VtuberLab

If you’re a VTuber or dreaming of becoming one, you’ve probably asked this question: “Where do I get a model that feels like me?” Whether you’re imagining a fluid 3D VTuber avatar or a cute and expressive 2D avatar, one truth remains: Your VTuber Model is your identity, and the gateway to everything you do on stream.

But here’s the thing most creators won’t tell you until it’s too late: The best models? They’re expensive. The cheap ones? Everyone’s using them. And just when you think you’ve seen all the options out there… a new player steps in quietly with a different approach.

So buckle up, because if you’re looking for your first (or next) VTube’ avatar, this guide will walk you through where VTubers get their models, how much they cost, and what’s emerging in 2025 that could change the whole game.

Why Your VTuber Model Matters?

Before we dive into the best creators and platforms, let’s get this straight:

Your VTuber avatar isn’t just a pretty digital puppet, it’s your brand, your energy, and your community’s first impression of you. It affects how you’re remembered, how people interact with your streams, and whether they hit Follow or just scroll past. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek, expressive 2D avatar or a versatile 3D VTuber avatar, your model defines how you connect with your audience.

Think of it as your brand, performance tool, and face all at once. People don’t just watch your VTuber stream for your game skills or voice, they stay because of the character you present. That character is your VTuber Model.

So when people ask, “How much does a VTuber model cost?”, the real question should be: What’s your model worth to your stream and brand?

Understanding the Basics: 2D vs. 3D VTuber Avatars

Before diving into where to get a model, it helps to know what type of VTuber avatar you actually need. Most VTubers use either 2D or 3D avatars, and each has its own vibe, tools, and price range. Choosing the right avatar creator depends on your goals and aesthetic.

What is a 2D VTuber Avatar?

A 2D avatar is illustrated like anime-style artwork and brought to life using Live2D rigging. Artists create separate layers for facial features, hair, and expressions, which are then animated for smooth, real-time reactions. If you’re drawn to stylized looks, working with an anime avatar creator is a popular way to start. These models are lightweight and ideal for VTubers focused on storytelling or character-driven content.

✅ Pros: Affordable, expressive, beginner-friendly
🔻 Cons: Limited range of motion (no full 360° rotation), needs a skilled rigger

What is a 3D VTuber Avatar?

A 3D avatar is a fully modeled digital character that responds to face, hand, or full-body tracking. Perfect for creators who want to move freely, perform in VR, or explore immersive content. Some VTubers work with a realistic avatar creator to design lifelike characters, while others stick to stylized 3D looks that match anime or game aesthetics.

✅ Pros: Full body movement, works with VR/AR, future-ready
🔻 Cons: Higher performance demands, more expensive to build or customize

Custom VTuber Models: When You Need a One-of-a-Kind Look

While free avatar creators and templates are great starting points, more and more VTubers are investing in custom VTuber models to stand out. Whether you’re streaming on YouTube, Twitch, or VTube platforms, a tailored model gives your brand a unique visual identity, and a professional edge.

Custom models are fully personalized from scratch. That means:

• A character design that matches your lore, niche, and personality.
• Unique facial expressions, outfits, and animations.
• Full control over how you move, react, and emote during your VTuber stream.

Depending on your vision, you can commission either a 2D avatar with detailed Live2D rigging or a 3D VTuber avatar built in Blender, Unity, or VRM format. You can also request a hybrid design if you’re planning to create content across platforms or want future compatibility with AR or VR.

Just know: if your goal is to make a lasting impression in the growing world of VTubing, a custom model can be one of the smartest branding moves you make.

How Much Does a VTuber Model Cost in 2025?

Here’s a current snapshot of what you’ll likely pay depending on your level, style, and customization needs:

Model Type	Price Range	What’s Included
2D VTuber Model	$300 – $3000+	Illustrated character, layered art, Live2D rigging
3D VTuber Avatar	$500 – $5000+	Full body model, rigging, facial tracking, compatibility
Pre-made Models	$30 – $200	Templates or pre-rigged avatars with limited changes
DIY with VRoid Studio	Free – $50	Free creation software + optional paid accessories

Premium models (especially from top artists) can hit the $6000+ range. On the flip side, free tools like VRoid Studio let you start VTubing today, but with limited uniqueness.

