Summary:
This guide will help you find the right anime figures – whether you're just starting out or already a collector. You'll learn which brands are recommended, what to look out for regarding materials and pre-orders, and how to buy figures cheaply or used – including tips for planning your collection.
Introduction
Anime figures are more than just merchandise for many fans – they are memories, works of art, and collectibles. But anyone who starts looking into buying them quickly realizes: the selection is huge, prices vary widely, and quality depends heavily on the manufacturer. In this guide, we'll help you navigate the figure jungle – whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your collection.
Which figure suits me best? PVC, resin, or Figma?
Getting started with anime figures often begins with the question of material. PVC figures are particularly popular – they are relatively inexpensive, durable, and already offer a good level of detail. This makes them ideal for beginners or collectors on a budget. Prize figures usually fall into this category.
Resin statues, on the other hand, are heavier, significantly more detailed – but also more fragile. They are often produced in limited quantities and are aimed at experienced collectors. The material allows for an almost artistic rendering, but is less robust and usually considerably more expensive. A resin figure is not a mass-produced item – but a collector's piece with rarity value.
Then there are action figures like SH Figuarts or Figma . These are poseable, often with interchangeable faces and poses, and are especially popular with creative collectors or photographers.
Figurines for beginners: What to look out for?
Especially for beginners, it's easy to be tempted by attractive designs or low prices. But before you buy, you should consider what you really want. Prize figures from brands like Banpresto or Taito are an ideal starting point: affordable, authentic, and available with many well-known characters.
If you're willing to invest more, 1/7 or 1/8 scale figures from manufacturers like Kotobukiya or FREEing are a great choice. They offer more detail, a nicer presentation, and are often more durable.
The most important questions before buying
Before you decide on a figure, ask yourself a few simple but important questions: Do I really want this character? Do I like the aesthetic, or am I just jumping on the bandwagon? Does the figure fit in with the others I already own? And most importantly: Can I get it for a price that's acceptable to me?
Which brands make the best anime figures?
Choosing the right brand is crucial. Good Smile Company is the market leader, known for its Pop Up Parade and popular Nendoroids . ALTER is a top choice for quality and realistic poses. Prime 1 Studio, on the other hand, offers luxury resin statues for discerning collectors. Other recommended brands include Kotobukiya , MegaHouse , and SEGA Goods .
Buy limited edition & used figures
Many collectors are interested in limited-edition anime figures , which are only released in small quantities. It's worth ordering early – or looking for them later on the secondary market. When buying used, you should pay attention to the condition, certificates of authenticity, and ideally, the original packaging. Trustworthy retailers like yokina.de also regularly offer sales with verified quality.
Tips for planning, pre-ordering & budget control
A common mistake new collectors make is placing too many pre-orders. Release dates often get pushed back, and suddenly several figures arrive at once. I recommend keeping a separate Excel spreadsheet in addition to MyFigureCollection, tracking price, retailer, payment status, and delivery date. This way, you stay in control.
| Figure / Character | Manufacturer / Brand | Shop | Price (€) | Pre-ordered on | Planned delivery date | Paid? | Status / Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gabimaru – Hell's Paradise | Kotobukiya | Yokina.de | €129.99 | May 2, 2025 | August 2026 | ✔️ | Waiting for shipment |
| Asuka – Evangelion (1/7) | Old | Shop B | €189.00 | April 12, 2025 | October 2026 | ❌ | Payment only upon shipment |
And be sure to plan the space for your collection! Figurines are works of art – they deserve a suitable place, good lighting, and care. Collecting without a plan quickly leads to stacks of boxes in the storage room. If you want to enjoy your collection for the long term, it's worth thinking ahead.
Conclusion: Collecting with heart and mind
Anime figures are more than just products – they're an expression of your passion. Whether you opt for affordable prize figures or invest in high-quality resin statues, the important thing is to collect consciously, do your research, and only buy what you truly want. Then your collection will be a lasting companion – filled with pride, joy, and memories.
