Playing Card Dimensions: Standard Sizes Explained

Ever wondered why some playing cards feel wider or taller than others? Understanding playing card dimensions helps you choose the right deck for card games, magic tricks, printing, or custom designs. From classic poker cards to bridge and specialty decks, this guide breaks down the exact sizes clearly and simply.


Playing Card Dimensions (Complete Size Guide)


What Are Standard Playing Card Dimensions?

Standard playing cards come in two main sizes used worldwide:

Poker Size Playing Cards

  • Dimensions: 2.5 × 3.5 inches

  • Metric: 63.5 × 88.9 mm

  • Most common size

Best for:

  • Poker and casino games

  • Magic tricks

  • Cardistry and shuffling

Featured Snippet Answer:
Q: What is the standard playing card size?
A: The standard poker-size playing card size 2.5 × 3.5 inches (63.5 × 88.9 mm).


Bridge Size Playing Cards

  • Dimensions: 2.25 × 3.5 inches

  • Metric: 57 × 88.9 mm

  • Narrower than poker cards

Best for:

  • Bridge and rummy

  • Players with smaller hands

  • Faster dealing and holding multiple cards


Playing Card Dimensions Comparison Chart

Card Type Inches Millimeters Common Use
Poker Size 2.5 × 3.5 63.5 × 88.9 Poker, magic
Bridge Size 2.25 × 3.5 57 × 88.9 Bridge
Tarot Cards 2.75 × 4.75 70 × 121 Tarot reading
Mini Cards 1.75 × 2.5 44 × 63 Travel games
Jumbo Cards 4 × 6 101 × 152 Teaching, visibility

Thickness and Weight of Playing Cards

Dimensions aren’t just about height and width.

Card Thickness

  • Average thickness: 0.3 mm

  • Deck thickness (52 cards): ~17 mm

Card Stock and Finish

  • Paper stock: Linen or smooth finish

  • Weight: Typically 300–330 GSM

  • Coating: Plastic or air-cushion finish for durability


Why Playing Card Dimensions Matter

Choosing the correct playing card size improves:

  • Comfort: Easier shuffling and gripping

  • Performance: Better control for magic and cardistry

  • Compatibility: Fits standard card sleeves and boxes


Custom Playing Card Dimensions

Designing your own deck? Custom card sizes are possible, but consider:

  • Printing costs

  • Storage and sleeves

  • Player familiarity

Tip: Stick close to standard poker dimensions for best usability.


FAQ – Playing Card Dimensions

What size are standard playing cards in inches?

Standard poker cards measure 2.5 × 3.5 inches.

Are poker and bridge cards the same size?

No. Bridge cards are narrower but have the same height.

Which playing card size is best for magic tricks?

Poker-size cards are preferred for most magic performances.

Do all countries use the same playing card dimensions?

Most modern decks follow poker or bridge sizes, but some regional decks vary.

What size are playing cards in millimeters?

Poker cards are 63.5 × 88.9 mm; bridge cards are 57 × 88.9 mm.


Key Takeaway and Call-to-Action

Understanding poker card dimensions helps you pick the perfect deck—whether you’re playing poker, practicing magic, or designing custom cards.

Next step: Decide your use case, measure your needs, and choose the card size that feels right in your hands.

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