Top 3D VTuber Avatar Picks That Won’t Drain Your Wallet

Want your VTuber to wink, wave, and vibe in full 3D? These options let you step into the spotlight with custom 3D VTuber avatars—without stepping into debt. High-quality, full-body, and stream-ready.

1. VRoid Studio – Best Free 3D Avatar Creator for Starters

If you’re just getting started and want a quick entry point, VRoid Studio is a no-brainer. It’s a free, beginner-friendly tool that lets you design your own 3D anime-style avatar—hair, eyes, outfit, and more.

💰 Price Range: Free (Base), $10–$50 for add-ons via Booth.pm
✅ Best for: New VTubers, hobbyists, character testing
⚠️ Watch out for: Less uniqueness unless you customize in Unity/Blender
💡 Pro Tip: Pair with VSeeFace or VTube Studio for live facial tracking.

If you’re not ready to commit to commissions or want to prototype your look, VRoid is your starting line.

2. TheVTubers.com – Custom 3D VTuber Avatars Starting at Just $299

Now here’s something that’s turning heads: TheVTubers.com is a rising favorite for VTubers looking for custom 3D avatars at a truly affordable price, starting at just $299.

Unlike some services where you get a base model with minor tweaks, this platform offers fully custom 3D VTuber avatars designed to reflect your personality, flair, and streaming goals. These avatars are sculpted with detail, rigged for real-time emotion and movement, and built to sync with your vibe—whether you’re sweet, chaotic, or somewhere in between.

💰 Price Range: From $299

✅ Best for: Indie creators, budget-conscious streamers, those wanting real-time 3D avatars without the custom model drama
⚠️ Watch out for: Custom slots may fill fast as demand grows
💡 Why it’s different: These avatars move, emote, and stream just like you—and cost way less than the typical $2k–$6k commission.

Whether you’re debuting or upgrading, TheVTubers.com offers a rare sweet spot: affordable pricing without sacrificing style or stream-readiness.

3. Booth.pm – Pre-Made Models & Add-Ons at Low Prices

Often called the “Etsy of VTubing,” Booth.pm is a Japanese marketplace where creators sell everything from full VTuber avatars to accessories and hairstyles.

While many listings are premade, they’re often gorgeous and very reasonably priced. You can buy full models or use Booth assets to customize your VRoid creations.

💰 Price Range: $30 – $600+
✅ Best for: Quick-start models, modular outfit pieces, low-cost upgrades
⚠️ Watch out for: Japanese-language listings, usage rights
💡 Pro Tip: Look for models marked “Commercial Use OK” if you plan to stream.

Booth is ideal if you want to mix-and-match elements or upgrade your look without commissioning from scratch.

4. Fiverr – Budget 2D & 3D Artists with Tiered Commissions

Fiverr is a wild card, but if you know how to search, it can be a goldmine. You’ll find both beginner and semi-pro artists offering everything from Live2D rigging to VRM models with face tracking, often at starter-friendly prices.

💰 Price Range: $100 – $800
✅ Best for: New VTubers exploring both 2D and 3D routes
🔻 Downside: Quality varies; research is a must
💡 Tip: Use keywords like “VTuber avatar,” “Live2D,” or “3D VTuber model” and sort by top-rated gigs

5. Itch.io – Free & Pay-What-You-Want VTuber Avatars

Surprise! Itch.io isn’t just for indie games, it’s quietly become a home for budget VTuber assets. If you’re testing the waters or need a placeholder model for your debut, Itch has free and low-cost VRM avatars you can use right away.

💰 Price Range: Free – $30
✅ Best for: First-time streamers, casual VTubing, or testing setups
🔻 Downside: Non-exclusive models and limited customization
💡 Tip: Start with “VTuber tools” or “VRM” under their Tools category to find compatible avatars

Best Affordable 2D VTuber Avatars That Still Look Premium

If you love that iconic anime-inspired look, expressive eye tracking, and buttery-smooth face movements, these affordable 2D avatar options are your style playground. Perfect for streamers who want max charm at a smart price.

1. VGen – Vetted Artists for Every Budget

VGen.co connects you with artists and riggers specializing in VTuber assets—from 2D avatars to overlays, logos, and stream elements. Think of it as a curated talent marketplace for creators.

