So what exactly is an acrylic figure? Basically, it’s a miniature standee of an anime character. They’re 2D and printed on plastic and usually come with a stand that allows the figure to be displayed. The colours and art style vary, but usually look like they’re taken right from a screenshot of that character in the anime. There’s a lot of variation available, too, with different poses, outfits, and more being produced for the most popular characters. Lately, acrylic figures have been available for just about any recent anime and can be purchased in Japan anywhere that anime merchandise is available for sale.

Acrylic figures vary in size, but usually are about 15cm (6in) or less in height, and very thin. The outline around the art itself is usually clear, especially when the figure comes with a 2D background to complete the display. They’re very lightweight, and difficult to break - though you should avoid scratching the back of them, which is often unfinished, so it’s easy to remove the image if you’re not careful.

But while that may explain exactly what an acrylic figure is, it doesn’t explain why they’ve become so popular in the past few years in Japan. Keep reading to find out more!

3D figures have always held a special place in the otaku merchandise world, and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon. But acrylic figures have been gaining popularity all the same for a number of reasons. First and foremost, they’re a lot more affordable for a figure that still looks great. Full-size anime figures can easily cost over $100USD, even in Japan. And if you settle for a smaller 3D figure, there’s a high chance it will be in a cuter, “chibi” art style that may not be what you’re looking for. Meanwhile, most acrylic figures cost less than $20USD, with many closer to $10USD. They come in both chibi and normal art styles, too! So they’re a lot more budget-friendly.

Another selling point for acrylic figures is that they take up significantly less storage space compared to 3D figures. They can be stored laying flat, so it’s easy to have a lot of them kept in a box or a drawer when you don’t need them. When you do display them, they only take up a few centimetres of shelf space for their stand. Between being more compact and more affordable, acrylic figures give otaku a chance to own more characters than ever before! Do you want the entire cast of your favourite anime? No problem. Just want your favourite character in a number of poses or special outfits? Acrylic figures have you covered!

While not everyone may be convinced that acrylic figures are the way to go, you still have to admit that they look good. Many come with backgrounds as well to add something more to your display, and there’s plenty of limited edition ones that are for sale at collaboration events like art shows and cafes. Plus, this summer Japan found an all new way to make owning an acrylic figure fun. There’s now a mobile phone attachment for sale that has a clip meant for hold an acrylic figure on the end in front of your mobile’s camera. That way, you can take photos of your favourite anime character anywhere that you travel, or even as part of a selfie! And with how easy it is to put an acrylic figure flat in your bag, they make great travel companions. Let’s see your 3D figure do that!