Nendoroid Face Plate Compatibility: Which Faces Fit Which Characters?

Quick Answer

Nendoroid face plates are not universally compatible, but many within the same series or with similar face shapes can swap. Check the face plate size, peg position, and hair part fit before swapping. Use the step-by-step guide below to test compatibility safely.

Nendoroids are beloved for their cute, chibi designs and interchangeable parts. Face plates are a big part of that charm — swapping a smiling face for a serious one can change the entire mood of your display. But not every face fits every Nendoroid, and forcing one can damage both the plate and the head.

This guide explains how Nendoroid face plate compatibility works, what to look for, and how to swap faces safely. Whether you want to mix faces between characters or just replace a damaged plate, these steps will help you get it right.

Understanding Nendoroid Face Plate Anatomy

Nendoroid face plates are the front part of the head that shows the character's expression. They attach to the back of the head piece, which holds the hair and the face together. The plate itself has a small peg on the back that fits into a slot in the head piece.

The size and shape of the face plate vary between Nendoroids. Older Nendoroids may have slightly different dimensions than newer ones, and some face plates are larger or have different peg positions. This means that not all face plates are interchangeable, even if they look similar.

The hair part also matters. The face plate sits behind the hair, and the hair must have a matching opening for the face to fit. If the hair is too tight or too loose, the face won't sit properly.

• Check the peg position: it must align with the slot in the head piece.
• Compare the face plate size: if it's too big or too small, it won't fit.
• Test with the hair part: the face must fit behind the hair without gaps.

Which Faces Fit Which Characters?

Face plate compatibility often depends on the Nendoroid series. Figures from the same series or with similar face shapes are more likely to be compatible. For example, Nendoroids of characters with similar hair styles or face sizes may have interchangeable plates, but it's not guaranteed.

Some Nendoroids are designed with interchangeable face plates as a feature, but many are not. When in doubt, compare the face plate dimensions and peg position. If you have two Nendoroids and want to swap faces, test gently to see if the plate fits without force.

Good Smile Company occasionally releases extra face plate sets, but these are rare and often limited. For most collectors, swapping faces between existing Nendoroids is the main way to customize expressions.

• Start with Nendoroids from the same series or with similar face shapes.
• Use a soft cloth to protect the face plate while testing.
• If a face doesn't fit easily, stop and check the peg and size.

Step-by-Step Face Plate Swap Guide

Swapping face plates is simple but requires care. Always work on a clean, soft surface to avoid scratching the face plate or losing small parts. Keep the original face plates in a safe place when not in use.

Here's how to swap face plates safely:

• Remove the hair part by gently pulling it off the head piece.
• Take out the current face plate by pushing it from the back or using a soft tool.
• Insert the new face plate, ensuring the peg aligns with the slot.
• Reattach the hair part, pressing gently until it clicks into place.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Forcing a face plate that doesn't fit is the most common mistake. This can break the peg or crack the face plate. Always test gently and never use excessive force.

Another mistake is swapping faces without checking the hair part. If the hair doesn't fit over the new face, the face won't stay in place. Always test the full assembly.

Finally, losing small parts like the face plate or peg is easy. Keep your workspace tidy and store spare parts in a labeled container.

• Never force a face plate – if it doesn't fit, it's not compatible.
• Check the hair part before finalizing the swap.
• Use a small container to keep spare parts safe.

Using Extra Parts to Expand Your Options

While face plates are the main way to change expressions, other parts can also enhance your display. For example, the Nendoroid series includes interchangeable hands, arms, and sometimes accessories like weapons or props. These parts can be swapped independently of the face plate.

Some Nendoroids come with extra face plates in the box, giving you more options without needing to buy additional parts. Keep these plates safe and clean to maintain their quality.

If you want to add more variety, consider Nendoroid More parts, which are designed to be compatible with many Nendoroids. These can add new expressions or accessories to your collection.

• Check the box for extra face plates – many Nendoroids include them.
• Nendoroid More parts offer additional customization options.
• Store spare parts in a safe place to avoid losing them.

Face Plate Swap: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare your workspace: Lay down a soft cloth and gather your Nendoroid, the new face plate, and a small container for spare parts. This prevents scratches and lost pieces. Checkpoint: Ensure you have enough light and a clean, flat surface.
2. Remove the hair part: Gently pull the hair part away from the head piece. It should come off without much force. If it's stuck, wiggle it slightly, but don't pull too hard. Mistake to avoid: Pulling too hard can break the hair or the head piece.
3. Take out the current face plate: Push the face plate from the back using your thumb or a soft tool. It should pop out easily. If it doesn't, check that you're pushing the right spot. Checkpoint: The face plate should come out without force.
4. Insert the new face plate: Align the peg on the back of the new face plate with the slot in the head piece. Press gently until it clicks into place. If it doesn't fit, stop and compare sizes. Mistake to avoid: Forcing a face plate can break the peg or crack the plate.
5. Reattach the hair part: Place the hair part over the face plate and press gently until it snaps into place. Ensure the face is visible and the hair sits flush. Checkpoint: The assembly should be secure and look natural.

Related Products to Enhance Your Display

• 黏土人 伊芙: From the popular action game Stellar Blade, Eve joins the Nendoroid series as a charming collectible figure. This Nendoroid captures Eve's iconic look, making her a delightful addition to any fan's collection. Includes three interchangeable face plates: a smiling face, a sad face, and a combat face. Comes with accessory parts such as her sword and fusion battery. This Nendoroid comes with multiple face plates, giving you built-in options for swapping expressions right out of the box. The accessory parts also add display variety.
• ねんどろいどぷらす 釘崎野薔薇 らばーますこっと: From the popular anime Jujutsu Kaisen, a Nendoroid Plus rubber mascot of Nobara Kugisaki. It's a cute, affordable deformed rubber mascot that is easier to handle than a figure, so you can display it at home or take it outside. If you're new to Nendoroid customization, this rubber mascot offers a low-cost way to start collecting without worrying about fragile parts. It's also a great way to carry your favorite character with you.

Face plate swapping is a fun way to personalize your Nendoroid collection, but compatibility isn't universal. Always check the size, peg, and hair fit before swapping, and never force a part. With the right approach, you can create unique displays and keep your figures in great condition.