If you’re wondering when to buy Labubu, the quick answer is: for new releases, you’ll want to be online right when they drop on official Pop Mart channels, often in the evenings Eastern Time, as they sell out incredibly fast. For older or harder-to-find figures, the secondary market is your go-to, but you’ll need to know when to snag a deal and how to avoid fakes. It’s like a thrilling treasure hunt, and I’m here to share my tips and tricks to help you build your collection without breaking the bank or falling into common pitfalls.
Labubu, with its mischievous grin and pointy ears, has taken the collectible world by storm, becoming a must-have for art toy enthusiasts everywhere. Designed by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of “The Monsters” series and brought to life by Pop Mart, these figures exploded in popularity, especially after celebrities like Blackpink’s Lisa were spotted with them in 2024. Whether you’re after a common blind box or one of those super-rare chase figures, knowing the best time and place to buy can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through everything, from tracking official drops to navigating the resale market.
Labubu figures aren’t just toys. they’re tiny pieces of art that blend Nordic mystique with urban street style. The thrill of collecting them is largely due to Pop Mart’s blind box strategy, where you don’t know exactly which figure you’ll get until you open it. This element of surprise, coupled with limited quantities, creates a massive demand that often leads to instant sell-outs.
Official Drop Times and Restocks
For most collectors, the primary goal is to buy Labubu directly from Pop Mart at retail prices. This requires a keen eye and quick fingers.
Pop Mart’s Online Schedule
Pop Mart’s official website and app are your best friends for new releases and restocks. From what I’ve seen and what other collectors share, Pop Mart frequently restocks their online inventory, often 2-3 times a week, usually between Tuesday and Thursday. For those in North America, 10:00 PM Eastern Time ET seems to be a golden window for these drops. However, some Reddit users have noted that restocks for popular series, like “Have a Seat” and “Exciting Macaron,” can happen on Thursdays around 7 PM PST / 9 PM EST, and it’s a good idea to be on the website as early as 7 PM EST to catch them.
You’ll need to be ready to go! Have your payment and shipping information saved beforehand because these figures can vanish in seconds. Seriously, it’s a frantic refresh game. I’ve heard stories of people constantly refreshing their app from around 5:50 PM PST 8:50 PM EST, hoping to see an item go in stock. It’s like trying to get concert tickets – you have to be fast.
TikTok Live Drops
Believe it or not, TikTok Live has become a significant channel for Pop Mart, especially in the US. Pop Mart US TikTok live accounts often host surprise Labubu drops one or two times during their live sessions, which can start around 7 PM EST and sometimes last until midnight. If you’re on TikTok, follow those accounts and keep an eye out for these live sales. It’s a bit unpredictable, but definitely another avenue to try.
In-Store Releases
If you’re lucky enough to have a physical Pop Mart store nearby, new releases can turn into an event. People sometimes camp overnight or line up hours before opening like before 8 AM just to get their hands on a new Labubu series. It can feel like the “Labubu Hunger Games” trying to secure these in person. So, if you prefer the physical shopping experience, be prepared for a crowd and an early start! When to Buy Lottery Tickets for the Best Experience (and Realistic Chances!)
For those who want to prepare, having some Blind Box figures display cases ready for your collection is a good idea.
Series, Limited Editions, and Collaborations
Labubu comes in various forms, from standard blind box series to ultra-rare limited editions and exciting collaborations.
- Standard Series: These are the regular collections, like the “Exciting Macaron Series” first released Oct 2023 or the “Have a Seat Series” July 2024. Pop Mart generally releases new series every 3-4 months. While these are produced in larger quantities than special editions, they still sell out quickly.
- Limited Editions & Chase Figures: This is where the real hunt begins for many collectors. Each standard series usually has 12 regular figures and then one or two super-rare “secret” or “chase” figures. The odds of pulling a secret are usually around 1:72 or even 1:144, meaning you might need to open many boxes to find one. These secrets are often not pictured on the box and might have unique colors, poses, or finishes.
