The search for genuine collectibles is more intense than ever in a world where pop culture, fandoms, Is entertainment earth legit and nostalgia are driving more and more of the action. Collectors want to buy from a reliable source, whether it’s a rare Funko Pop!, a limited-edition action figure, or a Star Wars replica lightsaber. This leads us to a commonly asked question: Is Entertainment Earth a reliable retailer of collectibles or is it a scam?
To assist you in determining whether this well-known retailer is worthy of your confidence and financial investment, let’s examine its history, reputation, and customer experience in detail.
What is Entertainment Earth? A Brief Overview
Since 1996, Entertainment Earth, a U.S.-based online retailer, has focused on licensed collectibles and pop culture merchandise. Since its modest beginnings in a garage, the company has expanded to become a household name in the toy and entertainment merchandise sector and a popular destination for collectors worldwide.
They have a huge collection that includes horror classics, anime, Marvel, DC, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and more. In addition to toys and action figures, they sell exclusive collectibles, board games, clothing, statues, and prop replicas.
Here is a comparison table to quickly show you how it stacks up against other well-known collectible retailers:
Collectibles Retailer Comparison Table
| Feature | Entertainment Earth | BigBadToyStore | Amazon | Hot Topic |
| Established | 1996 | 1999 | 1994 | 1988 |
| Specialty | Collectibles & exclusives | Action figures & toys | General merchandise | Apparel & pop culture items |
| Pre-Orders Available | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited | ❌ Rare |
| Exclusives | ✅ Many EE exclusives | ✅ Few BBTS exclusives | ✅ Amazon exclusives | ✅ Hot Topic exclusives |
| International Shipping | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Collector-Grade Packaging | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Customer Support | ✅ Strong | ✅ Good | ⚠️ Varies | ⚠️ Average |
Is Entertainment Earth Legit?
To get right to the point, Entertainment Earth is a reputable and authentic seller of collectibles. However, you want more than a simple “yes” if you’re like the majority of dubious internet buyers, particularly those who spend hundreds on rare goods.
Let’s examine the factors that make this business legitimate and the reason why thousands of clients keep putting their trust in them year after year.
Official Licensing and Partnerships
Leading manufacturers and brands, including Hasbro, Mattel, NECA, Bandai, Funko, McFarlane Toys, and Gentle Giant, are directly partnered with Entertainment Earth. The products they sell are 100% genuine and legally licensed thanks to this direct relationship.
In contrast to dishonest internet vendors who sell “replica” or bootleg versions of products, EE ensures that the items you purchase are authentic.
Exclusive Products and Pre-Orders
Access to unique collectibles that are unavailable elsewhere is one of the main benefits of shopping at Entertainment Earth. They frequently release Convention Exclusives, including limited-edition toys, Funkos, and San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) merchandise.
Their pre-order system, which enables collectors to reserve upcoming items months in advance, is another noteworthy feature. This guarantees that you won’t lose out when a product eventually sells out.
Mint-Condition Shipping and Collector Services
Amusement Earth is aware that for collectors, condition is everything. For this reason, they provide Mint Condition Guarantee Packaging, in which every item is packaged with care to reduce damage during shipping.
On request, they even offer collector-grade packaging, something that most retailers completely ignore. This particular detail can make the difference between a toy that costs $30 and one that is worth $300 when it comes to collectibles.
Strong Customer Support and Return Policy
EE’s customer service is another significant plus. They offer a 90-day hassle-free return policy, a responsive support staff, and real phone support, which isn’t always a given in the world of online shopping these days.
Entertainment Earth makes it comparatively easy to return or exchange items if they arrive damaged or if you’re not happy with your order.
Transparent Reviews and Public Feedback
The business is not hiding in the shadows. Entertainment Earth is rated largely favorably on websites such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
The majority of customers compliment their packaging, product quality, and selection of items, despite the occasional complaint (mostly regarding delayed pre-orders, which are frequently the result of manufacturers).
Shipping, Pricing, and Inventory: Are They Competitive?
Shipping Experience
Entertainment Earth offers a range of shipping choices for both domestic and international shipping. International orders are calculated at checkout, but domestic U.S. orders over a certain amount are eligible for free standard shipping.
Although pre-order delays are a common problem in the industry and not unique to EE, shipping is prompt and dependable.
Pricing
Entertainment Earth offers reasonably competitive prices. They might not always be the most affordable, but you are paying for authenticity, dependability, and comfort. For items that must arrive in perfect condition, the few extra dollars are frequently worth it.
Inventory and Availability
They have a vast selection of products, and their “Coming Soon” section is a great way to see what’s coming up. One of the greatest places to find both common and rare items if you’re interested in assembling a complete collection is EE.
Pros and Cons of Entertainment Earth
Pros:
- ✅ 100% Authentic Products
- ✅ Exclusive Releases
- ✅ Excellent Pre-Order System
- ✅ Collector-Grade Packaging
- ✅ Great Customer Service
Cons:
- ❌ Occasional Pre-Order Delays
- ❌ Prices Can Be Slightly Higher Than Amazon
- ❌ Popular Items Sell Out Quickly
Real Customer Experiences
Let’s listen to those who have actually made purchases from them. Here is a small sample of actual comments from review websites and forums:
“Purchased a Funko Pop! It arrived in perfect condition and was an SDCC exclusive. I adore the packaging!
Collector Sarah K. (via Reddit)
Although their pre-order system is simple to use, there are instances when you must wait a long time. But it’s worth it.
Toy Enthusiast James R. (via Trustpilot)
“I had a damaged box problem, so I contacted support, and they fixed it within two days. Amazing.
Melissa T., Buyer Verified (BBB)
Final Verdict: Is Entertainment Earth Worth Your Trust?
A thorough analysis reveals that Entertainment Earth is not only legitimate, but also among the most reputable brands in the collectibles industry.
Entertainment Earth provides excellent quality, selection, and service, regardless of whether you’re a casual fan searching for a cool figure or a die-hard collector pursuing exclusives. Although no retailer is flawless, they continuously gain the confidence of a devoted following and don’t appear to be slowing down.
Q & A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Entertainment Earth a scam or real?
A: Entertainment Earth is a real and trustworthy online store. It has been in business since 1996 and works with major manufacturers to offer authentic, licensed collectibles.
Q2: Does Entertainment Earth sell fake or bootleg items?
A: No, they only sell 100% officially licensed merchandise. Everything comes directly from trusted brands like Hasbro, Funko, and Mattel.
Q3: How reliable is their pre-order system?
A: While reliable overall, pre-orders can sometimes be delayed due to manufacturer issues. However, EE does a good job keeping customers updated about release changes.
Q4: What happens if my collectible arrives damaged?
A: You can return or exchange the item through their 90-day return policy. They offer excellent customer support and aim to make the process as smooth as possible.
Q5: Are their prices higher than other stores?
A: Sometimes yes, but you’re paying for guaranteed authenticity, mint packaging, and dependable service. Many collectors find the slightly higher cost worth it.
