Nendoroid Vs Funko Pop Why Do Collectors Hate Funkos

Among anime, gaming, and pop culture enthusiasts, collectible figures are more than decorative items—they're expressions of fandom, art appreciation, and investment. Two dominant names in this space are Good Smile Company’s Nendoroids and Funko’s Pop! vinyls. While both have massive followings, a persistent undercurrent exists within the collector community: many serious collectors openly disdain or dismiss Funko Pops. This sentiment isn’t universal, but it's widespread enough to warrant examination. The reasons stem from differences in design philosophy, manufacturing quality, cultural perception, and long-term value.

This article dives deep into the Nendoroid vs Funko Pop debate, unpacking not just the physical distinctions between the two brands, but also the emotional and cultural dynamics that fuel collector resentment toward Funkos.

Design and Craftsmanship: A Tale of Two Standards

The most immediate difference between Nendoroids and Funko Pops lies in their design and execution. Nendoroids, produced by Japan-based Good Smile Company, are part of the \"chibi\" (super-deformed) aesthetic—characterized by oversized heads and small bodies—but they prioritize accuracy, articulation, and expression.

Nendoroids come with multiple face plates, allowing collectors to change expressions—from smiling to winking to shouting—depending on display preference. They feature interchangeable hands, accessories, and often include stands for dynamic posing. Each release undergoes meticulous sculpting and paint application, with attention to character-specific details like clothing textures, weapon designs, and signature poses.

In contrast, Funko Pops adhere to a highly stylized, minimalist format: large heads, round eyes, and minimal articulation. Most Pops are one-piece figures with fixed expressions and no poseability. While some special editions include glow-in-the-dark elements or metallic finishes, the base construction remains simple and uniform across thousands of releases.

Tip: If you value customization and expressive display options, Nendoroids offer far greater flexibility than static Funko Pops.

The lack of articulation and facial variation in Funko Pops frustrates collectors who seek authenticity and interactivity. For fans deeply invested in specific characters, seeing a favorite hero frozen in a blank stare with outstretched arms feels reductive—even disrespectful—to the source material.

Material Quality and Durability

Both lines use PVC vinyl, but the finishing processes differ significantly. Nendoroids typically feature higher-grade paint applications with layered shading and fine detailing. The joints are designed for durability, and replacement parts are sometimes available through official channels.

Funko Pops, while durable in structure, are notorious for paint inconsistencies, such as smudging, uneven coats, or misaligned decals. The company has improved over the years, but quality control remains inconsistent—especially with mass retail releases. Additionally, the large heads make Pops prone to “bobblehead” wobble, which detracts from display stability.

Another frequent complaint is yellowing. Over time, especially when exposed to sunlight or fluorescent lighting, white or light-colored Funko Pops can develop a yellow tint due to UV degradation. While this affects all PVC figures to some degree, the issue is more noticeable and widespread among Funkos due to their sheer volume and common display practices.

“From a conservator’s standpoint, the long-term archival potential of Nendoroids is stronger due to better pigment stability and protective packaging.” — Dr. Lila Tran, Museum Conservator & Toy Preservation Specialist

Collector Culture and Perceived Value

Perhaps the most contentious aspect of the Funko Pop backlash is cultural. Collectors often distinguish between “serious” collecting and “casual” fandom. Nendoroid buyers tend to be niche enthusiasts—often fluent in Japanese pop culture, familiar with limited editions, and willing to pay premium prices for exclusivity.

Funko, on the other hand, has democratized collectibles. Their figures are widely available at Walmart, Target, and gas stations. This accessibility is a strength for mainstream appeal but a liability in collector circles where rarity and exclusivity signal value. When a figure representing a beloved character sells for $12 at a supermarket, it undermines the notion of scarcity and prestige.

Moreover, Funko produces figures at an astonishing rate—sometimes releasing dozens per month. This saturation leads to market fatigue. It’s not uncommon for collectors to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of releases, many of which are perceived as low-effort cash grabs tied to fleeting trends rather than enduring icons.

Compare this to Nendoroids, which are released sparingly, often following pre-orders and production timelines that span months. Each new announcement is treated as an event. Limited editions sell out quickly and command high resale values—not because of hype alone, but because of genuine demand rooted in craftsmanship and brand reputation.

Comparison Table: Nendoroid vs Funko Pop

Feature	Nendoroid	Funko Pop
Manufacturer	Good Smile Company (Japan)	Funko (USA)
Articulation	High – swappable faces, hands, accessories	None – fixed pose
Design Style	Chibi with expressive detail	Stylized, minimalist
Average Price	$50–$80+	$10–$15 (retail)
Production Run	Limited, pre-order based	Mass-produced, continuous
Resale Value Retention	High – many appreciate over time	Low – most remain at or below retail
Packaging	Illustrated box, sealed with care	Window box, often damaged in transit
Cultural Perception	Premium collectible	Casual fan item

Real Example: The Case of Anime Convention Displays

At a recent anime convention in Seattle, two adjacent booths showcased private collections. One featured a meticulously arranged diorama of Nendoroids from *Demon Slayer*, complete with custom backdrops, lighting, and themed stands. Each figure had been individually cleaned, posed, and labeled with edition numbers and purchase dates.