- Collaborations: Pop Mart frequently partners with other brands and artists, creating unique Labubu figures. We’ve seen collaborations like Labubu x Coca-Cola late 2024 and Labubu x One Piece early 2025. These collaborations often create extra hype and can become highly sought after.
For those serious about protecting their collection, checking out Collectible toy display cases can be a must.
Primary Market Strategies: Getting Your Hands on Fresh Drops
If you want to buy Labubu at retail price, you really need a strategy. It’s not just about luck. it’s about preparation and speed.
Staying Updated on Official Announcements
This is step one. You need to know when the drops are happening.
- Pop Mart’s Official Channels: Follow Pop Mart on social media Instagram, TikTok and sign up for their email newsletters. They often tease new releases and announce drop dates and times there.
- Launch Calendars: Pop Mart has a launch calendar on their website, which is helpful for seeing upcoming releases, though specific Labubu restock times might still be a bit of a mystery until closer to the date.
- Collector Communities: Join Reddit communities like r/labubu or r/PopMartCollectors, and Discord groups. Other collectors are often the first to share insider tips on drop times and restock patterns.
Pre-orders and Early Access
Sometimes, for certain collections or collaborations, Pop Mart might offer pre-orders. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, as they guarantee you a figure without the mad rush of a live drop. However, these are less common for the standard blind boxes that frequently restock.
Online vs. Physical Stores
Deciding where to buy depends on your location and preference.
- Online Pop Mart Website/App: This is often the most accessible route for many, but also the most competitive. As I mentioned, speed is critical. Have your account logged in, shipping address confirmed, and payment method ready Apple Pay or Google Pay can be faster than manual card entry. If the app crashes which happens when demand is high, don’t give up! Keep refreshing.
- Amazon Official Pop Mart Storefront: Amazon does have an official Pop Mart storefront, and while many Labubu products are often sold out, they do get restocks. Some fans claim restocks typically occur on Thursdays around 8:30 PM ET. Always check who the seller is, even on Amazon, to ensure it’s the official storefront or a reputable seller.
- Physical Stores: If you have a Pop Mart store or an authorized retailer nearby, this can be a good option. You might need to go early, but sometimes the in-person experience is less chaotic than online for securing popular items. Check their local social media or call ahead for release information.
To keep your figures pristine, consider investing in some Toy collecting supplies like protective bags or stands.
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Secondary Market Considerations: Finding What You Missed
So, you missed a drop or you’re hunting for a specific secret figure. The secondary market is where you’ll likely find it, but it comes with its own set of challenges, mainly inflated prices and the risk of fakes.
When to Buy on Resale Platforms
- Right After a Drop for chase figures: If you absolutely need a specific secret Labubu that you couldn’t pull from blind boxes, the prices on resale platforms like eBay, StockX, Mercari, or specialized collector groups will be highest right after a major drop. The initial hype drives prices up quickly.
- A Few Weeks/Months Later for common figures or less popular chases: For standard figures or even some of the less sought-after chase figures, prices might cool down a bit a few weeks or months after the initial frenzy. This is when you might find a better deal. However, this isn’t always the case for the most popular secret figures, which can continue to command high prices.
- During Sales Events rarely, but worth checking: While major sales are uncommon for highly desirable Labubu items, sometimes individual sellers on platforms like eBay or local online marketplaces might offer bundles or discounts. Keep an eye out.
Identifying Fair Prices and Avoiding Fakes
Resale prices for Labubu can vary wildly. Common blind box figures might resell for $25-$60, while limited or secret editions can fetch anywhere from $100 to $500, and full sets can be $300-$1,000+. Ultra-rare or oversized art collaborations have even sold for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars at auction.
- Do Your Research: Before buying on the secondary market, always check “sold listings” on eBay or consult price guides on platforms like StockX to understand the current market value for the specific figure you want.
- Beware of “Lafufu” Fakes: The popularity of Labubu has unfortunately led to a flood of counterfeits, often called “Lafufu.”
- Buy from Verified Sellers: Stick to reputable platforms that offer authentication services like StockX or sellers with excellent reviews and a long history.
