Buying Labubu on AliExpress vs Other Marketplaces: Pros, Cons & Buyer Safety Tips (2025 Guide)

Labubu dolls are in high demand worldwide, and collectors often buy them through multiple online platforms — including AliExpress, Amazon, POP MART official stores, collectible shops, and community resale markets. Each option has its own strengths and weaknesses, especially when it comes to pricing, authenticity, and buyer protection.

If you’re deciding whether to buy Labubu dolls on AliExpress or other marketplaces, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including safety tips, pricing comparisons, shipping expectations, and what type of collector each platform is best for.

AliExpress vs Other Marketplaces: Quick Comparison

Each marketplace offers a different collecting experience — let’s explore them in detail.

Buying Labubu on AliExpress

AliExpress is one of the most common places to buy Labubu dolls due to:

✔️ Affordable prices

Common figures, minis, and recent releases are often much cheaper than other sites.

✔️ Huge selection

You’ll find:

• blind boxes

• loose figures

• seasonal editions

• accessories

• display items

✔️ Worldwide shipping

Nearly all sellers ship internationally.

✔️ Frequent discounts & coupons

Prices can drop significantly during sales.

However, AliExpress is also known for:

❌ Counterfeits

Some listings use official photos but ship unofficial replicas.

❌ Inconsistent seller quality

Some stores are highly reliable; some are not.

❌ Long shipping times

Packages may take weeks to arrive.

❌ Mixed packaging standards

Some items arrive without bubble wrap or with dented boxes.

Buying Labubu on Other Marketplaces

Depending on your region, you may buy Labubu dolls from:

• POP MART official stores

• Amazon

• Dedicated collectible shops

• eBay

• Etsy

• Instagram or Facebook collector groups

• Regional toy retailers

• Verified collectible resellers

These platforms tend to offer:

✔️ Better authenticity guarantees

Especially POP MART official stores and verified collectible shops.

✔️ Faster shipping

Local or regional shipping dramatically reduces wait time.

✔️ Trusted packaging

Collectible shops usually pack items safely.

✔️ Access to rare or older figures

Resellers often stock hard-to-find items.

However, they also come with disadvantages:

❌ Higher prices

Rare figures can be very expensive.

❌ Limited stock

Once sold out, popular series may not return.

❌ Less variety

You may not find every figure or series.

Price Comparison: AliExpress vs Other Platforms

In 2025, general price trends look like this:

AliExpress

• Best price for common figures

• Frequent sales

• Big savings on minis

• Loose figures often below $20

• Seasonal items cheaper after holidays

Other Marketplaces

• Official prices for new releases

• Resale prices for rare figures

• Collectible shops tend to be pricier

• eBay/Instagram vary depending on seller behaviour

If you're budget-focused, AliExpress usually wins.
If you're authenticity-focused, other marketplaces often win.

Authenticity & Safety: Where Are You Safer?

AliExpress

Safe if you choose reputable sellers.

Always check:

• seller rating (4.7★+)

• buyer-uploaded photos

• order history

• reviews mentioning authenticity

POP MART Stores & Official Sellers

The safest option — always 100% genuine.

Collectible Shops

Very reliable, though more expensive.

Resale Marketplaces (eBay, Instagram, Facebook)

Authentic items exist, but:

• prices vary wildly

• scams occur

• no packaging guarantee

• must vet sellers individually

Overall:

✔️ Official stores = safest
✔️ Curated collectible shops = consistent
✔️ AliExpress = safe only with caution

Shipping Comparison

AliExpress

• 2–6 weeks

• Occasional delays

• Packaging varies

• Tracking can be inconsistent

Other Marketplaces

• Faster shipping (especially local)

• Better packaging

• More reliable tracking

If you want fast shipping or you’re buying a gift, avoid AliExpress.

Who Should Buy Labubu on AliExpress?

AliExpress is ideal for:

✔️ Budget-conscious collectors

✔️ People buying common figures

✔️ Beginners building a low-cost collection

✔️ Fans looking for minis or accessories

✔️ Buyers who don’t mind long shipping times

If you’re just starting and sticking under $20–$30 per figure, AliExpress can be excellent.

Who Should Avoid AliExpress?

You should not buy on AliExpress if you’re seeking:

❌ rare figures

❌ limited editions

❌ investment pieces

❌ mint-condition packaging

❌ fast shipping

❌ guaranteed authenticity

Serious collectors should use official or verified sellers.

Final Verdict: AliExpress vs Other Marketplaces

✔️ Choose AliExpress if:

• you want affordable prices

• you’re buying common figures

• you enjoy browsing large selections

• you’re comfortable checking seller reviews

✔️ Choose other marketplaces if:

• you want guaranteed authenticity

• you’re buying rare or valuable pieces

• you need fast shipping or secure packaging

• you’re building a long-term investment collection

For most collectors, the best approach is a mix:

• AliExpress for common, cute, budget-friendly figures.

• Official shops and collectible stores for rare or premium items.

• Resale marketplaces for older, retired figures.