The booth next door displayed over 200 Funko Pops—ranging from *Sailor Moon* to *Stranger Things*—arranged shelf upon shelf. While impressive in volume, several figures showed visible wear: chipped paint on boots, yellowed hats, and loose heads. A passerby commented, “It looks like a toy aisle exploded.”

The contrast wasn’t just visual—it reflected differing philosophies. The Nendoroid collector spoke about preservation, authenticity, and emotional connection to each piece. The Funko collector admitted he bought them mostly as impulse purchases during grocery runs. Neither approach is wrong, but only one aligns with traditional notions of “collecting” as a disciplined hobby.

This divide exemplifies why some collectors bristle at the idea of Funko Pops being mentioned alongside high-end figures. To them, equating the two dilutes the meaning of what it means to be a collector.

Are Funko Pops Worth Anything?

Yes—but selectively. While the vast majority of Funko Pops never increase in value, certain variants do. Chase editions (rare versions with subtle changes like metallic paint or unique bases), convention exclusives, and early prototype releases have fetched hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

However, these cases are outliers. Most collectors who buy Pops expecting financial returns are disappointed. In contrast, even standard Nendoroids often retain or exceed their original value, particularly if kept mint in box (MIB). Limited editions, such as those from Comiket or collaboration events, routinely sell for double or triple retail price years after release.

This disparity fuels another layer of resentment: the perception that Funko encourages speculative buying without delivering consistent returns. When a company markets “rarity” but floods the market shortly after, trust erodes.

Checklist: Evaluating a Collectible’s Long-Term Potential

• ✅ Is the manufacturer known for quality control?
• ✅ Does the figure offer customization or articulation?
• ✅ Was it released in limited quantities?
• ✅ Is it part of a reputable series or collaboration?
• ✅ Does secondary market data show stable or rising resale prices?
• ✅ Is packaging collector-friendly (e.g., no windows, sturdy box)?

Step-by-Step Guide: Building a Respected Figure Collection

1. Define Your Focus: Choose a franchise, genre, or era (e.g., Studio Ghibli, classic video games).
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Invest in fewer, higher-craftsmanship pieces rather than amassing hundreds of low-detail figures.
3. Research Manufacturers: Stick to reputable brands like Good Smile Company, Kotobukiya, or Aniplex for proven track records.
4. Monitor Pre-Orders: Sign up for alerts and act quickly on limited releases.
5. Store Properly: Keep figures away from direct sunlight, humidity, and dust. Use acrylic display cases.
6. Document Your Collection: Take photos, note edition numbers, and track purchase dates for future appraisal.
7. Engage With Communities: Join forums or social media groups focused on high-end collectibles to learn and share insights.

Tip: Always inspect new arrivals under bright light for paint flaws or shipping damage before finalizing storage.

FAQ: Addressing Common Questions

Do all collectors hate Funko Pops?

No. Many people enjoy Funko Pops as affordable, fun representations of their favorite characters. The criticism comes primarily from dedicated figure collectors who value technical excellence and long-term curation. Casual fans often love Pops precisely because they’re accessible and recognizable.

Can a Funko Pop become valuable?

Yes, but it’s rare. Factors like limited availability, unique variants (e.g., glow-in-the-dark, blood splatter), and cultural significance (e.g., first-ever release) can drive up value. However, most Pops will not appreciate and may even degrade over time.

Are Nendoroids worth the higher price?

For collectors who value detail, poseability, and longevity, yes. The craftsmanship, brand consistency, and resale performance justify the cost. If you plan to display, photograph, or pass down your collection, Nendoroids offer superior return on investment—both emotionally and financially.

Conclusion: Respect the Hobby, Regardless of Choice

The friction between Nendoroid and Funko Pop collectors reflects deeper tensions in modern fandom: accessibility versus exclusivity, mass production versus artisan effort, and emotional attachment versus speculative investment. While it’s understandable why some view Funko Pops as inferior, outright dismissal overlooks the joy they bring to millions.

At the same time, Nendoroid collectors have valid reasons for protecting the integrity of their hobby. High standards preserve value, encourage better manufacturing, and honor the artistry behind beloved characters.

Rather than fostering division, the community would benefit from mutual respect. A beginner might start with a $12 Pop and eventually graduate to a $70 Nendoroid. That journey should be celebrated, not mocked.

🚀 Love collectibles? Share your thoughts below. Whether you display Nendoroids under glass or proudly line up your Funko Pops on a shelf, your passion matters. Let’s build a culture that values enthusiasm over elitism.