- A good set of playing cards can last years, so be mindful of the cards' material when choosing, as well as price, professionalism, and design. To learn more about important qualities in playing cards and learn the 12 playing cards that best.
- Absinthe Playing Cards V2. Another great option for playing cards if you like the aesthetic of green ones are the Absinthe Playing Cards V2. Just like the famed alcohol Absinthe, these cards are an electric green that will catch the eyes of those watching you perform.
A while back I wrote a post detailing which playing cards were best to use for magic tricks. However, I felt it could do with a little revising, and so I've created a new and updated guide for the best playing cards for magic tricks.
Best Playing Cards Online will connect you with the benefits, joys, surprises and thrills of Playing Cards. Are you a parent looking for ways to engage your children? Looking for ways to dis-engage from your hectic life? Or are you in your twilight years and ready to revisit the benefits of playing cards? Best Playing Cards Online makes it easy.
Lots of people who watch magic tricks probably don't pay a whole lot of attention to what cards are being used, but as a magician, there are so many different options that it can be intimidating to decide which deck you should start off with.
A deck of cards is a funny thing, because on the one hand it is the most important piece of equipment a magician owns (90% of the tricks you learn will involve a deck of 52 cards), while on the other hand your choice of deck is not that important at all (most cards will work fine for magic, you don't need to buy anything expensive!).
The bottom line is:
You can't go wrong with some classic Bicycle playing cards.
There's a reason all the professionals use Bicycle cards: they're the best. They're also affordable, easy to find and order, and very recognizable.
I could end this post right here actually, because that is more or less all you need to know when picking which playing cards to use for magic!
The quality is guaranteed and the design is timeless. Most laymen will recognize the Bicycle style cards even if they don't know much about magic, which instantly gives you more credibility in their eyes. Think about it. They've seen David Blaine, Penn and Teller and all the greats use the very same cards; that means you are at least as good as them in your choice of playing cards. This is a great way to make a good first impression with your audiences; even if it is only a small thing.
What's more, the Bicycle cards give great value for money. They can last for months on end and can be picked up from Amazon for around £5 for two packs (red and blue). If you use them for six months that works out to the same as around 40p a month per pack- and considering how much you will be using these cards, that is an exceptional deal.
What about casino style playing cards?
These cards are generally either used for gambling or gambling demonstrations. Gambling demonstrations involve a highly skilled sleight of hand artist ‘demonstrating' how they cheat at cards; a great example of this is Richard Turner, who I will be writing an article on soon.
Either way, you will be looking for a borderless style deck, and the best place to pick these kind of cards up is from the Bee card line. Made by the same company that produces bicycle cards, the quality of Bee cards is a guarantee, and they are also very affordable. Like Bicycle, they are also recognizable and add to your credibility as a magician.
Now, onto a slightly different topic: Trick Decks.
Firstly, it is important to mention that you don't need trick decks to perform good tricks!
Having said that, there are some definite benefits to having the odd trick deck or two in your repertoire, so here are 5 of the best trick decks to consider investing in.
No.5: Stripper Decks
This was my very first trick deck, and so it holds a special place in my heart. I think this is a devious idea that can produce spectacular results if used right! Essentially, a stripper deck has a special function that allows you to locate any card at any moment, no matter how shuffled or randomized the deck is. It looks and feels completely ordinary.
The great thing about stripper decks is that they can be used as a failsafe or plan B for your regular card tricks; imagine you are trying to control a card to the top as part of your Ambitious Card Routine, but you lose track of it. With the stripper deck you can instantly locate it and keep on going like nothing has happened.
No.4: One-Way Force Deck
Well, there isn't too much to say about this one. The deck is completely full of the same cards; for example, 52 King of Diamonds. This deck can be a great tool if used properly, but try not to make it look too suspicious, as the last thing you want is for people asking to see the deck.
Take this one with a pinch of salt and just give it a go. It can work really nicely in the right situations.
Something I like to do is to find a way to switch out the deck with another before the trick is over, an easy way is putting it in your pocket and pulling out another deck in its place (an easy slight that doesn't require much explanation)
Another cool application of this trick is forcing a card on the spectator and then switching out the deck to show that every single card was the one that they chose!
