As every hardcore Magic the gathering fan should know, getting the MTG card dimensions right is essential for authenticity.
I mean you cannot go into battle with an MTG proxy card the size of a postcard, complete with Mount Fuji drawn to scale on it.
Not only will a semi-experienced player (heck, even an absolute beginner) notice, but even slight deviations from the true dimensions will stand out when placed alongside authentic cards.
That's why the first step in creating your own proxy MTG card is to get the card size right.
This blog will dive deep into why you might create proxy MTG cards, the official dimensions, and the legalities surrounding them.
If you're looking for a detailed guide on how to create your own proxy cards, we've got you covered here.
What Is the Official MTG Card Size?
- 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches (63.5 mm x 88.9 mm)
- Corner Radius: 2.5 mm (0.1 inches)
- Thickness: ~0.012 inches (0.305 mm) for non-foil cards
- Weight: ~1.75 grams
Why MTG Card Dimensions Matter
- Compatibility with standard sleeves (66 mm x 91 mm)
- Fairness in gameplay and tournaments
- Consistent shuffling and deck handling
- Unmarked cards—essential for competitive play
So the official ruling is that MTG card size is 2.5 x 3.5 inches, or 6.35 x 8.89 cm.
Whether you are creating them for friendly play, deck build and test or even to sell, the size does matter.
What are Proxy Cards?
Proxy cards are copies of the real card and are used as a substitute for the real thing.
- Protection: They allow you to play with valuable cards without risking damage to your originals.
- Budget-Friendly: They let you build competitive decks at a fraction of the cost of authentic cards.
- Playtesting: They enable you to experiment with different card combinations before investing in originals.
Just so you know, we have a blog covering both a DIY and professional route.
Are MTG Proxy Cards Legal?
Yes, but under strict conditions.
In official tournament settings for trading card games like Magic: The Gathering, proxy cards are not permitted. The organizers of these events require authentic cards to maintain fairness and integrity in competition.
This makes perfect sense as having proxy cards of the highest caliber would put one at a unfair advantage.
In another popular Trading Card Game with tournaments and proxy cards is Yu-Gi-Oh! Championship Series. They also explicitly state that proxy cards are forbidden in tournament pay.
It only makes sense that Magic: The Gathering sanctioned events follow suit.
When is it legal then?
It is acceptable to create and use proxy cards for personal use such as play testing, and friendly battle with friends.
MTG vs. Other TCGs Comparison Table
How MTG Card Size Compares to Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Poker Cards
Game | Dimensions (Inches) | Dimensions (mm) | Sleeve Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|
MTG | 2.5" x 3.5" | 63.5 x 88.9 | Standard (66x91 mm) |
Pokémon TCG | 2.5" x 3.5" | 63.5 x 88.9 | Fully Compatible |
Yu-Gi-Oh! | 2.31" x 3.37" | 59 x 86 | Requires "Mini" Sleeves |
Poker Cards | 2.5" x 3.5" | 63.5 x 88.9 | Fully Compatible |
It may come as a surprise to you that MTG Card artwork size has changed twice Over the years. Magic’s card frames have evolved, altering artwork size while keeping overall dimensions consistent.
MTG Card Artwork Dimensions
Many people ask about the card size but less about the artwork size. Both sides need to be accurate in order for authenticity and over the years the magic has altered their cards frames.
- Original border (1993-2003): 1.9 × 1.53 in (48.5 × 39 mm)
- Modern border (2003-2014): 2.06 × 1.52 in (52.5 × 38.5 mm)
- Postmodern border (2014-): 2.09 × 1.54 in (53 × 39 mm)
Therefore depending on the card, you want to proxy you should take note of the dimensions.
Read our The World of MTG Proxy Cards: Everything you need to know
FAQ General
Most are 2.5" x 3.5", but oversized promos (e.g., Vanguard cards) measure 3" x 5"
Yes! Both games share the same dimensions
They are not legal in tournaments, but fine for personal use. Always mark proxies clearly to avoid confusion or copyright issues.
Conclusion
You know the official MTG card size and how proxy card works.
No doubt there is a small percentage of people reading who are looking for the correct size so that they can make their own proxy cards to test their deck.
Need Help with MTG Proxy Cards?
We offer tools, templates, and printing solutions to help you create perfectly sized custom cards. Contact us or explore our full how to make trading cards guide.
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