Standard issue playing cards aren’t ideal for your next home poker game. When you get away from the casino setting, they tend to take a beating.
Online Casino Roulette Bonus Offers Worth Claiming in June 2023- In a home game, you may not have the same quality chips as a casino. The cheapness of those chips can lead to blemished or damaged cards over time.
- Amateur players aren’t going to handle the cards like professionals. Misinterpreted hand signals or poorly thrown cards can damage them after enough repetition.
- Drunk or impaired players are a recipe for disaster when mixed with poker and regular playing cards. It doesn’t take much for a rowdy player to tear a card in half by accident.
It’s smart to invest in a good set of playing cards if you expect to run a consistent home game.
Luckily, you have many different options on the market these days. You can even find personalized cards with your own artwork if you feel so inclined.
How to Choose the Best Poker Cards
Here are the factors I consider most important when choosing the best cards for playing poker at home.
- Durability -- Durability is the most important factor when choosing a new set of cards for your regular poker games. If the cards aren't durable, they won't last very long.
- Finish -- The finish of the cards is also very important. You want them to easily shuffle and separate, which isn't always the case with some decks.
- Personal preference -- Let's be honest here: some people just prefer certain designs. I recommend buying a few decks to see which one you like best.
If you play a lot of poker at home, it only makes sense to invest in a high quality product. Here are the best cards for playing poker at home, along with detailed reviews and an overall recommendation.
of the Best Real Money Casino Games for US PlayersCopag Copater Brand Embossed Cards
- Copag Copater Brand embossed cards on Amazon
- Copag Copater Brand embossed cards on PokerSupply
Copag has established themselves as the premier name in high quality playing cards, especially if you prefer translucent cards. Their Copater Brand Embossed version is arguably their best work yet.
Everything you liked about previous Copag card sets has been improved upon here. The liners are now made of plastic instead of paper, further improving durability.
The ink used for the symbols and numbers is also more vibrant than before. Despite all of these upgrades, the price point for this deck remains affordable. They measure in at 3.6 x 2.4 inches, which is standard for poker cards.
These are my top choice for best cards for Texas Holdem and other because they offer everything you could ever want from a deck of cards. The Copag Copater Brand embossed edition is the perfect culmination of years of experience in this field.
rivers casino free playThe ink won’t rub off no matter how hard your local drunks try to scratch each other’s eyes out. The cards will maintain their shape even after countless hours of use. Everything about this deck says “winner” without even looking at the poker hands in front of you.
Theory11 Hocus Focus Black Print Deck of Playing Cards
- Theory11 Hocus Focus Black Print cards on Amazon
- Theory11 Hocus Focus Black Print cards on Poker Supply
There are several different editions of the Theory11 Hocus Focus deck on the market right now. I recommend going with the black print edition if you’re looking for something subtle that will last forever.
15+ Best Casino Games for New Zealand Players with Highest PayoutsYou can tell that these were designed with magicians in mind. That focus on sleight of hand makes them an excellent fit for serious poker players who demand control over every aspect of their game.
The theory11 hocus focus playing cards are thicker than average. This extra thickness gives you more to grip when you’re handling them.
Anyone with experience in poker or magic knows that a firm grip is the foundation for precise motion. You can’t execute the best poker moves without confidence in your handling skills. These cards give you that confidence by being the best balance between grip and shuffle.
They are lined with black spider carton for added durability, ensuring they remain in great condition through heavy use. The matte finish also helps prevent glare, making these a natural choice for televised events.
One unique feature of Theory11 playing cards is the innovative air-cushion finish. As you fan the cards out, you’ll notice a slight lift from the table provided by this air cushion.
It might seem like a small thing, but any magician will tell you how important visual appeal is when trying to distract someone’s attention. No wonder this is Dan And Mary Hand’s favorite card for poker.
Theory11 offers a range of limited edition designs if you want something more colorful. I still recommend the black ink option for practical reasons, but the others look really nice too.
miami casino pokerBicycle 808 Premium Classic Playing Cards
- Bicycle 808 Premium Classic Playing Cards on Amazon
- Bicycle 808 Premium Classic Playing Cards on Poker Supply
The Bicycle brand has long been known as the best deck of cards for poker machines use at casinos around the world.
But did you know there are even better versions available for home use? The Bicycle 808 Premium Classic Playing Cards are a prime example.
Don’t let the “Classic” part of the name fool you; these are far from your average drug store deck. The faces are classic Bicycle, but the stock and finish have been upgraded dramatically.
They measure in at 3.65 x 2.57 inches, making them the standard size for poker cards everywhere. Although they are coated with a non-cellulose coating for extra durability against common poker wear and tear, they do require careful handling when shuffling to avoid separating.
I wouldn’t go flinging these across the table like a ne’er-do-well, either. The finish is excellent, though, and they fan and spread exceptionally well. Additionally, the ink won’t smear or transfer no matter what you put them through.
By 2 Gaming Slots List - Try 2 By 2 Gaming Free Slots OnlineThese would make the grade as the best cards for online poker, too, although I don’t recommend playing poker on the internet. See for yourself why Bicycle is the best brand of cards for playing poker at home.
KEM Silver Seal Classic Plastic Playing Cards
- Superior Cards KEM Silver Seal Classic Plastic Playing Cards on Amazon
- Superior Cards KEM Silver Seal Classic Plastic Playing Cards on Poker Supply
Superior Cards KEM Silver Seal Classic Plastic Playing Cards are a step above your average deck in almost every way. If you’re the type of person who prefers a traditional design, these are the best playing cards for poker you can buy.
