See full list on pokercentral.com. OTRON Playing Cards, Poker Size Standard Index, 12 Decks of Cards (Blue or Red), for Blackjack, Euchre, Canasta, Pinochle Card Game, Poker Cards, Casino Grade. 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,053 $11.95 - $22.95. The poker bot must take into account only the chip stacks of the players at the table, the size of the blinds, the position and the two hole cards. With the Independent Chip Model ICM he can convert the chip equities into dollar equities and determine – based on an assumption on the calling and pushing ranges of the opponents, the optimal.

1. Best Poker Cards Brand
2. Best Poker Cards

If you are more likely to host a poker game in your homes, then you need to play Poker with Premium Poker playing Card Brands. You need to feel that pleasure and comfort while playing the games. Since you’re going to play the games for a long time, good quality playing card brands will help you immensely in that.

If you’re smart enough then you need to avoid using those cheap playing card brands. Even the cards used in the top casinos are not that costly. You can easily afford them at low costs. So, take my advice and play poker with decent cards which are easily affordable. Don’t be hesitant to spend some few extra bucks for these premium playing card brands. They are definitely going to be worth it.

Card Specifications

Before we get into the top 5 playing card brands, there are certain specifications that need to be understood. Those are as follows:

1. Playing Card Size: The card size matters a lot when you play poker. It should feel comfortable while playing. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort while dealing the cards, or even while playing. I have mentioned only those playing card brands which are of perfect size to play poker. You guys no need to worry about it. You can buy the brands that I have mentioned any day.
2. Readability: This is another factor that is going to affect the gameplay. When we talk about readability, we talk in the index of cards. Index of the cards is basically the size of the numbers or letters on the face of the card. There are two types of index in playing cards. Standard Index and the Jumbo Index. Most of the Casios prefer the Jumbo Index cards since it is easy to read and look through. Standard Index would be hard to look at for any player who is new to the game.
3. Texture: Texture is probably the most noticeable feature between good quality cards and the bad quality ones. You should be able to shuffle the cards easily. The cards should not slip from hands at any time. Also, the thickness of the cards should be comfortable as to at least hold the cards easily. Some people like playing with really thin cards, while others not so much. I personally like to play with really thin cards. For me, it’s easy to hold and shuffle if it’s thin. Among the playing card Brands that I have mentioned KEM playing cardsare the thinnest playing card brands that you can purchase in the market.
4. Graphics and Design: This is an added bonus if the playing cards are good looking. The design should be simple and good looking. The colors from the back should not reflect too much. Or, the colors shouldn’t be too bright for any players to get irritated from it. Rest assured, the playing card brands that I have mentioned have really good graphics and design.

Okay, now we know what we can expect from these brands, let’s get straight into top 5 playing card brands to play poker.

My top 5 Playing Card Brands for Poker

1. KEM Playing Cards

KEM Playing Cards are the best card brand there is to play poker or any other card games. They produce one of the finest cards in the world. They might be a bit on the premium end, but they boast with features that none of the other card brands out there have.

This is the reason they are now used in almost all the casinos in the world. Also, most of the tournaments that happen use this card brand now. The World Series Of Poker that happens all over the world uses KEM to play the game. There are several reasons why they use them. I am going to list the features of KEM why it is so good and is used in WSOP as their card brand.

Features:

1. 100 percent cellulose acetate plastic – It is a unique blend of paper and plastic that provides superior flexibility and strength. You don’t get this in any other card brands.
2. Scuff and Break-Resistant – They are extremely durable and break-resistant. That is, it won’t get bent or torn that easily.
3. Water Proof – They are completely waterproof. If you accidentally drop it in water, then the cards are going to be fine. Also, you can wash off the dust if any with water.
4. Card Size – Height: 3.63” Width: 2.38” Depth: 0.69. These are perfect dimensions to play any card games.
5. Hard black plastic Kem box – You can store the cards with the Hard Plastic Box it comes with. It is really of good quality and is also durable.
6. Index – They come in both Standard Index as well as the Jumbo Index. You can choose the ones that suit you.
7. Texture – They come in complete plastic material. You won’t have any troubles shuffling the deck or even while dealing the cards. They are really good and it feels really nice to hold them in hands.

All these features make the KEM Playing cards one of the most trusted playing card brands there is. I personally really like these Jumbo KEM Cards. It is really easy to read. But, for those who are into Regular Index Cards can buy from here.

