Introduction
Imagine walking into a store where every shelf holds treasures from your favorite movies, TV shows, comics, and video games. That’s exactly what browsing Entertainment Earth feels like, except you can do it from your couch in your pajamas. For over 25 years, Entertainment Earth has been the go-to destination for collectors and pop culture enthusiasts hunting for that perfect piece to complete their collection.
Whether you’re searching for limited edition Funko Pops, vintage Star Wars action figures, or exclusive convention items, Entertainment Earth has built a reputation as one of the most trusted names in collectibles. Their massive inventory spans thousands of products across virtually every fandom imaginable.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything about Entertainment Earth, from their history and product selection to exclusive offerings and money-saving tips. We’ll explore why serious collectors consider them essential, how their pricing compares to competitors, and what makes their customer service stand out. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to navigate this collectibles paradise and find exactly what you’re looking for.
What Is Entertainment Earth?
Entertainment Earth is a premier online and wholesale retailer specializing in collectibles, action figures, and pop culture merchandise. Founded in 1996, the company started during the early days of e-commerce. They recognized that collectors needed a reliable source for hard-to-find items beyond what local stores offered.
The company operates primarily online through their website. They serve both individual collectors and retail businesses through their wholesale division. This dual approach gives them significant buying power with manufacturers, often securing exclusive items unavailable elsewhere.
Their headquarters is located in California, with distribution centers strategically positioned for efficient shipping. The company employs collectors and pop culture enthusiasts who understand the products they sell. This isn’t just a business to them. It’s a passion they share with their customers.
Entertainment Earth has grown from a small startup to an industry leader. They work directly with major licensors like Disney, Warner Bros, and Marvel. These relationships allow them to offer official licensed merchandise and sometimes influence product development based on collector demand.
The Product Selection at Entertainment Earth
Walking through Entertainment Earth’s digital aisles reveals an overwhelming selection. The inventory includes over 30,000 items across dozens of categories. From mainstream blockbusters to niche cult classics, their range accommodates every type of collector.
Action Figures and Collectibles This category forms the core of Entertainment Earth’s business. You’ll find everything from 3.75-inch vintage-style figures to massive 1/6 scale premium collectibles. Brands like Hasbro, Mattel, NECA, and McFarlane Toys fill the virtual shelves.
The selection spans multiple price points. Budget-friendly options start around $10 to $15. High-end collectibles can reach several hundred dollars. This range makes collecting accessible regardless of your budget.
Funko Pop! Figures Entertainment Earth is one of the largest Funko retailers online. They carry thousands of Pop! figures across every license imaginable. From classic Disney characters to the latest Netflix series, the Funko selection is staggering.
Many exclusive Funko Pops debut at Entertainment Earth. These exclusives often become highly valuable on the secondary market. Getting them at retail price through Entertainment Earth saves collectors significant money compared to buying from resellers.
Statues and Premium Collectibles For collectors seeking museum-quality pieces, the statue category delivers. Companies like Sideshow Collectibles, Prime 1 Studio, and Iron Studios produce incredibly detailed sculptures. These pieces can cost anywhere from $200 to over $1,000.
Entertainment Earth offers payment plans on expensive items. This makes premium collectibles more accessible to collectors who can’t afford the full amount upfront. The ability to pay over time opens doors to pieces that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Toys and Playsets Not everything is meant for display-only collecting. Entertainment Earth stocks plenty of toys designed for play. LEGO sets, construction toys, and interactive figures appeal to both kids and adult fans.
The toy selection includes retro items that bring back childhood memories. Reissues of classic toy lines let you recapture pieces of your past. These nostalgic offerings resonate strongly with adult collectors.
Clothing and Accessories Beyond figures and statues, Entertainment Earth offers licensed apparel. T-shirts, hoodies, hats, and accessories let you wear your fandom proudly. The clothing selection changes regularly with new designs and licenses.
You’ll also find household items like mugs, blankets, and kitchen accessories. These everyday items featuring your favorite characters blend fandom into daily life. They make great gifts for fellow enthusiasts or treats for yourself.
