Funko Pops have become a pop culture phenomenon over the last decade, beloved by fans and collectors alike. Their large heads, exaggerated features, and cute designs have given nearly every movie, TV show, video game, and cartoon character the Funko treatment.
Within the world of Funko Pops, anime figures stand out as some of the most creative and vibrant. Iconic anime series like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Attack on Titan have all received the Funko Pop treatment much to fans‘ delight.
But with hundreds of anime Funko Pops on the market, it can be daunting to know where to begin as a collector. That‘s why I‘ve put together this list of the 12 best anime Funko Pops that are must-have pieces for any fan. From adorable chibi renditions of classic characters to exclusive sculpts of climactic battle scenes, these Pops capture the energy and excitement that make anime so beloved.
Why Collect Anime Funko Pops?
Anime Funko Pops are fantastic for fans for a few key reasons:
- They encapsulate favorite characters, costumes, and iconic anime moments in vivid detail
- Styles range from standard to deluxe to super-sized for impressive display
- Exclusive and limited edition runs make them valuable as a collectible
- Wide variety covering classic legacy series and current popular shows
- High-quality sculpting and paint application bringing characters to life
For both hardcore otaku and casual watchers, these figures make excellent anime merchandise. Their low cost makes collecting easy, while exclusives can appreciate greatly in value over time.
Now let‘s count down the 12 best anime Funko Pops any fan would love to own!
#12: Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Kicking off the list is a anime legend – the smooth-talking, danger-loving bounty hunter Spike Spiegel. As the main character of sci-fi classic Cowboy Bebop, Spike is known for his effortless cool and martial arts mastery.
This Funko Pop captures him perfectly mid-combat with his signature blaster in hand. Touches like his flowing hair, loose tie, and steely gaze make him leap right off the screen. The clean sculpt and dynamic pose are true to the anime‘s fluid animation style.
For any fan of the pioneering jazz-inspired space western, this Spike Funko Pop is a must-own. It‘s also quite affordable, making it a great entry point for Bebop fans old and new.
Approx Value: $15
#11 Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Next up is young hunter-in-training Gon Freecss from beloved battle shonen Hunter X Hunter. With his iconic green jacket and suitcase in tow, this Funko Pop captures Gon‘s innocent optimism and thirst for adventure.
Subtle touches like his spiked hair and smiling face communicate his personality perfectly. The vibrant color palette pops nicely as well.
As the anchor of one of the most popular modern adventure anime, Gon is a must-add for any Funko collector. Plus with creator Yoshihiro Togashi finally continuing the manga after a 4 year hiatus, interest in HxH is at an all-time high!
Approx Value: $15
#10 Asuka Langley (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
In the #10 spot we have famed tsundere pilot Asuka Langley from the legendary mecha anime Neon Genesis Evangelion. This Funko Pop features Asuka in her iconic plugsuit on the launchpad deck.
As a lead character in one of the most influential anime ever made, Asuka has developed a massive fanbase over the years who would love this collectible. Bold colors, confident stance, and extras like her A10 nerve clips make it a striking and accurate recreation.
For the Evangelion fan looking to relive Asuka shouting her classic catchphrase in Funko form, this is sure to satisfy.
Approx Value: $20
#9 Dabi (My Hero Academia)
Coming in at #9 is sinister villain Dabi from smash-hit series My Hero Academia. As a member of the villainous League of Villains, Dabi has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years.
This glow-in-the-dark Funko Pop highlights his intimidating appearance with charred skin and piercing blue eyes. Creative touches like the flickering flame base and see-through body make it even cooler.
For MHA fans following Dabi‘s mysterious backstory, this figure is essential while supplies last. It was a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive, so get it before it becomes super rare!
Approx Value: $30
#8 Future Trunks (Dragon Ball Z)
Kicking off the top 8 is legendary half-Saiyan hero Future Trunks from Dragon Ball Z. This iconic warrior quickly became a fan-favorite after his debut fighting Frieza on Earth.
Dragon Ball Pops capture the unique art style perfectly, with Trunks looking like he flew straight off the screen. His purple hair, Capsule Corp jacket, and massive sword recreate his look flawlessly. The aura effect around his feet adds great energy as well.
For DBZ collectors, this is arguably the most screen-accurate Trunks merch on the market. It‘s also still quite affordable and easy to find from most retailers.
Approx Value: $15
#7 Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)
In our #7 spot we have an adorable icon of anime – the cuddly forest spirit Totoro! As the title star of Studio Ghibli classic My Neighbor Totoro, his magic and playful charm have made him beloved by every generation.
This super-cute Funko Pop captures his fluffy grey fur and smiling face beautifully. Little touches like his acorn and umbrella from the film‘s iconic bus stop scene make it extra fun.
For any anime fan or Studio Ghibli collector, adding Totoro to your shelf is a joy. He looks right at home alongside other Ghibli Pops like No-Face, Chihiro, and Calcifer.