2. Copag Playing Cards

Copag is another card brand that is well recognized in all card industries. These card brands are unique in their own way. These cards are perfectly suited to play games like Texas Hold’em. They have the right dimensions that make them a perfect fit to play poker.

Also, these cards come in both Jumbo Index and Standard Index. And, these cards are cheaper than KEM cards. But, these cards are a bit thick compared to the KEM. It again depends on the preference of your own. As I said earlier, I like playing with thin cards, hence I would go with KEM even though they are a bit expensive than Copag. Now, let us take a look at the features that these card brands provide.

Features:

1. 100% plastic playing cards – These cards come in 100% plastic and is really easy to hold and deal the cards.
2. Card Dimensions – 2.5-by-3.5-inches (W x H); 1546 design. As I said, perfect for playingTexas Hold’em.
3. Washable – These cards are not fully waterproof. But, can be washed with a wet cloth without worrying anything.
4. Hard plastic storage and carrying case – These come with Hard Plastic storage to store the cards. These cases are really strong and durable.
5. Long-Lasting–Expected to last from 20 to 50 times longer than regular paper cards.
6. Index – They come in both Standard Index as well as the Jumbo Index. You can choose the ones that suit you.
7. High Flexibility – These cards are resistant to bending and tearing.

All these features make the Copag one of the worthy playing card brands. Again these cards come in both Regular and Jumbo variants. You can choose the ones you’re comfortable playing with.

3. Bee Playing Cards

Bee Playing Cards is another premium playing card brands that offer really good playing cards to play poker and other card games. These cards are really stylish and have an antique look to it.

Even these cards can be found in a lot of casinos. Dealers love the snap sound that the cards produce. It is really satisfying. Also, these cards are smooth and are really easy to shuffle. If you want to recreate the feeling from the casinos, then these are the best cards to purchase.

Let us take a look at the features that makes these cards special.

Features:

1. Dimensions– 6.5 x 1.7 x 9 cm. Again perfect dimensions for playing card games.
2. 100% plastic playing cards – These cards come in 100% plastic and is really easy to hold and deal the cards.
3. Index – They come in both Standard Index as well as the Jumbo Index. You can choose the ones that suit you.
4. High Durability – These cards are made from plastic and are extremely durable and long-lasting.
5. Texture – These playing card brands don’t come with too thick of a texture. They are in between the Copag and KEM. Also, the softness from the cards makes it easier to hold and shuffle.

These features make these playing card brands really good. The only let down is that these cards don’t come with hard protective cases like the ones KEM and Copag offers. Other than that, these cards are really good. You can purchase eitherStandard or the Jumbo Index as per your choice.

Fun Fact: They were first manufactured by the New York Consolidated Card Company in 1892, hence the number “92” on the Ace of Spades.

4. Modiano Playing Cards

Modiano Playing cards a really good premium gaming card brands which offer a lot of Premium features. These playing card brands were used in the 2015 WSOP tour. These cards are good for playing poker or even if you’re a magician. They have that feel to them that makes you feel good when holding the cards in your hands.

Their plastic material makes it easy to shuffle and to deal with the cards. As I mentioned earlier, plastic cards tend to last longer. And this is no exception. They can last 50-100 times longer than the paper-based or plastic-coated playing cards.

Now let us take a look at the features that make this such a good playing card brands.

Features:

1. 100% plastic playing cards – These cards come in 100% plastic and is really easy to hold and deal the cards.
2. Index – They come in both regular index and Jumbo Index as per your needs.
3. Proprietary platinum acetate – These make Modiano last longer and non-degradable.
4. Washable – These cards are not fully waterproof. But, can be washed with a wet cloth without worrying anything.
5. Dimensions – 3.5″ x 2.25″ for regular Index. 2 1/2″ X 3 1/2″ for Jumbo Index.
6. Hardshell case – Comes in Hard Shell Case to keep you playing cards safely.

These features make the Modiano playing card brands one of the best. It again comes down to your preferences. These cards are usually thick compared to KEM and Copag. But, really good at playing cards overall. If you want to buy the WSOP cards used in 2015, then you can purchase them from here ( Standard Index). If you’re looking for Jumbo Index, then you can purchase from here (Classic Da-Vinci Edition).

5. Tally-Ho Playing Cards

Tally-Ho playing cards are comparatively cheap than the other playing card brands that I have mentioned. That doesn’t make them bad. They are still really good quality playing cards in the end.

