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What Are the Dimensions of a Playing Card?

images with white cards that display different sizes, against a light blue background

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Why Knowing Playing Card Dimensions Matters

Understanding playing card dimensions helps you select the perfect card type for your needs, whether you're designing a deck, hosting a special game night, or simply exploring your creative side.

From mini cards for tight spaces to tarot decks for mystic readings, there's a size and material for everyone. Knowing your options can help you elevate the playing experience.

What Are the Dimensions of a Standard Playing Card?

The standard playing card is the most commonly used size across the world, especially in games like Poker and Bridge.

  • Standard size: 2.48" x 3.46" (63mm x 88mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.125" (3mm)

This size offers the perfect balance between maneuverability and readability, making it ideal for both casual games and professional use.

Different Playing Card Sizes

Playing cards come in various sizes to suit different games, purposes, and preferences. Below, we explore the main types of playing card sizes along with their dimensions.

1. Square Size

Square cards are perfect for creative games or unique playing card designs.

  • Standard size: 3.5" x 3.5" (88.9mm x 88.9mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.1575" (4mm)

2. Mini Size

Mini cards are compact and portable, great for travel games or promotional items.

  • Standard size: 1.75" x 2.5" (44.45mm x 63.5mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.1575" (4mm)

3. Large Size

Larger cards are easier to read and handle, particularly useful for younger players or visual-centric games.

  • Standard size: 3.5" x 5.75" (88.9mm x 146.05mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.236" (6mm)

4. Domino Size

Inspired by the shape of dominoes, these cards are narrow and long, ideal for specialized card games.

  • Standard size: 1.75" x 3.5" (44.45mm x 88.9mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.1575" (4mm)

5. Tarot Size

Tarot cards are taller to prominently display their intricate designs and symbolic artwork.

  • Standard size: 2.75" x 4.75" (69.85mm x 120.65mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.236" (6mm)

6. Giant Size

Giant cards are oversized and fun, often used for stage magic or as novelty items.

  • Standard size: 5" x 7" (127mm x 177.8mm)
  • Rounded corner radius: 0.354" (9mm)

Thickness of Playing Card Stock

9 Joker cards, each with different card stock

The quality and feel of a playing card depend significantly on its card stock and thickness. Below are some of the most common card stock types along with their approximate thicknesses:

Premium Smooth (PS30):

Thickness: Approx. 0.33mm

PS30 is the most commonly used cardstock on the market, with a smooth finish and blue core center for reduced transparency.

It is ideal for game card designers and for high-end company and wedding promotional purposes. It's also great for photo printing.

Deluxe Smooth (DS33):

Thickness: Approx. 0.31mm

DS33 has an extra-smooth finish and is considered one of the finest cardstocks available. It provides more visual contrast than standard stock, resulting in vivid colors. These cards are made to look extra clean, durable, and have a superior feel.

They are the top choice for game card creators and for those needing the best quality in smooth card surfaces.

Gaming Linen (GL29):

Thickness: Approx. 0.33mm

GL29 is a popular in-house developed linen pattern that is widely used in the board game and card game industry.

These cards also have a blue core center to reduce transparency.

Casino Linen (CL31):

Thickness: Approx. 0.31mm

CL31 is a professional option with a linen finish and air pockets that make them more durable, easier to handle, and more slippery.

These cards have a black core center to block light shining through. They are perfect for professionals in the playing card and game industry or for those who want top-quality playing card stock for their prints.

Take Your Card Knowledge to the Next Level

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Now that you know all about playing card dimensions and materials, why not explore how you can create your own custom deck? Whether for professional branding, gaming, or personal projects, the right size and card stock ensure your deck looks and feels just right.

Try our print-on-demand card deck service! With a wide range of customization options, you can create your perfect deck and even sell it through us. Have questions? Reach out to us today and start your journey to becoming a card design expert!

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