Are Resin Figures More Expensive?

Collecting anime figures is a hobby that has become increasingly popular in recent years. When starting to collect anime figures, it's important to consider your budget and the types of figures you're most interested in. Whether you prefer larger, more detailed figures or smaller, more affordable ones, there's definitely a figure that fits your style and budget. We think these are the most important categories to look out for:

Figure Type

Scale refers to the size of the figure relative to the actual size of the character in the anime. Common scales include 1/8, 1/7, and 1/6. Generally, the larger the scale, the more detail and complexity the figure has, but also the higher the price. Scale figures are hand-painted and are usually only released once, so older figures can be very expensive and difficult to obtain. Some scales come with optional or removable (detachable) parts. It's a good idea to consider the scale of your model, as this can affect the price as well as display placement.

Another type of anime figure is the prize figure, which is usually cheaper than other figures because they are mass-produced and machine-painted. These figures are often won as prizes in arcade games or given away as promotional items. While trophy figures are typically smaller and less detailed than scale figures, and often have minor imperfections and seam lines, they can still be a great addition to any collection.

Chibi figures, also known as miniature figures, are another type of anime figures that are growing in popularity. These figures are typically small and cute, with large heads and small bodies. They are generally less expensive than other figures and can be a great way to add diversity to your collection.

Articulated figures that are highly posable and come with a variety of interchangeable parts. These figures are typically more expensive than other types of figures, but offer a lot of flexibility in how they are displayed.

Materials and their impact on the figure

The material a figure is made of can significantly affect its overall quality, durability, and price. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the most commonly used material in anime figure models due to its ability to retain intricate details, durability, and affordability. Another popular material is ABS. ABS is known for its strength and durability, and is often used for articulated figures and other figures that require a high level of structural stability. ABS is lightweight and easy to mold. Some figures may also use a combination of materials, such as ABS plastic for the joints and PVC for the body. This can result in a higher price, but it also offers the advantages of both materials.

ATBC-PVC is a type of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) material that is often used for anime figure models. It is softer and more flexible than regular PVC. It is also less likely to yellow over time than other PVC materials, making it a popular choice for collectors who want their figures to retain their original color for a long time. However, ATBC-PVC is also generally more expensive than regular PVC, so figures made from this material tend to be more expensive.

Resin dolls are known for their high level of detail and quality, so they are more expensive than PVC dolls. Resin is a more fragile material and can easily crack or break if not handled properly.