Labubu V2 vs. Labubu V1: What’s New, What’s Different?

If you're a fan of Labubu, the adorable little monster from Kasing Lung's world, you probably know that it’s not just a collectible figure – it’s a personality, a piece of art, and a delightful addition to any collection. Labubu has been popular for years, and with the release of Labubu V2, fans are eager to see what sets it apart from the original Labubu V1. In this blog post, we'll dive into the key differences between Labubu V2 and V1, from design and size to quality improvements and special features.

1. Design and Aesthetic Evolution

• Labubu V1: The original Labubu introduced us to a wide-eyed, mischievous character with an expressive face and a simple, charming look. Labubu V1 is beloved for its classic design that feels almost handcrafted, making it perfect for fans who appreciate a more traditional take on the character.
• Labubu V2: The design of Labubu V2 elevates the character with refined features, adding a bit more detail and intricacy. The expression has more depth, allowing for a variety of playful looks, and the styling feels more polished. V2 brings a more modern twist to Labubu’s iconic look, while still staying true to the character we know and love.

2. Size and Proportions

• Labubu V1: Known for its standard, compact size, Labubu V1 fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, making it easy to display anywhere. This version has a balanced proportion that gives it a friendly, approachable look.
• Labubu V2: Labubu V2 often comes slightly larger or with altered proportions, depending on the release series. In some versions, the head-to-body ratio has been adjusted to emphasize Labubu’s expressive face, giving it even more character. If you're a fan of bold, attention-grabbing figures, V2 might stand out more in your collection.

3. Material and Finish

• Labubu V1: V1 is made of sturdy vinyl with a classic matte finish, perfect for its simpler, retro-inspired style. However, some fans found that V1 figures were more prone to showing wear over time.
• Labubu V2: Labubu V2 features improvements in material quality and finish. Many V2 figures have a slightly glossier, higher-quality vinyl, which makes the colors pop and adds a bit more durability. This upgraded finish helps protect the figure from scuffs, ensuring it looks as new as the day you bought it.

4. Color Variations and Special Editions

• Labubu V1: V1 had several colorways, but they were generally more limited compared to V2. Its color palette leaned towards softer, pastel hues, which gave it a vintage feel.
• Labubu V2: V2 has expanded its color offerings and introduced more daring special editions. From glow-in-the-dark and metallic to seasonal themes, V2 provides collectors with more options. This variety has made V2 a hit among fans who enjoy mixing up their collections with unique looks.

5. Articulation and Poseability

• Labubu V1: V1 has minimal articulation, often with just the head or arms being slightly movable. It’s great for display but not intended for play or frequent adjustments.
• Labubu V2: With V2, some releases have introduced more flexibility, like articulated arms and even jointed legs in some models. This makes V2 a better choice for those who like to display their figures in different poses or switch up their positioning in a display case.

6. Packaging and Presentation

• Labubu V1: The packaging of V1 figures was more straightforward, often with simple box art and plastic protection. While effective, it didn’t add much to the overall collector’s experience.
• Labubu V2: The packaging for Labubu V2 has seen a major upgrade, with designs that feel premium and collector-focused. Boxes often feature custom artwork, special colors, and added details, making unboxing V2 a special experience. For serious collectors, the improved packaging is a nice touch that adds to the figure’s value.

7. Price and Value

• Labubu V1: V1 figures were priced relatively affordably, especially during their initial release, making them accessible to new fans. Over time, rare versions have gained value, but many V1s are still obtainable for a reasonable price.
• Labubu V2: Due to the enhanced quality and special features, V2 figures are generally more expensive than their V1 counterparts. Limited-edition releases in particular can be priced on the higher side. However, collectors often find that V2 figures hold their value well, and the exclusivity of some designs makes them worth the investment.

Which Labubu is Right for You?

Ultimately, both Labubu V1 and V2 offer unique appeal for different kinds of collectors. If you love the classic, simple charm of the original design, Labubu V1 is a timeless choice. But if you’re looking for added quality, detail, and variety, Labubu V2 brings a fresh, modern take on the character with tons of collectible value. Whichever you choose, there’s no doubt that Labubu continues to be a charming and iconic figure that brings joy to fans around the world.

Happy Collecting!