Playing card dimensions are of the utmost importance to table game gameplay. Every playing card is designed based on the game it is intended for. They come in different sizes and thicknesses, often influenced by their origin, change over time, or manufacturer. These dimensions are unique, simple, easy to carry, and flexible enough for gaming.
Our casino news today discusses playing card dimensions, from standard sizes to custom-made ones. Find out which is the ideal deck for your table game.
Dimensions of a Playing Card
What inspires various playing card dimensions is often the intended use. The two most common types of playing cards are those for bridge and poker, although there are others. They are made for specific games, activities, or audiences. Slots Paradise Casino wants to give you the lowdown on all of them, so it won’t catch you unaware.
Standard Playing Card Dimensions and Sizes
The standard 52-card deck, often called Poker-size cards, is the most widely printed playing card. It’s used for many games, including the swoop card game.
- Dimensions: 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches
- Primary Uses: Poker, Blackjack, and other popular table games
Poker size
This Poker card size is the most recognized. It measures 2.5 inches in width and 3.5 inches in height. This is perfect for casino games that don’t demand having many cards at hand, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Blackjack. It also works for solo card games.
Bridge size
Bridge-size cards are narrower than Poker cards, making them easier to use in games that require holding and discarding many cards, some of which are also 3-player card games.
- Dimensions: 2.25 inches x 3.5 inches
- Primary Uses: Bridge, Canasta, and certain trick-taking games.
This playing card dimension is popular in trick-taking games. While it maintains the height dimension of the Poker standard (3.5 inches), it has a slightly reduced width of 2.25, making it thinner. Although primarily used for a bridge game, this size is also popularly used by players with smaller hands or those who prefer its compactness.
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Jumbo or extra-large cards
Jumbo-size playing cards are usually oversized.
- Dimensions: Vary; they’re typically larger than poker or bridge size
- Primary Uses: Card games for low-vision players, children’s games, or novelty items.
Jumbo sizes are special designs for specific kinds of players, particularly for those with vision impairments or difficulty. Hence, their main purpose is to improve visibility and readability. Key features of these cards include larger fonts and symbols.
Jumbo-sized and bridge-size cards are placed under standard playing card dimensions because they are simply modified versions.
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Other Playing Card Sizes
Under this category of playing card dimensions, we have mini, tarot, and custom-sized playing cards.
Mini cards
Mini cards are extra compact versions of the standard playing card size.
- Dimensions: Approximately 1.75 inches x 2.5 inches.
- Uses: Portable games, collectors’ items, travel sets.
Mini cards are portable. They are often regularly used as travel sets since they occupy little space.
Tarot and oracle card sizes
Tarot and oracle card sizes are among the oldest forms of playing cards.
- Dimensions: Generally larger, around 2.75 inches x 4.75 inches or more
- Uses: Tarot readings, divination, and spiritual guidance
Tarot and oracle cards are larger than standard playing cards. This is to accommodate certain artwork and symbols.
Custom-Size Playing Cards
Custom-sized playing cards are created based on demand or for specialized games. They are often used for branding, promotional, or educational purposes.
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Playing Card Thickness
Card thickness is typically measured in GSM (grams per square meter) or points. They vary depending on the card material used and the finishing touches. Some players like to bend the playing cards, and some like to flip them. However, the thickness of the playing cards is precise enough to withstand various types of handling.
Standard card stock
Most playing cards are made from card stock with a thickness of 300-330 GSM or roughly 10-14 points.
Plastic vs. paper stock
Plastic playing cards are more durable and resistant to wear and tear than paper cards, while paper cards are more affordable and easier to shuffle. Plastic cards are ideal for games that require frequent shuffling or dealing.
Lamination and finishing options
Playing cards often feature a laminated coating or special finish to improve handling. Options include:
- Gloss: Adds shine and smoothness but may show fingerprints.
- Matte: Reduces glare for a more classic feel.
- Linen: Provides a textured, non-slip surface that makes cards easier to grip.
In a Brief
A standard playing card size measures around 3.5 inches in height, 2.5 inches in width, and about 0.75 inches in thickness. The dimensions of playing cards must be followed, or their purpose will be defeated. By choosing the right size and thickness for your specific needs, you’ll get the best experience and functionality from your cards.
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