If You're Looking for a Kanade Figure…
If you've found yourself scratching your head while trying to navigate the world of Angel Beats Kanade figure collecting, you are absolutely not alone.
It's a bit of a wild ride, isn't it?
Kanade Tachibana, our beloved student council president and the titular Angel Beats Angel figure, is arguably the most confusing character to collect from the series.
While characters like Yuri and Yui have a few iconic figures, Kanade has dozens of releases spanning over a decade.
It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out the difference between a cheap prize figure and a premium scale, or even what an "Aqua Float Girl" is!
But don't worry...
I've been there, and I'm here to help you sort through the confusion.
We're going to break down every type of Kanade figure, from the budget-friendly Taito releases to the high-end 1/7 scales.
By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly which Kanade figure is right for your collection.
📌 If you're still deciding between characters, I covered everyone in my main Angel Beats Figure Buying Guide.
Why Kanade Has So Many Figures (Compared to Others)
It's a fair question: why does Kanade get so much love from figure manufacturers compared to the rest of the SSS?
The answer comes down to a few key factors that make her a marketing dream.
First...
Kanade is the undeniable face of Angel Beats!.
She is the central mystery, the source of the conflict, and the emotional core of the entire series.
This makes her the safest and most profitable character for companies like Good Smile Company, Taito, and FuRyu to produce.
Second...
Her dual identity as Tenshi (Angel) is visually compelling.
Her signature white hair, the calm, almost emotionless expression, and the iconic Hand Sonic blades give sculptors a lot of material to work with.
The sheer variety of poses and outfits—from her school uniform to her Key 20th Anniversary Gothic Lolita dress—means there's always a new version of the Angel Beats Kanade Tachibana figure to release.
This popularity is why collectors see multiple versions of the Angel Beats Tenshi figure constantly hitting the market, ensuring she remains the most represented character in any Angel Beats collection.
Breakdown of All Kanade Figure Types
To truly understand the Kanade figure landscape, you need to know the difference between the three main categories.
🔹 Prize Figures (Budget-Friendly)
What they are
Prize figures are exactly what they sound like—figures originally intended to be won in Japanese arcade crane games (UFO catchers).
They are mass-produced by companies like Taito, FuRyu, and Banpresto.
The Appeal
They are the most accessible and budget-friendly way to get an Angel Beats Kanade figure.
They are typically non-scale (meaning their size isn't tied to a specific ratio like 1/8) and usually stand around 6 to 8 inches tall.
The Trade-off
While modern prize figures have excellent quality for their price, they often have simpler paint jobs, less intricate bases, and fewer fine details compared to their scale counterparts.
They are perfect for beginners, casual fans, or those who want a lot of figures without breaking the bank.
Taito's Coreful line is a great example of a high-quality modern prize figure.
📌 If you're stuck choosing between cheap and premium versions, this comparison really helps.
🔹 Scale Figures (Collector Tier)
What they are
Scale figures are the premium, high-end collector items.
They are produced by companies like Good Smile Company, Alter, and Kotobukiya. The "scale" (e.g., 1/8, 1/7, 1/4) refers to the ratio of the figure's height to the character's actual height. A 1/8 scale figure is one-eighth the size of Kanade.
The Appeal
This is where you find the best sculpts, the most detailed paintwork (including shading and texture), and the most dynamic poses.
The classic Angel Beats Tenshi figure releases, such as the 1/8 scale by Good Smile Company or the newer 1/7 scales like the Key 20th Anniversary Gothic Lolita version, are in this category.
They often feature her wings or Hand Sonic blades in stunning detail.
The Trade-off
They come with a significantly higher price tag, often costing several hundred dollars.
They are for the dedicated collector who prioritizes quality and detail above all else.
📌 One of the most iconic releases is the classic Tenshi scale — I reviewed it in detail here.
🔹 Aqua Float Girls Kanade
What they are
The Aqua Float Girls line, produced by Taito, is a specific sub-category of prize figures that has become incredibly popular.
The concept is simple: Kanade (and other characters) are posed relaxing on an inflatable inner tube, usually in a swimsuit.
The Appeal
They are fun, unique, and have a great display appeal.
The floating base and relaxed pose make them stand out from the typical standing or action poses of other prize figures.
