Anime figure collecting is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be expensive if you don’t know where to start one piece figure. If you’re looking to build your collection without breaking the bank, this guide will help you find affordable figures, spot deals, and make the most of your budget.
1. Set a Budget and Prioritize Your Purchases
Before diving into collecting, it’s essential to establish a budget. Decide how much you’re willing to spend each month and prioritize the figures you want the most. Sticking to a budget will prevent overspending and help you make mindful purchases.
2. Research Different Types of Figures
There are various types of anime figures, each with different price ranges:
- Prize Figures: Affordable and often found in claw machines or as prizes in Japan. These are a great starting point for budget collectors.
- Nendoroids: Cute, chibi-style figures with interchangeable parts. They are mid-range in price but can sometimes be found on sale.
- Scale Figures: High-quality, detailed figures that tend to be the most expensive.
- Pop Up Parade Figures: A good balance between affordability and quality.
Knowing the differences can help you make informed choices.
3. Buy from Trusted Stores and Websites
Avoid overpriced resellers and potential scams by purchasing from reputable sources. Some reliable sites include:
- AmiAmi (often has pre-owned figures at lower prices)
- Mandarake (great for second-hand figures)
- HobbyLink Japan
- Good Smile Company’s official store
- RightStuf Anime (for North American buyers)
Be cautious when buying from auction sites or marketplaces like eBay or Mercari. Always check seller ratings and reviews.
4. Look for Pre-Owned Figures
Pre-owned figures are an excellent way to save money while still getting quality pieces. Many Japanese stores grade their pre-owned figures based on condition, so you can find like-new figures for a fraction of the original price.
5. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts
Many retailers offer discounts during special events like:
- Black Friday
- Cyber Monday
- Holiday Sales
- Store Anniversary Sales
Signing up for newsletters from your favorite figure retailers can keep you updated on upcoming deals.
6. Consider Buying in Bulk to Save on Shipping
If you’re ordering from Japan, shipping fees can be expensive. Some stores allow you to combine multiple orders into one shipment, saving you money in the long run.
7. Join Anime Figure Collecting Communities
Online communities can help you stay informed about deals, upcoming releases, and where to find affordable figures. Consider joining:
- Reddit’s r/AnimeFigures
- Facebook collector groups
- Discord servers dedicated to anime figure collecting
8. Be Patient and Avoid Impulse Buying
Patience is key when collecting on a budget. Prices for figures fluctuate over time, and figures that seem expensive today may become more affordable later. Avoid impulse purchases by researching before buying.
Conclusion
Starting an anime figure collection on a budget is entirely possible with careful planning and smart shopping. By setting a budget, researching figure types, buying from trusted stores, and taking advantage of sales, you can build a fantastic collection without overspending. Happy collecting!