If you’ve ever held a Pokémon card in your hand, you might have wondered: What is the official size of Pokémon TCG cards?
Card size matters more than most people realize. It affects gameplay, storage, card grading, and collecting accessories. Whether you’re a new trainer, a seasoned competitive player, or a collector, knowing the exact dimensions helps you keep your cards safe and in mint condition.
In this guide, we’ll explore the standard Pokémon TCG card size, the variations like jumbo and mini cards, and the best sleeves, protectors, and binders for your collection.
What is the Standard Pokémon TCG Card Size
The official size of Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) cards is:
- 63mm × 88mm (about 2.5 inches × 3.5 inches)
This is the same size as Magic: The Gathering (MTG) cards and most modern trading card games. That means Pokémon cards fit in standard sleeves, deck boxes, and binders made for MTG cards.
However, Pokémon cards are larger than Yu-Gi-Oh cards, which measure 59mm × 86mm. This small difference means Pokémon cards won’t fit properly in Yu-Gi-Oh sleeves.
Pokémon Card Variations & Their Sizes
While most Pokémon TCG cards are standard size, there are a few variations worth noting:
Standard Cards
- Used in every official deck.
- Includes Pokémon, Trainer, Energy, GX, EX, V, VMAX, VSTAR, and Full Art cards.
- All are the same 63mm × 88mm size, despite different artwork and designs.
Jumbo / Oversized Cards
- Promotional cards found in collector’s boxes and special events.
- Size varies, but most modern jumbo cards measure 146mm × 203mm (roughly 5.75 × 8 inches).
- These cannot be used in official play but are popular collector’s items.
Mini Cards
- Rare and usually included in older promo packs or special editions.
- Much smaller than standard cards (sizes vary between 45mm × 64mm and similar).
- Not legal in official tournaments.
Pokémon TCG Sleeves and Protectors
Once you know the exact size, the next step is protecting your cards.
- Standard card sleeves: Designed for 63mm × 88mm cards.
- Penny sleeves: Affordable, thin sleeves to protect bulk cards.
- Deck sleeves: Thicker and designed for shuffling during play.
- Top loaders: Rigid plastic protectors for rare or valuable cards.
For jumbo Pokémon cards, you’ll need oversized sleeves or special jumbo binders.
Pokémon Card Grading and Size
Card size is very important in professional grading by companies like:
- PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)
- Beckett Grading Services (BGS)
- CGC Trading Card Grading
If a card’s dimensions are off due to trimming, misprints, or fakes, it will be flagged during grading. That’s why knowing the exact Pokémon card template size matters for serious collectors.
Pokémon Card Accessories Based on Size
Keeping your collection safe is just as important as pulling rare cards. Here’s what you need:
- Binders: Standard 9-pocket binders fit Pokémon cards perfectly. Use acid-free, PVC-free options.
- Deck boxes: Choose MTG/Pokémon standard size. Yu-Gi-Oh deck boxes are too small.
- Playmats: Made for standard TCG card sizes, ensuring smooth play and protection from table scratches.
- Storage boxes: Cardboard or plastic boxes designed for 63mm × 88mm cards.
Conclusion
Pokémon TCG cards may come in many styles — from standard to jumbo promos — but their official size has always been 63mm × 88mm (2.5 × 3.5 inches). Knowing this helps you:
- Protect your cards with the right sleeves, top loaders, and binders.
- Store and display your collection without damaging valuable cards.
- Grade your cards with confidence, ensuring authenticity.
So, whether you’re battling friends, collecting rare holo cards, or sending your Charizard to PSA for grading, remember — card size matters more than you think!
FAQs
What is the official Pokémon card size in inches?
Pokémon cards are 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
Are Pokémon cards the same size as Magic the Gathering?
Yes — both measure 63mm × 88mm.
What size are jumbo Pokémon cards?
Most modern jumbo cards are 146mm × 203mm.
Can Pokémon cards fit in Yu-Gi-Oh sleeves?
No. Yu-Gi-Oh cards are slightly smaller, so Pokémon cards don’t fit.
What size top loaders should I use for Pokémon cards?
Use 3″ × 4″ standard top loaders for regular Pokémon cards.
Do full art Pokémon cards have a different size?
No, full art, GX, EX, V, and other variations are the same size as standard cards.
