In the realm of designer toys and collectible art, Labubu and Zimomo are two names that have gained huge popularity among collectors, art lovers, and toy enthusiasts. While two together spring from the realm of dream figures and art collectibles, they are distinct in their design, inception, creators, and artistic appeal.
This article provides an extensive breakdown of the differences between Labubu and Zimomo, helping hobbyists and fans better understand these two iconic figures. Whether you are new to the collectible setting or a seasoned fanatic, this guide will clarify what sets these figures apart.
Origin and Creator
Labubu
Labubu is a character from the “The Monsters” series created by Hong Kong-based art toy brand INSTINCTOY, together with artist Kasing Lung. Labubu is imitated as a mischievous, fantasy forest creature with sharp teeth and large revealing eyes. Over time, the figure has become a mascot of Kasing Lung’s imaginative universe.
Labubu’s design blends scary and cute in a habit that has captured the hearts of many collectors. Each version of Labubu represents various moods or seasonal styles, making the ruling class highly collectible.
Zimomo
On the other hand, Zimomo is the creation of Pop Mart, a Chinese art toy company that collaborates with various artists. Zimomo belongs to the Zimomo Series designed by Lang, and is known for its dreamy, soft esthetics and innocent, fluffy appearance. Unlike Labubu, Zimomo is more easygoing and adorable, with curved features and a delicate color palette.
Zimomo displays a peaceful and comforting vibe, usually associated with themes like dreams, image, and positivity.
Design Aesthetic and Style
Labubu’s Design
Labubu toys have a grunge-cute or “disagreeable-cute” appeal. The character’s sharp teeth, fuzzy eyebrows, and pointy ears present it a distinctive look that straddles fear and humor. Despite its different features, Labubu is beloved for its whimsical and imaginative appeal.
Design elements often include:
- Rough textures
- Earthy or gothic colors
- Forest or fantasy themes
- Holiday and limited-edition costumes
Zimomo’s Design
In contrast, Zimomo is known for its soft and romantic design. The figure often comes with plush features, gentle gradients, and pastel tones. Zimomo resembles a dream bunny or a cuddly companion from a fairytale.
Design highlights:
- Smooth finishes
- Dreamlike themes
- Soothing color tones
- Accessories like hats, scarves, or magical props
Target Audience and Popularity
Labubu’s Fanbase
Labubu appeals more to adult collectors and fans of alternative art. Its edgy, unconventional style resonates with those who acknowledge dark fantasy, surrealism, and secret art culture. Labubu too has a strong following in Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and with international collectors.
Zimomo’s Fanbase
Zimomo’s softer design makes it more attractive to a younger audience, additionally those who love kawaii (cute) aesthetics. Its happy and ataractic visuals endure, ideal for display in bedrooms, workspaces, and shelves. Zimomo has acquired popularity through Pop Mart’s blind box idea, especially in mainland China and Southeast Asia.
Availability and Collectibility
Labubu’s Availability
Labubu figures are usually limited edition and released through online drops, art exhibitions, or exclusive retailers. Because of the limited runs and extreme demand, Labubu often enhances a sought-after item on resale markets, constantly fetching premium prices.
Additionally, distinctive editions like Labubu Halloween, Labubu x SpongeBob, or Labubu Ice Series are highly payable.
Zimomo’s Availability
Zimomo is distant through Pop Mart’s retail stores, selling machines, and online platforms. Since Pop Mart uses the blind box concept, buyers don’t experience which design they’ll sustain until they open the box. This gamified model encourages fans to trade and collect all series.
While few limited editions exist, Zimomo is more reachable than Labubu, especially for new collectors.
Brand and Market Position
Labubu – Art Toy Culture
Labubu is rooted deeply in skill toy culture, regularly displayed in galleries or featured in toy conventions like Toy Soul and DesignerCon. It’s treated more of a skill piece than a toy, which positions it as an enjoyment collectible in few circles.
Zimomo – Mass Appeal Toy
Zimomo, supported by Pop Mart’s marketing machine, sits luxuriously in the commercial collectible space. It’s a part of the urban toy lifestyle but leans more toward mainstream recognition and emotional appeal. Zimomo figures are perfect for endowment-giving, decoration, or individual collection.
Emotional Themes and Expression
Labubu’s Emotion
Labubu frequently expresses emotions like trouble, wonder, or spookiness. Its character design is vital and expressive, telling an account through posture, costume, and first features.
Zimomo’s Emotion
Zimomo materializes tranquility, joy, and innocence. It’s designed to evoke happiness and comfort, ideal for people who find poignant connection in visual reading and simplicity.
Price Range Comparison
- Labubu figures mainly range from $50 to $300+, depending on size and rarity. Limited release or collaboration pieces can reach $500 or more on secondary markets.
- Zimomo figures, particularly those in blind boxes, usually cost around $10 to $20 per box. Exclusive editions or best layouts might range up to $100.
Conclusion: Labubu vs Zimomo – Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Labubu and Zimomo comes down to your individual taste, budget, and collecting goals.
- If you love edgy art, limited editions, and figures with powerful personalities, Labubu is the perfect choice.
- If you suggest cute, heartwarming designs that bring a beam to your face, Zimomo will be a delightful addition to your set.
Both Labubu and Zimomo are wonderful in their own ways and display the diverse elegance of modern designer toys. Whether you’re a weighty collector or a random fan, these characters bring artistry and joy into some space.