- Check Packaging & Authenticity Marks: Authentic Pop Mart figures usually have clear logos, quality packaging, and often QR codes that can be scanned to verify authenticity. Newer plush Labubus might even have a secret symbol on the foot that shows up under a black light.
- Examine Quality: Real Labubu figures have clean designs, bright colors, and good material quality. If a figure looks cheaply made, the paint job is messy, or the colors are off, it might be a fake.
- Price Alarms: If a price seems too good to be true for a rare figure, it probably is.
- Community Vetting: Engage with online communities on Reddit or Facebook groups. Post photos if you’re unsure about a listing, and get opinions from experienced collectors. They can often spot fakes or advise on fair pricing.
If you’re into collecting these, you might also like other Art toy collectibles that often have similar blind box mechanics.
Factors Influencing Labubu Prices
Understanding why some Labubu figures are more expensive than others can help you make smarter buying decisions.
Rarity and Chase Figures
This is the biggest driver of value. The ultra-rare “secret” or “chase” figures, with their 1:72 or 1:144 odds, naturally command much higher prices due to their scarcity. Collectors often buy entire cases of blind boxes just for a chance to pull one, which increases the value of the individual figures in that series, even the common ones, as people try to complete sets.
Popularity of Specific Series or Collaborations
Certain series or artist collaborations just hit differently. For example, the “Exciting Macaron” or “Have a Seat” series have been incredibly popular. Limited-edition collaborations, especially with well-known brands or artists like the Labubu x Vans collaboration, which saw figures sell for five figures on the secondary market, also drive up demand and price. When a celebrity, like Blackpink’s Lisa, is seen with a specific Labubu, its popularity and price can skyrocket overnight.
Market Demand and Collector Trends
The overall collector market plays a huge role. Labubu’s popularity has soared in 2024-2025, leading to higher demand across the board. Trends, social media buzz, and collector communities all contribute to which figures become “grails” and which remain more accessible. It’s a dynamic market, so staying informed is key.
Condition
Like any collectible, the condition of your Labubu figure significantly impacts its value. When to Buy Holiday Flights: Your Ultimate Guide to Scoring the Best Deals
- New in Box NIB / Sealed: Figures that are still in their original, unopened blind box packaging or sealed cases will generally fetch the highest prices, especially if there’s a chance of a secret figure inside.
- Opened, Complete with Box and Card: An opened figure that is still in perfect condition, with its original box and collector card if applicable, will also hold good value.
- Opened, No Box/Card: Figures without their original packaging or cards will be less valuable.
- Damaged: Any damage, no matter how small, will decrease the value significantly.
For reliable sources of official Labubu figures, keep an eye on Pop Mart figures on official storefronts.
Best Time to Buy Labubu Summary & Tips
Let’s distill all this information into actionable advice for when you should consider buying Labubu.
- For New Releases Official Channels:
- Immediately upon drop: If you want the latest figures at retail price, your best bet is to be ready and waiting when Pop Mart officially drops new series or restocks popular ones. This often happens on Tuesdays-Thursdays around 10:00 PM ET on their website/app, or during TikTok Live sessions starting at 7 PM EST. Have your payment info pre-saved and be incredibly fast.
- Set reminders: Use Pop Mart’s launch calendar and social media announcements to know exact dates for major new series.
- For Older/Less Popular Figures Secondary Market:
- A few weeks after initial hype: For standard figures from older series, or perhaps less popular chase figures, check resale platforms a few weeks or months after their initial release. Prices might stabilize or even drop slightly if the overwhelming demand shifts to newer releases.
- Monitor “Sold Listings”: Always check what figures are actually selling for on sites like eBay to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
- For Specific Chase/Secret Figures:
- Be prepared to pay a premium: If you desperately want a particular secret figure, you’ll almost certainly have to buy it on the secondary market, and it will be significantly more expensive than retail. Prices can range from hundreds to thousands, depending on rarity and demand.
- Vet sellers carefully: Due to the high value, fakes are prevalent. Only buy from trusted sellers with strong authentication processes.
