Most Underrated Collectible Novelty Toys and Figures,According to Testing
Collectible novelty toys and figures are specially designed items that appeal to enthusiasts and collectors due to their unique, limited-edition, or themed nature. These items are often modeled after popular characters from films, TV shows, comics, or video games, and they are prized for their craftsmanship, detail, and rarity.
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According to testing, the allure of collectible novelty toys and figures lies in their ability to invoke nostalgia and provide a tangible connection to beloved media and cultural icons. Collectors often seek out these items for their aesthetic value, intricate designs, and potential for appreciating in value over time. Manufacturers use high-quality materials and incorporate meticulous attention to detail to ensure each piece stands out. Additionally, the limited availability of certain figures can drive demand, creating a robust secondary market where collectors can trade and sell items. Testing has also shown that the emotional satisfaction derived from owning and displaying these collectibles can be significant, fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts who share similar interests.
FunkoView AllFunko - Pop culture collectible toy company.
LEGOView AllLEGO - Interlocking plastic bricks for creative building and play.
Hot ToysView AllHot Toys - High-end collectible action figures with exceptional detail.
NendoroidView AllNendoroid - Chibi-style, highly poseable collectible figures from Good Smile Company.
BandaiView AllBandai - Japanese toy and video game company.
HasbroView AllHasbro - Hasbro: Global toy and entertainment company, diverse product range.
MattelView AllMattel - Mattel: Global toy company, Barbie creator, Hot Wheels innovator.
McFarlane ToysView AllMcFarlane Toys - Action figure and collectible manufacturer founded by Todd McFarlane.
NECAView AllNECA - NECA: National Entertainment Collectibles Association, pop culture merchandise.
Mezco ToyzView AllMezco Toyz - Mezco Toyz creates collectible action figures and toys.
Most Underrated Collectible Novelty Toys and Figures,According to Testing
1.
Funko
Funko is an American company specializing in the creation of licensed pop culture collectibles, best known for its distinctive Pop! Vinyl figures featuring oversized heads and eyes. Founded in 1998 by Mike Becker and later acquired by Brian Mariotti in 2005, Funko has expanded its product line to include plush toys, action figures, and apparel. The company collaborates with major franchises like Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars, making it a beloved brand among collectors and enthusiasts.
Pros
collectible appeal- wide character range
- affordable pricing
- strong community
- durable quality
Cons
limited resale value- potential for oversaturation
- space-consuming
- repetitive designs
- environmental impact
2.
LEGO
LEGO is a renowned Danish company known for its interlocking plastic bricks that allow for creative building and play. Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, LEGO has grown into a global brand, offering a vast range of themed sets, including popular franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter. The versatile bricks can be assembled in countless combinations, encouraging imagination and problem-solving skills in children and adults alike. LEGO also extends its brand through movies, video games, and theme parks.
Pros
- Enhances creativity
- improves fine motor skills
- encourages problem-solving
- great for all ages
- promotes teamwork.
Cons
- Can be expensive
- small pieces pose choking hazards
- takes up space
- time-consuming to assemble
- pieces easily lost.
3.
Hot Toys
Hot Toys is a high-end collectible company renowned for its incredibly detailed and realistic action figures, primarily based on popular movies, TV shows, and video games. Founded in 2000 in Hong Kong, Hot Toys specializes in 1/6 scale figures, featuring meticulously crafted accessories, lifelike facial sculpts, and tailored costumes. The brand has garnered a dedicated fan base, often focusing on franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and DC Comics, making it a leading name in the premium collectibles market.
Pros
- Highly detailed
- excellent articulation
- wide range of characters
- premium materials
- strong resale value
Cons
- Expensive
- limited availability
- space-consuming
- potential for fragile parts
- complex to assemble
4.
Nendoroid
Nendoroid is a popular line of collectible figures produced by the Japanese company Good Smile Company. Launched in 2006, these chibi-style figures are characterized by their cute, exaggerated features, and high level of articulation, allowing for various poses and expressions. Each figure typically stands about 10 cm tall and often includes interchangeable faces, hands, and accessories. Nendoroids cover a wide range of characters from anime, manga, video games, and other pop culture media, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Pros
- cute design
- interchangeable parts
- high quality
- wide variety
- good for collectors
Cons
- expensive
- delicate
- limited articulation
- small size
- difficult to find rare ones
5.
