One of the most common questions we get is "What is the difference between bridge size and poker size playing cards?"
If you are looking to buy a new set of playing cards, you may be faced with a few choices to make. The first may be whether you should buy paper or plastic playing cards. The second question you may run into is what size do you want to buy. If you are just looking for a cheap set of playing cards, you may not have these two choices. If, on the other hand, you have decided to step up to a high quality set of plastic playing cards, you will need to determine which size you want to play with.
The Difference Is Size!
OK, simple enough. The technical difference is simply the size of the playing cards. Bridge size playing cards are 2.25" x 3.5" (57 by 89 mm) while poker size playing cards are 2.5" x 3.5" (64 by 89 mm). That's really all there is to it. The decks are the same, both 52 cards with a few Jokers. One set is just a bit narrower than the other. The reason for the two sizes is simple as well. When you play bridge, you will be holding up to 13 cards in your hand. That extra 1/4" could add up quickly if you were playing with poker size cards. Therefore, bridge size playing cards are easier to hold and play with when you are holding a large number of cards in your hand.
Can I Play Poker With Bridge Size Cards?
Yes, of course you can. In fact, most professional casino poker rooms around the world use the bridge size cards due to their size, and their cost. Casinos go through cards very quickly, replacing decks many times a day. The bridge size cards are a bit cheaper than the poker size cards and this can add up quickly over time. Also, KEM, the top manufacturer for professional casino cards, sells mainly bridge size cards in their commercial lineups. It is a bit funny, bridge cards are used in poker rooms and poker cards are used for the other games like blackjack.
Should I Buy Bridge Size or Poker Size?
I think that depends on why you are buying the cards. If you are replacing a set of KEM plastic playing cards or COPAG plastic playing cards that you have had for a long time and are comfortable with, you may want to get the same size you had. If you are trying to re-create the look and feel of a true Vegas casino poker room, clearly bridge size is the way to go. As stated earlier, if you are just looking for a basic set of cards like Bicycle, Hoyle, Aviator, etc, you probably won't have the choice. An interesting point, if you are considering performing a bit of magic or illusion with your deck of cards, the larger poker size seem to be preferred.
One thing to consider is whether you will be playing card games that require large hands, like bridge, hearts, etc. In this case, the bridge size cards may be more versatile. It may take a little getting used to, but you may find that buying a set of high quality bridge size plastic cards is a great addition to anyone's overall gameroom and quality time toolbox.
What Next?
Visit our playing cards department and pick out a set to take home today. While you're there, browse through our casino supply section and get the accessories and supplies you need to bring the fun and excitement of Las Vegas right into your home.
It does not make much sense to say that poker size cards are preferred for sleight of hand. I train sleight of hand and it is much easier to do with reasonable size cards (bridge size)