Playing Card Dimensions Guide with Sizes and Box Guide
Playing Card Dimensions
Playing card dimensions directly impact gameplay, printing quality, and packaging precision. The standard poker size is 2.5 x 3.5 inches (63 x 88 mm), while bridge, mini, and tarot cards follow different industry measurements. Card thickness typically ranges from 280 to 350 GSM for durability and smooth shuffling. Accurate bleed, trim, and box dimensions are essential for professional results.
What Are Playing Card Dimensions?
Playing card size dimensions refer to the physical measurements of a card, including its length, width, thickness, and corner radius. Most playing cards are rectangular with rounded corners to prevent bending and improve handling. The standardization of dimensions of a playing card allows cards to be universally compatible with game play tables, and retail packaging.
Card measurements are typically expressed in inches, millimeters, and centimeters to accommodate international printing standards. Thickness is measured in points or GSM (grams per square meter), which determines how durable and flexible a card feels in hand. Professional manufacturers carefully control these specifications to ensure consistency in shuffle performance and long-term durability.
Standard Playing Card Measurements
In standard playing card dimensions cards are Poker Card, Bridge Size, Mini Cards, and Tarot Cards and etc.
|
Card Type |
Inches (W × H) |
Millimeters (W × H) |
Centimeters (W × H) |
|
Poker Size |
2.5 × 3.5 |
63 × 88 mm |
6.3 × 8.8 cm |
|
Bridge Size |
2.25 × 3.5 |
57 × 88 mm |
5.7 × 8.8 cm |
|
Mini Cards |
1.75 × 2.5 |
44 × 63 mm |
4.4 × 6.3 cm |
|
Tarot Cards |
2.75 × 4.75 |
70 × 120 mm |
7 × 12 cm |
Poker Card Size
Poker size cards are the most widely used standard worldwide. Measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches or 63 x 88 millimeters, these cards are slightly wider than bridge cards, making them ideal for casino environments and most retail decks. Their width allows clearer design layouts and improved visibility of symbols and numbers. Poker cards are commonly used in Texas Holder, casino table games, and promotional decks. Because of their universal acceptance, most packaging templates and printing machinery are designed around poker dimensions.
Bridge Size
Bridge size cards measure 2.25 x 3.5 inches or 57 x 88 millimeters. They are slightly narrower than poker cards, making them easier to hold when players need to manage multiple cards at once. Bridge cards are commonly preferred for the game of bridge and by players with smaller hands. The reduced width allows better grip and smoother handling during extended gameplay sessions while maintaining the same height as poker cards.
Mini Cards
Mini playing cards are smaller than traditional decks and are typically around 1.75 x 2.5 inches. These cards are often used for travel games, promotional giveaways, children’s card sets, and compact novelty decks. Their small size makes them portable and easy to package, although they provide less space for detailed artwork compared to standard sizes.
Jumbo / Tarot Cards
Tarot and jumbo playing cards are larger in dimension, commonly measuring approximately 2.75 x 4.75 inches. These larger cards are designed for tarot readings, oracle decks, collector editions, and specialty games that require detailed illustrations. The expanded surface area allows designers to incorporate intricate artwork, symbolism, and larger typography for better visual impact.
Miniature Cards
Miniature cards, sometimes called little cards, are significantly smaller than standard playing cards. They are ideal for travel games, compact entertainment sets, and other situations where a smaller size is preferred. Typically, a mini playing card deck measures 44 mm by 64 mm, approximately ¾ inch in width and 1 3/8 inches in height. This compact size is perfect for specialized games and portable decks where standard playing areas are not required.
Europen Playing Cards
In Europe, playing card sizes can vary slightly compared to the typical American standard. For example, French-style playing cards often measure 2.4 x 3.8 inches (61 x 97 mm). These slight variations affect the handling and visual proportion of the deck, providing a unique experience in regional games while maintaining compatibility with most card tables.
Bicycle Playing Cards
Bicycle playing cards are synonymous with tradition and quality. They follow the standard poker card dimensions of 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6.35 x 8.89 cm), making them versatile for a wide range of card games. From the classic Rider Back design to limited edition sets, these cards maintain consistent measurements to ensure smooth shuffling, easy handling, and optimal portability. Accurate dimensions are crucial for a reliable and enjoyable gaming experience.
