Standard Size Sleeves
When it comes to protecting your valuable trading cards, the right sleeves are essential. Standard size sleeves are a popular choice among collectors and players alike, offering a perfect fit for most trading card games (TCGs). In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about standard size card sleeves, helping you make an informed decision for your card protection needs.
What does standard size refer to?
In the realm of trading cards, "standard size" refers to the sleeve dimensions that fit a wide range of popular cards, like Magic the Gathering, Flesh and Blood, Grand Archive, Lorcana and Pokémon. These sleeves are crafted to perfectly encase the cards, ensuring they remain pristine during epic battles or when stored safely in your collection.
What are the standard size measurements?
Standard size card sleeves are made to fit cards that measure up to 63 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches). This size is meticulously designed to fit cards from many popular TCGs. The measurements fit snugly around the cards and offer a protective shield that prevents damage from shuffling, handling, and gameplay.
What games fit standard size?
Standard size sleeves are the champions of versatility, fitting a ever-growing range of popular collectible card games (CCG). Here are some of the most popular CCGs that use standard size cards:
- Magic: The Gathering: Enter a multiverse of strategy and lore with cards that are perfectly protected by standard size sleeves.
- Pokémon: Keep your Pokémon cards safe from Team Rocket with sleeves that maintain their condition for trading and battling.
- Flesh and Blood: Sheath your heroes with sleeves in standard size and brave the battles that lay ahead.
- Grand Archive: Your champions are well and truely protected as they forge ahead into new missions with standard size sleeves protecting the cards.
- Yu-Gi-Oh!: While Yu-Gi-Oh! cards are slightly smaller, many players use standard size sleeves for double sleeving. If you want a single-sleeve layer, we recommend our Japanese size sleeves.
Why use standard size sleeves?
Using standard size sleeves offers several benefits, including:
- Protection: Sleeves shield your cards from damage caused by handling, shuffling, and playing.
- Durability: Dragon Shield's high-quality sleeves can extend the lifespan of your cards, preserving their value.
- Aesthetic appeal: Let the sleeves be an extension of your personality. You can choose from our wide selection of standard size sleeves or even design your own with the Sleeve Crafter.
- Ease of use: Choosing sleeves with a textured back means giving your deck a great shuffle-feel. Play with ease knowing you have full control of your cards while still offering them maximum protection.
How to choose the right standard size sleeve
When selecting standard size card sleeves, consider the following factors:
- Material: All our sleeves are made of durable materials like polypropylene to offer a balance of protection and flexibility.
- Thickness: Thicker sleeves provide better protection but can make your deck bulkier. Choose a thickness that suits your needs. Most of our standard size sleeves are 120 micron per layer, meaning 240 micron for a sleeve. Meanwhile, inner sleeves are thinner and outer sleeves are typically the same thickness as regular sleeves. You can combine two or even all three layers to protect your deck - learn all about double- and triple-sleeving in our guide.
- Clarity: Clear sleeves allow you to showcase your cards' artwork
Are there other sizes and what are they?
There are many sizes when it comes to card protection, but for CCGs the most common types are standard size and Japanese (or mini) size. Closely related to these sleeve types are the board game sleeves - learn more about protecting your favorite board game cards in our guide to board game sleeves.
Japanese ("Mini") size sleeves are used worldwide. The sleeve size is slightly smaller than standard size sleeves, typically measuring 59 x 86 mm. These sleeves are perfect for games like Yu-Gi-Oh! and Cardfight!! Vanguard.
In Japan, these sleeves are called mini size, which is why you may also hear the two names used interchangeably.
Conclusion
Standard size sleeves are an essential accessory for any trading card enthusiast. They offer durable protection, preserve the value of your cards, and enhance your gaming experience. Whether you're battling mythical creatures, capturing Pokémon, or engaging in epic missions, the right sleeves ensure your cards stay in top condition. Explore the wide range of options available and choose the perfect standard size sleeves to guard your treasured collection. Happy gaming and may your cards be ever in mint condition!