Labubu vs. Lafufu | I’ve been hooked on collecting Labubu figures ever since I unboxed my first blind box and saw that mischievous grin staring back at me. These adorable monsters, created by Kasing Lung and sold by Pop Mart, have taken the world by storm, with fans ranging from K-Pop stars to everyday toy enthusiasts (Variety). But with their popularity, knockoffs called Lafufu have flooded the market, tempting collectors with lower prices. As someone who’s navigated this craze, I’m here to break down the differences between Labubu and Lafufu, help you spot fakes, and decide which fits your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, this guide has you covered.
What is Labubu?
Labubu is a collectible figure born in 2015 from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, inspired by Nordic folklore (Wikipedia – Labubu). Part of “The Monsters” series, Labubu is a small, furry creature with pointy ears, nine serrated teeth, and a playful yet cheeky personality. Since partnering with Pop Mart in 2019, Labubu has exploded in popularity, thanks to its blind box format—where you don’t know which figure you’ll get until you open it—and celebrity endorsements (SNKRDUNK Magazine). From plush keychains to vinyl figures, Labubu’s charm lies in its unique design and collectible appeal.
Why Labubu is a Global Hit
Labubu’s rise isn’t just about cute looks. Celebrities like K-Pop idols have been spotted with these figures, sparking massive demand (Variety). Pop Mart’s limited-edition releases and collaborations, like the Macaron or Big Into Energy series, keep collectors hunting for rare finds. It’s no wonder fans line up at stores like Bangkok’s CentralWorld mall to snag the latest drops.
What is Lafufu?
Lafufu is the unofficial cousin of Labubu—a knockoff figure mimicking its design but not produced by Pop Mart (Labubu World). The name “Lafufu” likely plays off “Labubu” to sound similar, and these figures pop up on sites like AliExpress, eBay, and Temu. They’re cheaper, often costing around $10 compared to Labubu’s $15-$100+ price tag, making them appealing to fans who can’t afford authentic figures or face sold-out official releases. However, Lafufu’s quality varies, and some collectors question the ethics of buying knockoffs.
Why Lafufu Exists
The high demand for Lafufu, coupled with its limited availability, has created a market for affordable alternatives. Lafufu fills this gap, offering a low-cost way to join the fandom. Some collectors even argue that certain Lafufu figures look better than authentic ones, especially when Pop Mart’s quality control falters (Reddit – PopMartCollectors).
Key Differences Between Labubu vs. Lafufu
Understanding what sets Labubu and Lafufu apart is crucial for making informed purchases. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences based on my research and collector discussions.
Design and Appearance
Authentic Labubu figures are meticulously designed with specific traits: nine serrated teeth, perfectly aligned eyes, and a distinct blush on the cheeks (SNKRDUNK Magazine). Lafufu figures often miss these details, with issues like extra teeth, odd proportions, or overly vibrant colors. For example, collectors on Reddit have noted that Lafufu might have “chubby legs” or mismatched eyes (Reddit – PopMartCollectors).
Quality and Materials
Labubu figures typically use high-quality materials, like soft, fluffy fur and durable vinyl (Bright Side of News). However, recent quality control issues have led to defects like misaligned limbs or uneven fur, frustrating some collectors (Reddit – PopMartCollectors). Lafufu’s quality is hit-or-miss—some are surprisingly decent, while others feel rough or cheaply made. I’ve read reviews where collectors were impressed by certain Lafufu figures but disappointed by others with loose parts (Amazon – Lafufu Review).
Packaging
One of the easiest ways to spot a fake is the packaging. Authentic Labubu comes in Pop Mart-branded boxes with a scannable QR code linking to the official site (Pop Mart Official). Labubu vs. Lafufu figures often arrive in plain bags or flimsy knockoff boxes, sometimes with fake QR codes that lead to dead links (Reddit – PopMartCollectors). Always check the box’s finish—authentic ones have a matte texture and embossed details.