Educational Cards
Educational cards are often bigger than standard playing cards, commonly measuring 3.5 x 5.75 inches (89 x 146 mm). This larger size is perfect for displaying detailed images, diagrams, or instructional content. Custom educational cards can improve learning and engagement for children and adults alike, offering a balance between readability and durability.
Trump Cards
Trump cards typically measure 62 x 100 mm (2.44 x 3.94 inches) and are used in games where specific cards have special abilities or powers. Their unique size allows for visually distinct designs and vibrant artwork, ensuring each card stands out during gameplay. Custom printing of trump cards can enhance both playability and collector value.
Flash Cards
Flash cards are designed for learning and instruction, usually measuring 5.8 x 4.1 inches (148.5 x 105 mm). Their larger dimensions make it easier to display text and images clearly, improving the learning experience. Custom flash cards can be tailored for educational purposes for all ages, providing a visually effective and durable teaching tool.
Double Poker Cards Size
Double poker cards are larger than standard poker decks, measuring 3.5 x 5.0 inches (89 x 127 mm). These oversized cards are often used for novelty decks, promotional purposes, or special game editions. Their larger format makes them highly visible and engaging, while custom printing ensures that design elements remain clear and vibrant.
Custom Dimensions for Playing Cards
Beyond standard formats, many manufacturers offer custom playing card dimensions tailored to specific projects. Custom sizes are commonly used for trading cards, educational flashcards, branded promotional cards, and board game components. The final dimensions depend on printing capabilities, packaging requirements, and the intended use of the deck. Custom sizing provides flexibility but requires precise production planning to ensure compatibility with packaging and finishing processes.
Playing Card Sizes in Inches, Millimeters & Centimeters
Professional printing companies provide card dimensions in multiple measurement units to support global buyers and designers. For example, poker size cards measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches, which converts to 63 x 88 millimeters or 6.3 x 8.8 centimeters. Providing conversions ensures clarity during the design and production stages, especially for international orders. Accurate measurement is essential to prevent scaling errors, alignment issues, or mismatched packaging.
Card Stock Thickness & Weight Explained
|
Thickness Type |
GSM Range |
Usage Level |
Quality Feel |
|
Standard |
280–300 |
Casual / Promotional |
Flexible |
|
Premium |
310–330 |
Retail / Custom Decks |
Durable |
|
Casino Grade |
330–350 |
Professional Use |
Very Sturdy |
Cardstock thickness directly impacts durability, flexibility, and overall playing experience. Standard playing card size typically range between 280 GSM and 350 GSM, or approximately 10 to 14 points in thickness. Higher GSM cards feel sturdier and are commonly used for professional or casino-quality decks. Lower GSM cards offer more flexibility and are often used for promotional or budget-friendly products.
Finishing options also influence performance. Matte finishes reduce glare, glossy finishes enhance color vibrancy, linen finishes add texture for improved grip, and UV coatings provide scratch resistance and extended durability. The combination of quality cardstock and protective coating ensures smoother shuffling and longer lifespan.
Design & Printing Tips for Custom Cards
Bleed, Margin & Safe Zone
When designing custom size of a playing card, professional printers recommend including a bleed area of approximately 3 millimeters beyond the trim line. This ensures that no unwanted white edges appear after cutting. Designers should also maintain a safe zone inside the card edges where important text and graphics remain protected from trimming. Rounded corners, usually with a radius of around 3 millimeters, improve both durability and aesthetic appeal. Proper file preparation prevents production errors and ensures consistent results.
Rounded Corners & Finishes
Rounded corners are standard in the playing card industry because they prevent peeling and bending during shuffling. Finishing techniques such as lamination, varnishing, and coating enhance grip, shuffle smoothness, and resistance to wear. These finishing elements significantly impact user experience, especially for professional gaming environments.
Playing Card Box and Packaging Dimensions
Packaging dimensions depend on card size and deck thickness. Understanding the measurements of a deck of cards is essential when choosing the right packaging. A standard poker tuck box typically measures approximately 2.6 x 3.6 x 0.7 inches, allowing enough space for 52 cards, extra cards, and inserts. Bridge card boxes are slightly narrower to fit the reduced width of bridge cards, while tarot card packaging is larger and thicker to accommodate bigger cards and intricate artwork. Proper packaging ensures cards remain protected, maintain their shape, and provide a professional presentation.
Packaging styles include tuck boxes, rigid boxes, two-piece boxes, and magnetic closure boxes. The purpose of packaging is not only protection but also branding, retail display appeal, and structural support during shipping.
