Scale Figure Ranges and Company Rankings For 2021 (UPDATED!)
Hey there everyone, you will have noticed that I have updated this blog from Figure Reviews to Figure Blog. I am going to be adding things such as Rankings, Opinions, Event Notices, anything really related to figures. Thankfully we have tags and categories so you can stay on top of the Figure content you’d like to see! Feel free to throw down ideas in the comments and you might just see an article about it.
THE UPDATE! Why the update? Because at the time I did not realize how biased MyFigureCollection was towards figures made in countries OTHER than Japan, so I decided to go outside the Japanese box and go for more companies worldwide! Boy did I find some amazing companies out there!
Scale Figure Ranges
So as I was updating my Sega PM Izumi blog, I started getting a little bit too in-depth about price ranges of scale figures in particular. Scale figures are the broadest category of figures by far at this moment in time. Nendoroids, Figmas, and other kinds of figures usually have to fit a particular style, but scales do not. Scales can look however appropriate or inappropriate as they like.
So when I sat down and really started thinking about this, I came down to about 5 different categories of figures that are usually within specific price ranges (in my opinion).
Please keep in mind that I will be doing a separate article on Non-Scale Figures, which mostly consists of Prize Figures at another date. Don’t worry, I really am as I have my fair share of love for UFO/Crane figures and gachapons.
Class Ranges
Low Class
Price Range: $0 - $100
Low Class does not mean that these figures are bad or too ugly to own. Low Class are for figures that are in that lower price range and the most typical kind of figure I expect to see in this category are 1/8 scale figures or older figures from back in the beginning of this industry.
Since this is 2021 and a lot of those older figures gained value due to scarcity, I am going to talk about the current players. The manufacturers of these figures try to keep the overall detail lower so that they can sell these beauties at a lower price tag. A lot of these figures happen to be swimsuit figures, because the human body has a lot less detail than clothing. Making a smooth figure with little to no ripples is much cheaper than frilly skirts and cinched sleeves.
Similarly, the paint jobs on these figures are not fantastic, but in order to balance that out, figure makers will lean toward the less is more mantra. If we can use three sets colors like for the hair, body, and swimsuit; that is much cheaper than a figure with more colors like a hat, hair, top with three different colors, sleeves with two different colors, skirts with two different colors and frills, not to mention socks and shoes colors which are usually in the three or more color range. When you think about it, you can see where they save money. You might also see flatter paint jobs with no shadow or light detailing.
These figures will often cheap out on poses or facial gestures in order to once again keep the paint and printing costs down. I am most definitely not saying that these figures are bad in any way. I will say that when you buy in this price range, do not expect the best figure around.
Companies I consider to be the Kings of the Low Class Category (in no particular order):
Good Smile Company: Good Smile Company is a fan favorite that has been around for more than 20 years and they have an amazing catalog to show for it. While some companies in this category don’t care very much about quality, Good Smile absolutely does. This fabulous company has tremendous works splattered across all categories and they aren’t afraid to put the time in to make sure that fans are happy with their products.
Alter: Just like Good Smile, Alter does not skip out on quality even in this lower end price range. The majority of their figures are in the lower to upper middle class area, but when they make one in the low class range, you should hop on it when you can. Some of Alter’s figures are even selling at ten times their original price point due to the beautiful poses and paint jobs that this company pushes out.
Kotobukiya: Another company that has figures across the various classes, Kotobukiya stands out as another fan favorite for quite awhile. They have a strong focus on more popular series, often making some of their own twists and designs on many of the franchises that we know and love. Kotobukiya has quality that will not apologize.
Some Noteworthy Low Class Figures
One of the most sought after figures of all time, Good Smile’s Hitagi does not disappoint. The various supplies look as though they are floating in air and this is the kind of magic we are looking for in a figure.
Price at release: ¥9,333
Recent Price: ¥23,000 for New on Amazon.co.jp
Another clean and clear classic is Alter’s Bounty Hunter Yoko Littner. The sculpting details on this figure for the original price tag is jawdropping. That base is gorgeous. Fabulous figure for the price tag.
