Scale Figure Pre-Order Checklist: What to Look For Before You Buy
By animate USA Online Shop | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Buying Guides
A practical checklist for pre-ordering scale figures, covering release dates, scale size, manufacturer, and display needs so you avoid common surprises.
Quick answer
Before you pre-order a scale figure, always check the manufacturer, scale, release date, and whether the figure includes a stand. These details determine how the figure fits your display and budget.
Check the manufacturer and scale
A scale figure’s manufacturer and scale (like 1/7 or 1/10) tell you a lot about its quality and final size. A 1/7 scale figure from Good Smile Company is usually around 7–8 inches tall, but a 1/7 from a different maker might be slightly taller or shorter. Always compare the listed height, not just the scale number.
Understand the pre-order window and release date
Pre-order windows can close weeks or months before the expected release. For example, the Bungo Stray Dogs Chuya Nakahara: Yukata Ver. has a pre-order deadline of February 13, 2026, with a release in Q2 2027. That’s a typical 12–18 month wait. If you need a figure sooner, look for items with a closer release date or an open pre-order.
Look for the included stand
Almost all scale figures require a stand to stay upright. The product listing will say ‘This product does not balance on its own. Please use the included stand.’ If you plan to display the figure without the base, check whether the stand is removable or visible. Some figures come with clear stands that blend into the display.
Pre-order decision rules
- Check the pre-order deadline: If the deadline has passed, you cannot pre-order. If it's still open, note the date and set a reminder. Deadlines are firm; missing one means waiting for the aftermarket.
- Compare the expected release date: Most figures ship 12–18 months after pre-order. If you need a figure for a specific event, choose one with a confirmed or earlier release. Patience is key for most scale figure pre-orders.
- Verify the stand and stability: Every figure listing includes a note about balance. If you plan to pose the figure dynamically, ensure the stand is included and fits your display. Never assume a figure stands without its base.
Figures to consider
- (1/7 Scale Figure) Bungo Stray Dogs Chuya Nakahara: Yukata Ver.: Preorder until: 2/13/2026. Expected Release Date: Q2 2027. Manufacturer: Good Smile Arts Shanghai. Size: Approx. 7.8 inches. A 1/7 scale figure from a reputable manufacturer, but the long wait time means you should be comfortable with a delayed arrival.
- (1/10 Scale Figure) GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE Scarlet: Racer's High: Preorder closed. Expected Release Date: Oct 2026. Manufacturer: Hobby Sakura. Size: Approx. 8.5 inches. A 1/10 scale figure that is taller than many 1/7 figures, so always check the actual height, not just the scale number.
Which figure is right for you?
Best for
- Collectors who can wait 12–18 months for a high-quality 1/7 scale figure
- Buyers who want a figure from a well-known manufacturer like Good Smile
Not for
- Someone who needs a figure within 6 months
- A buyer who prefers smaller, cheaper figures
