Collecting Nendoroids Vs Funko Pops Which Holds Value Better Long Term

For collectors and pop culture enthusiasts, the decision to invest time and money into figurines often comes down to two dominant options: Nendoroids and Funko Pops. Both have carved out massive followings across anime, gaming, and film fandoms. But when it comes to long-term value retention—and potential appreciation—one stands out more than the other. Understanding the nuances between these collectibles is crucial for anyone looking to build a collection that doesn’t just look good on a shelf but also holds or increases in worth over time.

Nendoroids, produced by Good Smile Company, are known for their high-quality sculpts, multiple interchangeable parts, and premium packaging. Funko Pops, made by Funko Inc., offer stylized chibi-like figures with bold colors and wide accessibility. While both lines celebrate beloved characters, their production models, market dynamics, and collector behaviors lead to vastly different outcomes in terms of resale value and longevity.

Production Quality and Manufacturing Differences

The foundation of any collectible’s long-term value begins with its production quality. Nendoroids are typically made from PVC and ABS plastic using precise molding techniques. Each figure includes multiple face plates, hands, and accessories, allowing for dynamic posing. The level of detail—from facial expressions to costume accuracy—is consistently high, especially in limited editions tied to major franchises like *Demon Slayer*, *Attack on Titan*, or *Genshin Impact*.

Funko Pops, while visually appealing, use simpler manufacturing processes. Most are mass-produced vinyl figures with minimal articulation and standardized body molds. Although some special variants (glow-in-the-dark, metallic finishes, or chase versions) show higher craftsmanship, the base model remains largely unchanged across thousands of SKUs. This uniformity contributes to lower per-unit production costs but can dilute perceived exclusivity.

Tip: Always check for factory defects before sealing a display box—common issues like paint smudges or misaligned joints can significantly reduce resale value.

Scarcity and Exclusivity: Keys to Value Retention

Rarity plays a central role in determining whether a collectible appreciates over time. Nendoroids are often released in limited quantities, particularly those exclusive to events like Wonder Festival or Animate Japan. These exclusives may never be reissued, making them highly sought after. For example, the Nendoroid Hatsune Miku Snow Edition sold for over $500 in 2023 despite an original retail price of $80.

In contrast, Funko Pops are designed for broad distribution. Even \"exclusive\" variants sold at conventions or retailers like Target or GameStop are usually produced in larger runs. While certain early releases (e.g., the 2010 San Diego Comic-Con Batman Beyond Pop) have reached four-digit prices, such cases are exceptions rather than norms. More commonly, even rare Pops stabilize in value after initial hype fades.

“Limited availability combined with high demand creates real scarcity—which is where true collector value forms.” — Daniel Kim, Toy Market Analyst at CollectorsEdge Insights

Market Demand and Secondary Sales Trends

To assess long-term value, one must examine secondary market data. Platforms like Mandarake, Yahoo! Japan Auctions, and eBay provide insight into how these items perform post-release.

Nendoroids, especially discontinued ones from popular series, tend to maintain or increase in value if kept sealed. A 2020 survey of 150 retired Nendoroid models found that 68% were selling above MSRP within three years, with anime-based figures showing the strongest growth. In contrast, only 27% of non-chase Funko Pops appreciated beyond original cost after five years, according to PriceCharting.com data.

This divergence stems from differing audience motivations. Nendoroid buyers are often serious collectors who prioritize condition, completeness, and authenticity. Funko Pop collectors, while passionate, include many casual fans purchasing for decoration rather than investment.

Resale Value Comparison Table (Average Appreciation After 5 Years)

Category	Average Appreciation Rate	Reissue Likelihood	Sealed Premium
Nendoroid (Standard)	+45%	Low	80–120% above loose
Nendoroid (Event Exclusive)	+180%	Nearly Zero	150–300% above loose
Funko Pop (Chase Variant)	+60%	Moderate	50–90% above loose
Funko Pop (Standard Retail)	-15%	High	20–40% above loose

Preservation Practices That Impact Long-Term Worth

No matter the brand, condition dictates value. However, due to structural differences, preservation strategies vary between Nendoroids and Funko Pops.

