Funko Pop Vs Nendoroid Which Collectible Holds Its Value Better Long Term

For collectors and investors alike, the decision between Funko Pops and Nendoroids isn’t just about aesthetics or fandom—it’s also a financial consideration. Both have carved out dominant positions in the world of pop culture collectibles, but when it comes to long-term value retention and appreciation, one tends to outperform the other. While both lines feature beloved characters from anime, movies, games, and TV shows, their production models, target audiences, and secondary market dynamics differ significantly. Understanding these differences is essential for anyone looking to build a collection that not only brings joy but also holds—or increases—its worth over time.

Understanding the Core Differences

Funko Pops and Nendoroids represent two distinct philosophies in collectible design. Funko Pops are stylized vinyl figures with oversized heads and minimalist features, produced by the American company Funko since 2010. They span thousands of SKUs across franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Stranger Things. Their appeal lies in accessibility, affordability, and broad licensing.

Nendoroids, on the other hand, are Japanese articulated figures created by Good Smile Company. Introduced in 2006, they feature chibi-style proportions but with intricate detailing, interchangeable parts (faces, hands, accessories), and higher price points. These figures are primarily rooted in anime and gaming culture, with major releases from series like Attack on Titan, Sword Art Online, and My Hero Academia.

The fundamental distinction affects everything from manufacturing quality to collector demographics—and ultimately, long-term value.

Tip: Always verify authenticity through official retailers. Counterfeit Nendoroids and limited-edition Pops flood secondary markets.

Market Supply and Scarcity Dynamics

One of the most critical factors influencing collectible value is scarcity. Funko thrives on high-volume, frequent releases. With new Pops launching weekly and re-releases common, many figures remain widely available. While exclusives—such as convention-only or retailer-specific variants—can appreciate, standard editions rarely do.

In contrast, Nendoroids are typically released in limited production runs. Pre-orders are required months in advance, and once sold out, restocks are rare. This controlled supply model mirrors fine art or luxury goods, creating natural scarcity. Even popular standard editions can become hard to find within a year of release.

Factor	Funko Pop	Nendoroid
Average Production Run	5,000–50,000+	1,000–10,000 (varies)
Re-release Frequency	Common (especially core characters)	Rare (usually special editions only)
Initial Price Range	$10–$20 (standard), $30–$70 (exclusives)	$50–$120
Secondary Market Markup (Top 5%)	5x–10x original retail	3x–8x original retail
Lifespan Before Discontinuation	Variable; often indefinite availability	Typically 6–18 months pre-order window

The table illustrates a key insight: while top-tier Funko Pops may see higher percentage gains due to low initial cost, Nendoroids maintain more consistent value across the board due to limited availability and stronger demand retention.

Resale Trends and Long-Term Performance

Analyzing resale data from platforms like eBay, Mandarake, and Yahoo! Japan Auctions reveals clear patterns. Over a five-year horizon, approximately 85% of standard Funko Pops depreciate or sell at or below retail. Only about 5–7% of the catalog—mainly chase variants, glow-in-the-dark editions, or convention exclusives—appreciate significantly.

Nendoroids show a different trend. Roughly 60% retain at least 80% of their original value after discontinuation, and 20–25% appreciate by 30% or more within three years. Figures based on seasonal anime hits (e.g., Jujutsu Kaisen’s Gojo Satoru) often sell above MSRP immediately upon release and remain stable.

“Nendoroids operate on a collector-first model. When you buy one, you're not just getting a figure—you're securing a piece of a closed production run. That structural scarcity is what drives long-term value.” — Hiro Tanaka, Collectible Market Analyst at Tokyo-based Amakuni Insights

Moreover, Nendoroids benefit from a global but niche fanbase that prioritizes completionism. Many collectors aim to own every release from a particular series, creating sustained demand even years after launch.

Condition Sensitivity and Preservation Challenges

Preservation plays a crucial role in value retention. Funko Pops are highly sensitive to environmental factors. Sunlight causes fading, especially on metallic or translucent variants. The cardboard boxes yellow over time, and corner dings drastically reduce resale potential. Grading services like PSA now offer encapsulation for Pops, underscoring how condition-dependent their value is.

Nendoroids, while not immune to wear, are generally less fragile. Most come in durable plastic display boxes with foam inserts. The figures themselves are made from ABS and PVC plastics designed for longevity. However, rubbery parts (like hair strands or soft accessories) can degrade over decades—a known issue with early 2000s figures.

