Funko Pop collecting has exploded over the past decade, becoming one of the most accessible and enjoyable hobbies for pop-culture fans. Whether you’re into anime, DC, Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, video games, or 80s retro cartoons and movies there’s a Pop for every fandom and every kind of collector.
This guide covers everything you need to know — what Funko Pops are, why they’re so popular, how they’re made, where to buy them, and the best resources to help you start or grow your collection.
Funko Pops are stylised vinyl collectibles inspired by characters from film, TV, games, sports and real-world icons. Their oversized heads, black button eyes and simplified shapes make them instantly recognisable. Most stand about 3.75 to 4 inches (9.5–10 cm) tall and come in clear-front boxes that collectors proudly display alongside the figures themselves.
The company behind them, Funko, was founded in 1998 by Mike Becker, whose early nostalgic bobbleheads gained cult appeal. In 2005 collector Brian Mariotti took over, securing major licences with Warner Bros., Marvel and Disney — turning Funko into the pop-culture powerhouse it is today.
The Pop! Vinyl line launched in 2010 with Batman from the 1960s TV series and has since grown to tens of thousands of releases.
Each Pop goes through a multi-stage manufacturing process:
Curious about packaging stickers and exclusivity tiers?.. Learn more in my Funko Pop Sticker Guide for collectors.
Interested in exact figure dimensions?.. See my Funko Pop Size Guide for a full breakdown.
Funko Pops combine nostalgia, accessibility and constant novelty.
As of 2025, there are more than 25,000 unique Funko Pop figures released worldwide, a number that continues to rise as Funko adds 1,500 to 2,000 new Pops each year across franchises like Marvel, Disney, Star Wars, anime and gaming.
Their consistent size makes them easy to display and photograph, while their affordability keeps collecting accessible to fans of all ages. The huge variety of licences means there’s a Pop for nearly every fandom imaginable — from Disney Princesses to Star Wars, from Care Bears to Stranger Things and everything in-between.
Financially, some Pops appreciate in value — especially vaulted or exclusive releases — but for most collectors, the real worth lies in enjoyment.
Funko’s limited runs mean once a Pop is retired (“vaulted”), it often becomes sought-after. Chasing profit alone rarely sustains interest; treat collecting as a passion first and potential resale value as a bonus.
For format and line details (like Pop Rides or Albums), head to my Types of Funko Pop Guide.
Funko Pops are widely available through major retailers and specialist stores.
Here are some trusted sources I personally use and recommend:
High Street & Online Stores
Collector-Focused Retailers
Looking for Funko Pop discounts?.. Check out Funko Pop Deals UK for my current affiliate picks and sale updates.
Explore these in-depth resources to deepen your knowledge and grow your collection:
You can browse all my Funko Pop articles on the Lee Pep Blog and follow me on Instagram at @LeePepCollects for updates and collector chat.
Straight Answers to the Most Searched Funko Pop Questions
As of 2025, the total has surpassed 25,000 unique figures, with 1,500–2,000 new releases added annually. The count varies depending on whether exclusives and regional variants are included.
No. Most are decorated using automated factory techniques such as airbrushing and pad printing, though some limited editions feature manual detailing.
Primarily PVC vinyl with some ABS plastic components; boxes use cardboard and PET plastic windows.
A vaulted Pop is one Funko has retired from production. Once vaulted, it’s typically harder to find and may increase in value.
Look for official stickers on the box — store exclusives, Chases and event releases all have unique labels.
See full details in my Funko Pop Sticker Guide.
If the idea of showcasing your favourite characters in a fun, creative way appeals to you — then absolutely. It’s a hobby that’s easy to start and endlessly customisable.
Yes — the community is thriving! With new lines, collaborations, and fan events, Pop collecting continues to grow across the globe.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.