A specialist model train layout is where there’s one major source of traffic. A good example would be a steel mill, brewery or saw mill. When designing a specialist layout you will need to study the subject in order to model it correctly. Specialist model railroad layouts can be very effective and a lot of fun to build especially if you have a keen interest in the subject or location.

A generalist model train layout is where almost anything goes. A sea port for example could realistically be expected to send and recieve almost all kinds of freight cars whereas a specialist layout might have a port specifically for exporting coal. A generalist model train layout allows for flexibilty, which for many railroaders, is a good reason to choose a generalist model railroad layout.