3 min read

Comparison of DCC Decoders for Model Trains: ESU, Hornby, and Loco.Engineering

In this guide, I’ll explain the main differences between DCC decoders that we find interesting and why we decided to develop a new decoder that supports not just Digital Command Control (DCC) but also Wireless Command Control (WCC). Before we dive into the features of each decoder, let’s review how decoders work and what types of DCC decoders are available on the market.

A DCC decoder is a circuit board that controls elements on a model train layout – it could be a train, signal, switch, or display at a station. To control trains and accessories using a DCC decoder, you generally need a DCC command station, except for decoders that support WiFi or Bluetooth control. A decoder receives a DCC signal from the command station over the tracks or wires, converts that signal into commands, and performs actions such as moving a train forward or turning on/off LEDs on a signal. This works similarly to controlling a remote control car, but in this case, all commands are delivered over the tracks or wires, much like some wired remote control car toys from the 1980s in Europe.

There are two main types of decoders:

  1. Train decoders (which control anything that moves on the tracks).
  2. Accessory decoders (which control signals, switches, etc.).

In reality, both types function similarly, and this distinction mainly adds complexity to DCC systems. However, the decision was made long ago to have different DCC messages for trains and accessories, and 99.9% of decoders still follow this rule—except for Loco.Engineering decoders, which are universal. You can, for example, use a tiny train decoder in a switch if you want to install it inside the switch itself.

Now, let’s explore the most interesting decoders for model trains currently available and explain why we decided to develop Loco.Engineering decoders.

ESU LokSound 5

  • Type: Standard wired DCC decoder.
  • Wireless Control: No.
  • Sound: 16-bit sound processor capable of playing up to 10 audio channels simultaneously.
  • Servo Motor Control: No.
  • Direct Communication Between Trains: No.
  • Control Method: Requires a DCC command station.
  • Programming Method: Can be programmed using LokProgrammer (an additional ESU product that allows for advanced sound and CV programming).
  • Firmware Updates: Via LokProgrammer.
  • Compatibility: Supports both DC (analog mode) and DCC (digital mode), providing backward compatibility with older model trains running on analog systems.
  • Customization: Limited to CV programming; no support for external sensor connections.
  • Open Source: No.
  • Price: ~100 EUR (price depends on the retailer).
  • Full Specifications: Available on the website.

Loco.Engineering Train Decoder

  • Type: Wireless DCC/WCC decoder.
  • Wireless Control: Supports WiFi and Bluetooth.
  • Sound: 16-bit sound processor capable of playing up to 14 audio channels simultaneously.
  • Servo Motor Control: Yes.
  • Direct Communication Between Trains: Yes, via WiFi.
  • Control Method: Through a web app compatible with all modern web browsers, DCC command stations, or remote control boards.
  • Programming Method: No programming required; settings can be changed in a browser from almost any device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop). Fully programmable with Arduino, with the firmware available on GitHub, allowing custom firmware creation.
  • Firmware Updates: Over the air.
  • Compatibility: Supports DC (analog mode), DCC (digital mode), and can work in battery-powered models.
  • Customization: Fully programmable with Arduino; external sensors and modules can be connected via I2C, UART, or SPI (e.g., gyroscopes, additional DC motor drivers, NFC readers).
  • Open Source: Yes.
  • Price: 45 EUR.
  • Full Specifications: Available on the website.

Hornby HM7000 Decoder

  • Type: Wireless DCC decoder.
  • Wireless Control: Supports Bluetooth.
  • Sound: Yes, but no detailed audio specifications provided.
  • Servo Motor Control: No.
  • Direct Communication Between Trains: No.
  • Control Method: Through a mobile app available for iOS and Android (no computer control option).
  • Programming Method: No programming required; settings can be changed via the mobile app.
  • Firmware Updates: Over the air.
  • Compatibility: Supports both DC (analog mode) and DCC (digital mode).
  • Customization: Limited to CV programming; no support for external sensor connections.
  • Open Source: No.
  • Price: 82 EUR.
  • Full Specifications: Available on the Hornby website.

There are other decoders, such as Blunami by Soundtraxx, Lenz, and others, but they generally offer the same features as the ESU LokSound (wired decoders) or Hornby decoders (Bluetooth decoders). As you can see, all of these decoders are proprietary projects with limited customization. They tend to be expensive (largely because manufacturers sell them through resellers, don't develop firmware themselves, etc.), feature one-way communication (from the command station/mobile app to the train), and support a limited range of control options (e.g., no external sensors or servos).

That’s why we decided to develop Loco.Engineering decoders—to eliminate these limitations, offer more affordable pricing, and provide open-source firmware. You can even contact us with ideas about what you want to control using Loco.Engineering decoders, and we’ll do our best to add those features to the firmware. This level of flexibility is not possible with other brands.

If you’d like to know more about Loco.Engineering decoders, check out the available decoders here or explore examples of how to control trains and accessories with Loco.Engineering decoders. As always, we welcome your feedback at hey@loco.engineering.

Loco Team

Loco Team