Price at release: ¥7,800
Recent Price: ¥147977 for New on Amazon.co.jp
Hitting on the higher end of the low class spectrum comes Kotobukiya’s Aincrad Asuna. The gravity defying look of her pose had people in awe when she first came out and still does to this day.
Price at release: ¥8,800
Recent Price: ¥13,200 for New on Amazon.co.jp
Lower Middle Class
Price Range: $100 - $200
The middle classes are what I consider to be the average figure range. The lower middle class was more common in the earlier days, but there are still plenty of figures that come out today in this price range that are spectacular for the price tag.
In this Lower Middle Class, you will often find both 1/8 scale and 1/7 scale. 1/7 scale being the most popular of the scale sizes when it comes to manufacturing. Figures in this class often have flat bases that don’t have particularly strong details on them, however, there are a few superstars out there that have unique bases that you haven’t seen anywhere else.
On average, you can expect to see more colors and slightly higher paint quality in this class than the previous class. If there is a swimsuit in this price range, you can bet it will make up that price tag in detail. Figures in this category still have slightly stiffer poses and facial gestures, but they’re starting to more commonly break out of the mold, especially with Chinese companies breaking into this market.
Companies I consider to be the Kings of the Lower Middle Class Category (in no particular order):
Apex Innovations: A mysterious company that not many people seem to be able to keep a finger on, however I have dug through the Internet to find their actual website and that they are also a Chinese anime figure company that started in 2018. They have some amazing work straight out of the gate and their collaboration with MiHoYo for Honkai Impact and Genshin Impact have left waves.
Max Factory: I knew they were going to appear sometime and they came in strong. They often work alongside with Good Smile Company in more recent times. Max Factory straddles many categories and figure types. I love how they are unafraid to show off their interesting poses, colors, and style. They have creativity in spades.
Mytheos: An up and coming top player from the Chinese anime figure industry! Their products are absolutely breathtaking, especially for their price tag. While their product lines aren’t huge, they aren’t forgotten as they have now started appearing for purchase on Good Smile and Tokyo Otaku Mode for purchase!
Some Noteworthy Lower Middle Class Figures
Kicking out Good Smile is Apex Innovations, a company of quality that gives you a bang for your buck! Honkai and Genshin fans will get their next big fix on this amazing figure company. Sakura Yea is topping the ranks on AmiAmi!
Price at release: ¥23,500
Recent Price: ¥23,500 for New on AmiAmi
I was so happy to see a male figure in one of the tops and this is one is 100% of Max Factory’s glorious work. You could get this very fun figure at the time for only $150. This is an awesome display piece with fabulous colors.
Price at release: ¥14,630
Recent Price: ¥6,665 for Used on Amazon.co.jp
Going to China, we find ourselves at the footsteps of Mytheos and their fairytale lines and bride anime lines are impeccable. You are getting some absolutely glorious quality for the price tag.
Price at release: ¥198,00
Recent Price: ¥25,094 for New on Sideshow
Upper Middle Class
Price Range: $200 - $300
Welcome to my favorite section, the upper middle class. No expense is spared on paint jobs and bases start to explode in quality. Figures that dare to step into this territory have to make a statement. If your eyes aren’t taken to this figure, it was not meant to be in this class. One of my favorite things about this category is that manufacturers start to really use semi-transparent and transparent pieces to their highest degrees.
The vast majority of figures in this class are 1/7 scale, however a good number of 1/4 scales are also in this category. Once again, 1/7 scale is the most popular scale type. These figures are amazing for their price tag as the next class can make you feel a bit worried if the figure is worth it. The figures in this class are absolutely worth it and they grow in price quickly before they even print.
You can expect vibrant colors, a lot of metallic paints, and good use of opaque hues. Poses will be dynamic, bases and accessories are a must have. You can even expect to see some fabulous semi-series of figures in this price range and all of them are absolutely fantastic.
