What’s the difference between Funko Pop and Pop Mart?

Vinyl toy collecting has become a global phenomenon, with fans and collectors drawn to the creativity and uniqueness of these figures. Two names that stand out in this space are Funko and POP MART. While they share some similarities, such as being collectible vinyl toys and collaborating with various brands to produce them, their differences make them appealing to distinct audiences. Let’s explore how they differ in appearance, packaging, and collections.

Appearance

Funko: Funko figures are instantly recognizable due to their signature design. Each figure features a disproportionately large head, a small body, and uniform round eyes. This distinct, uniform style has become a hallmark of the Funko brand, making their figures immediately identifiable across countless fandoms.

POP MART: POP MART, on the other hand, works with a variety of artists and character IPs, giving each figure its own unique style and look. The diversity in design allows for a wide range of aesthetic appeal, providing consumers with greater variety and artistic expression. From whimsical to edgy, POP MART figures cater to many tastes.

Packaging

Funko: Funko figures are typically packaged in boxes with clear windows, allowing collectors to see the toy without opening it. This approach emphasizes keeping the figure sealed, as unopened boxes are often considered more valuable in the Funko community.

POP MART: POP MART figures are often sold in blind boxes, adding an element of surprise to the unboxing experience. Collectors don’t know which figure they’ll get until the box is opened, which makes opened figures more valuable since buyers want to see what they’ve acquired. Additionally, POP MART offers other packaging styles, such as blister packs for standalone figurines and elaborate designs for exclusive limited editions. Packaging is part of the overall experience, encouraging collectors to display and interact with their toys. This interactive aspect sets POP MART apart from the often more static Funko collecting community.

Collections

Funko: Funko releases figures rapidly and frequently, often focusing on standalone pieces or a few figures from a specific fandom. This approach caters to fans looking for a quick addition to their collection and ensures a steady stream of new releases.

POP MART: POP MART typically releases figures as part of a series, often with six or more toys following a specific theme. Developing and producing these series takes longer than Funko’s individual releases, but the result is a cohesive collection that tells a story. While POP MART also offers standalone pieces and themed sets, their focus on thematic series adds depth and collectability to their offerings.

Final Thoughts

Both Funko and POP MART have carved out their own niches in the world of vinyl toy collecting. Funko’s uniform style and rapid releases appeal to fans of specific franchises, while POP MART’s artistic variety and immersive packaging cater to those seeking a more interactive and thematic experience.

As a devoted POP MART fan, I’m drawn to their creativity and the excitement of blind boxes, but at the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference. Whether you lean toward Funko’s iconic style or POP MART’s diverse artistry, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this captivating hobby.

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