These cards are good to play poker. But even more, if you’re a magician. Their Linoid finish gives the magicians ease of card manipulations. Overall they are excellent for every card games you play. They too come in both Regular Index and Jumbo Index.

Let’s look into the features further to tell why they are special playing card brands.

Features:

1. Dinension – 8.9 x 13 x 1.8 inches.
2. Texture – These playing cards are smooth, but not slippery. Perfect for playing cards. They come in handy while shuffling and dealing the cards.
3. Long-Lasting – These cards are pretty durable and scratch-resistant. These make the cards last longer and more durable.
4. Graphic design – The design on these cards is just really good and pleasing to the eyes. The print, cut, and finish make Tally-Ho playing cards a great choice
5. Index – They come in both regular index and Jumbo Index as per your needs.

These features make Tally-Ho a great choice of playing card brands there is. For anyone looking for purchasing, they can purchase from here.

Summary

All in all these playing card brands are fantastic and will last longer than any other card brand there is. I personally like the KEM playing cards, because of the thin cards they provide. But, it is all up to you to decide which brand suits you the best.

I would also suggest that please don’t be hesitant to spend some few extra bucks for these brands. Because trust me you’ll notice a huge difference from the regular playing cards. In terms of look, texture, and durability all these brands are superior from those cheap playing card brands. Also, please don’t go and buy those bicycle brand. It is really cheap and for a reason. They don’t last long and you won’t feel good while playing with those cards.

Popular FAQ’s

What is the best brand of playing cards?

The best playing card brand is KEM playing cards. They are really good to play any card games in general. But, it is really good to play poker in specific. They have the right thickness and the texture to play poker. Also the right dimensions make KEM a really good choice of brand to play poker.

Are plastic playing cards better?

Best Poker Cards Brand

100% Plastic playing cards offer important advantages over plastic-coated paper playing cards. 100% plastic cards are more durable and last longer in general. They also come with smooth texture where it'll be easier to shuffle and deal with the cards.

Do casinos use plastic cards?

Yes, most of the casinos use 100% plastic cards. It also makes difficult for players to cheat of any sort by bending the cards or by marking it.

Are plastic playing cards waterproof?

Not all card brands are waterproof with plastic cards. KEM, for example, is 100% waterproof. But other card brands like Copag is washable with the wet cloth, but not fully waterproof.

I am the owner of the site rohithebbar.com. I love playing poker and other card games.

When hosting a poker game, the quality of the deck of playing cards you employ is an important key to the enjoyment of your players. Flimsy, low-quality cards are to be avoided at all costs. There really is no reason to be a cheapskate on this front, since even high-end casino quality decks of cards are really not that expensive. Take my advice, spend the extra few bucks, and purchase some good looking quality playing cards.

The 3 best quality playing card brands

Now let’s go through the types of playing cards so that you know what types to avoid and which to choose.

Types Of Playing Cards

There are basically two types of construction used in making playing cards. There is vinyl, sometimes plastic coated, decks of cards and 100% plastic cards. The former is the cheap kind of cards that you find in any typical department store. While they are inexpensive, they are generally constructed of cheap materials and subject to being bent or torn easily. The most common brand associated with this type of card is Bicycle. Avoid these cards at all costs!

To that end, this article will focus on my favorite three brands of high quality, durable playing cards. Let’s go through them in turn.

The Top Playing Card Brands

#1. KEM Playing Cards

The most expensive brand. The preferred card used at the WSOP & WPT. Extreme durability, the brand that all other cards are compared to.

#2. Copag Playing Cards

A less expensive, a bit lighter, high-quality card. They are a bit more slippery but are the best alternative to KEM. My personal favorite.

#3. Modiano Playing Cards

The least expensive of the three. A very nice option if you like a bit more weight or heft to your cards. A bit different than the other two, but Italian quality makes them worth a look.

Reviews

1. KEM

The most expensive brand of the three. Manufactured out of 100% Cellulose Acetate, KEM playing cards are the most common quality deck of cards in the world. In fact, most casinos and card rooms employ this brand. This is also the card used in the WSOP and WPT.

These cards are a bit thinner than their competitors, but not so much as to cause a problem. They are not “slippery” at all and the top cards do not slide off when you set them down. This is one of the most noticeable traits of any good deck of playing cards. KEM cards are also are known to have legendary durability. There’s a reason casinos use these cards, they last a long time! You would likely go through 10 or more decks of Bicycle cards before wearing these out.