Proper storage matters for both, but the margin for error is smaller with Pops. A mint-in-box Pop can be worth double a slightly damaged one, whereas a complete Nendoroid—even opened—is still desirable if all parts are present.

Tip: Store all collectibles away from direct sunlight and humidity. Use UV-filtering display cases for maximum protection.

Real Collector Case: Two Paths, Five Years Later

Consider two collectors who began in 2019 with a $1,000 budget.

Case 1: Alex – The Funko Enthusiast
Alex focused on exclusives: SDCC variants, Hot Topic exclusives, and metallic finishes. He bought 70 figures, prioritizing packaging preservation. By 2024, he liquidated his collection. After fees and shipping, he netted $2,300—an 130% return. However, this included a single $400 sale for a Chase Darth Vader Glow-in-the-Dark Pop originally bought for $15. Without that outlier, his return would have been under 40%.

Case 2: Jamie – The Nendoroid Curator
Jamie purchased 15 Nendoroids from sought-after series: Vocaloid’s Hatsune Miku, Evangelion’s Asuka, and Monster Hunter’s Rathalos. All were pre-owned but complete and well-maintained. Over five years, Jamie resold six figures at an average 50% markup. The remaining nine are currently valued at 1.7x their purchase price. Total portfolio value: $1,850—a steady 85% increase without relying on lottery-like rarities.

This example highlights a broader truth: Nendoroids offer more predictable appreciation, while high-value Funko returns depend heavily on luck and timing.

Actionable Checklist for Value-Oriented Collectors

• ✅ Research production numbers—limited runs hold value better
• ✅ Prioritize figures tied to enduring franchises (e.g., Studio Ghibli, Final Fantasy)
• ✅ Buy sealed when possible, but don’t overlook complete used Nendoroids
• ✅ Monitor pre-order windows and set calendar alerts for new releases
• ✅ Join collector communities (Reddit, Discord) for early market signals
• ✅ Avoid mass-produced common variants unless they’re personal favorites
• ✅ Document your collection with photos and receipts for future resale

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Value-Stable Collection

1. Define Your Focus: Choose a franchise or genre (e.g., anime, retro games) to build depth rather than randomness.
2. Check Historical Data: Use sites like StockX (for Pops) or HobbySearch price archives to see past trends.
3. Pre-Order Strategically: For Nendoroids, sign up for Good Smile Company newsletters and act fast during sales.
4. Evaluate Condition Rigorously: For secondhand purchases, confirm all face plates, hands, and stands are included.
5. Store Properly: Use dust-free display cases with climate control. Rotate exposure to light to prevent fading.
6. Track Valuation Monthly: Note changes on spreadsheets or apps like Collectify or MyCollection.
7. Exit Timing: Consider selling after 3–5 years, especially if a franchise peaks in popularity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Nendoroids increase in value?

No, not all Nendoroids appreciate. Lower-demand series or poorly sculpted figures may stagnate. However, even non-appreciating Nendoroids tend to retain more of their value compared to standard Funko Pops due to limited supply.

Are Funko Pops a good investment?

Only selectively. The vast majority will not increase in value. Investment-grade Pops are typically exclusive variants with proven track records. Treat most Pops as decorative items first, investments second.

Can I open a Nendoroid and still keep value?

Yes, unlike Funko Pops, opened Nendoroids with all parts intact still command strong prices. Completeness matters more than sealed status in the anime collectible community.

Conclusion: Choosing for the Long Haul

When comparing Funko Pops and Nendoroids in terms of long-term value retention, the evidence leans decisively toward Nendoroids. Their limited production, superior craftsmanship, and dedicated collector base create a more stable environment for appreciation. While a rare Funko Pop can yield spectacular returns, those outcomes are exceptions—not the rule. Nendoroids, by contrast, offer a more reliable path for building equity in a physical collection.

That said, passion should never be discounted. The best collection is one that balances emotional satisfaction with smart stewardship. If you love the quirky charm of Pops, collect them—but be selective. If you’re drawn to expressive, detailed figures and want something that ages well, Nendoroids are the superior choice for lasting value.

🚀 Ready to build a collection that lasts? Start tracking upcoming Nendoroid releases or audit your current stash for hidden gems. Share your journey or ask questions in the comments—let’s grow our knowledge together.