Exclusive Items and Convention Exclusives
One of Entertainment Earth’s biggest draws is their exclusive merchandise. These items are produced specifically for Entertainment Earth and can’t be purchased anywhere else. Exclusives create urgency among collectors who don’t want to miss out.
The company works with manufacturers to create unique variants of popular items. This might mean different paint schemes, special packaging, or completely unique sculpts. These exclusives often commemorate special events or anniversaries.
San Diego Comic-Con Exclusives Entertainment Earth maintains a significant presence at major conventions. San Diego Comic-Con, the biggest pop culture event annually, sees numerous Entertainment Earth exclusives debut. These convention exclusives typically become available online for those who can’t attend in person.
The online release happens shortly after the convention. This gives collectors everywhere a fair chance at obtaining these special items. The system is more equitable than requiring physical attendance at crowded convention halls.
Limited Edition Releases Many exclusives are produced in limited quantities. Once they sell out, they’re gone forever. This scarcity drives collectibility and potential value appreciation. Knowing which exclusives to jump on requires following Entertainment Earth’s announcements closely.
The company typically reveals upcoming exclusives through their website and social media. Email subscribers often get advance notice. Signing up for notifications ensures you don’t miss announcements about items you want.
Exclusive Collectible Sets Sometimes Entertainment Earth offers exclusive multi-packs or sets. These bundle multiple figures or items at a special price. The convenience of getting an entire set at once appeals to collectors who want complete lineups.
Exclusive sets often feature items not available individually elsewhere. This makes them essential purchases for completist collectors. The value proposition of sets typically beats buying pieces separately.
Pricing and How It Compares
Understanding Entertainment Earth’s pricing strategy helps you shop smarter. Their prices generally remain competitive with other major retailers. However, knowing when and how to find the best deals maximizes your collecting budget.
Most standard items are priced at manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP). This means you’ll pay the same whether buying from Entertainment Earth or another authorized retailer. The difference comes down to availability, customer service, and other factors beyond base price.
Competitive Advantages Entertainment Earth often beats competitors on shipping costs and speed. Their efficient distribution network gets products to you faster. Time matters when you’re excited about a new arrival or racing to complete a collection.
The mint condition guarantee provides peace of mind worth considering. They inspect items before shipping and will replace damaged goods. This quality control justifies paying MSRP versus gambling on potentially lower prices elsewhere.
Sales and Promotions Regular sales events offer opportunities to save significantly. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other major shopping holidays bring substantial discounts. Some sales reach 20% to 30% off, making expensive collectibles more affordable.
Clearance sections feature discounted items year-round. These typically include overstocked products or items from older waves. Patient collectors can find incredible deals by regularly checking clearance offerings.
Free Shipping Thresholds Entertainment Earth offers free standard shipping on orders over $39. This threshold is relatively low compared to some competitors. Planning purchases to exceed this minimum eliminates shipping costs.
Combining multiple items in one order maximizes value. Rather than placing several small orders, wait until you have enough items to qualify for free shipping. This approach saves money in the long run.
Price Matching Policies While Entertainment Earth doesn’t advertise a formal price matching policy, their competitive pricing means you rarely need one. Their regular promotions and exclusive items provide value that transcends simple price comparisons.
The Mint Condition Guarantee
One of Entertainment Earth’s most valuable features is their mint condition guarantee. This promise ensures collectibles arrive in pristine condition suitable for in-box collectors. Understanding this guarantee helps you appreciate the extra value Entertainment Earth provides.
Every item ships with careful packaging designed to prevent damage. Boxes are appropriately sized with adequate protective materials. Figures and collectibles are secured to prevent shifting during transit. This attention to detail significantly reduces damage rates.
If an item arrives damaged, Entertainment Earth will replace it at no additional cost. You simply contact customer service with photos of the damage. They’ll send a replacement and usually don’t require returning the damaged item immediately.