Order Custom playing cards size & Packaging Boxes from RSF Packaging
At RSF Packaging, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality custom playing cards and premium packaging boxes tailored to your exact size, thickness, and finishing requirements. Whether you need standard poker decks, tarot cards, or fully customized card boxes, our team ensures precise dimensions, durable materials, and professional printing results. We focus on quality, accuracy, and timely delivery to help your brand stand out in the market. Contact us today to discuss your project and receive a competitive quote tailored to your needs.
History & Evolution of Card Dimensions
Playing card sizes have evolved over centuries alongside advancements in printing technology and gaming standards. Early card production varied significantly in size, but as casinos and organized card games became popular, standardization became necessary. Poker size gained dominance due to widespread casino adoption, while bridge size was developed for easier handling in specific games. Over time, international manufacturing standards were established to maintain consistency across global markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a playing card?
A standard playing card (poker size) measures 2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).
Size deck of cards?
A standard poker deck card size is 2.5 × 3.5 inches. A full deck (52 cards) stacked is about 0.75 inches thick.
What are the dimensions of a playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm) for standard poker cards.
What are the measurements of a playing card?
Width: 2.5 inches
Height: 3.5 inches
What is the size of a deck of cards?
Individual cards: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
Full deck thickness: approximately 0.75 inches.
What is the size of playing cards?
Standard size: 2.5 × 3.5 inches (poker size).
What is the size of a playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the size of a standard playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).
What size are playing cards?
Most playing cards are 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a standard playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are standard playing cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the standard size of a playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the standard size of playing cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size is a playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a deck of cards?
Cards: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
Deck thickness: about 0.75 inches.
What size are playing cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of playing cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).
What is the size of a card?
Depends on type. Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are poker cards?
Poker cards measure 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size is a standard playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of playing cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a deck of cards?
Cards: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
Deck stack: approx. 0.75 inches thick.
What size is a playing card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size is a standard card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are playing card dimensions?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).
What are playing card dimensions?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the size of a card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the size of a card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (standard playing card).
What size are cards?
Standard playing cards: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are uno cards?
UNO cards measure approximately 2.25 × 3.5 inches.
What size is a card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the measurements of a card table?
Standard card table: 34–36 inches square, height about 28–30 inches.
What size are magic the gathering cards?
Magic: The Gathering cards measure 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are magic the gathering cards?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size is card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a debit card?
Debit card: 3.375 × 2.125 inches (85.6 × 53.98 mm).
What are the dimensions of a card table?
Typically 34–36 inches square, height 28–30 inches.
What is the size of a trading card?
Standard trading card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are tarot cards?
Tarot cards vary, common size: 2.75 × 4.75 inches.
What is the size of a card table?
Usually 34–36 inches square.
What size is a trading card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (standard).
What size are trading cards?
Most trading cards are 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are playing cards made of?
Playing cards are made of layered paperboard with a plastic coating for durability and smooth handling.
What is standard card size?
Standard playing card size: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a magic card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a trading card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are card sizes?
Common card sizes:
· Poker: 2.5 × 3.5 inches
· Bridge: 2.25 × 3.5 inches
· Tarot: 2.75 × 4.75 inches
What size are cards?
Standard playing cards: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size are card tables?
Usually 34–36 inches square, height 28–30 inches.
What size is a standard card table?
Approximately 34–36 inches square.
What is the size of a standard card?
Standard playing card: 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What are the dimensions of a credit card in inches?
3.375 × 2.125 inches.
What is a standard card size?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (playing card).
What is the standard card size?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What size is a place card?
Common place card size: 3.5 × 2 inches (folded).
What size is a place card?
Typically 3.5 × 2 inches.
What is the dimensions of a mtg card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches.
What is the difference between poker and bridge cards?
· Poker: 2.5 × 3.5 inches (wider)
· Bridge: 2.25 × 3.5 inches (narrower)
What is a in playing cards?
Ace (A) is a card rank. It can be high or low depending on the game.
What is a in playing cards?
“A” stands for Ace.
What is standard card table size?
About 34–36 inches square, height 28–30 inches.
What is the size of a magic the gathering card?
2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).
Content Marketing and Community Manager at Rsfpackaging. Born and raised on the East Coast, she is an inspired storyteller with a love for beautiful content and thoughtful design. When she’s away from her desk, you can find her at the movies, the best brunch spot in town, the local bookstore, the gym, or on the next flight to Europe.