Good Smile Nendoroid: Fate/Stay Night Saber Lily
This is an adorable Nendoroid based on the illustrious Saber.
The Saber Lily Nendoroid can strike different poses and has multiple expressions, allowing you to customize her looks to your preference and mood.
Spider-Man: No Way Home - Spider-Man in Finale Suit Funko Pop!
This Funko is an iconic figure to add to your collection.
The Funko Pop of Spider-Man No Way Home is here as depicted in the superhero movie. Spider-man has become an iconic and popular hero that leaves quite an impression.
Funko Pops and Nendoroids have become more prevalent in recent years, as both have dominated the toys market thanks to the massive number of characters they depict. They look different yet share the same idea of selling characters as small, adorable figures to highlight in your collection, making it hard to decide which one to buy.
This article will illustrate the critical differences between Funko Pops and Nendoroids so that you can decide which one you would instead focus on. For example, if you are more into anime, Nendoroids would be better, while Funko Pops would be best for comic fans, but that is merely scratching the surface of the topic, as what makes them differ goes deeper.
4.15 inches
3.9 inches
Painted ABS and PVC
Multiple expressions and poses.
Limited (usually static)
Highly articulated with movable joints
Older Children and Adults
Exclusive Releases, Limited Editions
Design
Regarding design, Funko Pops are known for their unique style and simple approach to visuals, making them stand out in simple fashion. Their big heads are reminiscent of bobblehead toys, making them enjoyable to fans, and Funko Pop has expertly used that to make their design more appealing.
Nendoroids, on the other hand, are more detailed in their designs, making them a bit more complex. They have smaller heads and relatively realistic proportions, along with vibrant details when it comes to color, such as the eyes of the character. If you prefer simple or cartoonish looks, Funko Pop is a better choice, while for those wanting a more realistic take, Nendoroids could be a more attractive option.
Articulation
Funko Pops have limited articulation, with most figures being static. Some may have a moveable head, but overall, they lack significant movement. Nendoroids are highly articulated, featuring moveable joints that allow for a variety of poses. This makes them more dynamic and versatile in display options.
Price
Funko Pops are generally affordable, with prices averaging between $8 to $11 per figure, though some can be more expensive. This makes it easy to start and grow a collection without significant financial investment.
Nendoroids, due to their higher quality materials and extensive features, are more expensive. They typically range from $30 to $60 per figure, which can make starting a collection more costly.
Materials
Funko Pops are made of soft plastic, making them less durable and more prone to damage if not handled carefully. They can get scratched or damaged if they fall from a height.
Nendoroids are more durable and less likely to suffer significant damage. Although their parts may separate if they fall, they can be easily reassembled. With proper care, they can maintain their quality for years.
Availability
It is far easier to find Funko Pops in the wild, which is to say that they are easily found in multiple retailers and stores in person. You can go into a GameStop, a Walmart, or a Target and see them in stock. It makes it easier to purchase them as there are multiple options to buy from both online and at a retail store, and it can save you a trip as you can multitask, thanks to availability in general stores.
Nendoroids, meanwhile, are hard to find, particularly when it comes to stores you may go to in person. Unless a retailer specializes in anime or Nendoroids, don’t count on finding these easily. The most common way of getting Nendoroids is buying them online and getting them delivered to your home.
Painting Quality
Funko Pops typically have a simpler paint job that matches their overall aesthetic. While they are often well-painted, the level of detail is usually less intricate.
Nendoroids are known for their high-quality paintwork, with detailed and vibrant colors that enhance the figure’s overall appearance. The meticulous painting contributes to their premium feel.
Aftermarket Value
Funko Pops can vary greatly in aftermarket value. Some rare or exclusive figures can become highly valuable over time, while others may retain their original price.
Alex DeLarge (Glow in the Dark)
$60,000
$210,000
$43,000
$35,000
$33,500
Boo Berry (Glow in the Dark)
$32,000
*These values were confirmed through various sources, including Pop Price Guide and HobbyDB, which track the market trends for collectible items (HobbyDB).
Nendoroids also have a strong aftermarket presence, with certain limited editions and exclusive releases becoming highly sought after and increasing in value.
$200 - $400
$200 - $350
$250 - $400
$300 - $500
$150 - $300
Hatsune Miku: Harvest Moon Ver.
*These prices reflect the collectible nature and limited availability of these figures, with values varying based on the condition and completeness of the items.
Special Features
Funko Pops have chase variants and store exclusives, which are special editions that offer unique designs or features, making them highly collectible.
Nendoroids often have exclusive releases, limited editions, and special accessories that add to their appeal. These special features can make certain figures particularly desirable.
Bottom Line
Both Funko Pops and Nendoroids offer something unique to collectors. Funko Pops are more accessible, affordable, and easier to find, making them a great choice for building a vast collection and enjoying simple, charming designs. Nendoroids, with their detailed craftsmanship, extensive customization, and high-quality materials, are ideal for collectors who appreciate detailed, versatile figures that can be personalized and posed in various ways.
FAQ
Which Is Better, Funko Pops or Nendoroids?
Both have their highlights, and determining which is better depends on the buyer’s preferences. While they are similar in some aspects, their fundamental differences make them target different customers.
Which Kind Of Characters Can I Find In These Figures?
If you like movies, cartoons, comics, or games, then Funko Pops has many characters while having a bit on the anime side. On the other hand, Nendoroids are significant when it comes to a roster of anime characters but are significantly lacking when it comes to all different categories.
I Want To Gift a Figure. Should I Choose Funko Pop or Nendoroid?
It depends on their preferences; Funko Pop tends to be more popular with kids and fans of multiple media genres, while Nendoroids are a better-suited choice if you want to give a gift to an anime fan.