Approx Value: $25
#6 Goku Ultra Instinct (Dragon Ball)
Soaring up the list to #6 is Dragon Ball legend Goku achieving his ultimate form – Ultra Instinct! With white hair flowing and aura flaming around him, this Pop oozes power.
The legendary transformation took the fandom by storm when it debuted. Now UI Goku is immortalized by this awesome special edition Funko. Subtle touches like his calm facial expression and bare feet match his fighting style perfectly.
For longtime Dragon Ball fans, this is a Holy Grail item for any collection. Stocks run low frequently due to popularity, so grab him soon!
Approx Value: $30
#5 Sakura Haruno (Naruto)
In the #5 spot sits medical ninja Sakura Haruno from classic series Naruto! She holds a special place as the lone female member of Team 7 alongside Naruto and Sasuke.
This Funko Pop features her bold red battle outfit and gloves for smashing enemies, true to Sakura‘s monstrous strength. The exclusive glitter tint gives her a magical quality fitting for a master of chakra control.
As a central character in the Naruto saga, Sakura has amassed tons of loyal fans. This collectible makes a fantastic gift for the kunoichi in your life!
Approx Value: $25
#4 All Might (My Hero Academia)
In the #4 spot soars the #1 Hero himself – All Might from My Hero Academia! As the world‘s greatest hero before passing the torch to Deku, he still stands tall in Funko form.
The sculpting is fantastic here, recreating Toshinori Yagi‘s massive hero form bursting with strength. Subtle muscle definition and his flowing hair mimic Kohei Horikoshi‘s iconic style closely.
As the Superman-esque symbol of justice in the series, All Might is hugely popular, especially in the west. Whether Nanoformer or powered-down Toshinori, MHA fans agree this hero belongs in every fan‘s collection!
Approx Value: $30
#3 Genos (One Punch Man)
Claiming the bronze medal spot is S-Class cyborg hero Genos from super-powered satire One Punch Man. Always striving to improve his skills under mentor Saitama, Genos is a compelling deuteragonist who anchors the series.
This stylish Funko Pop nails all of Genos‘ signature details, from his spiky blonde hair to his badass cybernetic body. His calm yet combat-ready stance gives off an awesome vibe.
As one of the most skilled heroes in S-Class, Genos has amassed tons of fans globally. This figure makes a great desk mate for any fan or PC gamer embracing that tech look!
Approx Value: $15
#2 Tanjiro & Nezuko (Demon Slayer)
Claiming the silver spot are loving siblings Tanjiro and Nezuko from megahit Demon Slayer! This set features the iconic duo mid-battle on one of their demon hunts.
As protagonists of anime‘s highest-grossing movie ever, the popularity of these two is massive. This Funko 2-pack captures Tanjiro‘s heroic spirit and Nezuko‘s innocence despite her monstrous form.
For any Demon Slayer fan, these sibling warriors are essential for your collection. Stocks sell fast though, so don‘t hesitate once you find one!
Approx Value: $50
#1 Goku & Flying Nimbus (Dragon Ball)
And claiming the gold as #1 anime Funko Pop is the most iconic anime hero ever – Goku from Dragon Ball! Paired with his fluffy yellow partner the Flying Nimbus cloud, this Pop oozes retro charm.
As the protagonist of one of Japan‘s most beloved manga/anime ever, Goku is a must-have for any fan. This Funko captures his naïve happiness and passion for adventure perfectly.
While there are tons of amazing DBZ Funko Pops out there, this chibi kid Goku is arguably the most classic rendition. For anime collectors or OG Dragon Ball fans, this one is mandatory!
Approx Value: $15
Expand Your Anime Collection
I hope this list has helped showcase the diversity and quality of anime Funko Pops available for fans to collect! The world of anime merch is bigger than ever, making this the perfect time to amass your own set of favorite characters and shows.
Beyond the world of Funko, be sure to explore figurines, plushies, apparel, accessories, and limited edition physical media to take your fandom to the next level! Supporting the creators and studios you love is the greatest way to say thanks.
Want to chat more anime collectibles or have a recommendation for a future list? Hit me up on Twitter anytime @animecollectguy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I be sure I‘m getting authentic Funko Pops?
Always verify reputable retailers and licensing info on the box. Amazon, Hot Topic, Box Lunch, and direct from Funko are generally safe bets.
What‘s the most valuable anime Funko Pop?
Currently the Planet Arlia exclusive metallic Vegeta, which can sell for $2,000+!
Which Funko Pops retain their value the most?
Convention exclusives, limited editions under 1,000 units, autographed figures, andanything vaulted where stocks run out.
How durable are Funko Pops? Can I take them out of the box?
The vinyl material keeps them pretty sturdy, but collectible value depends on keeping the original packaging pristine. Handle with care!
