S.H. Figuarts | Features, details, and specifications

The S.H. Figuarts are manufactured by the Japanese company Tamashii Nations, with Bandai and Toei handling their distribution and commercialization, specifically for Dragon Ball.

Since these figures are targeted towards collectors, they can only be obtained through specialized stores in the hobby world. However, platforms like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress are also good options, especially for older or imported figures.

In addition to Dragon Ball figures, S.H. Figuarts also handles other franchises, such as Naruto, Ranma 1/2, Star Wars, Marvel, and more...

The SHF figures are considered high-end due to their quality materials and their great ability to be posed, thanks to the architecture of their joints and the large number of them (around 30 on average).

However, their architecture and the number of joints have improved over time, enhancing many aspects to maintain their aesthetics. The first SHF models from 2009 did not have chest articulation, and the butterfly joint and hip joints were somewhat crude. This first version is referred to within the community as the "type 1.0." As of 2025, they have reached type 4.0.

Main differences and all the types available:

• Type 1.0: Notable for lacking chest articulation and being the first version.
• Type 1.5: Includes the 1.0 architecture with some features from 2.0. For example, it adds chest articulation but keeps the rest, or it includes the new shoulder/elbow movement system but maintains the 1.0 design.
• Type 2.0: A new architecture for limbs and chest, with more aesthetic and mobile extremities, and chest articulation.
• Type 2.5: Similar to 1.5, it’s the 2.0 architecture with some features from 3.0.
• Type 3.0: A new architecture for arms, legs, and hips that enhances aesthetics and improves mobility.
• Type 3.5: The 3.0 architecture with some features from 4.0.
• Type 4.0: Further improvements to the leg architecture and the addition of a new soft rubber system for chest clothing, concealing chest articulation.

There are also differences in female bodies and special figures, such as Majin Buu or Android No. 19, which feature unique architectures.

In the early days of the brand, release patterns were irregular, although exclusive and limited editions for SDCC (San Diego Comic-Con) already existed. However, today, Tamashii Nations manages three types of SHF releases: Regular, Limited, and Exclusive editions.

• Regular: These figures are characterized by an affordable price (around $30), a moderate number of accessories (at least three faceplates and six hands), and a production cycle that allows for restocks over two to three years.

• Limited: Known as "Tamashii Web Exclusive", these releases can be purchased like regular ones but will not receive restocks, making them limited. They also feature a distinctive seal on the box to differentiate them.

• Exclusive: These come in various types:

  • Regional Exclusives: Available only in specific countries, such as Japan or the U.S.
  • Event Exclusives: Released at events like SDCC or NYCC (New York Comic Con). They come in unique packaging indicating their event origin and are often recolored or modified versions of previously released figures.
  • Physical Store Exclusives: Tamashii Nations has very few physical stores worldwide, and to promote them, they offer exclusive figures that can only be purchased in-store. These are usually more affordable and are easily recognized by their opaque black boxes.

In the following image, you can see examples of the boxes and their different releases, including the logo on Tamashii Web Exclusives, the distinct color of event-exclusive boxes, and the opaque packaging of store exclusives.

Here you will see some of the more than 200 S.H. Figuarts releases that Tamashii Nations has brought us from Dragon Ball.