Companies I consider to be Kings of the Upper Middle Class (in no particular order):
Good Smile Company: I know, they’re back again, but that huge catalog gives them that tremendous advantage. I couldn’t ignore the sheer numbers in the popularity polls of this company in this price range. Their figures are tremendously beautiful and dynamic in this class. The company that spares no expense for its customers continues to charge forward.
Aniplex: Kicking out Alter is Aniplex, a manufacturer that has rightfully earned its new place and bringing diversity into our ranks. Aniplex covers many shows with many flavors similar to the classic style of Alter. If you’re looking for your character in a clean, professional style, look no further than Aniplex!
Phat! Company: I was hoping this company would make it onto the list somewhere sooner or later, because I personally feel that their paint jobs are absolutely unparalleled. Phat has amazing gradients and they specialize in the No Game No Life style that really made them popular. One of the things that I love about this company is that they are often seen as generous, because some of their figures come with adorable chibi figures of some of the other characters in their series. Multiples in one is always fun!
Some Noteworthy Figures of the Upper Middle Class
Good Smile’s Stars Bless You Sakura is a huge favorite to anyone who loves this classic anime. The detail and paint of this figure is jaw-dropping and I feel awful for missing out on her original release.
Price at release: ¥23,148
Recent Price: ¥48000 for New on Amazon.co.jp
The ever popular Asuna from Sword Art Online is back again, but this time in her elegant Stacia outfit! Although the stand is lacking, the curves of Aniplex figures are breathtaking!
Price at release: ¥16,364
Recent Price: ¥23,653 for New on
Tokyo Otaku Mode
Phat is not afraid to get colorful. Here is my personal favorite: Little Flügel Jibril. Look at those rainbow colors, that shimmering cloth with fabulous effects, and those huge wings. A bonus Schwi also helps!
Price at release: ¥21,800
Recent Price: ¥22,576 for New on Amazon.co.jp
High Class
Price Range: $300 - $400
This is the price range that will start to make you sweat bullets. With such a powerful upper middle class, people hardly step into this category. When you do come into this category, you start to see some amazing quality. I do apologize for the sexy figure you will see in this class. I tried to pick the photo with the sexy parts blurred out, because I would like to keep my website at least PG-13 (she says as she writes probably rated R books).
Painting techniques are top notch in this category. Bases are big, beautiful pieces of art all on their own. Figures in this category go bold with the detail. If you feel unimpressed by the figures in this category, then don’t purchase them. Only purchase figures in this category and above if you really love these characters and you have the space for them. These figures will also explode in value, so preorder them as soon as you can.
You can expect to see very high quality 1/7 scales and more 1/4 scales.
A new trend in this category has figures with lighting effects! They are fabulous!
Companies I consider to be Kings of the High Class Category (in no particular order):
Alpha Satellite/Shibuya Scramble: These 1/7 scale figures are real centerpieces that truly catch your eye when they are in the room. They can be too big for some cases to hold, but once you have one, you never forget about it. The poses are dynamic, the colors are dramatic, and the effects are insane. Many people think twice about getting a figure, but most are not afraid to drop some cash on Alpha Satellite.
Kadokawa: Most of their figures do not reach this category, however we need some diversity in this list. I felt that this particular figure was of a much higher quality than the previous one that was listed. When you read up more on this particular figure, you will see why it is so special!
Aniplex: Replacing another company with only one figure in this category (and lets face it, less boobs on my site) is Aniplex once again. They don’t have many figures in this category, but the ones that exist are filled to the brim with elegant details.
Some Noteworthy High Class Figures
Coming in as one of the most popular figures of 2020 and 2021 is Crystal Dress Emilia by Alpha Satellite. The dress is whimsical and the base is magical. She’s beautiful at every turn.
Price at release: ¥30,700
Recent Price: ¥79,500 on Amazon.co.jp
A personal favorite, So I’m a Spider, So What?’s Light Novel version of Kumoko in arachne form. This figure is not only beautiful, but the eyes light up! Secret feature? The human and spider parts can actually be separated into 2 separate figures!
