Welcome back to “Worth It?” Today we’ll be taking a look at the Seven20 Thirteenth Doctor Sonic Screwdriver toy. I picked this up on Hot Topic’s website for a little over $30 USD. I will note that this is way different from the Character Options toy released in the UK, and I will discuss the differences between each toy where applicable. So, let’s begin!
Let’s start with the packaging. I do like how it shows off this toy with it’s open design. Unlike the previous Sonic releases, you can actually touch this screwdriver while in the box. But let’s not leave it in the box and take a look at this toy.
I should probably comment on the prop it’s based on before I proceed. The design is odd and has this cobbled-together feel, which is appropriate because it is made of alien tech and Sheffield Steel. I get where people come from when they say it looks like a… certain object. But I think it’s just a bit of an overreaction to it. I personally think the design is interesting and different, as it should be.
This toy has some exceptional detail. It was smaller than I thought, since it looks a little bigger in promo pictures. But all the detailing and paint apps give this sonic a nice metal/wooden look. Unlike the UK release, this toy doesn’t look like a toy. It looks pretty good.
However, one downside is the other side of it. I counted no less than six exposed screw holes on it, one of which leads to the battery compartment, which itself is not very visible, though you can tell where it is.
Even though the UK version is no better, this one has way more screw holes. And though from one side it looks authentic, this side clearly shows it is a plastic replica. It might not bother me, but collectors looking for a convincing prop might be less impressed.
Turning to features, the US sonic has lights, sound effects and movable parts! Yes, this Sonic Screwdriver has a rotating emitter and a handle that can rotate 180 degrees! I find that to be a very interesting feature because this sort of thing usually extends or has new light effects. The UK version does not have the rotating emitter, but it does have some really cool lighting effects and a significantly better sound chip. But when it comes to the superior features, the Seven20 beats the Character Options Sonic by a mile.
Comparing it to other Sonic Screwdrivers in my collection, it’s pretty small. The generic Classic Sonic and War Doctor sonic are a little taller; the Tenth Doctor’s is only smaller when it isn’t extended; and the Eleventh and Twelfth Doctors’ devices tower over this one. Feature-wise, this latest Sonic obviously has some pretty fantastic ones compared to previous designs. The orange light is unique to it and of course the shape is one-of-a-kind as well.
So, overall, what do I think? I think it’s a really good toy. If you’re like me and already have a Thirteenth Doctor cosplay, getting this item is almost mandatory to complete the look. But even if you are just a regular Doctor Who fan who enjoys the toys, I’d also say pick it up. Seven20 have done a pretty great job. Very glad to finally have some Thirteenth Doctor merch in my collection.
It’s so totally worth it!