Nendoroids come with delicate parts—small hands, facial pieces, and stands—that are easily lost or damaged. Their boxes are also more fragile, with intricate cutouts and clear windows prone to crushing. To preserve value, collectors should store them upright in climate-controlled environments, ideally in UV-protected display cases. Removing figures from packaging almost always reduces future resale potential unless the intent is active display.

Funko Pops suffer from “yellowing”—a chemical reaction in vinyl when exposed to sunlight or ozone. Even sealed boxes don’t fully protect against this degradation over time. Additionally, their oversized heads make them top-heavy, increasing breakage risk during transport. Archival-grade storage with anti-yellowing sprays and inert materials helps mitigate these issues.

Tip: Use silica gel packets inside display cabinets to control humidity and prevent sticker discoloration on boxes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Figurine Value Over Time

1. Purchase sealed units whenever possible. Unopened = higher liquidity and stronger appreciation.
2. Verify authenticity via batch numbers and manufacturer marks. Counterfeits flood online markets, especially for high-value items.
3. Store away from direct light and heat sources. Sunlight accelerates plastic degradation and ink fading.
4. Document your collection with photos and receipts. Provenance adds credibility and eases future sales.
5. Monitor release cycles and discontinuation notices. Early awareness of end-of-production models gives strategic buying advantages.

Real Collector Case: From Shelf Decor to Investment Portfolio

Tyler R., a software engineer from Portland, began collecting in 2017 with a few Funko Pops of Marvel characters bought at local stores. By 2020, he owned over 120 figures but noticed most hadn’t increased in value. Frustrated, he shifted focus to Nendoroids after researching Japanese import trends. He invested $1,200 in sealed, convention-exclusive models from *Fate/Grand Order* and *Love Live!*.

By 2024, those same figures sold for $4,100 collectively on Mandarake. “I didn’t expect returns like this,” Tyler said. “The key was patience and targeting low-supply, high-fandom items. With Pops, I was chasing quantity. With Nendoroids, I focused on quality and scarcity.” His experience reflects a broader trend among mature collectors: prioritizing curation over accumulation.

Do’s and Don’ts of Collectible Investing

Do	Don't
Buy limited editions from reputable distributors	Overpay during launch hype without checking historical pricing
Join fan communities to track upcoming retirements	Store figures in attics, garages, or near windows
Diversify across franchises with strong global followings	Assume all “exclusives” are rare—verify production estimates
Sell during peak fandom surges (e.g., movie releases)	Break seals unless displaying permanently

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Nendoroids a better investment than Funko Pops?

Generally, yes. Nendoroids appreciate more reliably due to limited production runs, superior build quality, and stronger international demand. However, individual results depend on specific titles, conditions, and timing.

Can regular Funko Pops ever gain value?

Yes, but selectively. Chase variants, retailer exclusives (e.g., Hot Topic glow-in-the-dark), and early releases from iconic lines (like the first-ever Pop) can become valuable. Most standard retail Pops, however, depreciate over time due to oversaturation.

Should I open my Nendoroids if I want to enjoy them?

If enjoyment is your primary goal, absolutely. But know that opening the box typically cuts resale value by 50–80%. Consider buying two—one to display, one to keep sealed for long-term holding.

Conclusion: Building a Collection That Lasts—and Grows

When comparing Nendoroids and Funko Pops for long-term value, the evidence points clearly toward Nendoroids as the superior choice for collectors seeking appreciation. Their combination of limited availability, meticulous design, and dedicated global fanbase creates a more stable and upward-trending market. That said, passion should never be entirely sidelined for profit. The best collections balance emotional connection with smart acquisition habits.

Whether you lean toward the whimsical charm of Funko Pops or the artisanal appeal of Nendoroids, informed decisions make all the difference. Focus on scarcity, condition, and cultural relevance. Store carefully, research thoroughly, and resist impulse buys driven by fleeting trends. Over time, your shelves can become not just a tribute to favorite stories—but a testament to thoughtful collecting.

💬 Have a standout collectible that skyrocketed in value? Share your story in the comments—your experience could help others build smarter collections!