However, if you're on a budget, you really can't go wrong with a double-deck of Bicycle Standard Playing Cards ( view at Amazon). We appreciate that the set comes with two standard-size decks and that each card is made of durable, flexible, and washable cellulose acetate. The best playing cards overall are KEM Poker Arrow Red and Blue Playing Cards ( view at Amazon). Without further ado, here are the best playing cards you can buy today. Poker players or magicians may need a higher quality deck than recreational players of Go Fish. The intended use of your deck of cards is key, according to William Kalush, executive director of Expert Playing Cards. And in many cases, a set of two decks is ideal. For others, design is of the essence, whether it's the artwork, text, or dimensions. For some, it's about the material-water resistance, thickness, ease of shuffling, or overall feel. Playing cards take up hardly any space, they're easy to take on the road, and there are nearly endless things you can do with them.Įven if you're not big on games or card tricks, it's nice to have a deck on hand in case the occasion arises. Whether you're a serious poker player, host regular game nights, like to play solitaire once in a while, participate in the occasional drinking game, or are trying to fine-tune a few magic tricks, you should have at least one quality deck of cards in your arsenal.