Pokémon cards measure approximately 63 × 88 mm, so they use standard-size trading card protection. The best setup depends on whether you are playing, storing, displaying or posting the card.
Soft penny sleeves
A penny sleeve is the basic first layer for a collectible card. Standard sleeves around 66 × 91 mm give a little room around a Pokémon card and help protect the surface from fingerprints and scuffs. Sleeve a card before placing it in a toploader, semi-rigid holder or binder pocket.
Perfect-fit inner sleeves
A standard-size perfect-fit sleeve is designed to sit more closely around a 63 × 88 mm card. Typical inner sleeves are around 64 × 89 mm. They are useful for double sleeving: place the card in the inner sleeve first, then insert it into a standard matte outer sleeve with the openings facing opposite directions.
Do not confuse “Japanese size” gaming sleeves with sleeves for Japanese-language Pokémon cards. Japanese-size sleeves are made for smaller cards such as Yu-Gi-Oh! cards. Japanese Pokémon cards are standard Pokémon size and need standard-size sleeves.
Toploaders
The common choice for an individually sleeved Pokémon card is a 3 × 4 inch, 35PT toploader. “35PT” refers to the holder’s card-thickness capacity. Always use a soft sleeve first so the card surface does not rub directly against the rigid plastic.
Magnetic holders
A 35PT magnetic one-touch holder is suitable for many standard trading cards. Check the fit with unusually thick cards, stickers or multiple sleeves. For display, keep cards away from prolonged direct sunlight even when the holder advertises UV resistance.
Semi-rigid holders and grading submissions
Semi-rigid holders are often preferred for postage and grading submissions because they flex slightly and hold the card securely. Follow the grading company’s current packaging instructions before submitting.
A simple protection setup
- Playing: standard matte sleeve.
- Binder storage: penny sleeve or perfect-fit inner sleeve.
- Valuable card storage: penny sleeve plus 35PT toploader.
- Display: sleeve plus magnetic holder or acrylic stand.
- Double sleeving: standard-size perfect-fit inner sleeve plus matte outer sleeve.
Browse our trading card protection and card displays for compatible options.