So, you’re ready to dive into the exciting world of action figure collecting? Welcome! It’s a fantastic hobby, but with so many lines, scales, and companies out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. Don’t worry, we’re here to help.
To get you started on the right foot, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most collector-friendly action figure lines for beginners in 2025. These lines offer a great balance of accessibility, quality, variety, and reasonable pricing, making them perfect entry points into the hobby.
1. Marvel Legends (Hasbro)
One of the most popular lines worldwide, Marvel Legends offers a vast array of characters from the Marvel Comics and Cinematic Universe. These 6-inch (1/12 scale) figures boast great articulation, decent sculpts, and often come with “Build-A-Figure” (BAF) pieces that let you construct a larger character when you complete a wave.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Widely available, excellent character selection, consistent quality, and a thriving secondary market.
- Where to buy: Major retailers (Target, Walmart, Amazon), comic shops, online specialty stores.
2. Star Wars: The Black Series (Hasbro)
Similar to Marvel Legends but set in a galaxy far, far away, The Black Series delivers 6-inch figures of beloved Star Wars characters from all eras. With “Photo Real” face printing technology, the likenesses have become incredibly accurate.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Massive character roster, great for display, and easily found.
- Where to buy: Major retailers, toy stores, Amazon, specialist online retailers.
3. DC Multiverse (McFarlane Toys)
Since taking over the DC Comics license, McFarlane Toys has produced a staggering number of highly detailed 7-inch (1/10 scale) figures. Known for their intricate sculpts and unique interpretations, these figures often come with display bases and collector cards.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Excellent sculpting, often includes “Build-A-Figure” parts, and strong availability.
- Where to buy: Major retailers, online stores, comic shops.
4. G.I. Joe Classified Series (Hasbro)
This line brings the classic G.I. Joe characters into the popular 6-inch scale with updated designs and modern articulation. Each figure comes with a generous amount of weaponry and gear.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Nostalgia factor for many, fantastic articulation, and great accessories.
- Where to buy: Target, Walmart, Hasbro Pulse, comic shops.
5. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Ultimates (NECA)
While NECA has many fantastic lines, their TMNT Ultimates (primarily based on the classic cartoon and movie) are a standout. These highly detailed, beautifully painted figures often come with a ton of character-specific accessories and swappable parts.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: High-quality sculpts and paint, iconic characters, and a strong sense of nostalgia.
- Where to buy: Target (exclusive cartoon line), specialty toy stores, online retailers.
6. S.H. Figuarts (Bandai Spirits)
Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts line specializes in highly articulated 1/12 scale figures, particularly from Japanese anime, manga, and tokusatsu properties (Dragon Ball, Kamen Rider, Ultraman). They are renowned for their dynamic posing capabilities and excellent accessories.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Superior articulation, great for dynamic poses, and covers popular anime franchises.
- Where to buy: Premium online retailers (BigBadToyStore, Entertainment Earth), import stores, Amazon.
7. Super7 Ultimates
If you love classic cartoons and pop culture icons, Super7’s Ultimates line is a fantastic choice. These 7-inch figures celebrate properties like Thundercats, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Masters of the Universe with highly detailed sculpts and abundant accessories.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: High-quality collector-focused figures, great for display, and covers beloved franchises.
- Where to buy: Super7’s website, specialty online retailers.
8. Jazwares AEW Unrivaled/Unmatched Collection
If you’re a wrestling fan, Jazwares’ AEW (All Elite Wrestling) lines offer incredibly detailed and articulated figures of your favorite wrestlers. The “Unrivaled” and “Unmatched” series provide different levels of accessories and deco.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Excellent articulation for wrestling poses, great head sculpts, and a dedicated fanbase.
- Where to buy: Target, Walmart, Ringside Collectibles, Amazon.
9. Mezco One:12 Collective
The One:12 Collective by Mezco Toyz offers premium 1/12 scale figures with real fabric clothing, highly detailed sculpts, and a plethora of accessories. While a bit pricier, they offer a “mini Hot Toy” experience.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: Exceptional quality and detail, fabric costumes, and collector-friendly packaging.
- Where to buy: Mezco Toyz website, specialty online retailers.
10. Mythic Legions (Four Horsemen Studios)
For those who love high-fantasy settings like Lord of the Rings or Dungeons & Dragons, Mythic Legions is a dream come true. Created by the legendary Four Horsemen Studios, this is an original line of knights, orcs, skeletons, and dwarves. Its greatest strength is its modularity. Nearly every piece of armor, limb, and head is interchangeable across the line, allowing you to create and customize your very own unique fantasy warriors.
- Why it’s beginner-friendly: It encourages creativity right out of the box. The quality is top-tier for the price, and you can build a unique army or adventuring party with just a few figures. The community is also incredibly passionate and welcoming to newcomers.
- Where to buy: Primarily through pre-orders on the official StoreHorsemen.com. They are also available at major online retailers like BigBadToyStore.
Choosing Your First Line
There you have it—ten of the best lines to kickstart your action figure collection in 2025. While it might be tempting to buy a little of everything, the best advice for a beginner is to start small and focused.
Pick a character, team, or franchise that you genuinely love. Whether it’s the heroes of the MCU, the iconic characters from Star Wars, or a custom legion of skeleton knights, collecting is most rewarding when it’s personal. Do your research, watch some video reviews, and most importantly, have fun with it.
Welcome to the hobby, and happy collecting!