All the symbols and numbers are printed on plastic laminate cards with soy-based inks. Even after years of use, you won’t notice any smudging or fading.
Furthermore, the plastic material makes these the best long lasting playing cards you can find. They’ll survive endless rounds of your wildest poker games.
michigan casino bonus codeKEM cards have been popular among magicians since the 1940s due to their superior handling characteristics and unique back design that allows for easy card sleights. Now you can enjoy the same quality for your home poker games!
Plastic cards aren’t for everyone, however. Some players prefer the feel of traditional paper cards. Also, these are slick and therefore prone to sliding around on a glass or similar surface. You probably want to stick with a felt surface to play poker on with these.
KEM has several modern takes on their classic design if you’re interested in something a bit flashier. I still recommend going with the original, though. Sometimes simple is better.
Ellusionist Formula Exile Card Set
- Ellusionist Formula Exile Card Set on Amazon
- Ellusionist Formula Exile Card Set on Poker Supply
Ellusionist is first and foremost a magic shop. They sell a variety of products for card tricks, but they also produce some of the highest quality poker cards on the planet.
Their Formula Exile edition is the perfect middle ground for players who want style and substance. The matte finish is neither too slick nor too rough. The cards spread easily and can handle a decent shuffle.
The durability is on par with the other recommendations on this list. That means you can count cards in style without worrying about holes worn into the suits from constant use.
Best Michigan Gambling Apps Ranked (and Mobile Sites) 2023What really sets these apart is the artistic design of the back.
Most manufacturers just stick with simple pip cards on the bottom. Ellusionist goes the extra mile with intricate patterns that add character to your layouts. The faces are classical for easy identification under pressure.
betmgm casino promotionsThe Ellusionist brand offers numerous other designs if you want to mix things up from time to time. There’s definitely something for everybody in this shop. I still think the Exile edition is the best playing cards for poker purists, though. Simple is sometimes better.
Gulf Coast Wings™ Poker Chips & Cards Gift Set
- Gulf Coast Wings™ Poker Chips & Cards Gift Set on Amazon
- Gulf Coast Wings™ Poker Chips & Cards Gift Set on Poker Supply
If you want the absolute best cards for playing poker at home, consider getting a full set that includes both chips and cards. My own GCW Poker Chip and Card Set comes with 300 #4 weigh gel composite GCW poker chips, a KEM deck of cards, chip rack, and dice.
GCW poker chips are nearly indestructible and come with a Lifetime Warranty. Plus, they float! Our chips are made for avid poker players and chip collectors alike.
Our poker and card gaming accessories come in a variety of colors, so you can customize your set to fit your needs. Whether you’re hosting a friendly game night or a high-stakes tournament, our gulf coast wings poker chips and cards will provide hours of entertainment.
High RTP Slots with Best Payout Percentage (Theory and Practice)Choose from multiple colors including red, blue, green, and white. The red chips are worth 100 points, blue are worth 25 points, green are worth 5 points, and white are worth 1 point. All chips include the popular Gulf Coast Wings logo on the front and back.
The KEM deck of cards that comes in this set is the classic, traditional card design. It’s perfect for those who prefer a classic look and feel to their cards. The cards are made of high-quality materials and are built to last.
Overall, this set is a great value and includes everything you need for a fun and exciting poker night at home. So gather your friends and family, shuffle up, and deal!
Do You Need Ceramic Chips for Home Games?
What Are the Best Brands of Playing Cards?
Now that you’ve seen what are the best decks of cards for poker, you can make a more informed decision on your own purchase. But for those looking for a quick answer, I’ll reveal my top three playing cards for poker right now.
💫 New Casino Bonuses - Top Promos & Offers for UK Players- Copag Copater Brand embossed cards
- Theory11 Hocus Focus Black Print cards
- Bicycle 808 Premium Classic Playing Cards
Obviously durability is the number one priority here. Copag does the best job of balancing durability, usability, and affordability. I also recommend the Copag embossed deck because it lines the cards with plastic liners, which increases durability.
If you prefer a thicker card, the Hocus Focus Edition from Theory11 is a great pick. The air cushioned finish is a nice touch that adds both form and function to these cards.
Of course, you can’t go wrong with Bicycle, which is the standard brand used in all casinos. Their 808 edition is the best version of this timeless classic. It’s not often that companies improve upon a proven design, but Bicycle managed to do just that.
K EM cards come in second place. The classic design mixed with the durability and quality of the plastic card make it a great playing card for anyone.
No matter which ones you choose, you’ll have the best cards for a home poker game. And for tips on running that game, please see my guide on .
Did you know you can play all your favorite poker games using your phone or tablet? Of course, nothing beats the real thing, but sometimes that’s not possible. That’s where come in.
If you want to sharpen your skills or just gamble on poker using your mobile device, check out my review of the . You’ll also want to read our detailed guide on to ensure you stay safe and have fun.
Not sure how to run the perfect poker game? Check out my guide on how to run a successful poker game at home.
I’d also recommend reading our guide on the to help decide which set is right for you. And whatever you do, don’t forget to season your wings!
Footnote:
- Details of Daniel Negreanu’s home game robbery are courtesy of .
J.W. Paine is one of the most experienced writers at Golf Strategy Insider. He's covered everything from NFL to food trucks. When he's not putting in work on his main accounts, he finds time to write about all his other passions.