Lafufu vs Labubu: Your Ultimate Guide to the Fake Labubu Trend
If you're into PopMart's collectible toys, you've probably stumbled across the term Lafufu. But what is Lafufu exactly? Is it a playful variant of Labubu, or just a cleverly disguised fake Labubu?
In this blogpost, we'll explain the Lafufu phenomenon, how to identify a Lafufu doll, and where you can (and shouldn't) buy one.
What Is Lafufu?
Lafufu are fake Labubu dolls. They are unofficial (counterfeit) replicas of the popular Popmart figure. Unlike genuine Labubu collectibles, Lafufus are knockoff versions that are typically sold at a lower price and found on marketplaces like AliExpress, Temu, and eBay.
These dolls attempt to mimic the chubby, wide-eyed appeal of Labubu, but often fall short in quality and detail.
If you're here because you searched "what is Lafufu" or "Lafufu vs Labubu", then you're not alone. The term is becoming increasingly popular among collectors trying to distinguish genuine figures from imitations.
How to Tell if a Labubu Is Fake
The Lafufu vs Labubu debate is a hot topic among Popmart collectors. As the popularity of Labubu dolls rises, fake Labubus become increasingly difficult to spot. We've dedicated a completely separate blog post on how to spot a fake labubu, including example pictures.
If you don't want to read this full blog post, here are some key differences set them apart:
- Quality: Real Labubu dolls from PopMart are known for precise detailing, high-quality materials, and consistency. Lafufus often have uneven paint jobs, strange colors (like overly pink noses), or mismatched limbs.
- Packaging: Authentic Labubu figures come in branded boxes with QR codes and quality control tags. Fake Labubu or Lafufu dolls usually arrive in generic packaging or unmarked plastic bags.
- Price: If you find a Labubu for $10 instead of the usual $50+, it's likely a Lafufu doll.
- Markings: Real Labubu figures often include UV stamps or engraved foot logos. Lafufus rarely include these authenticating details.
Why People Buy Lafufu Dolls
Not everyone can afford the rising prices of genuine PopMart figures. But more importantly, Labubu's have become increasingly hard to buy due to their popularity and limited availability. That's why Lafufu dolls have gained popularity. They're cheap and widely available accessible. The growing Lafufu subculture embraces these fake Labubu toys as a canvas for repainting, fur-trimming, and other DIY experiments.
Search for "Lafufu customs" and you'll find a community of collectors who modify Lafufus into personalized art pieces. Despite being knockoffs, Lafufu dolls have found a niche in the toy collector world.
Where to buy Lafufu (and how to avoid them).
Wondering where to buy Lafufu? You're not alone. These dolls are primarily found on AliExpress, Temu, eBay and Shopee. Any Labubu's on these platforms are certainly 100% fake.
Unfortunately, there are also people who try to sell Lafufus as genuine Labubu dolls. PopMart is the only official retailer for Labubu collectibles. Any other (re)seller could be offering a Lafufu. Always read seller reviews, inspect photos closely, and don't trust prices that seem too good to be true. Also, check out this guide that helps you spot fake Labubu's.
Should You Buy a Lafufu Doll? (Spoiler alert: no)
It's best to avoid Lafufu dolls. They're counterfeit items lacking the quality and legitimacy of genuine Labubu collectibles. Furthermore, buying counterfeit products supports unethical practices, such as poor working conditions and even forced labor in the factories producing these knockoffs. Buying authentic Labubu's ensures both value and integrity in your collection.
Conclusion
Lafufu is not an official PopMart creation. It's the name collectors use for fake Labubu figures—some cheap and ugly, others surprisingly well-made. Whether you're comparing Lafufu vs Labubu, searching for Lafufu where to buy, or just curious about the hype, knowing the difference is key to collecting smart.