The Angel Beats Kanade Tachibana figure in this line is a fan favorite, often released in a "Renewal Edition" due to high demand.
The Trade-off
They are still prize figures, so the quality is not on par with a scale figure, but they offer a unique aesthetic that makes them highly collectible.
📌 This one deserves its own discussion because it feels different from normal prize figures.
Naming Confusion: Kanade, Tenshi, Angel — Are They Different?
This is a common point of confusion, especially for new collectors searching online.
The simple answer is: No, they are not different characters, but the names are used interchangeably in figure listings.
- Kanade Tachibana is her full, proper name.
- Tenshi (天使), which means "Angel" in Japanese, is the nickname given to her by the SSS members.
- Angel is the direct English translation of that nickname.
Figure manufacturers and retailers use all three names to cover their bases.
You might see a listing for an Angel Beats Tachibana Kanade figure, an Angel Beats Angel Figure, or simply a "Tenshi" figure.
Don't let this trip you up!
When you see any of these names, you are looking at a figure of the same character.
The key is to look at the manufacturer and the figure type (prize or scale) to determine the quality and price.
Which Kanade Figure Is Best for You?
Choosing the "best" figure is entirely personal, but we can narrow it down based on your collecting goals:
| Collector Type | Recommendation | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners / Budget-Conscious | Prize Figures (Taito, FuRyu Coreful) | Low cost, decent quality, and a great way to start your collection without a huge investment. |
| Display Collectors / Unique Poses | Aqua Float Girls Kanade | Offers a unique, fun pose that stands out on a shelf. It's a great conversation starter. |
| Hardcore Fans / Quality First | Scale Figures (1/8, 1/7, 1/4) | Unmatched detail, paint quality, and dynamic sculpting. These are the centerpieces of any serious collection. |
📌 If you want a bigger-picture recommendation across all characters, the main guide explains it really well.
FAQ
1. What is the best Angel Beats Kanade figure for beginners?
The best Angel Beats Kanade figure for a beginner is any of the modern prize figures, especially those from the Taito Coreful line. They are widely available, affordable, and the quality is surprisingly high for the price point. They offer a low-risk way to start collecting.
2. Are Angel Beats Tenshi figure and Kanade Figure the same?
Yes, they are the same. "Tenshi" is the Japanese word for "Angel" and is the nickname given to Kanade Tachibana in the series. Figure listings use both Angel Beats Tenshi figure and "Kanade figure" interchangeably, so you can search for either.
3. Is Aqua Float Girls Kanade worth buying?
Absolutely, if you like the concept! The Aqua Float Girls line is a fun, unique take on the character. While it is a prize figure, its distinct pose and display appeal make it a worthwhile addition, especially if you want a figure that isn't the standard school uniform look.
4. Why are some Angel Beats Kanade Tachibana figure listings expensive?
The most expensive listings are typically for scale figures (like 1/7 or 1/8) or rare, older releases that are out of production. Scale figures use higher-quality materials and more complex sculpting, driving up the initial price. Older figures, especially those in mint condition, become expensive due to scarcity on the secondary market.
5. Are there fake Kanade figures on the market?
Yes, unfortunately. Bootlegs (fake figures) are common for popular characters. To avoid them, always buy from reputable retailers (AmiAmi, Good Smile Company store, BigBadToyStore, etc.). If a price for a scale figure seems too good to be true, it probably is. Look for official logos and check reviews before purchasing.
CONCLUSION – "So… Which Kanade Figure Should You Get?"
After all this breakdown, you might still be wondering which one to click "buy" on.
The truth is, there is no single "best" Kanade figure.
Your perfect choice depends entirely on your budget and your display goals.
If you're looking for the ultimate centerpiece—the figure that captures the highest level of detail and artistry—save up for a premium scale figure.
If you want a fun, affordable figure to represent your love for the character, grab a Taito prize or an Aqua Float Girl.
The most important thing is to enjoy the process.
Take your time, explore the reviews, compare calmly, and collect what feels right to you. Happy collecting!
CONTINUE READING SECTION
👉 Continue Reading if You're Collecting Angel Beats Figures
- Complete Angel Beats figure buying guide for beginners.
- Prize vs scale Kanade figures explained simply.
- Detailed review of Aqua Float Girls Kanade.
- Full breakdown of the classic Tenshi scale figure.
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