BE@RBRICK (pronounced "bearbrick") is a collectible figure shaped like a stylised bear, produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy since 2001. The figure always has the same basic shape, but comes in several sizes – from approx. 7 cm (100%) to approx. 70 cm (1000%) – and in thousands of designs created in collaboration with artists, fashion brands, films, music and museums.
In short
- Manufacturer: Medicom Toy, Tokyo, Japan
- First figure: 2001
- Sizes: 100% (approx. 7 cm), 200% (approx. 14 cm), 400% (approx. 28 cm) and 1000% (approx. 70 cm)
- Material: mainly ABS and PVC plastic
- Known for: limited production runs and collaborations with artists and brands
The history behind BE@RBRICK
The first BE@RBRICK was presented in Tokyo in 2001, where it was given away as a gift to visitors. The figure is based on Medicom Toy's earlier KUBRICK figure, but was given a bear's head – hence the name, a blend of "bear" and "brick". The idea is credited to Medicom Toy's founder, Tatsuhiko Akashi.
The simple, uniform format quickly became a canvas for designers. Today BE@RBRICK is one of the best-known designer figures in the world and is collected by everyone from fashion enthusiasts and art collectors to people who simply want a great design object on the shelf.
Why do people collect Bearbricks?
- Collaborations: Big names such as BAPE, Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, Star Wars, Batman and museum collaborations such as the Van Gogh designs make the figure a piece of pop culture.
- Limited production runs: Many designs are produced only once, and when they sell out, they can only be found on the resale market.
- Design object: A 400% or 1000% works as a statement piece in the living room, the office or the shop.
- The joy of collecting: Blind box series with random figures and rare "secret" editions make collecting fun.
Sizes and types
| Size | Height (approx.) | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | 7 cm | Blind box series, collecting many figures |
| 200% | 14 cm | Mid-size in selected releases |
| 400% | 28 cm | The most popular display size |
| 1000% | 70 cm | Statement figure for the floor or a large bookcase |
Many designs are also sold as sets with a 100% and a 400% in the same design. Find all measurements and tips on choosing a size in our Bearbrick size guide.
Genuine or fake?
Unfortunately, popular figures get copied. Medicom Toy has therefore introduced NFC tags in newer releases, so you can confirm authenticity with your phone. Read our guide to the authenticity check and NFC before you buy from private or unknown sellers.
Caring for your Bearbrick
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade the colours over time.
- Dust with a soft brush or microfibre cloth – avoid cleaning products.
- Keep the original box. It protects the figure and affects the resale value.
Find your first Bearbrick
See our new arrivals, the most popular Bearbricks, or go straight to 400% Bearbricks and 1000% Bearbricks.
Frequently asked questions
What does the percentage on a Bearbrick mean?
The percentage indicates the size relative to the standard 100% figure (approx. 7 cm). A 400% is about four times as tall (approx. 28 cm), and a 1000% is about ten times as tall (approx. 70 cm). See all measurements in our size guide.
How do you pronounce BE@RBRICK?
It is simply pronounced "bearbrick" – the @ sign replaces the letter a.
Who makes Bearbricks?
All original BE@RBRICK figures are produced by the Japanese company Medicom Toy, which has made the figure since 2001.
What is a Bearbrick blind box?
A blind box is a sealed box containing a random 100% figure from a series. You only find out which figure you have got when you open the box – and some series have rare "secret" figures.
Do Bearbricks go up in value?
Some limited editions and sought-after collaborations have risen in price on the resale market, but that is not a guarantee. Buy a figure first and foremost because you like it – and keep the original box if you want to preserve its value.
How do I know if my Bearbrick is genuine?
Many newer releases have an NFC tag that you can scan with your phone. Read the full procedure in our guide to the authenticity check and NFC.