How Can You Tell if a Pop is Fake? 9 Tips: Our Expert Guide

Funko Pops are incredibly popular collectibles that have become a staple in the world of pop culture fandom. With their wide range of licenses and characters, Funko Pops are loved by fans of all ages. Unfortunately, their popularity has also led to an increase in counterfeit figures on the market. In this blog post, we'll go over some key tips on how to spot fake Funko Pops and avoid being scammed.

1. Check the print

One of the easiest ways to spot a fake Funko Pop is to look at the box it comes in. The box print should have high-quality printing with crisp, clear images and text. Check for any misspellings or blurry images, as these are common signs of a fake.

2. Look for the Funko logo

Every Funko Pop figure should have the Funko logo on the box, typically located on the bottom right-hand corner. Make sure the logo is printed clearly and matches the official logo found on the Funko website.

3. Check the paint job

One of the most common signs of a fake Funko Pop is a poor paint job. Look for any smudges, uneven lines, or colour bleeding, as these are all indications of a fake figure. That said, keep in mind that Funko figures are a mass-produced toy line, and so not all paint jobs are perfect. The difference between a real and fake paint job usually comes down to the details, so if you're unsure, check a few other versions of the same item either online or in-person.

4. Examine the details

Funko Pops are known for their attention to detail, so examine the figure closely to ensure it matches the character it's meant to represent. Check for accurate clothing, accessories, and other defining features.

5. Check the box

One of the easiest giveaways for most fakes is the box itself, and how it's been cut. Check the width of the boarder around the character image and the font used in the box art.

6. Beware of low prices

If a Funko Pop figure seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of independent or anonymous sellers online offering low prices, as these are often a sign of counterfeit figures. An easy rule of thumb? If it seems to good to be true, it usually is.

7. Purchase from reputable sellers

To ensure you're getting a genuine Funko Pop, purchase from reputable sellers such as official retailers or trusted online stores. Avoid purchasing from unknown or unverified sources. Nudge nudge, cough cough. Just sayin'.

8. Check the stickers

Certain exclusive items feature box stickers which add to the item's rarity. Carefully examine the sticker for font, colour, finish, and wording to make sure it's legit.

9. Cross-reference online

There are tonnes of resources out there for collectors, such as Funko Fake Finder, where you can search, share, and upload images of known fakes. 

By following these tips, we hope you'll be able to spot fake Funko Pops and avoid being scammed. With a little extra attention, you can build your collection with confidence and enjoy your Funko Pops for years to come.

Have you ever come across a fake in the wild? How could you tell? Leave us a comment!