Resin vs Metal vs Plastic Figures: Which Material Wins?

Quick answer

For sharp detail and easy conversion work, resin is usually the best choice. Metal figures offer reassuring weight and durability, while plastic is the most affordable and easiest to assemble. Your decision should hinge on how much detail you need, how often the models will be handled, and how much prep work you are willing to do.

Detail and surface quality

Resin captures the finest undercuts and crisp edges because it flows into silicone molds that metal and plastic cannot match. That makes it ideal for intricate faces, lace, and ornate armor. Metal figures hold detail well but tend to have slightly softer edges and mold lines that need filing. Plastic is the softest of the three, so very fine details can blur on smaller scales. If you are building a display piece or a character model, resin gives you the most visual payoff per hour spent painting.

Durability and weight

Metal miniatures are the most drop-resistant and hold their shape even if they take a tumble. Resin is lighter but brittle; thin parts can snap if you are rough with them during transport. Plastic bends rather than breaks, which is forgiving for gaming pieces that get packed and unpacked often. For storage, metal figures can be heavy in large numbers, while resin and plastic keep your carry case light. If you plan to travel to tournaments, plastic or resin is easier on your back and your foam trays.

Preparation and assembly

Resin requires washing to remove mold release agent, then careful clipping and sanding of pour gates. Metal needs filing and sometimes pinning for heavy parts, and you may want to fill gaps with epoxy. Plastic is the simplest: clip, clean mold lines, and glue with plastic cement. Resin and metal need superglue or epoxy. If you are new to the hobby, plastic is the least frustrating starting point. If you are comfortable with a bit of extra prep, resin rewards you with better detail.

Painting and conversion

All three materials take primer and paint well, but resin and plastic hold a primer coat more evenly than bare metal, which can be slippery. Metal figures are excellent for conversions because you can bend or cut them and pin parts securely. Resin converts easily with a hobby saw, but dust is hazardous, so wear a mask. Plastic is the easiest to convert with plastic cement, which welds parts together. If you plan to swap heads or weapons often, plastic or resin will save you time.

Cost and availability

Plastic is generally the cheapest per figure, especially in multi-part kits. Metal sits in the middle and is often used for character models or small runs. Resin tends to be the most expensive because of mold costs and lower production volumes. However, resin is common for limited edition or boutique figures. If you are building a large army on a budget, plastic is the practical choice. For a single centerpiece model, the extra cost of resin can be worth it.

Material trade-offs at a glance

• Resin: Sharpest detail and easiest conversion, but brittle and requires washing and careful handling. Best for display pieces and character models where detail matters most.
• Metal: Durable and weighty with a classic feel, but heavier to carry and can bend if dropped. Best for skirmish warbands and models you want to feel substantial on the table.
• Plastic: Cheapest and easiest to assemble with plastic cement, but softer detail and lighter feel. Best for large armies and beginners who want to get playing quickly.

Material choices in the Sarissa Precision range

• Desert Fort Arch Walls (28mm): Desert Fort Arch Walls (28mm) is supplied unassembled and unpainted in kit form with full instructions, and includes etched detailing. This MDF kit shows how a non-resin material can still deliver crisp etched detail for terrain, so you can match your figure material to your scenery without sacrificing theme.
• Gangs of Rome "Skirmish and Scaffold" - Editio Prima: Gangs of Rome "Skirmish and Scaffold" – Editio Prima is a two-player starter set that combines the Two Player Starter Set with the Streets of Rome: Under Construction Terrain Set, and includes a free Vigiles Urbani – HALT miniature while stocks last. If you are comparing materials for a new project, this bundle gives you both figures and MDF terrain in one box, letting you test how different materials work together on the tabletop.

Which material should you choose?

Choose this if

• You want maximum detail for painting competitions or display.
• You play in a group where models are handled frequently and you need durability.
• You are building a large army on a tight budget and want easy assembly.

Avoid this if

• You dislike preparing and washing models before assembly.
• You need lightweight models for travel and storage.
• You want the absolute cheapest option for hundreds of figures.