We sometimes are asked to explain the difference between bridge and poker size playing cards. You may be surprised to learn that the only real difference is the size: bridge size cards are about a 1/4 inch narrower than poker size cards. In fact, poker size cards sometimes are called "wide" cards while bridge size cards sometimes are called "narrow" cards.
Poker size cards measure approximately 3.5 by 2.5 inches (63 by 88 mm). Bridge size cards measure approximately 3.5 by 2.25 inches (57 by 89 mm). NTP of Italy makes a poker size card that is a little bit wider - about 3.7 inches wide - called the Long Life series. The extra width is a security feature used by casinos to make it more difficult for cheaters to hide cards in their palms.
Why the difference in size? Narrow - that is bridge size - playing cards are easier to shuffle for persons with smaller hands. So, they are preferred in games where women play because they typically have smaller hands. That being said, casinos usually use bridge size cards for Texas Hold'em and other games where the cards are shuffled by the dealer. Not only because casinos often use female dealers, but also because bridge size cards are a little easier to shuffle and pitch generally. In Blackjack, however, casinos will use a poker size card for several reasons. One is that a larger card makes it more difficult to cheat by hiding cards. Another is that the larger surface area allows for the printing of super jumbo or unique indexes that are easier to see by the dealer or recognize by specialized equipment. Plus the cards usually are dealt from a dealer's shoe. Interestingly, on the consumer side, the most popular style for Texas Hold'em is poker size.
One small difference between bridge size and poker size playing cards is that bridge size cards typically are sold in sets of two decks while poker size cards typically are sold as single decks. One reason is that two decks speed up play when there are multiple players. By shuffling two decks at the same time, one deck can always be ready for play, especially if there is a misdeal. Casinos actually purchase bridge size cards in two deck sets - called setups - just like bridge players do. It's not clear why poker size cards are sold as single decks. Perhaps the main reason is that they typically are point-of-sale items for the consumer market and single decks make less expensive, "impulse" items at drugstores, supermarkets and convenience stores. That being said, high end plastic poker size playing cards are increasingly sold as two deck sets.
In addition to bridge size and poker size playing cards, there are many other sizes for regional playing cards, tarot cards, and other specialized playing cards. But bridge size and poker size are by far the most popular sizes in the playing cards world.
Please keep in mind that there is no "right" card size - whatever size you are comfortable with is the right card size for you, regardless of which game you play. While serious card players like to debate the merits of bridge vs. poker size playing cards, you should experiment with different card sizes and choose the size that works for you and your fellow players. Good luck!
Bridge vs. Poker Size Playing Cards
