How to Choose Your Manga Figures: The Ultimate Guide

Manga figurines are exciting collectibles for any fan of anime and Japanese culture. But with so many choices available, how can you be sure you're making the right purchase? Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, this guide will help you choose the perfect figurine based on your needs and budget.

Define your budget

Before purchasing a figurine, it is essential to set a budget. Figurine prices can vary greatly depending on the type, size, and rarity.

Here is an idea of the price ranges according to the type of figurine:

Type of Figure	Price Range
Funko Pop	10 € - 20 €
Standard PVC	20 € - 80 €
Figma (articulated)	50 € - 100 €
Resin (high quality)	150 € and more
Nendoroid (chibi)	40 € - 60 €

Advice :

For beginning collectors, it may be a good idea to start with Funko Pop or PVC figures.
Experienced collectors can look to resin figures or limited editions for rarer and more valuable pieces.

The Different Types of Figurines

There are a wide variety of manga figurines . Here is a list of the most popular types of figurines:

Funko Pop : Stylized figures with a simplified look, ideal for occasional collectors.
PVC Figures : Detailed, high-quality plastic figures commonly found in collections.
Nendoroid : Chibi-style figures, with interchangeable faces and parts for more customization.
Figma : Articulated figurines, ideal for those who like to pose and manipulate their figurines.
Resin figures : High quality, often produced in limited quantities. These figures are more expensive and intended for avid collectors.

Choose Size and Scale

The size and scale of the figurines are essential factors to consider. Figurines often come in different scales, which influences their size.

Here is a chart of common sizes and what they mean:

Ladder	Approximate Size
1/6	30 cm
1/8	20 cm
1/12	15 cm

Advice :

If you are short on space, opt for 1/12 scale figures.
If you want a centerpiece for your collection, 1/6 or 1/8 figures offer more detail.

Materials of the Figurines

The material a figure is made of has a direct impact on its durability and appearance. Here's a look at the most common materials:

PVC : The most widespread material, strong and relatively affordable.
Vinyl : Used primarily for Funko Pops, vinyl is lightweight and less detailed than PVC.
Resin : A high-end material, often used for limited edition figurines. It is more fragile but allows for an impressive level of detail.

How to Avoid Counterfeits

Unfortunately, there are many counterfeits in the world of manga figurines. Here are some tips to avoid falling into the trap:

Buy from trusted sources : Favor specialized stores and recognized sites like mangameo , eBay (with seller verification), and official online stores.

Compare prices : Counterfeit figures are often sold at prices well below market prices. If a figure seems way too cheap, it's probably a knockoff.
Check customer reviews : Check reviews and ratings from other buyers. Counterfeits are often reported in comments by dissatisfied buyers.
Look at product photos : Trustworthy sites usually offer several high-resolution photos of the figure from different angles. Be wary of blurry or few photos.

Limited and Exclusive Editions

Some figurines are produced in limited or exclusive editions. These figurines are often more expensive, but they can increase in value over time. Serious collectors should pay attention to these editions to enrich their collection.

Choose Based on Character or Anime

It is important to choose figurines that are important to you. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

Choose characters you have an emotional connection with!
Complete Collections : If you like a particular anime, try collecting figures of all the main characters.

Conservation and Maintenance of Figurines

Once you have purchased your figurine, it is important to take good care of it so that it retains its shine. Here are some basic tips:

Cleaning : Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust. Avoid water or chemicals.
Exposure : Do not place your figurines in direct sunlight, as this can cause the colors to fade.
Protect them from humidity : Humidity can damage materials and cause mold on some figurines.

Where to Buy Manga Figurines?

Here are some places where you can safely buy your manga figurines:

Specialized online stores : Mangameo, Good Smile Company, HobbyLink Japan.
Conventions : Anime conventions like Japan Expo often offer exclusive figures.
Specialty brick-and-mortar stores : Some local shops offer quality figurines and expert advice.

Conclusion

Choosing the right manga figure can seem overwhelming with so many options, but by following these tips, you can find the perfect piece to complete your collection. Whether you're looking for something small and affordable or a high-quality figure, there's a figure out there for every collector.

Remember to check the authenticity of the figurines and buy from reliable sources. If you want to discover our products, visit our online store!