S.H. Figuarts vs. Dragon Stars | Differences
The main differences between the Dragon Stars Series and S.H. Figuarts of Dragon Ball 2025 - 02 - 06
Comparison and differences between the two most successful 1/12 scale Dragon Ball collections: S.H. Figuarts vs. Dragon Stars.
The two most successful articulated figure collections at 6" scale or 1/12 scale for Dragon Ball today are S.H. Figuarts and Dragon Stars Series. Both lines are distributed by Bandai, but S.H. Figuarts, being aimed at a different audience, stands out significantly over Dragon Stars. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this difference.
Target audience, prices, and distribution of both collections.
These three factors are completely different between both collections. Let's look at each one:
- Target Audience: While Dragon Stars is aimed at children aged 4 and up, the S.H. Figuarts line is targeted at audiences 15 and older.
- In the following image, in addition to the clear differences between the boxes, we can observe the target age for each collection.
- Prices: Dragon Stars typically maintain a fixed price of around $25, regardless of the figure. On the other hand, S.H. Figuarts figures can range from $25 to $70 at launch, depending on the figure type.
- Distribution: Due to the different target audiences, distribution also differs. S.H. Figuarts can be found in specialty stores, whereas Dragon Stars are available in toy stores and general retailers.
Conclusion: Dragon Stars are designed as toys, while S.H. Figuarts are collectible items.
The scale and the sculpting.
When comparing sculpting and scale, the Dragon Stars have a basic disadvantage as they are aimed at a more youthful audience and belong to a lower tier than the S.H. Figuarts.
- Scale: Although both collections use a 1/12 scale for their figures, both fall short in getting it entirely right. Dragon Stars often end up either too small for larger figures or too large for smaller ones. Tamashii and their S.H. Figuarts, while not perfect, do it much better, especially with the newer figures.
- Sculpting: In this area, both collections perform decently, but just comparing the face of a Goku from each brand makes it clear that S.H. Figuarts excels by far in this aspect.
Conclusion: Tamashii Nations and their figures win again.
Their accessories, articulations, and poses.
Spoiler: The S.H. Figuarts win again in these differentiating factors.
- Accessories: While Dragon Stars only come with 2 interchangeable hands and, occasionally, an extra effect or hand, S.H. Figuarts come with at least 3 faces and 6 extra hands. Additionally, it's common for them to include a ki effect, alternate hair pieces, or other accessories.
- Dragon Stars have a line called 'Power Up Pack', designed to replace extra hands with combat effects like ki attacks.
- S.H. Figuarts even have dedicated releases like effect packs, vehicles, and dioramas.
- Articulations and Poses: While Dragon Stars have an average of 16 articulation points, S.H. Figuarts feature more than 30 points. The body architecture and mobility also differ significantly between the two. Tamashii, with its new technologies and body types, has managed to hide many of the anchor points, while Dragon Stars are fully visible. When posing them, Dragon Stars lose the battle due to having half the articulation points and less refined body architecture.
Conclusions about the differences.
From all that we've seen, clearly, if you're a collector, you'll lean towards the S.H. Figuarts, and if it's for a child to play with, you'll choose the Dragon Stars.
But if you like both, you can mix both collections, and they don't look bad together. There are figures you won't find in the Dragon Stars, and others you won't find in the S.H. Figuarts.
If you want to know more, here's a video that might help.
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