Resin vs PVC Figures: What's the Difference and Which Should You Collect?

For anime figure collectors, choosing between resin and PVC figures is an important decision. Both materials have unique properties, advantages, and drawbacks that can impact your collecting experience. In this guide, we'll explore the differences between these two popular figure types and help you decide which is the best option for your collection.

What Are Resin Figures?

Resin figures are crafted from a hard, brittle material known as resin. This material is often used for high-end, limited-edition figures due to its ability to capture intricate details.

• Material: Resin is a heavier, more rigid material than PVC.
• Production: Resin figures are often hand-cast and produced in smaller quantities, making them more exclusive.
• Detail: Resin allows for fine, intricate detailing that is difficult to achieve with PVC.

Resin figures are typically regarded as collectibles for serious enthusiasts who appreciate craftsmanship and exclusivity.

What Are PVC Figures?

PVC figures, or polyvinyl chloride figures, are the most common type of anime figures. They are mass-produced, which makes them more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.

• Material: PVC is a flexible, durable plastic.
• Production: PVC figures are produced using injection molding, allowing for large-scale production.
• Detail: While PVC figures may lack some of the finer details seen in resin figures, advancements in production have led to highly detailed PVC figures.

PVC figures are ideal for beginners or collectors who want a wide variety of figures without breaking the bank.

Resin vs PVC: Key Differences

While both resin and PVC figures have their merits, there are a few key differences that can influence which type is best for your collection:

• Material: Resin is a heavier, more rigid material, while PVC is flexible and durable.
• Detail: Resin figures tend to have more intricate detailing, making them highly valued by serious collectors. PVC figures are detailed, but generally not as intricate as resin.
• Production Quantity: Resin figures are often produced in smaller, limited-edition quantities, while PVC figures are mass-produced and widely available.
• Cost: Resin figures are usually more expensive due to the material and the production process, while PVC figures are more affordable and accessible.
• Durability: Resin figures are fragile and prone to breakage, whereas PVC figures are more resistant to damage due to their flexibility.

Pros of resin figures

• Superior Detail: Resin figures can capture intricate details, making them a favorite among serious collectors.
• Exclusivity: Often produced in limited quantities, these figures hold their value and can become rare over time.
• Custom Appeal: Resin figures are more likely to feature unique designs or custom sculpts.

Cons of resin figures

• Fragility: Resin figures are delicate and prone to breaking, especially if dropped.
• Cost: Resin figures tend to be significantly more expensive than their PVC counterparts.
• Weight: Due to the heavier material, resin figures can be cumbersome to display or ship.

Pros of PVC Figures

• Affordability: PVC figures are generally less expensive, making them accessible to a broader range of collectors.
• Durability: The flexible material makes them more resistant to damage from handling or accidental drops.
• Variety: Thanks to mass production, there's a huge selection of PVC figures available for every anime series.

Cons of PVC Figures

• Less Detail: While PVC figures have improved in detail over the years, they generally don't match the intricate craftsmanship of resin figures.
• Mass Production: PVC figures are often mass-produced, meaning they lack the exclusivity of resin figures.
• Limited Customization: PVC figures are typically designed for large-scale production, leaving less room for unique or custom designs.

Which Should You Collect?

Ultimately, the choice between resin and PVC figures depends on your preferences and budget.

• If you're a serious collector who values intricate detail and exclusivity, resin figures may be the right choice for you. They are perfect for those who are willing to invest in limited-edition, high-quality pieces that will hold their value over time.
• If you're a casual collector or just starting out, PVC figures offer an affordable and durable way to build your collection. With their wide availability and variety, PVC figures are ideal for displaying your favorite characters without breaking the bank.

No matter which material you choose, both resin and PVC figures can be fantastic additions to any anime collection. The key is to align your choice with your collecting goals and budget.

Conclusion

Both resin and PVC figures offer unique benefits to anime collectors. Resin figures excel in detail and exclusivity but come with a higher price and greater fragility. On the other hand, PVC figures are more affordable, durable, and widely available, making them an excellent option for collectors of all levels.

As the world of anime figures continues to grow, having a deeper understanding of these materials will help you make more informed decisions and build a collection you're proud of.