TrainStation vs openBVE

Struggling to choose between TrainStation and openBVE? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

TrainStation is a Games solution with tags like model-trains, railroads, layout-design, automation, locomotive-control.

It boasts features such as Track planning and design, Locomotive control, Accessory control (turnouts, signals, etc), Operations automation, Realistic physics simulation, 3D graphics and animations and pros including Powerful feature set, Intuitive interface, Large library of content, Active user community support.

On the other hand, openBVE is a Games product tagged with train-simulator, railway, 3d-graphics, physics-simulation, open-source.

Its standout features include 3D cab view, Accurate train physics simulation, Support for custom trains, routes, and other content, Realistic sound effects, Multiplayer capability, and it shines with pros like Free and open source, Realistic graphics and physics, Active modding community, Runs on low-end hardware, Cross-platform support.

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of these two products, delving into their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more. Get ready to explore the nuances that set them apart and determine which one is the perfect fit for your requirements.

TrainStation

TrainStation

TrainStation is a desktop application for planning and operating model train layouts. It allows users to design track plans, control locomotives and accessories, and run automated operations. The software aims to provide a realistic model railroading experience on a computer.

Categories:
model-trains railroads layout-design automation locomotive-control

TrainStation Features

  1. Track planning and design
  2. Locomotive control
  3. Accessory control (turnouts, signals, etc)
  4. Operations automation
  5. Realistic physics simulation
  6. 3D graphics and animations

Pricing

  • Free limited trial
  • One-time full license purchase

Pros

Powerful feature set

Intuitive interface

Large library of content

Active user community support

Cons

Steep learning curve

Requires powerful computer hardware

Expensive full version license


openBVE

openBVE

openBVE is an open source train simulator that allows users to drive trains on rail networks. It has realistic 3D graphics, accurate train physics, and supports custom trains, routes, and other content.

Categories:
train-simulator railway 3d-graphics physics-simulation open-source

OpenBVE Features

  1. 3D cab view
  2. Accurate train physics simulation
  3. Support for custom trains, routes, and other content
  4. Realistic sound effects
  5. Multiplayer capability

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Free and open source

Realistic graphics and physics

Active modding community

Runs on low-end hardware

Cross-platform support

Cons

Steep learning curve

Limited tutorials and documentation

Graphics dated compared to commercial simulators

Lack of official content