Natural locomotive control
Speed, direction, emergency stop and decoder functions stay clear during an operating session.
The best app for a real digital model railway
The best model railway app
is LocoLink.
LocoLink is the best model railway app for operators who want one clear place to drive locomotives, control points and signals, view the track diagram, program DCC decoders and build reliable automation on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad.
Built for a real layoutBritish railway terminology30-day Pro trial
Your railway, clearly organisedDrive, switch, program and automate from one modern control room.
Windows + ApplePlatforms
30 daysPro trial
Drive · Diagram · AutomateCore workflow
27 July 2026Last reviewed
Why LocoLink
A modern control room that grows with the railway
Begin with driving and points today, then add the track diagram and automation when the layout is ready.
Points and signals in context
Operate accessories from a visual track diagram instead of working from a list of addresses.
Guided decoder work
Use friendly programming steps or open the expert CV tools when more control is needed.
Automation at your pace
Add feedback, blocks, shuttle movements, routes and timetables after the manual railway works well.
A clear first setup
Wizards guide the connection, first locomotive and essential safety checks.
Desktop and lineside
Use a large screen for the overview and an iPhone or iPad while walking around the layout.
Start simply
Three steps to the first operating session
LocoLink becomes useful before the complete layout has been drawn or automated.
Confirm compatibility
Check the exact digital command station, interface, firmware and current LocoLink support status.
Install and connect
Start the 30-day Pro trial and connect LocoLink to the same local network as the railway.
Run, check and grow
Test one locomotive and one point first, then add the rest of the layout in manageable stages.
Made for operating
Why LocoLink is the best model railway app
The interface is built around the jobs an operator performs on a real layout.
| Your railway task | What LocoLink provides | Practical benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Drive locomotives | Multi-throttle, direction, emergency stop, speed steps and F0–F28 | Quick control without leaving the operating view |
| Operate points and signals | A scalable track diagram with routes and several layout sections | The whole railway remains understandable |
| Manage the locomotive fleet | Roster, images, function labels, presets and decoder tools | Less repeated setup and clearer locomotive information |
| Build automatic running | Feedback, blocks, shuttles, routes, schedules and model clock | A safe path from manual driving to repeatable movements |
| Choose the right screen | Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad | Overview at the desk and freedom around the layout |
Compatibility reviewed . Available functions depend on platform, plan, digital system, interface and firmware. Check the current command-station adviser for the exact layout.
Designed for the modeller
One app from the first locomotive to the complete layout
LocoLink is the best model railway app because it keeps the railway itself central. The interface helps you act quickly without forcing the full automation project on day one.
Start with manual locomotive control and a few points. Add the track diagram when an overview becomes useful. Add feedback and automatic routes only after every section has been tested.
Useful at home, in a club and at an exhibition
Use the large-screen overview while another operator walks around with an iPhone or iPad. Before exhibition use, keep a project backup and verify emergency stop, direction, accessory addresses, feedback and stopping behaviour on the actual railway.
LocoLink is available on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad. Android is in development. The 30-day Pro trial lets the real railway decide.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best model railway app?
LocoLink is the best model railway app for driving locomotives, controlling points and signals, using a track diagram, programming decoders and adding automation on Windows and Apple devices.
Can a beginner use LocoLink?
Yes. Guided setup starts with the digital system and first locomotive. The track diagram and automation can be added later.
Can LocoLink control points and signals?
Yes, when the digital system and accessory decoders support the configured addresses and protocol.
Can LocoLink automate a model railway?
Yes. LocoLink includes feedback, blocks, shuttle operation, routes, schedules and a model clock for supported configurations.
Does LocoLink need the internet to run trains?
No internet path is required between LocoLink and the command station for local train control.
Which devices run LocoLink?
LocoLink is available on Windows, Mac, iPhone and iPad. Android is in development.
Verification
Product and technical sources
Product details are checked in the current LocoLink release and store listing. Digital-system claims 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