The Best Online Action Figure Stores for Enthusiasts in 2024

Action figures can be a bridge to the past, a piece of nostalgia that connects to the stories and characters you loved for years. They’re also something new fans adore just as much. This hobby has seen a significant evolution.

Gone are the days when the hunt for that one action figure meant scouring through local toy stores. Now, action figures have found their online destination, and it’s right at your fingertips. This article will look into where to buy action figures online for action figure enthusiasts in 2023.

Top Online Action Figure Stores

1. ToyShnip

ToyShnip is a New York-based online store and a treasure trove for action figure enthusiasts. It boasts an impressive catalog of over 130,000 items and ships worldwide. It has almost everything from the latest Funko Pop! figures to classic Star Wars collectibles like Luke Skywalker.

Shopping at ToyShnip is smooth and user-friendly. Its website is a cakewalk to navigate. Plus, it sells demonstrably authentic, new, and sealed products, which is a big deal for collectors who care about the quality and authenticity of action figures.

The customer service and the sense of community the store fosters is top-notch. For instance, there’s an Insider club that offers exclusive deals and updates on new arrivals, perfect for regular shoppers.

2. Big Bad Toy Store

If you’re into action figures, chances are you’ve heard of Big Bad Toy Store. The collectible toy shop has been around since 1999 and built up a reputation as one of the favorites for collectors. What’s cool is the sheer variety of figures on offer. If you’re a fan of mainstream figures like Marvel and Star Wars, or if your taste runs more towards anime or video games, the store probably has something for you.

One of the nifty things about shopping here is the “Pile of Loot” feature. It lets you store your purchases and then ship them all at once, which can save you a bit on shipping costs. There’s also a package grading system, so you know if you’re getting a box that’s in mint condition or something a bit less perfect.

Big Bad Toy Store seems to have a good customer service track record. They’re helpful and responsive, which is a big deal when you’re dealing with collectibles.

3. Entertainment Earth

Entertainment Earth is a playground for action figure enthusiasts. It’s been in the game for about 25 years and has a reputation for being one of the top spots for the latest and greatest in toys and collectibles. The range is impressive – whether it’s TV shows, movies, sports, comics, or internet memes, there are action figures and collectibles from just about every corner of pop culture. There’s always something fresh to check out.

The website is a breeze to navigate, so it’s easy to find whatever you’re hunting for. The store has the Mint Condition Guarantee™, which is a big deal if you’re serious about the condition of your collectibles. You can also use the hassle-free 90-day returns, which is pretty reassuring when you’re shopping online.

4. Geek Love

Geek Love is a bit of a hidden gem for action figure collectors, especially those who are into anime and unique collectibles. It has a niche in authentic action figures, statues, and anime collectibles.

Navigating the site, you’ll find all sorts of products from Nendoroids to detailed scale figures and statues. The store seems to have a knack for stocking items that are a bit off the beaten path, making it a great spot if you’re searching for something that’s not just run-of-the-mill. Plus, it offers free shipping to Metro Manila if you’re in that area.

5. Awesome Collector

If you’re into action figures, especially those from comics, movies, or even Godzilla, check out Awesome Collector. It has a pretty sweet range, from the stuff you’d casually pick up to add some flair to your shelf, to high-end collectibles. It’s a treasure for anyone into Marvel, DC, or even the more unique, indie items.

The pre-order setup is pretty neat. You know those limited-edition figures that sell out faster than you can click? This store lets you lock them down ahead of time. Browsing the site is a breeze, and it has several payment options, which is always handy.

6. eBay

eBay is a massive online treasure chest. There, you can find all kinds of action figures, from the latest superhero ones to the hard-to-find vintage pieces. eBay is a place where you can stumble upon a 1980s Transformer or a limited-edition Marvel figure.

eBay has professional sellers with pristine collections and regular folks who’ve just unearthed treasures from their basements and now offer them to the public. This means you can either get into a fun bidding war (if that’s your thing) or go for a quick “Buy It Now” option if waiting isn’t your style.

