Last Updated on April 29, 2025 by JoyFun Team
When you start planning a custom figure, one decision will shape the whole project:
PVC or vinyl—which material should you choose?
Both are widely used in the world of collectibles, designer toys, and promotional figures. But they each offer unique advantages depending on the design, purpose, and budget.
Choosing the right material isn’t just about technical specs—it’s about matching your idea to the right production method, ensuring the final figure feels exactly how you imagined it.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the real-world differences between PVC and vinyl figures, and help you decide which is the best fit for your project.
PVC figures are made from polyvinyl chloride, a durable and highly versatile plastic.
Production usually involves injection molding, where melted PVC is injected into a steel mold under high pressure.
Key Features of PVC Figures:
Exceptional Detail:
PVC can capture very fine details—sharp lines, facial expressions, tiny textures.
Perfect for complex designs, realistic characters, and miniatures.
Durability and Strength:
PVC figures are solid and less prone to damage. They can survive falls, bending, or squeezing without warping.
Premium Weight:
Because they are often solid, PVC figures feel heavier in the hand, which gives an impression of quality.
Vibrant Colors and Finishes:
PVC takes paint very well, allowing rich colors and clean details in final production.
Common Applications:
Anime or movie character figurines
Brand mascots with fine surface textures
Miniature collectibles
Highly detailed promotional figures
Vinyl figures, especially soft vinyl figures (sofubi), are produced differently.
They use a rotational molding (rotocasting) process, where liquid vinyl is poured into a mold and spun until it evenly coats the inside.
Key Features of Vinyl Figures:
Hollow and Lightweight:
Vinyl figures are generally hollow inside, making them lighter and easier to handle, especially for large designs.
Soft, Flexible Feel:
Vinyl figures have a slightly soft, almost rubbery feel. Some collectors love this nostalgic texture, especially for art toys.
Artistic Surface:
Vinyl often has a matte or semi-gloss finish, perfect for stylized, smooth designs rather than super-fine detail.
Handcrafted Appeal:
Traditional vinyl figure production often involves more handwork, giving each figure a slightly unique feel.
Common Applications:
Large collectible art toys
Designer collabs and limited series
Rounded or cartoon-style characters
Nostalgic or retro-themed promotions
| Feature | PVC Figures | Vinyl Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Detail and Precision | Very high—perfect for small designs | Moderate—best for simple shapes |
| Weight and Solidity | Solid and heavier | Hollow and lightweight |
| Surface Feel | Smooth, dense, premium | Soft, flexible, nostalgic |
| Durability | Strong against drops or pressure | Can dent or deform under force |
| Best for Size | Small to medium-sized figures | Medium to large-sized figures |
| Production Mould | Steel mold (higher cost) | Copper mold (lower cost for small runs) |
| Typical Price Range | Higher for small runs | Lower for basic designs |
| Market Perception | Premium, collectible-grade | Artistic, trendy, collectible |
Still unsure which material suits your project?
Here are the main points to consider:
What’s your figure size?
Small figures (below 15 cm) → PVC is usually better.
Large figures (20 cm and above) → Vinyl is lighter and more practical.
Is high detail important?
If you need fine sculpting (hair strands, tiny accessories), PVC wins.
What brand image are you aiming for?
Luxury, collectible, premium → PVC.
Artistic, trendy, softer feel → Vinyl.
What is your budget?
PVC molds are more expensive but offer finer detail.
Vinyl molds are cheaper for basic, simple designs, making them good for experimental runs or art toys.
How will the figure be used?
Heavy handling, giveaways, kids’ promotions → PVC is safer.
Adult collectors, art exhibitions → Vinyl offers more charm.
Choosing between PVC and vinyl isn’t about which material is “better”—it’s about which one fits your project’s vision, your market, and your budget.
PVC figures offer strength, precision, and a premium finish. Vinyl figures provide softness, lightness, and an artistic soul.
Both materials have their magic—if used well, either can turn your creative idea into an unforgettable collectible.
If you’re ready to bring your project to life but still wondering which material is right for you, feel free to reach out to our team.
We’ll help you find the perfect solution—every step of the way.
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With 18 years of experience in the custom figures industry, we specialize in creating high-quality, tailor-made products that bring your ideas to life.
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