A scale model is a representation or copy of an object that is larger or smaller than the actual size of the object being represented. Very often the scale model is smaller than the original and used as a guide to making the obect in full size.

Scale models are useful for testing the likely performance of a design object at an early stage without the expense of building a full-sized prototype.

Scale models of, for example, ships and aeroplanes, are also built as a hobby.