No.3: Cardtoon
I've mentioned cardtoon a few times on this site already, but that's for a reason. This trick is incredibly easy, and completely blows minds. Essentially, the spectator picks a card in their head, and a stickman drawn onto your deck of cards reads their mind. No seriously, you read that right.
I mean who doesn't want to be able to read minds, with no practice or set up? There are hundreds of people who will try to sell you the latest ‘miracle' of mentalism, but in reality, how many of these tricks are actually workable in real life? Cardtoon is a trick that is a worker, a guaranteed reaction machine, and most of all, really fun!
The magician asks the spectator to pick a single card in their head, without letting anyone know.
After they do this, he pulls a deck of cards from his pocket, and shows that he has drawn a stickman on the back of each card, so that when he riffles through them, they start moving. Before he is about to reveal the full animation, he asks the spectator to name their card for the first time. Let's say it's the Jack of Hearts.
The magician riffles the cards, and the stickman is seen to slowly pull of his hat, reach in, and pull out (you guessed it), the Jack of Hearts.
No.2: Little Door
Again, I have already made an extensive review of this product so I will keep it short. This trick is a beautifully visual one that literally drops jaws. The main part of the trick involves you opening a drawn on door on the back of your boxed up deck of cards, and opening it right before their eyes, before closing it and wiping it off like it was never there in the first place.
No.1: The Invisible Deck
I know what you're thinking. Here he goes again!
I know, I seem to mention the Invisible Deck on approximately 50% of my posts, but how could I not? This trick is just too good not to mention. With an ordinary looking deck of cards you can convince people that you have genuinely read their mind. This isn't just a case of ‘oh wow, maybe you do have some kind of powers', but more a case of ‘the ONLY WAY that you could have done what you just did was by reading my mind!'.
And there we have it. A quick rundown of the best playing cards for magic tricks, and a brief foray into some of the better trick decks on the market! I hope some of this was helpful, and as always, if you have any feedback, comments or questions feel free to leave them below!
You always need to get the best playing cards for different purposes out of playing blackjack or poker. Also, a great set of playing cards are very essential for a bridge game and showing magic tricks.
Beforehand, it meant running to the local shop and get back with the deck you needed. But, sometimes this is quite impossible in some cases to find suitable decks when different types of playing cards are out there.
However, it doesn't mean they don't have existence. Indeed, we have found some great card decks after massive research over the internet and they're below.
1. Bicycle Poker Size Standard Index Playing Cards
Bicycle Playing Cads is a very iconic brand of decks from the beginning because of having standard quality and reliability. Also, it has secured the first position in this list as it has a lot of positive reviews from the users. At the same time, this playing card is the top seller brand on Amazon with an excellent reputation.
The product has four different sizes with bundle features of the decks when it comes to the pack sizes. These include one deck and two decks along with four decks and eventually twelve decks. Also, they come with two different colors such as blue and red that have designed for those who need easy to read poker cards.
These playing cards come in the regulation size with the jumbo index and they make a higher face value. As a result, they're simpler to do while playing. This US-made card has crafted from the high-quality cardstock and they have the original trademark of the Classic Bicycle Rider.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Bestseller on Amazon
- Available in blue and red colors
- Simple to shuffle
Cons
- Short-range durability
2. Gent Supply Mythical Creatures Playing Cards
With Silver, Black, and Golden edition, these cards have made their strong place in the list. The made quality of these cards is a premium that has made them effective and durable. Also, they have designed with mythical creatures by hand draw.
This is why you'll enjoy their varied artistic visual effect on each card. They might be a bit unconventional deck. But, have some futures to place them as the top-rated products comparing with other brands in the industry. That's why they have lots of positive customer reviews with a clean reputation.
From the other classic designed cards, these are very unique and eye-catching. Because of making these cards with the casino-grade materials and paper, they're suitable for performers, magicians, and even as collectibles. So, if you're fond of the best quality cards with different looks then these are for you.
