Custom Resin Figures vs. Vinyl Figures: Which One Should You Choose?

Last Updated on April 25, 2025 by JoyFun Team

When it comes to creating custom figures, the choice of material is critical. Custom resin and vinyl figures are both popular choices, but they each have their unique advantages and challenges. In this guide, we’ll compare these two materials, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your next collectible project. Whether you’re a collector, designer, or brand owner, this article will provide you with the insights you need.

Table of Contents

What Are Resin Figures?

Resin figures are known for their premium finish, fine detailing, and overall luxury appeal. Artists and collectors often prefer resin due to its ability to capture intricate designs and fine details.

  • Key Advantages:

    • Exceptional Detail: Resin allows for high precision in sculpting and painting, making it ideal for intricate designs.

    • Premium Look and Feel: The weight and texture of resin give it a luxurious, high-end feel that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts.

    • Limited Edition Appeal: Resin figures are often produced in limited quantities, adding exclusivity to the product.

  • Disadvantages:

    • Fragility: Resin is more prone to cracking or breaking under pressure.

    • Higher Production Costs: Due to the craftsmanship involved, resin figures are typically more expensive to produce.

    • Less Suitable for Mass Production: Resin’s fragility and high production cost make it less practical for larger-scale production runs.

What Are Vinyl Figures?

Vinyl figures are lightweight, durable, and versatile, making them perfect for large-scale production. They are typically favored for action figures, toys, and mass-produced collectibles.

  • Key Advantages:

    • Durability: Vinyl is more resistant to breakage and wear, making it an excellent choice for figures that will be handled often.

    • Cost-Effective for Large Runs: Vinyl figures are cheaper to produce, especially when creating large quantities.

    • Easy to Manufacture: Vinyl’s flexibility allows for efficient molding and mass production.

  • Disadvantages:

    • Less Detail: While vinyl can achieve great results, it is often not as detailed as resin, especially in terms of textures and small features.

    • Less Premium Feel: Vinyl figures can feel lighter and less substantial than their resin counterparts.

    • Limited Design Flexibility: Highly detailed or complex designs may not be feasible with vinyl due to its molding process.

Durability: Resin vs. Vinyl

When it comes to durability, vinyl takes the lead. While resin figures are prone to breaking or chipping if dropped or handled roughly, vinyl figures are much more resilient.

  • Resin Figures: Ideal for display and collectors who handle their figures with care.

  • Vinyl Figures: Perfect for figures that need to withstand regular handling, transport, or display in less-controlled environments.

Cost Comparison: Resin vs. Vinyl

One of the most significant factors influencing your decision is cost. Resin figures tend to be more expensive due to the complex molding process and the high level of detail required. Vinyl figures, however, are much more affordable, making them ideal for larger production runs.

  • Resin Figures: Ideal for collectors or limited edition runs, where the higher price point is justified by exclusivity and quality.

  • Vinyl Figures: Best for large-scale projects, such as toys or collectible lines that need to be mass-produced at a lower cost.

Design Flexibility: Which Material Offers More Customization?

Resin excels in design flexibility, especially for artists looking to create detailed, intricate figures. However, vinyl can still accommodate a wide range of designs, albeit with fewer intricate details due to the molding limitations.

  • Resin: Best for highly detailed and custom designs, often used for artist editions, prototypes, or limited runs.

  • Vinyl: Suitable for designs that are simpler or more uniform, such as toys, mascot figures, and characters.

Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?

The decision between resin and vinyl ultimately depends on your specific needs:

  • Choose resin for high-end, detailed, and limited-edition figures that appeal to collectors and fans.

  • Opt for vinyl if you need a durable, cost-effective solution for mass production.

At Joyfun Toy, we specialize in creating both custom resin figures and custom vinyl figures. Whether you’re a designer, brand owner, or collector, our team is ready to bring your vision to life with exceptional craftsmanship and quality. Contact us today to discuss your next collectible project!

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