Graded cards combine a collectible card with an independent company's assessment and encapsulation. For buyers who are new to slabs, a few basics make listings much easier to understand.
What does card grading do?
A grading company evaluates a submitted card under its standards and, when accepted, encapsulates it with a label identifying the card and assigned grade. Major names encountered in the hobby include PSA, Beckett Grading Services (BGS), SGC and CGC.
Does the number mean the same thing everywhere?
Not exactly. Grading companies use their own standards and holders, so collectors should consider both the numerical grade and the company that assigned it. Some BGS labels can also display subgrades when applicable.
What should you check before buying?
Start with the listing title, photographs and grading-company information. Confirm the card, set, player or character, grade and grader shown in the listing match what you want. For higher-value purchases, collectors may also choose to verify certification information with the grading company when available.
Graded versus raw cards
A raw card has not been encapsulated with an assigned third-party grade. Neither format is automatically better for every collector. Graded cards can be convenient for collectors who value third-party assessment and protective encapsulation, while raw cards can offer a different price point and collecting experience.
Browse Pullexa's Graded Cards collection to see current slabs across sports and trading card games. If you are comparing sealed products instead, our hobby box versus retail box guide explains common formats.