How do you know if your Labubu is fake or real? These are the differences

Nando de Voer

The popularity of Labubu figures from Pop Mart keeps rising, and with it, the number of fake figures on the market grows. Especially with sought-after releases like the Labubu Macaron, Skull Panda, or a limited collab with Pronounce, it’s important to know what to watch out for. One wrong purchase can not only cost you money but also ruin your entire collection. In this blog, we explain how to recognize the difference between real and fake without complicated tools or scanners.

 

Packaging says more than you think

A genuine Labubu always comes in an original Pop Mart box, often sealed in plastic or with a clear closure. The packaging feels sturdy and has razor-sharp printing. With fakes, you often see the box is thinner or the colors slightly differ from the original. Typographical errors, unclear logos, or illogical texts are an immediate red flag. Also, opening the packaging often gives an indication: original boxes have a fixed fold structure and close without strange creases or tears.

The material reveals a lot

Real Labubus are made of high-quality PVC with a matte or slightly glossy finish, depending on the model. They feel solid without being overly heavy. Fake figures often feel lighter, rubbery, or sticky. A subtle but important detail is the smell: original Pop Mart figures smell neutral or slightly plastic, while fakes sometimes have a chemical or glue-like scent.

Details make the difference

Where a genuine Labubu shines in craftsmanship, you quickly notice small production flaws in fakes. Think of sloppy edges, crooked eyes, color outside the lines, or uneven paint. The face and proportions can also be just a bit off. The original models are carefully cast and painted; you can see this in the precision of the design, the symmetry, and the color consistency throughout the figure. Still unsure? Look up your specific model through official channels or watch unboxing videos from trusted collectors for comparison.

Only buy from reliable resellers

Perhaps the most important thing is where you buy your Labubu. If you buy through Marktplaats or an unknown seller on Instagram, you simply take more risk. At Snrkickz, we manually check every Labubu for authenticity, packaging, and condition. This way, you can be sure you always receive an original piece without any hassle afterward. Want to know more? Check out our 100% Authenticity Check to see how we handle this.