What are the types of replicas, and how do they differ?

Airsoft replicas are divided into electric (AEG), gas-powered (GBB), and spring-powered models.
AEGs are reliable and easy to use, making them ideal for beginners and players who value consistent performance.
Gas-powered replicas (GBBs) offer a high level of realism thanks to their functioning slide, blowback effect, and realistic trigger response, but they require regular maintenance and are sensitive to temperature changes.
 Spring-powered replicas are the simplest designs — inexpensive and durable — with a spring mechanism commonly used in sniper rifles and shotguns.

It's also useful to know the most popular weapon platforms replicas are based on (the descriptions below refer to AEGs, because we recommend AEGs for beginners):

M4 / AR-15

• Gearbox type: V2.
• Motor: long.
• Wiring / battery location: wiring may be routed to the stock tube, stock or to the handguard/receiver, depending on the model.

AK (e.g., AK-47/AK-74)

• Gearbox type: V3.
• Motor: short.
• Wiring / battery location: wiring may be routed into the stock or under the dust cover, depending on the model.

MP5

• Gearbox type: commonly V2 in full-size variants; some shorter variants (K/PDW) may use V3 due to different internal layout.
• Motor: usually short or long, depending on the version.
• Wiring / battery location: often in the front of the pistol grip or in the stock; in K versions the battery is sometimes located in the replica’s body.

P90

• Gearbox type: V6.
• Motor: short.
• Wiring / battery location: wiring is routed into the stock.