How to Start Your First Manga Collection Without Breaking the Bank
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Building your dream manga shelf doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here’s how to collect smarter, not pricier.
If you're new to manga, you might feel overwhelmed by how expensive collecting can get — but it doesn’t have to be. With the right strategies and timing, you can build a thoughtful, growing manga collection without overspending. Here’s how.
1. Start With Short or Completed Series
Choosing shorter or fully completed manga is a great way to start. You’ll know exactly how many volumes to expect, and there’s a definite end point to plan around.
- Demon Slayer – 23 volumes
- Death Note – 12 volumes
- Erased – 9 volumes
- The Promised Neverland – 20 volumes
2. Invest in Manga Box Sets
Box sets are often much cheaper per volume, and many include extras like posters, storage boxes, or bonus chapters. For example:
- Fairy Tail Manga Box Set 1 – Includes Vols. 1–11 at a great discount
3. Shop Sales and Promotions
DrManga.com regularly runs seasonal deals, bundles, and featured discounts. Sign up for the newsletter or follow them on Facebook to stay up to date on sales like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free.”
4. Explore the 'Start a New Series' Collection
If you’re unsure where to begin, check out the Start a New Series collection. It’s filled with Volume 1s from fan-favorite series across genres — ideal for sampling new stories without breaking the bank.
5. Use Library Apps and Subscription Platforms
Want to read before you buy? Apps like Libby (connected to your library card), Shonen Jump ($2.99/month), or Azuki give you digital access to hundreds of titles. This helps avoid collecting something you won’t end up enjoying physically.
6. Set a Monthly Manga Budget
Don’t binge-buy. A simple $25–$50 monthly manga budget goes far. Track your purchases in a spreadsheet and prioritize must-haves or sales. Spacing out your buys keeps collecting fun and sustainable.
7. Don’t Follow Every Hype
Trendy doesn’t always mean timeless. Instead of buying what’s hot, focus on stories you genuinely connect with. Prefer action? Try Jujutsu Kaisen. Into romance? Fruits Basket is a classic. Shop based on your tastes.
8. Take Advantage of Omnibus Editions
Omnibus editions group 2–3 volumes in one book and often cost less than buying separately. For example:
- One Piece Omnibus Vol. 11 – Includes Vols. 31–33
9. Connect With the Manga Community
You don’t have to go it alone. The manga community is full of collectors who love to share tips, shelf tours, and budget-friendly finds. Join conversations on social media, follow YouTube creators who review manga hauls, and check out the DrManga contact page if you ever want recommendations.
10. Go at Your Own Pace
Manga collecting is a long-term hobby. Don’t feel pressure to catch up or compete with others. Building your collection slowly, based on what you love, ensures you’ll end up with a shelf full of meaningful stories.
Final Thoughts
It’s completely possible to start a manga collection without overspending. Use smart buying strategies, hunt for sales, and only collect what genuinely interests you. Every shelf starts with a single volume.
Looking to begin? Check out our handpicked Starter Manga Collection — all Volume 1s under $10!