Starting an anime figure collection can be exciting but also a little overwhelming. This beginner’s guide explains the main figure types, trusted manufacturers, pre-orders, display space and what to check before buying your first anime collectible.
Nendoroid vs POP UP PARADE vs Scale Figures: Which Is Right for You?
Not sure whether to buy a Nendoroid, POP UP PARADE figure or scale figure? This beginner-friendly guide compares their size, poseability, accessories, detail and display requirements to help you choose the best type for your collection.
Which Type Takes Up the Most Space?
Nendoroids are normally the easiest to fit into smaller displays. However, their stands, accessories and extended poses can still require more room than expected.
POP UP PARADE figures generally need more vertical space but are often easy to arrange in rows because their bases and poses are relatively straightforward.
Scale figures can require much more height, width and depth, especially when they include flowing hair, large weapons, wings or effect parts.
Always check the complete product dimensions before ordering rather than relying only on the figure’s height.
Which Type Is Best for Posing?
Nendoroids are the best choice when poseability and customisation are important.
You can change expressions, move limbs and use different accessories to create a variety of scenes. Some poses may require careful adjustment of the included stand.
POP UP PARADE and scale figures are normally fixed. Their advantage is that their intended pose has already been designed and balanced for display.
Which Type Is Best for Beginners?
There is no single best option for every new collector.
Choose a Nendoroid when you want a smaller interactive figure with interchangeable expressions and accessories.
Choose POP UP PARADE when you want a full-body figure that is simple to display and does not require much setup.
Choose a scale figure when premium detail and visual impact are more important than price or shelf space.
Quick Comparison
Nendoroid
• Small and stylised
• Usually poseable
• Often includes interchangeable parts
• Good for photography and custom scenes
• Requires careful accessory storage
POP UP PARADE
• Mid-sized and full-bodied
• Fixed pose
• Easy to unpack and display
• Good balance of size and detail
• Suitable for building a matching collection
Scale Figure
• Usually larger and more detailed
• Fixed pose
• Often includes a decorative base
• Best suited to feature displays
• Requires more space and careful handling
Can You Mix Different Figure Types?
Absolutely.
Many collectors use larger scale figures as the centrepiece of a shelf, then arrange POP UP PARADE figures and Nendoroids around them.
Clear acrylic risers can help smaller figures remain visible. Grouping figures by series, colour or character can also make different product lines look more organised.
What Should You Check Before Ordering?
Before purchasing any anime figure, check:
• Product dimensions
• Manufacturer
• Included accessories
• Whether assembly is required
• Base size
• Estimated release date for pre-orders
• Available shelf space
• Whether the listing is for one figure, a set or a random item
Reading the complete product listing can prevent surprises when the figure arrives.
Which Figure Should You Choose?
The best figure is the one that matches how you enjoy collecting.
Choose poseability and personality with a Nendoroid, an accessible full-body display with POP UP PARADE, or premium detail and shelf presence with a scale figure.
You do not need to collect only one type. Choosing different figure styles allows you to buy the version of each character that suits you best.
Shop Anime Figures in Australia
Mighty Toys stocks Nendoroids, POP UP PARADE figures, scale figures, prize figures, Funko Pops and other anime collectibles.
Shop online with Australia-wide delivery or visit us at:
Mighty Toys Collectibles
779B Port Road
Woodville SA 5011