The guarantee covers manufacturer defects and shipping damage. This includes crushed boxes, broken pieces, or paint defects. In-box collectors especially appreciate this since package condition directly affects collectible value.
This policy sets Entertainment Earth apart from marketplaces like Amazon or eBay. Third-party sellers may not inspect items carefully before shipping. Entertainment Earth’s hands-on approach ensures quality control most competitors can’t match.
For collectors who plan to keep items mint in box, this guarantee is invaluable. The secondary market demands pristine packaging. Knowing your items will arrive in display-worthy condition justifies choosing Entertainment Earth even if prices are slightly higher elsewhere.
How to Shop Entertainment Earth Effectively
Navigating Entertainment Earth’s massive inventory can feel overwhelming at first. Learning to use their website features efficiently helps you find exactly what you want quickly. Here are strategies for shopping like a pro.
Use Advanced Search Filters The website offers numerous filtering options. You can sort by price, release date, character, brand, or product type. These filters narrow results from thousands to a manageable selection.
Combining multiple filters creates highly specific searches. For example, filtering for Star Wars, action figures, under $30, and in stock shows only relevant, available options. This saves time scrolling through irrelevant results.
Set Up Wishlists Creating wishlists lets you track items for future purchase. When you find something interesting but aren’t ready to buy, add it to your wishlist. This makes returning to those items later simple.
Wishlists also help you monitor price changes. If an item goes on sale, you’ll see the new price next time you check your list. This helps you snag deals on products you’ve been watching.
Pre-Order New Releases Many collectibles can be pre-ordered months before release. Pre-ordering guarantees you’ll receive items when they launch. Popular figures often sell out quickly, making pre-orders essential for in-demand releases.
Entertainment Earth doesn’t charge until items ship. This means you can pre-order without immediate payment. If circumstances change, you can usually cancel pre-orders before shipping without penalty.
Follow Social Media for Announcements Entertainment Earth maintains active social media presence across multiple platforms. They announce new exclusives, sales, and restocks through these channels. Following them ensures you stay informed about time-sensitive opportunities.
Flash sales and limited releases sometimes appear on social media first. Being plugged into these channels gives you advance warning. Those precious extra minutes can mean the difference between securing an item or missing out.
Join the Email List Email subscribers receive exclusive promotions and early access to sales. The newsletter highlights new arrivals and upcoming releases. While email lists can be annoying, Entertainment Earth doesn’t spam excessively.
Subscriber-only discount codes appear regularly. These codes stack with existing sales for maximum savings. The codes alone justify the minor inconvenience of a few extra emails monthly.
Customer Service and Support
Great customer service separates good retailers from exceptional ones. Entertainment Earth has built their reputation partly on responsive, helpful support. Understanding what to expect from their customer service helps you shop with confidence.
Multiple contact methods accommodate different preferences. Phone support connects you with real humans who understand collectibles. Email support provides written records of interactions. Live chat offers quick answers during business hours.
The customer service team includes actual collectors and enthusiasts. They understand why specific details matter. This knowledge creates more helpful interactions than talking with someone reading from a script.
Return and Exchange Policies Entertainment Earth offers reasonable return windows. Most items can be returned within 30 days for refund or exchange. This gives you time to inspect purchases and ensure satisfaction.
The mint condition guarantee simplifies exchanges for damaged items. You won’t fight to prove shipping damage or manufacturer defects. The company stands behind product quality and makes things right.
Order Tracking and Updates Once orders ship, you receive tracking information immediately. The website account dashboard shows order status in real-time. You’ll know exactly where your collectibles are between warehouse and doorstep.
Backorder notifications keep you informed about delayed items. If a pre-ordered item’s release date changes, Entertainment Earth communicates the new timeframe. This transparency helps you plan and manage expectations.
Problem Resolution Issues occasionally arise with any retailer. Missing items, wrong products, or quality concerns happen despite best efforts. Entertainment Earth’s approach to problem-solving focuses on quick resolution.
The company typically offers multiple solutions to problems. You might choose between refund, replacement, or store credit. This flexibility lets you decide what works best for your situation.