Bandai
Bandai Co., Ltd. is a renowned Japanese toy and video game company founded in 1950. It's a subsidiary of Bandai Namco Holdings, Inc. Bandai is well-known for creating popular toy lines like Gundam, Tamagotchi, and Power Rangers. The company also produces a range of action figures, model kits, and video games. Bandai's innovative products and strong brand franchises make it a significant player in the global entertainment and toy industry.
Pros
- High-quality products
- innovative designs
- strong brand recognition
- diverse product range
- global distribution network
Cons
- Expensive pricing
- limited availability
- complex assembly for some products
- potential for counterfeit items
- environmental concerns
6.
Hasbro
Hasbro, Inc. is a global play and entertainment company known for its wide array of toys, games, and media properties. Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Hasbro owns iconic brands like Transformers, My Little Pony, Monopoly, and Nerf. The company integrates its products across television, movies, digital gaming, and licensing partnerships. With a focus on innovation and storytelling, Hasbro aims to create engaging experiences for children and families worldwide.
Pros
- Strong brand portfolio
- diverse product line
- global reach
- consistent innovation
- loyal customer base
Cons
- High competition
- reliance on retail partners
- potential for product recalls
- fluctuating toy market
- licensing costs
7.
Mattel
Mattel, Inc. is a leading global toy company founded in 1945. Known for iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, Mattel designs, manufactures, and markets a wide range of toys and family products. Headquartered in El Segundo, California, the company emphasizes creativity and innovation in its product lines, which also include popular franchises like American Girl and Thomas & Friends. Mattel is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility, aiming to create a positive impact on children and communities worldwide.
Pros
- Strong brand recognition
- Diverse product lines
- Global market presence
- Innovative toy designs
- Licensing partnerships.
Cons
- High competition
- Product recalls
- Seasonal sales fluctuations
- Dependence on retail partners
- Environmental concerns.
8.
McFarlane Toys
McFarlane Toys, founded by comic book creator Todd McFarlane in 1994, is renowned for its highly detailed and collectible action figures. Initially focusing on characters from McFarlane's "Spawn" series, the company has expanded its portfolio to include a wide range of popular franchises such as "The Walking Dead," "Fortnite," and DC Comics. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, McFarlane Toys has become a favorite among collectors and fans of pop culture.
Pros
- High detail
- Affordable pricing
- Wide range
- Popular licenses
- Durable materials
Cons
- Limited articulation
- Variability in paint quality
- Difficult to find
- Packaging issues
- Scale inconsistencies
9.
NECA
The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is a prominent trade association in the United States, representing the interests of electrical contractors. Founded in 1901, NECA provides advocacy, education, and business development resources to its members, who are involved in electrical construction and maintenance across various sectors. The organization promotes high standards of safety, quality, and innovation within the industry, and works to influence policies and regulations that impact electrical contractors and the broader construction landscape.
Pros
- High-quality figures
- detailed sculpts
- diverse licenses
- collector-focused
- innovative designs.
Cons
- Expensive
- limited articulation
- occasional QC issues
- availability
- fragile parts.
10.
Mezco Toyz
Mezco Toyz is a New York-based collectible toy company renowned for its high-quality action figures, designer vinyl figures, and unique collectibles. Founded by Michael Markowitz in 2000, Mezco blends traditional and contemporary toy-making techniques to create detailed and innovative products. The company's popular lines include Living Dead Dolls, One:12 Collective, and Mez-itz, often featuring characters from popular franchises like Marvel, DC Comics, and horror films. Mezco Toyz is celebrated for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Pros
- high-quality craftsmanship
- detailed designs
- diverse character selection
- innovative packaging
- strong collector community
Cons
- high price point
- limited availability
- potential for scalping
- inconsistent release schedules
- occasional QC issues