Pros
- Mythically designed cards
- Wonderful customer reviews
- Gold foiled carrying box
- Effective and durable
Cons
- Issue of reading in lower light
3. Solarmatrix Black Diamond Playing Cards
No matter these cards are in the third position in the list, they're made with waterproof plastic and come with high-quality materials. The deck of the cards is durable and simple to mix up. Because of designed with the anti-cheating feature, it's very tough and almost impossible to defraud while playing.
Although tough on cheating with these cards, you're all set to get an interesting and stylish experience. You just choose a well-lit location to play these cards with that will enable you to see the glowing designs of the cards. Also, they're fancy to look in some parts, but other parts are casual.
These cards are likely to keep a better balance between value and quality that appeals the most customers. They're also very affordable in comparison to some facts like fully waterproof, premium design, and durability. As a result, you'll not just feel fun to use these cards to play; you'll also find them long-lasting.
Pros
- Made materials are eco-friendly
- Fully waterproof design
- Impossible to cheat
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Higher price range
4. Joyoldelf Creative Playing Cards
This is the next best product, which has made with PVC plastic to become fully waterproof and suitable for poker deck. As creative cards with a unique design, these cards will improve your gaming experience. Also, the deck comes with the features of four different amazing colors for every specific suit.
Because of their responsive and springy feel, these cards are as easy to shuffle and simple to distribute easily. As you know, they're completely waterproof; you can clean their smudges and dirt using water. It's a rare, but handy feature because the decks of cards ruin for the drink spills.
Besides, these cards offer excellent value, so they have received a large number of positive reviews from its users. Apart from being water-resistant, they're comparatively affordable. That's why this product will be the right choice if you're in search of some durable and unique cards.
Pros
- Completely waterproof design
- Flexibly designed card
- Shuffling has made easy
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not enough durable
5. Deck Of Cards By Elephant Playing Cards
The amazingly unique design of these cards has ensured a great and last entry in the list. The product is high-quality playing cards that have a different look of cool and prism shiny ink design. These are one of the best and perfect as poker cards like some other top brands and models.
Best Playing Cards For Bridge
Indeed, these cards' design is not as standard as they should be. But, your guests will feel crazy when they'll see these cards on your poker table. They'll entirely change the poker game's mood with a great gaming experience that everyone will like much.
No matter you're adults or kids, these cards will make your old fashioned card games more enjoyable. Thanks to their value and unique design that have availed these cards outstanding customer reviews.
Lots of people who watch magic tricks probably don't pay a whole lot of attention to what cards are being used, but as a magician, there are so many different options that it can be intimidating to decide which deck you should start off with.
A deck of cards is a funny thing, because on the one hand it is the most important piece of equipment a magician owns (90% of the tricks you learn will involve a deck of 52 cards), while on the other hand your choice of deck is not that important at all (most cards will work fine for magic, you don't need to buy anything expensive!).
The bottom line is:
You can't go wrong with some classic Bicycle playing cards.
There's a reason all the professionals use Bicycle cards: they're the best. They're also affordable, easy to find and order, and very recognizable.
I could end this post right here actually, because that is more or less all you need to know when picking which playing cards to use for magic!
The quality is guaranteed and the design is timeless. Most laymen will recognize the Bicycle style cards even if they don't know much about magic, which instantly gives you more credibility in their eyes. Think about it. They've seen David Blaine, Penn and Teller and all the greats use the very same cards; that means you are at least as good as them in your choice of playing cards. This is a great way to make a good first impression with your audiences; even if it is only a small thing.
What's more, the Bicycle cards give great value for money. They can last for months on end and can be picked up from Amazon for around £5 for two packs (red and blue). If you use them for six months that works out to the same as around 40p a month per pack- and considering how much you will be using these cards, that is an exceptional deal.
What about casino style playing cards?
These cards are generally either used for gambling or gambling demonstrations. Gambling demonstrations involve a highly skilled sleight of hand artist ‘demonstrating' how they cheat at cards; a great example of this is Richard Turner, who I will be writing an article on soon.
Either way, you will be looking for a borderless style deck, and the best place to pick these kind of cards up is from the Bee card line. Made by the same company that produces bicycle cards, the quality of Bee cards is a guarantee, and they are also very affordable. Like Bicycle, they are also recognizable and add to your credibility as a magician.
Now, onto a slightly different topic: Trick Decks.