Entertainment Earth Wholesale Program
Beyond serving individual collectors, Entertainment Earth operates a significant wholesale business. This division supplies collectibles to retail stores, comic shops, and other businesses. Understanding the wholesale program provides context for Entertainment Earth’s industry influence.
Retailers can apply for wholesale accounts through the website. Approved accounts access wholesale pricing on most inventory. This allows brick-and-mortar stores to stock collectibles without maintaining relationships with dozens of manufacturers.
The wholesale program explains why Entertainment Earth secures exclusives and special items. Their buying power comes from supplying hundreds of retail locations nationwide. Manufacturers value this distribution network.
Minimum order quantities apply to wholesale purchases. These minimums ensure the program serves actual businesses rather than individual collectors trying to game the system. Legitimate retailers find the terms reasonable and beneficial.
The wholesale division means Entertainment Earth has fingers on the pulse of collectibles trends. They see what retail stores order and what sells quickly. This insight helps them predict what individual collectors will want.
Collecting Communities and Social Features
Entertainment Earth recognizes that collecting is social. They’ve built features and communities around shared enthusiasm for pop culture collectibles. Engaging with these communities enhances the collecting experience.
The Entertainment Earth Blog The company maintains an active blog covering collectibles news, reviews, and collecting tips. Articles range from product spotlights to deep dives on collecting strategies. The blog provides value beyond just selling products.
Reading the blog keeps you informed about industry trends. You’ll discover new lines you might not have known existed. The content educates and entertains while showcasing products naturally.
Social Media Engagement Entertainment Earth’s social media isn’t just promotional. They share fan photos, conduct polls, and celebrate collector achievements. This interactive approach builds genuine community.
Sharing your own collection photos and tagging Entertainment Earth might get you featured. The recognition feels great and connects you with fellow collectors. These interactions make collecting feel less solitary.
Collector Resources The website includes guides and resources for collectors. Checklists help you track complete sets. Release calendars show what’s coming soon. These tools demonstrate Entertainment Earth’s commitment to the collecting hobby beyond transactions.
Educational content helps new collectors learn the ropes. Articles explain grading, storage, and display techniques. This information empowers people to build better collections.
Storage, Display, and Protection
Entertainment Earth doesn’t just sell collectibles. They also offer storage and display solutions. Proper storage protects your investment. Quality display options showcase collections beautifully.
Display Cases and Shelving Various display options accommodate different collection types and spaces. Acrylic cases protect individual figures while keeping them visible. Wall-mounted shelves maximize vertical space in crowded rooms.
Investing in proper display makes collections look intentional rather than cluttered. Good shelving transforms a pile of boxes into an impressive showcase. The aesthetic improvement justifies the investment.
Protective Cases and Sleeves For in-box collectors, protective cases preserve package condition. These clear cases slip over boxed figures, preventing wear, crushing, and fading. They’re essential for maintaining mint condition long-term.
Pop! protectors specifically designed for Funko boxes are particularly popular. These snug-fitting cases stack beautifully and provide clear visibility. Protecting valuable Pops maintains both condition and value.
Storage Bins and Organization Not everything needs to be displayed simultaneously. Storage bins designed for collectibles keep items safe when not on display. Clear bins let you see contents without opening them.
Rotating displays keep your showcase fresh. Properly stored items remain ready to swap in whenever you want to change things up. This approach works especially well for seasonal or themed rotations.
Investment Potential and Value
Many people collect purely for enjoyment, but others consider investment potential. Understanding how collectible values work helps you make informed decisions. Entertainment Earth plays a role in both primary and secondary markets.
Collectibles aren’t guaranteed investments. Most items never appreciate significantly in value. However, certain pieces do become valuable over time. Predicting which items will increase in value remains challenging.
Limited exclusives tend to hold value better than mass-produced items. Scarcity drives collectible markets. Entertainment Earth exclusives produced in limited quantities sometimes command premium prices on secondary markets.
