How to Spot a Fake LEGO Minifigure – A Collector’s Guide

Because nobody wants a dodgy Darth Vader.

Let’s set the scene.

You’ve just found what looks like the absolute bargain of the century — a rare LEGO Star Wars minifigure for £2 on Facebook Marketplace.

Your heart says: “Steal!”
Your brain says: “Hmm… seems too good to be true.”
Your gut says: “Mate... that’s probably fake.”

Welcome to the wild world of spotting fake LEGO minifigures — a crucial life skill for any UK collector trying to avoid heartbreak (and dodgy plastic).

Why Are There So Many Fake LEGO Minifigures?

Simple:

LEGO minifigures (especially Star Wars, Superheroes, and CMF) can be proper valuable.

The market for rare figs exploded.

And where there’s demand… there’s always knock-offs lurking in the shadows.

Dodgy eBay sellers. That one stall at a car boot sale next to the socks.

Fake figs are everywhere.

But don’t worry — I’m about to show you exactly how to spot them.

1. The Feel Test – Real LEGO Plastic Just Feels Right

Sounds weird, but true LEGO has a very distinct feel:

Slightly heavier

Smooth finish, no rough edges

Clutch power (that classic satisfying click)

Fake figs often feel:

Cheap

Hollow

Too shiny or weirdly oily (gross, right?)

Quick UK Tip:
If it feels like the free toy from a Happy Meal — it’s probably fake.

2. The LEGO Logo Test – Tiny But Mighty

Real LEGO minifigures have the LEGO logo stamped:

On the top of the head (stud)

Inside the torso neck hole

On the inside of legs (sometimes)

On accessories like helmets or weapons (for recent parts)

Fakes? Nothing. Or worse — random symbols.

Grab a magnifying glass or your phone camera. The LEGO stamp is tiny but super clean.

“No logo = no go.” Simple rule.

3. Print Quality – The Eyes Tell All

Real LEGO prints are sharp, clean, and perfectly aligned.

Fake minifigs usually have:

Blurry faces

Off-centre eyes (wonky Darth Vader vibes)

Colours that rub off easily

Weirdly shiny or sticky prints

Look especially close at:

The mouth

Eye detail

Torso designs

If Darth Maul’s evil grin looks like it was drawn in MS Paint... probably fake.

4. Accessory Check – Weapons & Capes of Doom

Real LEGO accessories feel solid.

Fake weapons or lightsabers often:

Bend like spaghetti

Are super light

Have weird flashing or extra plastic lumps

Fake cloth capes feel stiff or shiny. Real LEGO capes feel like proper fabric.

5. Price Reality Check – Too Cheap? Too Suspicious.

This one hurts — but if someone’s selling a rare fig worth £50+ for a fiver... be honest with yourself.

Places like:

Wish

AliExpress

eBay (from new sellers, stock photos only)

Some Facebook groups

…are often full of clone figs.

That doesn’t mean every cheap fig is fake. But use your spidey-sense.

UK Typical Warning Signs:
“Comes unassembled”

“LELE, SY, or Decool brand” (classic fake brands)

“Compatible with LEGO” (but not LEGO)

6. Bonus: Look Inside The Legs or Arms

Real LEGO minifig legs have:

Solid inner structure

Clean moulding

Fakes sometimes look hollow, messy, or even have weird random numbers.

Arms on fakes are often loose or fall off ridiculously easily.

What If You Already Bought a Fake?

Honestly? Don't beat yourself up. Happens to the best of us.

Your options:

Keep it for parts (display only)

Clearly label it in your collection

Don’t resell it as “real” — be honest!

Or... bin it. Up to you.

Remember — owning fake figs doesn’t make you less of a fan. But if you're collecting for value or display? Best stick to the real deal.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut (and Look Closely)

LEGO minifigures are little pieces of art. The real thing feels special for a reason.

If you’re ever unsure — ask around!

UK LEGO Facebook groups, Reddit, Brickset forums… loads of friendly fans happy to help.

Remember:

Real LEGO is forever. Fake LEGO is just slightly disappointing.

Happy hunting — and may all your figs be legit.