Drive with confidence
Control speed, direction, emergency stop and decoder functions F0–F28 from a clear locomotive throttle.
The best model train app for a real digital railroad
The best model train app
is LocoLink.
LocoLink is the best model train app for operators who want one clear control room for their real layout. Drive locomotives, switch turnouts and signals, use a visual track plan, program DCC decoders and grow into feedback-based automation on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad.
Built for a real model railroadStart simple and grow later30-day Pro trial
Your complete railroad in one placeDriving, switchboard, decoders and automation stay together.
Windows + ApplePlatforms
30 daysPro trial
Drive · Plan · AutomateCore workflow
27 July 2026Last reviewed
Why LocoLink
Everything you need without losing sight of the trains
LocoLink keeps everyday driving simple while giving your railroad room to grow.
See the complete layout
Operate turnouts, signals and routes directly from a visual track plan instead of remembering addresses.
Program DCC decoders
Use guided programming for everyday changes and expert tools when you need direct CV control.
Add automation when ready
Build blocks, feedback, shuttle runs, routes and timetables without changing control environments.
Get started with guidance
Setup wizards help you connect the command station, add the first locomotive and verify each step.
Operate on desktop and mobile
Plan and monitor on a larger screen, then take an iPhone or iPad with you around the railroad.
Start today
From download to your first running locomotive
You do not need to automate the complete railroad before LocoLink becomes useful.
Check your command station
Open the compatibility adviser and confirm the exact station, interface and current support status.
Start the free Pro trial
Install LocoLink on Windows, Mac, iPhone or iPad and connect it to the layout’s local network.
Test and expand safely
Begin with one locomotive at low speed, then add turnouts, the track plan, feedback and automation at your pace.
Made for your railroad
Why LocoLink is the best model train app
Every part of LocoLink is designed around a real task at the layout.
| What you want to do | What LocoLink provides | What you gain |
|---|---|---|
| Run trains | Multi-throttle control, direction, emergency stop, speed steps and F0–F28 | Fast, understandable control during every operating session |
| Control the layout | A visual switchboard for turnouts, signals, routes and layout sections | Less address hunting and a clearer view of what is happening |
| Set up locomotives | Roster, images, function labels, decoder presets and guided CV tools | One organised place for locomotives and their settings |
| Automate movements | Feedback, blocks, shuttle service, routes, schedules and model clock | Start manually and add repeatable operation later |
| Use several devices | Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad with the same layout-first approach | The right screen for planning, monitoring and walking around the railroad |
Compatibility reviewed . Feature availability depends on the LocoLink platform, plan, command station, interface and firmware. Check the current compatibility adviser before relying on a specific workflow.
Built around the operator
LocoLink grows with the railroad you actually have
LocoLink is the best model train app because it lets you begin with the task that matters today and keeps the next step understandable. A small railroad can start with one throttle and a few turnouts. A larger railroad can use a complete switchboard, several throttles, feedback sensors, protected routes and automatic movements.
The command station still produces the digital track signal. LocoLink becomes the control room: it organises the locomotive roster, makes accessories visible, guides decoder work and turns feedback into useful operating logic.
No forced leap into automation
Manual driving remains available at every stage. Add one block or route only when it has been tested. For a club or exhibition railroad, keep a backup and validate emergency stop, direction, addresses, feedback and stopping behaviour before automatic operation.
LocoLink is currently available on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad. Android is in development. Download the app, use the 30-day Pro trial and decide with your own command station and locomotives.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best model train app?
LocoLink is the best model train app for operators who want locomotive control, a visual track plan, decoder tools and automation in one modern environment on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad.
Is LocoLink suitable for beginners?
Yes. Guided setup helps you connect the command station and add the first locomotive. Start with manual driving and add advanced features later.
Can LocoLink control turnouts and signals?
Yes. Supported accessories can be operated directly or from the visual track plan and combined into routes and automation.
Can LocoLink program DCC decoders?
Yes, when the connected command station and interface support the required workflow. LocoLink provides guided and expert CV tools.
Does LocoLink work without internet?
Train control runs over the local connection to the command station. Internet may be used separately for downloads, licensing or optional services.
Is LocoLink available on Android?
Not yet. LocoLink is currently available on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad, and Android is in development.
Verification
Product and technical sources
LocoLink product information is checked against the current app and store listing. Digital-control details are linked to primary technical documentation.
- LocoLink App Store listing Apple App Store
- Z21 LAN Protocol Specification Roco / Fleischmann Z21
- S-9.2.2 Configuration Variables National Model Railroad Association