Firstly, it is important to mention that you don't need trick decks to perform good tricks!
Having said that, there are some definite benefits to having the odd trick deck or two in your repertoire, so here are 5 of the best trick decks to consider investing in.
No.5: Stripper Decks
This was my very first trick deck, and so it holds a special place in my heart. I think this is a devious idea that can produce spectacular results if used right! Essentially, a stripper deck has a special function that allows you to locate any card at any moment, no matter how shuffled or randomized the deck is. It looks and feels completely ordinary.
The great thing about stripper decks is that they can be used as a failsafe or plan B for your regular card tricks; imagine you are trying to control a card to the top as part of your Ambitious Card Routine, but you lose track of it. With the stripper deck you can instantly locate it and keep on going like nothing has happened.
No.4: One-Way Force Deck
Well, there isn't too much to say about this one. The deck is completely full of the same cards; for example, 52 King of Diamonds. This deck can be a great tool if used properly, but try not to make it look too suspicious, as the last thing you want is for people asking to see the deck.
Take this one with a pinch of salt and just give it a go. It can work really nicely in the right situations.
Something I like to do is to find a way to switch out the deck with another before the trick is over, an easy way is putting it in your pocket and pulling out another deck in its place (an easy slight that doesn't require much explanation)
Another cool application of this trick is forcing a card on the spectator and then switching out the deck to show that every single card was the one that they chose!
No.3: Cardtoon
I've mentioned cardtoon a few times on this site already, but that's for a reason. This trick is incredibly easy, and completely blows minds. Essentially, the spectator picks a card in their head, and a stickman drawn onto your deck of cards reads their mind. No seriously, you read that right.
I mean who doesn't want to be able to read minds, with no practice or set up? There are hundreds of people who will try to sell you the latest ‘miracle' of mentalism, but in reality, how many of these tricks are actually workable in real life? Cardtoon is a trick that is a worker, a guaranteed reaction machine, and most of all, really fun!
The magician asks the spectator to pick a single card in their head, without letting anyone know.
After they do this, he pulls a deck of cards from his pocket, and shows that he has drawn a stickman on the back of each card, so that when he riffles through them, they start moving. Before he is about to reveal the full animation, he asks the spectator to name their card for the first time. Let's say it's the Jack of Hearts.
The magician riffles the cards, and the stickman is seen to slowly pull of his hat, reach in, and pull out (you guessed it), the Jack of Hearts.
No.2: Little Door
Again, I have already made an extensive review of this product so I will keep it short. This trick is a beautifully visual one that literally drops jaws. The main part of the trick involves you opening a drawn on door on the back of your boxed up deck of cards, and opening it right before their eyes, before closing it and wiping it off like it was never there in the first place.
No.1: The Invisible Deck
I know what you're thinking. Here he goes again!
I know, I seem to mention the Invisible Deck on approximately 50% of my posts, but how could I not? This trick is just too good not to mention. With an ordinary looking deck of cards you can convince people that you have genuinely read their mind. This isn't just a case of ‘oh wow, maybe you do have some kind of powers', but more a case of ‘the ONLY WAY that you could have done what you just did was by reading my mind!'.
And there we have it. A quick rundown of the best playing cards for magic tricks, and a brief foray into some of the better trick decks on the market! I hope some of this was helpful, and as always, if you have any feedback, comments or questions feel free to leave them below!
You always need to get the best playing cards for different purposes out of playing blackjack or poker. Also, a great set of playing cards are very essential for a bridge game and showing magic tricks.
Beforehand, it meant running to the local shop and get back with the deck you needed. But, sometimes this is quite impossible in some cases to find suitable decks when different types of playing cards are out there.
However, it doesn't mean they don't have existence. Indeed, we have found some great card decks after massive research over the internet and they're below.
1. Bicycle Poker Size Standard Index Playing Cards
Bicycle Playing Cads is a very iconic brand of decks from the beginning because of having standard quality and reliability. Also, it has secured the first position in this list as it has a lot of positive reviews from the users. At the same time, this playing card is the top seller brand on Amazon with an excellent reputation.
