Super7 ULTIMATES! vs Mafex: Which Premium Action Figure Line Wins?

When it comes to premium action figures, two names dominate collector discussions: Super7 ULTIMATES! and Mafex. Both lines offer highly detailed, articulated figures of beloved characters, but they cater to different tastes and priorities. If you're torn between these two giants, this in-depth comparison will help you decide which one deserves a spot on your shelf.

Super7, known for its retro-inspired ULTIMATES! line, celebrates the aesthetics of classic cartoons and comics with a modern twist. Mafex, on the other hand, from Japanese company Medicom Toy, is famed for its movie-accurate likenesses and cutting-edge articulation. In this article, we'll break down the key differences—from sculpt and paint to accessories and price—so you can make an informed choice.

Sculpt and Aesthetic: Retro Charm vs Movie Realism

The most obvious difference lies in the sculpting philosophy. Super7 ULTIMATES! figures are designed to look like they stepped straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon. They feature bold outlines, vibrant colors, and exaggerated proportions that capture the spirit of the original source material. For example, the ThunderCats ULTIMATES! Wave 15 - Wizz-Ra brings the mystical sorcerer to life with a chunky, animated look that fans of the show will instantly recognize. Similarly, the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers ULTIMATES! Wave 05 - Megazord (Black/Gold) offers a stylized, retro-futuristic take on the iconic robot.

Mafex, in contrast, prioritizes realism and movie accuracy. Their figures often feature detailed textures, subtle shading, and likenesses that mimic live-action actors or comic book art with a more grounded approach. If you're collecting figures to recreate cinematic scenes, Mafex is likely to appeal more. However, if you grew up watching these characters on TV and want that nostalgic hit, Super7 ULTIMATES! delivers it in spades.

• Super7 ULTIMATES! excels at capturing cartoon and comic aesthetics with bold colors and retro styling.
• Mafex focuses on realistic proportions and movie-accurate details, ideal for film-based collections.

Articulation and Playability: Which Figure Poses Better?

Articulation is a critical factor for action figures, especially if you enjoy dynamic posing. Mafex is renowned for its advanced articulation system, featuring multiple points of movement, including double-jointed elbows and knees, ball-jointed hips, and articulated ankles that allow for natural stances. This makes Mafex figures excellent for recreating action scenes or displaying in dynamic poses.

Super7 ULTIMATES! figures, while not as heavily articulated, still offer a solid range of motion. They typically include about 20 points of articulation, which is sufficient for most collector displays. The trade-off is that ULTIMATES! figures often prioritize stability and aesthetic over extreme flexibility. For example, the G.I. Joe ULTIMATES Exclusive - Destro (Red Jackal) features a sturdy build that holds poses well, but you won't be able to achieve the same contortions as a Mafex figure. If you're a poser, Mafex wins; if you prefer figures that stand firm on your shelf, ULTIMATES! is a strong contender.

• Mafex offers superior articulation with double-jointed limbs and flexible joints.
• Super7 ULTIMATES! provides adequate articulation with a focus on stability and durability.

Accessories and Extras: Who Offers More Bang for Your Buck?

Accessories can make or break a figure's value. Super7 ULTIMATES! figures are known for their generous accessory packs. Many come with multiple interchangeable heads, hands, weapons, and sometimes even display bases. For instance, the ThunderCats ULTIMATES! Wave 3 - Captain Cracker includes an array of pirate-themed accessories that enhance the display possibilities. Similarly, the Transformers Super Cyborg -Soundwave Clear (NYCC 2020) comes with a unique clear aesthetic and multiple add-ons that make it a standout piece.

Mafex figures also include a variety of accessories, but they tend to focus on accuracy over quantity. You'll often get a few pairs of hands, a couple of heads, and perhaps a signature weapon. While this is sufficient, it may not match the sheer volume of extras that Super7 provides. If you love swapping parts and creating multiple looks, ULTIMATES! has the edge.

• Super7 ULTIMATES! typically includes more accessories, such as extra heads, hands, and weapons.
• Mafex provides essential accessories with a focus on accuracy, but fewer in number.

Price and Value: Where Should You Invest?

Price is often the deciding factor for collectors. Super7 ULTIMATES! figures are generally more affordable than Mafex, with prices ranging around $55 to $65 for standard releases. This makes them accessible for collectors who want to build a large collection without breaking the bank. The Super7 Japanese Vinyl - Bat Boy (Yeti) is another example of the brand's commitment to offering unique designs at reasonable prices.

Mafex figures, on the other hand, are typically priced higher, often between $80 and $120, due to their advanced engineering and licensing costs. While they offer exceptional quality, the premium price may not be justifiable for every collector. If you're on a budget or prefer to collect multiple characters, Super7 ULTIMATES! provides better value for money.

• Super7 ULTIMATES! offers competitive pricing, making it easier to collect multiple figures.
• Mafex commands a premium price for its advanced articulation and realism.

Which Line Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between Super7 ULTIMATES! and Mafex comes down to your personal preferences and collecting goals. If you're a fan of retro cartoons, love vibrant colors, and enjoy a good amount of accessories without spending a fortune, Super7 ULTIMATES! is the way to go. The line's dedication to classic aesthetics is unmatched, and figures like the ThunderCats ULTIMATES! Wave 15 - Wizz-Ra or the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers ULTIMATES! Wave 05 - Megazord (Black/Gold) are perfect examples of that charm.

On the other hand, if you prioritize realistic likenesses, complex articulation, and don't mind paying extra for those features, Mafex will not disappoint. Both lines have their strengths, and many collectors enjoy owning figures from both. The key is to understand what you value most in your collection.

• Choose Super7 ULTIMATES! for retro aesthetics, generous accessories, and affordability.
• Choose Mafex for movie accuracy, superior articulation, and premium quality.

In the battle of Super7 ULTIMATES! vs Mafex, there's no clear winner—only the right fit for your collection. If you're leaning toward the nostalgic charm and value of Super7, check out the ThunderCats ULTIMATES! Wave 15 - Wizz-Ra and see why this line has captured the hearts of collectors worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting, Super7 ULTIMATES! offers a delightful blend of style and affordability that's hard to beat.