Price
Price is a big giveaway. Authentic Labubu blind boxes start at around $15, with rare or secondary market figures going for $100 or more (Clear Box Toys). Lafufu figures are usually $10 or less, reflecting their lower production costs (Labubu World). If a deal seems too good to be true, it’s likely a Lafufu.
| Feature | Labubu (Authentic) | Lafufu (Knockoff) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15-$100+ | ~$10 |
| Quality | High, but variable due to QC issues | Variable, often lower |
| Packaging | Branded box with QR code | Plain or knockoff packaging |
| Design | Accurate, nine teeth, precise details | May have extra teeth, odd proportions |
| Materials | Soft fur, durable vinyl | Often rough or coarse |
How to Identify Authentic Labubu Figures
As a collector, I’ve learned that spotting a genuine Labubu requires attention to detail. Here are my top tips to ensure you’re not buying a Lafufu by mistake:
- Check the Packaging: Look for Pop Mart’s logo, a matte-finish box, and a holographic sticker with a QR code (SNKRDUNK Magazine).
- Scan the QR Code: It should link to the official Pop Mart site (fwsy.popmart.com). Fake codes may lead to dead or suspicious sites (Reddit – PopMartCollectors).
- Examine the Figure: Count the teeth (nine, serrated), check eye alignment, and feel the fur—it should be soft and fluffy (Bright Side of News).
- Use a UV Light: Some Labubu figures have UV-reactive elements, like a silhouette on the feet (Popboxss).
- Buy from Trusted Sources: Stick to Pop Mart stores, authorized retailers like PUSHAS, or verified resellers to avoid scams.
These steps have saved me from buying fakes, especially when shopping online where Lafufu is common.
Price Comparison: Is Cheaper Better?
When I first started collecting, I was tempted by Lafufu’s low prices—$10 versus $50 for a Labubu sounded like a steal (Labubu World). But after comparing them, I realized the trade-offs. Authentic Labubu figures, starting at $15 for blind boxes and going up to $100+ for rare editions, offer better craftsmanship and collector’s value (Clear Box Toys). They’re an investment, especially if you’re after limited releases. Lafufu, while budget-friendly, often lacks the same durability and may not hold value over time. For casual fans, Lafufu might be fine, but serious collectors usually prefer the real thing.
Where to Buy Labubu and Lafufu
Finding authentic Labubu can be tricky due to high demand and fakes. Here’s where to shop safely:
- Authentic Labubu: Buy from Pop Mart’s official store, authorized retailers like PUSHAS, or trusted resellers on eBay. Amazon has some authentic listings, but check seller reviews (Amazon – Labubu).
- Lafufu: These are common on AliExpress, Temu, and eBay, often labeled as “Labubu” to trick buyers. Be cautious, as some sellers misrepresent Lafufu as authentic (Reddit – labubu).
I always recommend shopping in person at Pop Mart stores if possible, as online purchases carry more risk of fakes.
Collector’s Insights: Why Some Prefer Lafufu
I was surprised to learn that some collectors actually prefer Lafufu. On Reddit, users have shared that Lafufu’s lower price makes collecting less stressful, especially for kids or casual fans (Reddit – PopMartCollectors). Others noted that certain Labubu vs. Lafufu figures look better than defective authentic ones, especially with Pop Mart’s recent quality control issues (Reddit – PopMartCollectors). However, there’s an ethical debate: buying Lafufu may undermine Kasing Lung’s original work, though it makes the hobby accessible to more people. As a collector, I lean toward authentic Labubu to support the artist, but I understand why Lafufu appeals to others.
Navigating the world of Labubu and Lafufu can be overwhelming, but it’s also part of the fun. Authentic Labubu figures offer superior design, collectible value, and a connection to Kasing Lung’s creative vision, making them the go-to for serious collectors. Labubu vs. Lafufu, while affordable and sometimes surprisingly decent, comes with risks of poor quality and ethical concerns. By checking packaging, QR codes, and buying from trusted sources like Pop Mart, you can ensure your collection stays genuine. Whether you choose Labubu for its authenticity or Lafufu for its price, the joy of collecting is what matters most. Happy hunting, and may your next blind box bring you the Labubu of your dreams!
