Discover the Best Action Figure Company

The world of action figure collecting is vast and diverse, offering something for everyone, from nostalgic fans to serious collectors.

With so many different brands and franchises available, it can be challenging to navigate this exciting hobby. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the best action figure company of 2023, explore the unique offerings of each brand, and provide helpful tips for both beginners and experienced collectors.

Key Takeaways

Discover the leading action figure companies of 2023, including Hasbro, Mattel, Bandai and more.
Compare features and prices to find the best company for your interests & budget.
Explore collaborations & crossovers in order to begin a successful collection with realistic goals.

Top Action Figure Companies of 2023

The action figure market is dominated by six companies that consistently produce high-quality, sought-after collectibles:

Each of these companies brings a unique approach to the industry, catering to the varied interests and preferences of collectors worldwide.

We will now delve into the unique attributes of these industry giants and their contributions to the action figure realm.

Hasbro: The Legacy Continues

Hasbro’s legacy in the action figure industry dates back to the 1960s when they created the iconic G.I. Joe. Since then, they have continued to dominate the market with their action figures from popular franchises such as Transformers, Star Wars, and Marvel Comics. Hasbro’s influence can be seen in toy aisles around the world, with their licensed brands like Star Wars and Marvel Comics remaining fan favorites.

Hasbro’s action figures stand out for their meticulous attention to detail, articulated designs, and an extensive array of accessories. Collectors and fans alike appreciate the quality of these action figures, making them a staple in many collections. With their unwavering dedication to renowned brands and beloved franchises, Hasbro continues to hold a commanding position in the action figure scene.

Mattel: Expanding Horizons

Mattel has expanded its reach in the action figure world through acquisitions of licenses like DC Comics Ghostbusters Masters of the Universe Classics line, WWE Wrestling, and more.

Their focus on playability sets them apart from other action figure companies, designing figures with action features that enable interactive play.

Mattel’s line of DC Comics figures includes iconic characters such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, capturing the imagination of collectors and fans alike. With the acquisition of licenses for sought-after franchises and continuous product innovation, Mattel has carved out its place as a leading figure in the collector action figure market.

Bandai: Japanese Powerhouse

As the largest toy manufacturer in the world and the third-largest toymaker globally, Bandai boasts a notable presence in the action figure market. They are renowned for their commitment to anime and manga franchises, producing figures for a broad range of franchises that other companies may not have explored.

The Gundam figures, based on the anime series of the same name, are the most popularly produced figures by Bandai. Additionally, they have recently acquired licenses like ThunderCats, further expanding their authority in the action figure industry. Bandai’s unwavering commitment to popular franchises and their foothold as a leader in the Japanese market solidifies their powerful position in the action figure arena.

McFarlane Toys: Pioneering Sculpt and Paint Techniques

McFarlane Toys revolutionized the industry with its innovative sculpt and paint techniques, creating highly detailed collectible figures based on popular video games and comic book franchises. They manufacture action figures for renowned video game franchises such as major lines Halo and Fortnite, as well as other franchises including DC Comics and The Walking Dead. In addition to these, they have also produced major lines Halo Spawn action figures, which have gained immense popularity among collectors.

The primary critique of McFarlane Toys’ products is that they do not feature the customary articulation that children are accustomed to. However, their attention to detail and the range of accessories they provide make them stand out among other action figure companies. McFarlane Toys continues to be a favorite among collectors, valued for their masterful craftsmanship and distinctive approach to action figure design.

NECA: Catering to Collectors

Recognized as one of the premier companies in the action figure industry in 2023, NECA is renowned for their production of collectible products, such as action figures and prop replicas. They have an established presence in the industry and are dedicated to catering to collectors, focusing on niche franchises such as horror movies and video games.

NECA’s officially authorized figures from video games and films showcase their commitment to providing high-quality action figures designed to appeal to collectors. Their spotlight on niche franchises and tireless effort to fulfill the needs of the collectors distinguish them in the action figure landscape.

Entertainment Earth

Entertainment Earth is a prominent online retailer and wholesaler of licensed collectibles, including action figures, toys, gifts, and collectibles. Since its establishment in 1996, the company has been a one-stop-shop for fans of various pop culture phenomena, offering products from a wide array of franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, and more.

Entertainment Earth is known for its extensive product selection, catering to a diverse range of interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic TV shows, blockbuster movies, comic books, or video games, Entertainment Earth likely has a collectible for you. Their commitment to providing a broad selection of high-quality, licensed merchandise has made them a go-to source for collectors worldwide.

In addition to selling products from top action figure companies like Hasbro, Mattel, and Bandai, Entertainment Earth also offers exclusive items that can’t be found anywhere else. These exclusives, often produced in limited quantities, are a major draw for serious collectors seeking unique additions to their collections.

The company’s customer service is also noteworthy. Entertainment Earth places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, offering hassle-free returns and a mint condition guarantee for collectors who are particular about the condition of their items.

Overall, Entertainment Earth is a trusted and reliable platform for action figure enthusiasts and collectors, providing a wide range of products and excellent customer service.

