 rocket engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Rocket building inspires creativity and a passion for science and outer space! Our intermediate rocket kit comes ready to build and requires approximately 1 hour of assembly time. Add the included decals and pair it with a Porta Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller (sold separately) for a successful rocket blastoff.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$15.92

$22.99

-31%

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Estes

Estes 2483 Phantom Blue Rocket-Building Kit, Beginner Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+

9.5

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.5

/ 10

Outstanding

Main highlights

•BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The 2483 Phantom Blue rocket model kit allows ages 10+ the chance to build and blast off our easy-to-assemble 2483 Phantom Blue model. It includes the rocket parts, design decals, a recovery parachute, and instructions. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 1150 FT.: Our 2483 Phantom Blue model rocket blasts at incredible speeds and has a 19.4-inch height and a projected altitude of 1,150 ft. (351 m) on a C6-7 Estes rocket engine (sold separately). It is also compatible with A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, and C6-5 rocket engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Rocket building inspires creativity and a passion for science and outer space! Our beginner rocket kit comes ready to build with precolored rocket parts for a quick path to launch. Pair it with a Porta Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller (sold separately) for a successful rocket blastoff.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$16.99

$20.99

-19%

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Estes

Estes 1469 Tandem X Rocket Launch Set, Prebuilt Beginner Flying-Rocket-Model Set for Ages 10+, Includes Launch Pad System

9.4

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.4

/ 10

Excellent

Main highlights

•BEGINNER MODEL ROCKET LAUNCH SET: This Estes rocket model launch set offers adults and kids ages 10+ the chance to build and launch our Amazon and Crossfire ISX rocket models. This set includes the easy-to-assemble Amazon model parts, the intermediate level Crossfire ISX model parts, parachutes, and the launch pad system. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•2 DIFFERENT ALTITUDE HEIGHTS: Our 1469 Tandem X set offers a high-performing power duo with our giant 30-inch Amazon model (600-foot projected altitude with a C6-5 rocket engine) and our streamlined 15.6-inch Crossfire ISX model (1,150-foot projected altitude with a C6-7 rocket engine). Other compatible Estes model-rocket engines for Amazon model: B4-2, B4-4, B6-2, B6-4, C5-3, and C6-3. Other compatible engines for Crossfire ISX: A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, and C6-5. All engines sold separately.
•READY TO BUILD: Our completed beginner rocket launch set comes with 2 build options. The precolored Amazon model is designed with plastic fins and self-stick graphics and can be built in an hour. The intermediate-level Crossfire ISX model is designed with laser-cut wood fins, self-stick decals, and intricately aerodynamic parts. Pair these rockets with the included Porta Pad II Launch Pad and an Electron Beam Launch Controller for a truly unique launch experience.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$39.99

$44.99

-11%

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Estes

Estes Model Rockets Athena, Brown/a

9.2

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.2

/ 10

Excellent

Main highlights

•One of ever popular Ready to Fly rockets from Estes, the Athena is one cool rocket and comes fully assembled which means you get to the flying field quick. So, grab a friend and get ready to have some fun!
•SKILL LEVEL: The Athena is an easy-to-assemble, Beginner level rocket with pre-colored parts.
•RECOMMENDED ENGINES: A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, C6-5
•PROJECTED ALTITUDE: 1125 ft. (343 m) on a C6-5
•ESTIMATED ASSEMBLY TIME: 15 Minutes

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$19.99

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Estes

Estes 2435 3 Bandits Rocket-Building Kit, Beginner Mini-Engine-Powered Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+

9.1

ChoiceComparer.com Score

9.1

/ 10

Excellent

Main highlights

•BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The 2435 3 Bandits rocket-building kit offers 3 mini-engine-powered rocket models for ages 10+ that are easy to build and fun to fly! It includes the rocket parts, design decals, recovery parachutes, and instructions. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOAR UP TO 550 FT.: Our 2435 3 Bandits rocket models are made for fun, fast, efficient launches. Each features a 10.8-inch height, a 6-inch parachute, and a projected altitude of 550 ft. (168 m) using an A10-3T Estes mini model-rocket engine (sold separately). These rockets are also compatible with 1/2A3-4T or A3-4T rocket engines.
•FAST-FLYING DESIGN: Rocket building inspires creativity and a passion for science and outer space! Each beginner rocket model has an approximate 10-minute assembly time with easy-to-follow steps and an easy-to-use design. Pair it with a Porta Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller (sold separately) for a successful blastoff.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$25.84

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Estes

Estes 7243 Black Brant II Rocket-Building Kit, Advanced Dual-Body Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+

