Quick answer

Choose Myth Cloth EX if you want a pre-assembled diecast figure with weight and presence straight out of the box. Choose a model kit like the Blokees Saint Seiya line if you enjoy building, painting, and customizing, or if you want a lower entry price. Both deliver Saint Seiya characters, but they serve different collectors: diecast is ready-to-display, while plastic kits are hands-on projects.

Material and assembly: the core difference

Myth Cloth EX figures use diecast metal in key armor parts, giving them a satisfying weight and a cool-to-the-touch feel that plastic cannot match. They arrive fully assembled, so you can pose and display them immediately. Model kits, such as the Blokees Saint Seiya line, are made of plastic and require you to cut parts from runners, assemble them, and sometimes apply stickers or paint. The trade-off is clear: diecast offers instant gratification and premium heft, while kits offer a creative project and a sense of accomplishment.

Price and value over time

Myth Cloth EX figures typically cost more because of diecast parts and pre-assembly. Model kits are generally cheaper, making them a good entry point for new collectors or those on a budget. However, limited edition Myth Cloth EX releases can appreciate in value, while model kits are often reissued and may not hold value as strongly. If you care about resale potential, diecast exclusives are the safer bet. If you care about the joy of building, kits win on cost-per-hour of engagement.

Display and durability considerations

Diecast figures are heavier and can be top-heavy, so they need stable stands or shelves that can handle weight without tipping. They are also more prone to paint chipping if handled roughly. Plastic model kits are lighter and easier to reposition, but they can be fragile at joints and may loosen over time with frequent posing. For long-term display, diecast holds its shape better; for dynamic, frequently changed poses, a kit may be easier to manage. Keep both away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Myth Cloth EX: Diecast metal parts, pre-assembled, heavier, higher price, potential for limited editions that appreciate. Best for collectors who want a premium, ready-to-display figure with heft and presence.
  • Model kits (e.g., Blokees Saint Seiya): Plastic parts, require assembly, lighter, lower price, often reissued, customizable with paint and decals. Best for hobbyists who enjoy building and want a more affordable entry into Saint Seiya collecting.
  • Blind boxes and vinyl figures: Random or stylized, pre-assembled, affordable, wide character range, but less articulation and detail than Myth Cloth EX. Best for casual fans or those who like surprise and variety over screen-accurate armor.

Collectibles that illustrate the choice

  • Baby Three Lily Rabbit Town V4 Blind Box: Baby Three Lily Rabbit Town V4 Blind Box contains one randomly packed figure from a whimsical rabbit village series with pastel tones and cozy details. Blind boxes add surprise and are affordable, but you cannot choose the exact figure. This is a different collecting thrill than a guaranteed Myth Cloth EX or a buildable kit.
  • Baby Three Lily Rabbit Town V3 Blind Box: Baby Three Lily Rabbit Town V3 Blind Box is a similar series with its own set of characters and scenes. If you enjoy the randomness of blind boxes, you might collect these alongside Saint Seiya figures. But for a specific character, a pre-order or kit is more direct.
  • Funko Pop Solo Leveling Yoo Jinho #1984: Funko Pop Solo Leveling Yoo Jinho #1984 is a vinyl figure with meticulous detail, celebrating the anime and manga theme. Vinyl figures like Funko Pop are pre-assembled and stylized. They are lighter and cheaper than diecast but lack the articulation and armor detail of Myth Cloth EX.
  • Funko Pop My Hero Academia Hawks (Metallic) #1141 LE 3500 with Hard Protector: Funko Pop My Hero Academia Hawks (Metallic) #1141 is a limited edition of 3,500 pieces with a metallic finish and hard protector. Limited edition collectibles like this show how exclusivity and finish can drive value. Myth Cloth EX limited editions follow a similar principle, while model kits are usually not limited.

Which should you choose?

Choose Myth Cloth EX if you:

  • Want a ready-to-display, premium figure with diecast weight
  • Prefer screen-accurate armor and articulation for dynamic poses
  • Are willing to pay more for potential limited edition value

Choose a model kit if you:

  • Enjoy assembling and customizing your figures
  • Are on a tighter budget or new to the hobby
  • Prefer lighter, easier-to-pose plastic over diecast heft