If you’ve ever bought cards for a game night, magic tricks, or printing custom decks, knowing playing card dimensions is essential. Card size affects how cards feel in your hand, how easily they shuffle, and which games they work best for. This guide explains standard playing card sizes, regional differences, and practical tips clearly and simply.
Playing Card Dimensions (Standard Size Guide)
Quick answer:
The most common playing card size is 2.5 × 3.5 inches (63 × 88 mm).
This is known as the card size, widely used in casinos and home games.
Standard Playing Card Sizes Explained
Poker Size Playing Cards (Most Common)
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Dimensions: 2.5 × 3.5 inches
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Metric: 63 × 88 mm
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Best for: Poker, Texas Hold’em, magic, general play
Featured snippet tip:
Standard playing card dimensions are 2.5 × 3.5 inches.
Bridge Size Playing Cards
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Dimensions: 2.25 × 3.5 inches
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Metric: 57 × 88 mm
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Best for: Bridge, rummy, games requiring more cards in hand
These cards are slightly narrower, making them easier to hold.
Playing Card Sizes by Region
US Playing Card Dimensions
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Poker size dominates
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Bridge size common for specialty games
European Playing Card Dimensions
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Often narrower than US cards
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Some decks measure around 59 × 91 mm
Asian Playing Card Sizes
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Sizes vary widely
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Some regional decks are longer or slimmer
Thickness and Weight of Playing Cards
Dimensions aren’t just about height and width.
Typical specifications:
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Thickness: 0.30–0.33 mm per card
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Cardstock: 300–330 GSM
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Finish: Linen, smooth, or plastic coating
These factors affect durability and shuffling ease.
Custom Playing Card Dimensions
If you’re designing custom cards, you’re not limited to standard sizes.
Popular Custom Card Sizes
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Mini cards: 1.75 × 2.5 inches
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Square cards: 3 × 3 inches
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Tarot cards: 2.75 × 4.75 inches
Print Bleed and Safe Area
For custom printing:
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Add 3 mm bleed on all sides
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Keep text inside the safe zone
How to Choose the Right Playing Card Size
Use this quick guide:
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Casino & poker games: Poker size
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Bridge & hand-heavy games: Bridge size
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Magic & cardistry: Poker size
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Custom or novelty decks: Custom dimensions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are standard playing card dimensions?
The poker card size is 2.5 × 3.5 inches (63 × 88 mm).
Are poker and bridge cards the same size?
No. Bridge cards are narrower but the same height.
Which playing card size is best for beginners?
Poker size cards are best for most players.
Do playing card dimensions affect gameplay?
Yes. Size impacts shuffling, handling, and comfort.
Can I print custom-sized playing cards?
Yes. Many printers support custom dimensions with bleed settings.
Conclusion & Takeaway
Understanding poker card dimensions helps you choose the right deck for your game, project, or design. While poker size cards are the global standard, bridge and custom sizes serve specific needs.
Takeaway: Choose card size based on comfort, game type, and printing needs—not just appearance.
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