Price at release: ¥31,350
Recent Price: ¥31,350 for New on AmiAmi
Remove a Saber, add a Saber. Lighting is always an amazing add on and the crystal details are meticulously done. The folds on Saber’s clothes are elegant, just like all of Aniplex’s figures!
Price at release: ¥37646
Recent Price: ¥29316 for New on
Tokyo Otaku Mode
Top Class
Price Range: $400+
We’re finally at the end of the list. The big boys. The big kahunas. Show up or shut up and do or die. Okay I’m done. This tier is where you really really have to want it in order to justify the price tag. In order to want it, companies have to make a superior product. Everything is on the line for figures in this class.
You can expect the paint jobs to be top of the line, if they aren’t, they may not be the figure for you. You can also expect 1/1 - 1/4 scales in this category. Yes, you heard me correctly. 1/1. There are human-sized figures out there and they cost an arm and a leg, but if you really want it, it is there for the taking. You can expect bases that will be heavy on the detail and some tremendous poses.
You can also expect to see figures made of other materials such as resin, which allows for a much higher quality print.
On figures of smaller scales, you can expect there to be multiple characters. You may see one character when you look closer to the $400 end, but as you get into the thousands, there should be multiple characters (at the 1/7 scale). Not many companies actually print figures at this quality and the ones that do are masters of it.
Companies I consider to be Kings of the Top Class Category (in no particular order):
Prime 1 Studio: These guys are like figure gods. I don’t expect to ever own one of their figures because the price tags on them are huge, but the quality of the figures that these guys print are the best of the best. Many of them are on the smaller end, but the paint jobs are realistic and match the tone of whatever subject they’re creating. If you haven’t seen any of their figures, you should really go have a look around. They also have many amazing figures where multiple figures clash! Love the drama.
FuRyu: FuRyu is one of the kings of Prize figures, but when they decide to do 1/1 scale figures, they really do have at it. Their busts and full size figures are absolutely stunning. The paint jobs on these figures is stupendous on the anime side. Getting your hand on one of these big beauties is a rarity, but if you do, you have a real gem in your hands.
Infinity Studio x Penguin Toys: Welcoming this tremendous newcomer to the list is the unbelievable Infinity Studio and Penguin Toys partnership. Another Chinese Company that got sorely left behind! I apologize because these fantastic realistic, life-size polystone busts can now even be ordered on Good Smile Company. Amazing job and it will be hard to take your spot away!
Some Noteworthy Top Class Figures
While not one of their most expensive figures, Lady Maria is one of the most popular Prime 1 figures out there. Every inch of her is rich with detail and she looks amazingly realistic. Thank you Prime 1 for such a beautiful piece of art from such an iconic game.
Price at release: ¥69,000
Recent Price: ¥250,000 for New on Amazon.co.jp
While not their most popular figure, FuRyu’s 1/1 size bust of Midoriya from My Hero Academia is rich with different textures and the paint job is absolutely phenomenal. The suit on him feels incredibly real and it is an honor to see in the flesh when you can.
Price at release: ¥340,000
Recent Price: I could not find one
Bumping out the full-size Rem is the absolutely stunning polystone life-size replica of Aquaman. The details are out of this world, which matches the out of this world price tag! This company match up makes a product so amazing, that it’s almost frightening.
Price at release: ¥416,270
Recent Price: ¥416,270 for New on SideShow
Thank you again for coming to visit my blog! This is my first time making a true opinion piece. It was fun to do so much research on a topic I love! I hope to see some of these figures one day in the flesh, but until then, I will just ogle at their photos.
I will definitely start using these classes as I start getting some scales into my reviews. I will also be making classes for the other major figure categories and use those scale rankings as well when the time comes. Please do look forward to it and I will see all of you next time!
Please tell me your favorite figures and companies in the comments below and if you have a figure you would like me to review, contact me about it. I would love to get more figures that are outside of my collection into the blog. I only have so many!