The product has four different sizes with bundle features of the decks when it comes to the pack sizes. These include one deck and two decks along with four decks and eventually twelve decks. Also, they come with two different colors such as blue and red that have designed for those who need easy to read poker cards.
These playing cards come in the regulation size with the jumbo index and they make a higher face value. As a result, they're simpler to do while playing. This US-made card has crafted from the high-quality cardstock and they have the original trademark of the Classic Bicycle Rider.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Bestseller on Amazon
- Available in blue and red colors
- Simple to shuffle
Cons
- Short-range durability
2. Gent Supply Mythical Creatures Playing Cards
With Silver, Black, and Golden edition, these cards have made their strong place in the list. The made quality of these cards is a premium that has made them effective and durable. Also, they have designed with mythical creatures by hand draw.
This is why you'll enjoy their varied artistic visual effect on each card. They might be a bit unconventional deck. But, have some futures to place them as the top-rated products comparing with other brands in the industry. That's why they have lots of positive customer reviews with a clean reputation.
From the other classic designed cards, these are very unique and eye-catching. Because of making these cards with the casino-grade materials and paper, they're suitable for performers, magicians, and even as collectibles. So, if you're fond of the best quality cards with different looks then these are for you.
Pros
- Mythically designed cards
- Wonderful customer reviews
- Gold foiled carrying box
- Effective and durable
Cons
- Issue of reading in lower light
3. Solarmatrix Black Diamond Playing Cards
No matter these cards are in the third position in the list, they're made with waterproof plastic and come with high-quality materials. The deck of the cards is durable and simple to mix up. Because of designed with the anti-cheating feature, it's very tough and almost impossible to defraud while playing.
Although tough on cheating with these cards, you're all set to get an interesting and stylish experience. You just choose a well-lit location to play these cards with that will enable you to see the glowing designs of the cards. Also, they're fancy to look in some parts, but other parts are casual.
These cards are likely to keep a better balance between value and quality that appeals the most customers. They're also very affordable in comparison to some facts like fully waterproof, premium design, and durability. As a result, you'll not just feel fun to use these cards to play; you'll also find them long-lasting.
Pros
- Made materials are eco-friendly
- Fully waterproof design
- Impossible to cheat
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Higher price range
4. Joyoldelf Creative Playing Cards
This is the next best product, which has made with PVC plastic to become fully waterproof and suitable for poker deck. As creative cards with a unique design, these cards will improve your gaming experience. Also, the deck comes with the features of four different amazing colors for every specific suit.
Because of their responsive and springy feel, these cards are as easy to shuffle and simple to distribute easily. As you know, they're completely waterproof; you can clean their smudges and dirt using water. It's a rare, but handy feature because the decks of cards ruin for the drink spills.
Besides, these cards offer excellent value, so they have received a large number of positive reviews from its users. Apart from being water-resistant, they're comparatively affordable. That's why this product will be the right choice if you're in search of some durable and unique cards.
Pros
- Completely waterproof design
- Flexibly designed card
- Shuffling has made easy
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Not enough durable
5. Deck Of Cards By Elephant Playing Cards
The amazingly unique design of these cards has ensured a great and last entry in the list. The product is high-quality playing cards that have a different look of cool and prism shiny ink design. These are one of the best and perfect as poker cards like some other top brands and models.
Best Playing Cards For Bridge
Indeed, these cards' design is not as standard as they should be. But, your guests will feel crazy when they'll see these cards on your poker table. They'll entirely change the poker game's mood with a great gaming experience that everyone will like much.
No matter you're adults or kids, these cards will make your old fashioned card games more enjoyable. Thanks to their value and unique design that have availed these cards outstanding customer reviews.
Pros
Best Playing Cards For Poker
- Cool & prism shiny looks
- Loads of good customer reviews
- Unique design for night-time gaming
- Included with a lifetime warranty
Cons
- Spades and Clubs are almost same to look
Best Playing Cards For Learning To Shuffle
Conclusion
Throughout the post, we have discussed some of the best playing cards of the current time. We have reviewed the most important features and designs of the cards that will help you make things easier to choose from.
Best Playing Cards To Buy
As a result, it's your turn to get one of the above-said card brands. While choosing anyone from the above list, you're all set in terms of quality and durability.