8.9

ChoiceComparer.com Score

8.9

/ 10

Great

Main highlights

•ADVANCED MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The 7243 Black Brant II rocket model kit allows ages 10+ to create a 1:13-scale replica of one of Canada’s Black Brant rockets from the '50s. It includes the rocket parts, design decals, a recovery parachute, and instructions. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, a launch rod, and 6 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 1,300 FT.: Our high-flying 7243 Black Brant II model rocket features a 25-inch height, an 18-inch preassembled parachute, and a projected altitude of 1,300 ft. (396 m) on a D12-7 Estes rocket engine (sold separately). It is also compatible with D12-5 rocket engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Our advanced rocket kit presents a rewarding challenge that requires advanced building skills and 4+ hours of assembly time. Pair it with the Porta-Pad E Launch Pad, E Launch Controller, and 3/16-inch “Maxi” Launch Rod (sold separately) for a successful launch.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$23.88

$27.99

-15%

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Estes

Estes 804 Firehawk Rocket-Building Kit, Beginner Flying-Rocket-Model Kit for Ages 10+

8.8

ChoiceComparer.com Score

8.8

/ 10

Great

Main highlights

•BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: The 804 Firehawk rocket model kit allows ages 10+ the chance to build and blast off our mini-rocket-engine-powered 804 Firehawk model. It includes the rocket parts, design decals, a recovery parachute, and instructions. It requires mini rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, and 4 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 550 FT.: Our 804 Firehawk model rocket is streamlined to create a stellar show and reaches a projected altitude of 550 ft. (168 m) on an A10-3T Estes rocket engine (sold separately). It is also compatible with 1/4A3-3T, 1/2A3-2T, and A3-4T rocket engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Rocket building inspires creativity and a passion for science and outer space! Our beginner rocket kit comes ready to build and includes a colorful self-stick decal set for customization. Pair it with a Porta Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller (sold separately) for a successful rocket blastoff.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$15.36

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Estes

Estes 1329 Multi-ROC Rocket-Building Kit, Expert Flying-Rocket-Model Kit with Glider for Ages 10+

8.6

ChoiceComparer.com Score

8.6

/ 10

Good

Main highlights

•EXPERT MODEL-ROCKET-BUILDING KIT: This kit allows ages 10+ and expert rocket-building enthusiasts to create our powerful 1329 Multi-ROC rocket model that offers 6 different ways to fly! It includes the rocket parts, design decals, a recovery parachute, a glider, and instructions. It requires booster and standard rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, a launch pad system, a launch rod, and 6 high-quality 1.5-volt AA alkaline batteries for launch use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 1,200 FT.: Our 1329 Multi-ROC model rocket can launch as a single- or multistage rocket with a built-in balsa-wood parasite glider that releases at the peak point of altitude. It reaches a projected altitude of 1,200 ft. (366 m) on a C6-7 (stage 1) and C6-0 (stage 2) Estes rocket engine (sold separately). The single-stage rocket can also use B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, and C6-7 engines. The two-stage rocket can use B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, C6-7 rocket engines and B6-0 booster engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Our expert-level model rocket kit has 6 different methods of flying and a payload section that presents a rewarding challenge. It requires advanced building skills and 6+ hours of assembly time. Pair it with the Porta-Pad E Launch Pad, E Launch Controller, and 3/16-inch “Maxi” Launch Rod (sold separately) for a successful launch.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.

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$18.63

$24.99

-25%

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Estes

Estes 1491 Taser Rocket Launch Set, Beginner Flying-Rocket-Model Building Kit for Ages 10+, Includes Launch Pad System

8.5

ChoiceComparer.com Score

8.5

/ 10

Good

Main highlights

•BEGINNER MODEL-ROCKET LAUNCH SET: The 1491 Taser rocket launch set offers kids ages 10+ and experienced builders the chance to build and blast off quickly with this E2X (Easy to Assemble) series model. The set includes the rocket parts, decals, a Porta-Pad II Launch Pad, an Electron Beam Controller, and a 15-inch recovery parachute. It requires rocket engines, Starters, Recovery Wadding, and 4 AA batteries for use (sold separately).
•SOARS UP TO 1,100 FT.: Have fun assembling this cool model rocket, then launch it with the included Estes rocket launch pad system. The 1491 Taser model rocket kit has a custom three-fin design and a projected altitude of up to 1,100 ft. (335 m) using a C6-7 engine (sold separately). It’s also compatible with Estes A8-3, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, C6-5, and C6-7 rocket engines.
•READY TO ASSEMBLE: Rocket building inspires creativity and a passion for science and outer space! Our beginner rocket kit comes ready to assemble and requires approximately 10 minutes of preparation time. Add the included decals for extra style before you prepare it for blastoff with the included Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller.
•SAFETY FIRST, FUN ALWAYS: Our rockets are designed to be used with the NAR (National Association of Rocketry) model-rocket safety code. Always ensure you have an appropriate launch site, stand back at least 15 ft., insert the safety key, issue a countdown, and then you can let your rocket fly!
•WE IGNITE IMAGINATIONS: Since 1958, Estes has created educational rocket kits designed for an unforgettable launch experience. As a family-owned company, we have grown to offer exciting STEM products that engage aspiring rocketeers and the future minds of aerospace.
•Ready to fly in minutes
•Custom 3 Fin design
•E2X Skill Level
•Flies up to 1000 '
•Launch System Included

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$38.35

$40.99

-6%

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