Get these KEM cards (Click see them on Amazon) if you want to play the cards “seen on TV” or in casinos. Also available jumbo index, which I highly recommend due to their enhanced readability.

2. Copag

Copags are my personal favorite and reasonably priced as well. The flexibility and thickness just seem to strike the right balance. They are slightly more slippery than the other high-end brands, but not in an annoying way.

There is not much in the way of texture to the surface and they have an overall lighter weight to them, which I find appealing. In my opinion, these cards shuffle the best and just exude quality and are perhaps the favorite of top players around the world.

My advice is that if you are unsure of which brand to try, go with Copag. Try these black and golds, my favorite deck color. Or, if this is your first time purchasing Copag cards, I recommend that you buy the dealer’s kit, which comes with nice buttons for the button, small blind, and big blind. Also available with jumbo index.

3. Modiano

As the least pricey quality brand, Italian made Modiano cards are thicker and heavier than all of the other brands of high-end playing cards, with a more “hefty” feel to them. It takes some getting used to these cards if you have been using other high-end brands.

They are not as smooth and many variations have a sort of light texture to them. Often, people either love or hate Modiano playing cards, due to their noticeable differences to what most people may be used to. I advise that you only try this brand out if you like cards with a bit more weight to them.

Overall, these are awesome decks of cards. I recommend trying out the Da Vinci Ruotes regular or jumbo index, I think you will really like them.

When it comes to purchasing the best playing cards for hosting the perfect poker night, here are a few things to consider.

• Playing Card Size
  There are numerous different sizes of playing cards, but the vast majority of non-standard sized cards are just manufactured for novelty cards. When it comes to quality playing cards, you have two basic options; poker size (2.5″ x 3.5″) or bridge size (2.25″ x 3.5″). Unless you just happen to like slightly narrower cards, I would just stick to the standard poker sized cards. Otherwise, your buddies might tilt their heads slightly on the first hand of the poker night and say, “something isn’t right here.”
• Glare
  Having meticulously compared all 3 brands, I don’t feel glare is an issue on any of them. However, if you just go by how shiny the cards are I would say that KEM reflects light the most, with Copag having the dullest sheen of them all. Modiano cards fall somewhere in the middle. If you play with a lot of bright lights in your poker room and glare is a genuine issue for you, I would go with the Copags. However, I am fairly confident that glare should not be an issue with any of the three. To put things in perspective, tons of casinos use KEM cards and I haven’t ever heard anyone complain about the glare on them. It’s just not a huge concern.
• Readability
  When players discuss the size of the playing card, they are sometimes talking about the index. What that basically means is the size of the numbers or letters on the face of the card. It’s all about personal preference, however, casinos and a lot of professionals prefer the jumbo index size, due to how much easier they are to read further away. Nothing is worse than being at the end of the table and having the flop, turn, and the river being spread out at the opposite end of the poker table. For most people, trying to read regular index would be next to impossible. Therefore, I recommend erring on the side of purchasing jumbo index.

• Feel, Texture, & Thickness
  This is another thing that is all about personal preference. KEM cards are the thinnest of the set and Modiano is the thickest. Copags are the most slippery and Modiano the least, generally due to their heft and slight texture on the face of the cards. KEM feels lighter with almost a “papery” feel to them but still doesn’t have issues sliding around when the deck is set down. Long story short, if you want the feel of cards from the casino, get some KEMs. If you like more heft and texture, try Modiano. Personally, I prefer Copags since they bridge the gap between the variations. Overall, all 3 brands shuffle smoothly and handle very nicely when being dealt.
• Graphics & Back Designs
  As far as the design, graphics, and general look of each brand, KEM, Copag, and Modiano, are all beautifully made cards with a sophisticated and professional look. They all look high quality in every way. I don’t think anyone at your poker game is going to be disappointed, no matter which you choose.

4 Color Options

Summary

Having a poker night is all about the poker and playing cards are the tools of the trade. They are an investment in the fun factor of your home game and should not be overlooked when planning the event. A lot of people focus on having a great poker table or professional poker chips and forget the most important part.

Please, for the love of the poker Gods, do not show up with cheap Bicycle playing cards at your next poker night. You playing partners will thank you for it and think you are the classiest guy around.

Best Poker Cards

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to browse my other articles for more poker information.