Resin Figures vs PVC: Which Should You Choose?

If you’ve ever walked into an anime store or browsed online shops, you’ve probably noticed something: anime figures come in different materials, and the prices can vary wildly. A cute Nezuko figure might cost $30, while a similar-looking one costs $200. What gives?

The answer usually comes down to two main materials: resin and PVC. Think of it like choosing between a handmade ceramic mug and one from your local department store. Both hold coffee just fine, but they’re made differently, cost differently, and appeal to different people.

Anime figure collecting has become more popular than ever, especially with streaming services introducing more people to amazing series. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to understand your options better, this guide will help you figure out which type of figure fits your style and budget.

What Are Resin Figures?

Resin figures are like the artisanal coffee of the anime world. Most resin figures are made by independent artists who pour liquid resin into molds and paint each piece by hand. It’s a bit like watching someone create a miniature sculpture right in front of you.

Here’s what makes them special: when you buy resin figures, you’re getting something truly unique. No two pieces are exactly identical because of the hand-painting process. The level of detail can be incredible – we’re talking about individual eyelashes, fabric textures, and tiny accessories that look almost real.

Resin figures often come from smaller studios or individual artists rather than big toy companies. This means you might find characters from lesser-known series or unique interpretations of popular characters that you won’t see anywhere else. Think of them as limited edition art pieces that happen to be of your favorite anime characters.

The downside? They’re usually more expensive and take longer to produce. Since each one requires more hands-on work, you might wait months for a pre-order, and prices typically start around $100 and can go much higher.

What Are PVC Figures?

PVC figures are the reliable workhorses of anime collecting. These are mass-produced using injection molding – basically, melted PVC plastic gets shot into detailed molds to create consistent, high-quality figures.

You’ll find PVC figures from almost every popular anime series because big companies like Good Smile Company and Kotobukiya have the licenses to make them. Modern PVC figures have improved dramatically in recent years, with details that would have been impossible just a decade ago.

The best part about PVC figures? They’re accessible. You can find quality pieces starting around $20-30, and even premium PVC figures rarely exceed $200. They’re also durable – you don’t have to worry about them breaking if you accidentally bump your display shelf.

PVC figures are perfect for beginners who want quality without breaking the bank. You get consistent results, wide character selection, and the peace of mind that comes with buying from established companies with good customer service.

Resin vs PVC: Quick Comparison

The resin vs PVC debate comes down to your personal priorities. Let me break it down in simple terms:

Choose resin figures if you:

• Want something truly unique and artistic

• Don’t mind paying more for exceptional detail

• Enjoy supporting independent artists

• Like having pieces that few other people own

• Have experience handling delicate collectibles

Choose PVC figures if you:

• Want good value for your money

• Prefer characters from mainstream anime series

• Like having a wide variety of options

• Want figures that are easy to care for

• Are just starting your collection

Think of it this way: resin figures are like buying original artwork, while PVC figures are like buying high-quality prints. Both have their place, and many collectors end up with a mix of both.

Getting Started with Anime Figure Collecting

Starting your anime figure collecting journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s some practical advice that actually works:

Set a budget first. Seriously, this hobby can get expensive fast. Decide how much you want to spend per month and stick to it. Many collectors find that starting with PVC figures helps them learn what they like without major financial commitment.

Buy what you love, not what others recommend. The best resin figures for anime collectors are the ones featuring characters you actually care about. Don’t buy something just because it’s rare or expensive – you’ll regret it later.

Start small and learn. Understanding garage kit figures and different manufacturers takes time. Begin with one or two pieces, see how you like displaying and caring for them, then expand from there.

Research before buying. Read reviews, check the manufacturer’s reputation, and look at actual photos from other collectors. Pre-order photos often look better than the final product.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose between resin and PVC figures when I’m just starting?
Start with PVC figures. They’re more forgiving, less expensive, and give you a good feel for the hobby. Once you know what you like, you can always add resin pieces later.

Are resin figures really that much better than PVC?
“Better” depends on what you value. Resin figures typically have more detail and uniqueness, but PVC figures offer better value and durability. It’s like comparing a sports car to an SUV – different tools for different needs.

How much should I expect to spend?
For PVC figures, budget $30-150 for most pieces. Resin figures typically start around $100 and can go much higher. Remember to factor in shipping costs, especially for international orders.

Do figures hold their value?
Some do, especially limited resin pieces or discontinued PVC figures from popular series. However, buy figures because you enjoy them, not as investments.

Where should I buy figures?
Stick to reputable retailers like FIHEROE, AmiAmi, HobbyLink Japan, or official manufacturer stores. Avoid too-good-to-be-true deals on random websites – counterfeits are common.

Making Your Choice

Learning how to choose between resin and PVC figures saves time and money in the long run. The truth is, there’s no wrong choice here. Both materials have evolved significantly, and today’s figures – whether resin or PVC – offer quality that would have amazed collectors just a few years ago.

Many experienced collectors end up with both types in their collections. They might have PVC figures of their favorite mainstream characters and a few special resin pieces of characters they absolutely love.

The most important thing is to buy what makes you happy. Whether that’s a $30 PVC figure of your favorite character or a $300 resin masterpiece, the joy of seeing your favorite anime characters on your shelf is what this hobby is really about.

Ready to start your collection? Shop our resin figures or browse all anime figures. Protect your investment with our LED cases. Perfect for both resin and PVC figures. And most importantly, choose characters that genuinely excite you. Your future self will thank you for starting with pieces you truly love rather than just following trends.