The S.H. Figuarts are high-end articulated figures for collectors, manufactured by Tamashii Nations. They are known for their high number of joints, with innovative articulation architecture that evolves every year, as well as the intricate detailing of their sculpts. Additionally, each figure includes multiple faces, hands, and various other accessories.
The S.H. Figuarts are manufactured by the Japanese company Tamashii Nations, with Bandai and Toei handling their distribution and commercialization, specifically for Dragon Ball.
Since these figures are targeted towards collectors, they can only be obtained through specialized stores in the hobby world. However, platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress are also good options, especially for older or imported figures.
In addition to Dragon Ball figures, S.H. Figuarts also handles other franchises, such as Naruto, Ranma 1/2, Star Wars, Marvel, and more...
The SHF figures are considered high-end due to their quality materials and their great ability to be posed, thanks to the architecture of their joints and the large number of them (around 30 on average).
However, their architecture and the number of joints have improved over time, enhancing many aspects to maintain their aesthetics. The first SHF models from 2009 did not have chest articulation, and the butterfly joint and hip joints were somewhat crude. This first version is referred to within the community as the "type 1.0." As of 2025, they have reached type 4.0.
Main differences and all the types available:
There are also differences in female bodies and special figures, such as Majin Buu or Android No. 19, which feature unique architectures.
In the early days of the brand, release patterns were irregular, although exclusive and limited editions for SDCC (San Diego Comic-Con) already existed. However, today, Tamashii Nations manages three types of SHF releases: Regular, Limited, and Exclusive editions.
Regular: These figures are characterized by an affordable price (around $30), a moderate number of accessories (at least three faceplates and six hands), and a production cycle that allows for restocks over two to three years.
Limited: Known as "Tamashii Web Exclusive", these releases can be purchased like regular ones but will not receive restocks, making them limited. They also feature a distinctive seal on the box to differentiate them.
Exclusive: These come in various types:
Tamashii works with a 1/12 scale for its S.H. Figuarts figures, meaning a standard adult human figure measures around 6 inches (15 cm). However, this scale has not always been strictly followed, especially for very large or very small characters. Early child figures were oversized, while larger characters like Cell have often been slightly undersized. Since the release of Goku GT, Tamashii has been improving accuracy in scale.
Regarding accessories, it varies by character, but recent releases follow a pattern:
With this, you now have all the essential information about S.H. Figuarts Dragon Ball figures by Tamashii Nations.
Here you will see some of the more than 200 S.H. Figuarts releases that Tamashii Nations has brought us from Dragon Ball.