Condition is paramount for investment collectibles. This is where Entertainment Earth’s mint condition guarantee becomes crucial. Items that arrive damaged or in poor condition lose potential value immediately.
Brand reputation matters for long-term value. Figures from respected manufacturers like Hot Toys or Sideshow typically maintain value better than unknown brands. Entertainment Earth’s selection focuses on established, quality manufacturers.
Following market trends helps identify potentially valuable items. Characters and franchises experiencing renewed popularity often see collectible values spike. Entertainment Earth’s blog and social media discuss these trends.
If you collect for investment, focus on storage and preservation. Keep items mint in box with protective cases. Store in climate-controlled environments away from sunlight. These practices maintain condition and value.
Tips for New Collectors
Starting a collection can feel daunting. Entertainment Earth’s massive inventory offers endless possibilities. Where do you even begin? These tips help new collectors navigate their journey.
Start with What You Love Collect characters, franchises, or themes you genuinely care about. Passion makes collecting enjoyable rather than just acquisitive. You’ll appreciate pieces more when they represent something meaningful to you.
Don’t collect based solely on potential value or what’s popular. Trends change, but your genuine interests remain constant. Collections built on passion bring lasting satisfaction.
Set a Budget Collecting can become expensive quickly. Decide how much you can comfortably spend monthly. Sticking to a budget prevents financial stress and keeps collecting fun.
Entertainment Earth’s range of price points accommodates any budget. You don’t need expensive statues to build a meaningful collection. Great collections exist at every price level.
Focus Your Collection Trying to collect everything leads to clutter and frustration. Narrow your focus to specific characters, franchises, or product types. Focused collections look more impressive and feel more achievable.
A focused approach also makes decision-making easier. When you know exactly what you collect, you can ignore items outside that scope. This prevents impulse purchases that don’t fit your collection.
Learn About Product Lines Understanding different manufacturers and product lines helps you make informed purchases. Some companies prioritize articulation, others focus on sculpt accuracy. Knowing these differences ensures you buy what matches your preferences.
Entertainment Earth’s product descriptions include manufacturer details and specifications. Reading these carefully before purchasing prevents disappointment. Take time to research and compare options.
Connect with Other Collectors Join online communities, forums, and social media groups. Fellow collectors offer advice, trading opportunities, and camaraderie. The social aspect of collecting enriches the entire experience.
Other collectors can warn you about quality issues or recommend hidden gems. This crowdsourced knowledge helps you avoid mistakes and discover great products.
Shipping and International Options
Getting collectibles from warehouse to doorstep safely is crucial. Entertainment Earth has refined their shipping processes over decades. Understanding shipping options helps you choose what works best for your situation.
Domestic Shipping Options Standard shipping within the United States typically takes 5 to 7 business days. This free option works well when you’re not in a rush. Most orders qualify for free standard shipping with the $39 minimum.
Expedited shipping options are available for faster delivery. Two-day and next-day shipping cost more but get items to you quickly. Time-sensitive gifts or highly anticipated releases might justify the extra expense.
International Shipping Entertainment Earth ships to many countries worldwide. International shipping costs vary by destination and package weight. Shipping internationally obviously costs more than domestic shipping.
Customs fees and import duties may apply to international orders. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility and vary by country. Research your country’s import regulations before ordering internationally.
Packaging Quality Items ship in boxes appropriate for the contents. Fragile collectibles receive extra padding and protection. Entertainment Earth understands that package condition matters to collectors.
Boxes are generally discreet without obvious branding. This prevents theft by not advertising valuable contents. The plain packaging protects your purchase from the moment it leaves the warehouse.
The Future of Entertainment Earth
The collectibles industry continues evolving. Entertainment Earth adapts to changes in collecting habits, manufacturing, and retail. Understanding where they’re headed gives context for their current offerings.
Digital integration is increasing across the collectibles world. NFTs and digital collectibles represent new frontiers. While Entertainment Earth focuses on physical items, they’re monitoring digital trends.