- General Smart Collecting Advice:
- Set a budget: Blind box collecting can add up fast, especially if you’re chasing a full set or a secret. Decide how much you’re willing to spend.
- Engage with the community: Join online groups. They’re great for tips, trading, and staying informed about upcoming releases and potential restocks.
- Be patient if you can!: Sometimes, waiting a bit can save you money, especially if you’re not after the absolute hottest, freshly dropped item.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Collecting Labubu should be fun, not frustrating. Here are some common traps to watch out for.
- Overpaying on Resale: It’s easy to get caught up in the hype and pay exorbitant prices, especially for a newly released secret figure. Always check market values. Just because someone lists a figure for a thousand dollars doesn’t mean it will sell for that much. Look at completed sales.
- Buying Fakes Lafufu: This is a huge problem in the Labubu market. Counterfeit items, sometimes very convincing ones, are out there. Always prioritize buying from official sources or reputable secondary market platforms with strong authentication processes. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Checking for original packaging, QR codes, and overall product quality can help.
- Missing Release Announcements: In such a market, missing a key announcement can mean missing out entirely on a desired figure at retail price. Stay plugged into Pop Mart’s official channels and collector communities.
- Getting Addicted to the “Blind Box” Thrill: The surprise element of blind boxes can be addictive, often compared to low-stakes gambling. It can lead to impulse purchases and spending more than you intended while chasing that elusive secret figure or completing a set. Be mindful of your spending and enjoy the hunt responsibly.
- Quality Issues with New Drops: While Labubu figures are generally high quality, some collectors have reported quality concerns with very recent releases, like the “Pin For Love Labubu Series,” noting differences in eye design printed vs. inserted and overall finish. It’s worth checking reviews or community feedback on new series before committing to a large purchase, especially if you’re buying a full case.
While there isn’t an “authentication service for collectibles” that’s an Amazon product, you can find Protective sleeves for cards or UV flashlights that could help spot some authenticity marks if they exist. When to Buy a High Chair for Your Baby: Your Ultimate Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Labubu and why is it so popular?
Labubu is a mischievous, elf-like character with pointy ears and sharp teeth, created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung as part of “The Monsters” series. It’s produced by Pop Mart and became hugely popular in 2024-2025, especially after being seen with celebrities. Its popularity stems from its unique design, the excitement of the blind box concept, and the thrill of collecting rare “secret” figures.
Where are the best places to buy authentic Labubu figures at retail price?
The most reliable places are Pop Mart’s official online store popmart.com and their physical retail locations. Amazon also has an official Pop Mart storefront, though items there are often sold out. Always make sure you’re buying from a verified seller to avoid counterfeits.
When does Pop Mart typically restock Labubu online?
Based on community observations, Pop Mart often restocks its online inventory 2-3 times per week, with Tuesdays through Thursdays being the most common days. For North American collectors, 10:00 PM Eastern Time ET is frequently cited as a key window, though some restocks can occur around 7 PM PST / 9 PM EST on Thursdays. Having your payment info saved and refreshing the app/website frequently around these times is crucial.
How can I get a rare or “secret” Labubu figure?
Secret Labubu figures are randomly inserted into blind boxes with low odds, typically 1:72 or 1:144. To increase your chances, some collectors buy full cases of blind boxes, which usually contain a complete set of standard figures and a higher probability of a secret. If you don’t pull one, your best bet is to purchase it on the secondary market like StockX or eBay, but be prepared to pay a significantly higher price due to its rarity. When’s the Best Time to Snag Those New Golf Clubs? Your Ultimate Guide!
How do I avoid buying fake Labubu figures Lafufu?
To avoid fakes, always buy from official Pop Mart channels or highly reputable secondary market platforms like StockX that offer authentication services. When buying from individual sellers, carefully check their reviews and ratings. Look for high-quality original packaging, QR codes where applicable, and verify the details and finish of the figure itself—fakes often have poor paint jobs or inferior materials. If a price seems unusually low for a rare item, be very cautious.
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