[trebleshot]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tarquinius

Only half joking, I'd argue that the MU/Joes/TF have a good quality control...but obviously as not well CRAFTED as ML/DCUC or even Hot Toys. Then you have other toys like DCIH which has very few good "quality" aspects

I would argue that Transformers are better-crafted than any ML/DCUC figure. Compare the sheer amount of moving parts and engineering that goes into a single deluxe TF versus the standard male and female bucks for DCUC or even the base-level of articulation for a given ML figure. There's not much new in ML or DCUC anymore. Most of the design costs have already been recouped a few dozen times over, whereas the Transformers brand is constantly pushing itself to do better with new molds, design elements and action features (gimmicks).

While Hot Toys may have the upper hand in detailing and size (and in some cases, accessories and articulation), the limited nature of the items makes it much easier for the designers to devote more time on craftsmanship and quality control than Hasbro or Mattel can possibly do with their mass retail lines.

In fact, I would say the only fair comparison is with other similar lines, such as Sideshow's 12" offerings. Because, given the choice proposed by the OP, I would have to say give me the 20 Transformers. You can keep that Hot Toys "figure".