Plastic Cards Or Paper Cards

This is the most frequently asked question in the playing card business, which is better a paper based playing card or a plastic based playing card? Let us consider the facts in order to answer this question.

Paper playing cards have been in existence probably since the first playing card was invented. It has always been the material of choice for the required properties of these things, which is flexibility, for easy shuffling, and portability, it can be carried in a pocket or purse.

Paper cards usually consist of 1 to 3 plies of card stock material then coated over with varnish. This layer serves as protection not only for the card but also for the print that is marked on the surfaces. But this coating does not last forever. The friction scrapes the coat little by little as the cards are handled & shuffled. Eventually the edges become frayed as well as the surfaces scratching off the printing.

The varnish does not make the cards waterproof so that spilling your drink on them will eventually soak it. Neither can you wash it to take off the food residues left by messy fingers or any other grime that soils it.

Paper cards are not that durable. It is not uncommon for players to leave creases or identifying marks on the cards. Or perhaps the tension of the play makes them unconsciously grip the card tightly leaving crinkles or folds. Once the creases and folds appear, the cards won’t be suitable for playing. Usually, casino dealers change decks even before the cards become ruined.

Plastic cards, on the other hand, do not have similar disadvantages as the paper ones. These cards are very glossy making it easy to handle almost as if there is a cushion of air between the cards. And this surface does not wear out as quickly as the paper cards. They will provide the ease of dealing and shuffling especially during tournaments. Even when the printing has already worn out, the card is still as firm as it had been when it was new.

Plastic cards are extremely flexible, snapping back to its original shape after being bent. This material can withstand the abuse of players and is not vulnerable to folds and creases.

These cards are washable, once soiled it can be cleaned with soap & water and they are waterproof. They do not soak up the dampness of a wet camping table or spilled drinks.

The disadvantage of plastic cards is that they do not have the texture of paper. Amateur dealers would feel clumsy handling them.

The option of plastic cards comes out cheaper because it doesn’t have to be replaced often. Of course, plastic is not environment friendly.