Sustainability concerns are affecting manufacturing. More collectors want environmentally responsible packaging and production. Entertainment Earth and their manufacturer partners are addressing these concerns gradually.
The company continues expanding their exclusive offerings. More partnerships with manufacturers mean more unique items available nowhere else. This strategy strengthens their position in an increasingly competitive market.
Virtual conventions and online events became more prominent recently. Entertainment Earth’s experience with online sales positions them well for this shift. They can participate in virtual events as effectively as physical conventions.
The collecting community keeps growing as fandoms expand. New movies, shows, and games create new collectors. Entertainment Earth’s broad inventory positions them to serve these emerging collecting niches.
Conclusion
Entertainment Earth has earned its reputation as a collectibles paradise through consistent quality, extensive selection, and genuine understanding of collector needs. Their mint condition guarantee, exclusive items, and customer-focused policies make them a top choice for serious collectors and casual fans alike.
Whether you’re hunting for that rare exclusive, completing a figure line, or just starting your collecting journey, Entertainment Earth provides the tools and products you need. Their combination of inventory depth, competitive pricing, and collector-friendly services creates an unmatched shopping experience.
The collecting hobby brings joy, nostalgia, and community to millions of people. Having reliable sources like Entertainment Earth makes building your collection easier and more enjoyable. The peace of mind knowing your items will arrive in perfect condition is worth its weight in gold.
What’s in your collection? Are you hunting for something specific that Entertainment Earth might have? Take some time to explore their catalog and discover treasures waiting to join your display. Your next favorite collectible might be just a search away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Entertainment Earth a legitimate and trustworthy company? Yes, Entertainment Earth is a completely legitimate company that’s been operating since 1996. They’re an authorized retailer for all major collectible manufacturers and maintain excellent industry reputation. Their mint condition guarantee and responsive customer service demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Does Entertainment Earth offer free shipping? Entertainment Earth provides free standard shipping on orders over $39 within the United States. This threshold is lower than many competitors. Orders under this amount incur shipping charges based on weight and destination. International orders have separate shipping costs.
How does Entertainment Earth handle damaged or defective items? Their mint condition guarantee covers both shipping damage and manufacturer defects. Contact customer service with photos of the damage, and they’ll send a replacement at no cost. They typically don’t require immediate return of damaged items, making the process convenient.
Can I cancel or modify my Entertainment Earth order? You can cancel or modify orders before they ship. Contact customer service as quickly as possible after placing your order. Once items have shipped, you’ll need to follow standard return procedures. Pre-orders can usually be cancelled anytime before the item ships.
What payment methods does Entertainment Earth accept? Entertainment Earth accepts all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. They also accept PayPal for added convenience. Some high-value items qualify for payment plans that let you pay over several months.
How long do pre-orders typically take to arrive? Pre-order arrival times vary significantly based on manufacturer schedules. Some items arrive within weeks, others take several months. Entertainment Earth provides estimated arrival dates that get updated if manufacturers change release schedules. You’re not charged until items actually ship.
Does Entertainment Earth have a physical store location? Entertainment Earth primarily operates online without public retail locations. They have warehouses and offices in California, but these aren’t set up for walk-in shopping. Their business model focuses on efficient online and wholesale operations rather than brick-and-mortar retail.
Are Entertainment Earth exclusive items more valuable? Many Entertainment Earth exclusives do appreciate in value on secondary markets due to their limited availability. However, not every exclusive becomes valuable. Factors like license popularity, production quantity, and collector demand all influence future value. Exclusives offer no guaranteed investment return.
How can I track what items are coming soon to Entertainment Earth? The website features a “Coming Soon” section showing upcoming releases. You can also enable email notifications for specific products or categories. Following their social media and subscribing to their newsletter provides advance notice of new arrivals and exclusives.
Does Entertainment Earth price match with other retailers? Entertainment Earth doesn’t advertise a formal price matching policy. However, their regular sales, exclusive items, and competitive base pricing mean their overall value proposition remains strong. The mint condition guarantee and customer service add value beyond simple price comparisons.
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