Blind Box Selection Guide: 6 Tips to Choose Your Favorite

The thrill of shaking a blind box, the anticipation of tearing open the foil, the joy of seeing your favorite character—that's why we love blind boxes. However, getting a duplicate or an unwanted design can be truly disappointing.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, opportunity always favors the prepared. While blind selection itself is fun, there's always something you really want to own, and there are many ways to increase your chances of winning. This comprehensive guide provides a complete overview, covering preparation, physical collecting techniques, online strategies, and how to cope when luck isn't on your side.

1. Preparations before buying blind boxes

Doing a little research before buying blind boxes can increase your chances of winning. Blind boxes aren't just about luck; there are also some tricks to it.

• Analyze the "Want" Ratio: Look at the full lineup poster. If a series has 12 figures, and you only really like 2 of them, the probability of getting your favorite is too low. However, if you like 8 of them, then blind buying is fine.

• Identify the "Bomb" (The One You Hate): Some series might contain characters you absolutely don't want to acquire. Carefully examine their characteristics. Does it carry a specific item? Is it the smallest? Knowing these characteristics, you can try different quality levels to see if you can find out.

• Check the Rarity: If you're aiming for the hidden item in this blind box, you can check the probability of getting it. If the probability is high, buying the whole box might increase your chances. If the probability is very low, you should think carefully.

2. Decision-making for offline blind box stores

When you're in a physical blind box store, you can use the following three techniques to increase your chances of getting a lucky blind box, but there's no way to guarantee it completely.

The Weight strategy 

The weights of boxes from the same series will not be exactly the same.

• How to do it: Hold one box in each hand, pick up both boxes, and imagine you're on a scale.

• What it means: If you want the heaviest or lightest blind box(For example, some BJD blind box series have heavier accessories), you can try this method to increase your chances of getting your desired box. However, some blind boxes have added weights to balance the weight, so this method is more of a trick.

The "Shake & Listen" Test 

Shake the box gently to avoid damaging it; the sound will tell you the size of the blind box.

• The "Solid Thud" (Silent): For PVC blind boxes, this usually indicates a large, bulky figure or that the box is packed full. However, this method doesn't work for plush toys.

• The "Rattle" (Clicking): This indicates loose, hard plastic accessories. 

• The "Sand" Sound: If all you hear is the sliding sound of the silica gel packet, the figure is likely small and light, leaving plenty of room for the packet to move.

The Gravity strategy

• How to do it: To determine which side is heavier, lift it up, down, left, and right.

• What it means: If the weight rushes to the top, it hints at a character with large headgear or tall ears. If the weight stays anchored at the bottom, it suggests a sitting pose or a figure with a wide, heavy dress.

3. Online shopping blind box strategy

Online shopping means you can't touch the package, but you can use information and purchasing strategies to increase your chances of winning.

"Buy the whole box" strategy

Buying a single box is a gamble; buying a whole set is an investment.

• Why do it: Buying a "complete set" (usually containing 6, 8, or 12 boxes) will almost never result in duplicates and will increase the probability of drawing a hidden item.

• Who is it for: If you like the style of the whole collection （For example, the MayMei Dark Forest Series, each one is exquisite）, this is actually more cost-effective than buying a random box where you might get a duplicate.

Comprehensive understanding

Official product photos (images) may undergo extensive retouching to achieve perfection. However, you may find color differences when you actually receive the product.

• The Strategy: Before purchasing, please search for related content on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram to see if unboxing videos meet your expectations.

• The Benefit: Viewing the actual product through a video allows you to examine the details from every angle. You might find the colors different from what you expected and not like them as much, or you might discover a beautiful detail on a particular doll and fall in love with it. This gives you more options.

Purchase through official channels

Choose a reputable seller to avoid buying counterfeit goods. Many low-quality counterfeits have appeared on the market for popular blind boxes, such as those with crooked eyes or rough fabric. Don't be fooled by low prices.

• Insist on official authorized channels: The safest choice is always the HI Toy official store or certified global partners such as Calembou.

• Vetting Resellers: If you purchase from a third-party platform (such as TikTok or AliExpress), be sure to check for genuine user reviews and photos. If a complete set is priced at $30, but the market price is $100, it is likely counterfeit.

4. Special Tips for Collectors

There are many types of blind boxes, and some methods may not work, but don't be discouraged. The appeal of blind boxes lies in the surprise.

• "Squeeze" warning: It's best not to squeeze or damage the blind box. This is not only irresponsible towards the blind box itself, but it also means you're obligated to buy it.

• Fabric Quality Check: After receiving a blind box, please pay special attention to the painting on the figure's face and abdomen, as well as the stitching on the body. These details often determine whether the actual figure is defective.

5. What if I get duplicate blind boxes?

If you get a duplicate style, don't be discouraged—it might be an opportunity.

• Join Trading Communities: Don't throw them away! There will always be someone who wants what you have. Join Facebook groups, Discord servers (like the Calembou community), or some blind box communities to trade your duplicate items for what you want.

• DIY & Customization: Duplicates are excellent canvases for creativity. Try repainting accessories, dyeing plush fabric, or giving it a new outfit. Transform it into a unique work of art.

• The "Travel Buddy": Use your duplicate as your "beater" figure. Put a keychain on it and hang it on your bag. Since it's a spare, you won't be heartbroken if it gets a little dirty while you're out and about.

Conclusion

Collecting blind boxes is an adventure filled with anticipation. While these practical tips—from weighing to checking the "shake" sound—can help guide your choices, please use them with caution and respect. Always handle the boxes gently to avoid damage; after all, preserving the condition of the box is part of the collector's etiquette.、

Ultimately, remember that these techniques are just tools, not guarantees. The true soul of blind box collecting lies in the mystery of the unknown. Whether you finally hunt down your dream figure or discover a surprising new friend you didn't expect, cherish that spark of curiosity and joy that comes with every unboxing.