The best part? You can filter based on your budget, art style preference, and delivery time.

💰 Price Range: $300 – $4000+
✅ Best for: Finding experienced creators with clear portfolios
⚠️ Watch out for: Pricing inconsistency across artists
💡 Pro Tip: Check if pricing includes rigging or if it’s art-only.

VGen is perfect when you’re ready to invest in your identity—but want to keep costs grounded and transparent.

2. Skeb.jp – Anime-Style Art Commissions from Japanese Artists

Skeb is a Japanese platform where you can commission detailed character art directly from illustrators—perfect for PNGtubers or base model art. Prices are often lower than on Western platforms, and the styles are top-tier if you want an authentic anime look.

💰 Price Range: $50 – $300
✅ Best for: VTubers who want anime-style base art or PNGs
🔻 Downside: No revisions or back-and-forth communication
💡 Tip: Look for full-body commissions and make sure commercial use is allowed

3. Freelance Artists via Twitter & Discord – Unique Finds at Flexible Prices

Some of the most unique VTuber models come from independent artists who post commissions on Twitter or hang out in VTuber Discord servers. They’re not always part of a marketplace, but if you do your homework, you can snag a one-of-a-kind model at an affordable price.

💰 Price Range:

• 2D Art: $400 – $1500
• Rigging: $300 – $1200
• Custom 3D: $600 – $3500

✅ Best for: Personalized styles, niche characters, flexible timelines

⚠️ Watch out for: No contracts = risk of ghosting or delays
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask for terms, a timeline, and WIPs (work-in-progress updates).

It’s more work, but the payoff is originality—your model will stand out in a sea of lookalikes.

Quick Look: Where to Find the Most Affordable VTuber Avatars?

If you’re short on time and just want the big picture, here’s a handy breakdown of the best places to get a budget-friendly VTuber avatar in 2025. Whether you’re into 2D, 3D, or just testing the waters, this chart covers what each platform offers and who it’s best for:

Platform	Avatar Type	Price Range	Best For	Unique Point
VRoid Studio	3D	Free (Base)	Beginners, hobbyists	Free, fully customizable anime-style DIY avatars
TheVTubers.com	3D	From $299	Indie VTubers, custom full-body characters	Affordable + rigged to move, emote, and stream with you
Booth.pm	2D/3D	$30 – $600+	Quick upgrades, modular assets	Huge variety of premades and add-ons from creators
Fiverr	2D/3D	$100 – $800	Budget commissions, experimentation	Gig-based flexibility; mix of beginner to pro artists
VGen.co	2D	$300 – $4000+	Professional custom 2D models	Curated artist portfolios + budget/style filters
Itch.io	3D	Free – $30	First-timers, placeholder models	Free or low-cost VRM avatars; ideal for casual testing
Skeb.jp	2D (Art Only)	$50 – $300	Anime-style PNGs or base model art	Direct commissions from Japanese illustrators
Freelance Artists (Twitter/Discord)	2D/3D	$400 – $3500+ (varies)	Unique, one-of-a-kind models	Personalized style, flexible deals—but do your homework!

Are Expensive VTuber Models Still Worth It?

With some custom VTuber models now soaring past the $6000 mark, many creators are starting to wonder: is there a better long-term investment? While high-end models deliver stunning visuals, they mostly exist only on screen. But here’s what’s exciting, we’ve recently come across something new on the horizon: a Phygital approach to VTuber models that could quietly change everything.

This new concept blends the physical and digital in a way we haven’t seen before, potentially making custom avatars more immersive and accessible. It’s still in its early stages, but we’re keeping a close eye on it, and yes, we’ll dive into the full story in an upcoming blog.

Bottom Line

Your VTuber model is more than just a design, it’s your digital identity. Whether you go all-in with a premium studio or start small, it shapes how you’re seen, remembered, and emotionally connected to by your audience. . And while the costs can vary widely, the VTubing space is evolving fast. With more accessible tools and creative options than ever before, there are now smarter ways to bring your vision to life without breaking the bank. So instead of only asking, “How much does a VTuber model cost?” start with, “How do I want to exist in this space?” Because your presence, on screen and in the hearts of your viewers, is your brand.