Still, dealing with different sellers means the experience can vary. But don’t worry too much – eBay’s got policies to protect you as a buyer. As a heads-up, always check the seller’s ratings and reviews.

7. Amazon

Amazon’s Toys and Games section is a place where you can find just about any action figure you’ve ever dreamed of, from the newest superhero figures to the rare, sought-after collectibles. The variety here is staggering – it’s every action figure enthusiast’s dream come true.

You can narrow down your search by age, brand, or specific characters, which is handy. Find anything from educational toys to the coolest action figures around. There’s something for every budget. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you also get the bonus of speedy, free shipping on many items.

8. Craigslist

Craigslist, particularly the San Diego section, is a bustling marketplace where individuals and small vendors list items ranging from vintage toys to recent and cheap action figures online. The range is vast and eclectic – you might stumble upon a 1950s Cadillac pedal car, brand new Nerf games, or collectible items like vintage Lincoln Logs sets. The charm of Craigslist is the unpredictability and the potential for great finds at good prices.

Shopping on Craigslist is quite different from a typical online store. There’s no centralized customer service; instead, you deal directly with the sellers. This means the quality of service can vary greatly. You might meet a seller who’s a fellow enthusiast with deep knowledge about the toys they’re selling, or you might encounter someone just looking to clear out their attic.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Store

There’s a bit more to it than finding cool online collectible stores and clicking “buy” when shopping for good action figures. You want to make sure you’re getting the real deal, at the right price, and with the peace of mind that you won’t be left in the dark if something goes wrong. Let’s break down some key things to keep in mind.

Authenticity & Credibility

If you ever excitedly opened a package only to find the new action figure inside is a cheap knock-off, you know it’s not fun. That’s why you must shop from reputable online stores. But how do you know if a store is legit? Check out reviews and seller ratings – they’re the internet’s version of word-of-mouth. Also, a good look at the website itself can give you clues. Does it look professional? Are their contact details easy to find? These little things can tell you a lot about a store’s credibility.

Range & Variety

Here’s the thing about collecting action figures – everyone has their own flavor. Some people are really into superheroes, others might be into anime figures, and then there are those who love rare, vintage finds. That’s why the range and variety a store offers are big factors in building loyalty. You want a store that gets your style, whether that store is mainstream or niche. It’s always more fun when you have a wide selection to browse through.

Pricing & Deals

It’s impossible not to talk about money when shopping. Prices for action figures can swing wildly from one store to another. Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers. Some stores might have loyalty programs or special sales days. And don’t forget to compare prices across different sites – you might be surprised at how much you can save.

Customer Service & Return Policies

Ever had a collectible statue arrive – but it’s broken? It happens and it’s not always a sign of poor quality or a bad seller. That’s why good customer service and a solid return policy matter for action figure websites. Look for stores that are easy to contact and have clear, fair return policies. It’s a matter of shopping with confidence, knowing that if something goes wrong, there’s a plan B.

Dive Into Your Next Collection!

There’s a whole universe of figures waiting for you, and many online toy stores are there to oblige. Remember, when choosing a store, keep an eye on authenticity, range, pricing, and customer service. These are your compass for online shopping.

Let’s give a special shout-out to ToyShnip as maybe the best online action figure store. It has an impressive lineup of action figures, from the latest hits like Dragon Ball toys and DC toys to nostalgic classics. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, ToyShnip has something that will catch your eye.

FAQs

Which company makes the best action figures?

It depends on what you’re into. Companies like Hasbro, Bandai, and Hot Toys have a solid reputation for quality and variety.

What is the biggest online toy store?

Amazon is often seen as the giant among the stores that sell action figures. But for the more specialized action figure scene, Big Bad Toy Store and Entertainment Earth are big players too. And of course, eBay has nearly everything.