Each of these companies brings a unique approach to the industry, catering to the varied interests and preferences of collectors worldwide.

We will now delve into the unique attributes of these industry giants and their contributions to the action figure realm.

Hot Toys: The Ultimate in Detail and Quality

Hot Toys is renowned for creating some of the most aesthetically pleasing and highest-quality action figures available. Their movie-based figures boast:

Highly detailed sculpts
Paint applications
Real-cloth attire
Accessories that enhance the realism of the figures

What sets Hot Toys apart is their commitment to detail and quality, making them a top choice for collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship and accuracy in their action figures. Hot Toys, with its emphasis on movie-based figures and real fabric clothing, set a benchmark for detail and quality in the action figure market.

Comparing the Top Companies: What Sets Them Apart?

Each of the top action figure companies offers unique products and experiences for collectors. Some notable features of each company include:

Hasbro’s iconic brands
Mattel’s focus on playability
Bandai’s dedication to anime and manga franchises
McFarlane Toys’ innovative sculpting and painting techniques
NECA’s commitment to catering to collectors
Hot Toys’ attention to detail and quality
Entertainment Earth’s extensive product selection and exclusive items

These factors contribute to the success of each company in the action figure market, as they directly impact the figures produced.

For new collectors, the multitude of action figure brands and licenses available in toy stores can be overwhelming. Researching and comparing the various companies, their products, and their pricing structures is vital in making a well-informed decision about the action figure brands that align with your interests and preferences.

Up-and-Coming Action Figure Brands

In addition to the industry giants, a number of up-and-coming action figure brands are making waves in the market. Companies like Funko, Mezco, and JT Studio offer unique products and franchises that cater to various tastes and preferences, making the modern action figure aisle more diverse and appealing than ever.

Funko, widely renowned for their line of Pop! Vinyl figures are increasingly popular, and manufacturers have extended their production to include action figures for franchises like Harry Potter and Star Wars. It’s an exciting time for fans of these beloved series! Mezco and JT Studio have garnered a reputation for producing intricate action figures that appeal to collectors. These products boast an impressive level of detail and articulation. These emerging brands offer fresh options for collectors looking to diversify their collections.

How to Choose the Best Action Figure Company for You

When choosing an action figure company, you should initially consider your personal interests, collection objectives, and budget constraints. Focusing on a particular character or franchise can help guide your decision-making process and prevent impulse purchases. Additionally, researching the companies, comparing prices, and seeking out deals can help you make an informed decision and find the best action figure brand for your needs.

Gaining knowledge about as prominent a company as Star Wars and its distinctive products can help you determine which brands align most closely with your interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of iconic brands like Star Wars or niche franchises like horror movies, there’s an action figure company out there for you.

The Impact of Collaborations and Crossovers

Collaborations and crossovers between action figure brands and other industries, such as fashion and entertainment, have had a significant impact on the action figure industry. These partnerships have enabled action figure companies to access novel markets, broaden their product offerings, and heighten sales and brand awareness.

Similarly, collaborations and crossovers have allowed other industries to access the action figure market, amplifying their visibility and sales. The potential for unique and innovative products and experiences resulting from collaborations and crossovers offers exciting possibilities for the future of the action figure industry.

Action Figure Collecting Tips for Beginners

For those just starting an action figure collection, it’s pivotal to center your collection around personal interests and set realistic goals. Identifying a particular character or series of tales, movies, or TV episodes that resonate with you can guide your collecting journey and prevent impulse purchases.

Having a plan when collecting action figures can also help focus your collection and ensure you stay on track with your goals. Taking these tips to heart and gaining an understanding of the leading action figure companies and their products, will set you on a path to creating a collection that mirrors your passions and interests.

Summary

In conclusion, the action figure industry offers a wealth of options for collectors, from iconic brands like Hasbro and Mattel to up-and-coming companies like Funko and Mezco. By understanding the unique offerings of each company, focusing on personal interests and collection goals, and considering the impact of collaborations and crossovers, collectors can build a diverse and satisfying action figure collection that reflects their passions and preferences. Happy collecting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular action figure company?

Hasbro, Bandai, McFarlane Toys, Funko, NECA, Mattel, and Mezco are all popular action figure companies, however, Hasbro is the most popular.

Which company makes the best figurines?

Hasbro, Bandai, McFarlane Toys, Funko, NECA, Mattel and Mezco are the top 7 well-known action figure brands, making them the best choice for purchasing figurines.

What companies are similar to NECA?

NECA has competitors such as Western Electrical Contractors Association Inc., National Electrical Manufacturers Association, National Association of Social Workers Inc., American National Standards Institute, National Center for Construction Education and Research, Society for Technical Communication Inc., Jazwares, PILOT, Comicave Studios, and Joovy.

What brand is the original action figure?

Hasbro is the original brand of action figures, releasing their iconic G.I. Joe figure in 1964. The toy was designed to appeal to boys who refused to play with dolls, and marked the first time “action figure” was used as a marketing term. This was a revolutionary move in the toy industry, as it opened up a new market for action figures that had previously been untapped. It also paved the way for another toy.