How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck (And Actually Love It)
Buying your first tarot deck can feel overwhelming. There are thousands of decks out there, and they all look different. How do you know which one is right for you?
The good news: there is no wrong choice. But there are a few things worth thinking about before you spend your money. This guide will help you pick a deck you will actually enjoy using — not one that ends up forgotten in a drawer.
1. Start With the Art
This is the most important rule, and it is the simplest one: choose a deck that you find beautiful.
You will be looking at these cards every time you use them. If the art style does not attract you, you will lose interest quickly. Some people love dark, moody illustrations. Others prefer clean lines and bright colors. Some are drawn to Japanese-inspired artwork, others to classical European styles.
There is no objectively better style. Trust your eyes. If a deck makes you stop scrolling and look closer, that is a strong sign.
2. Check the System
Most tarot decks follow a system called Rider–Waite–Smith (or RWS for short). This is the most common structure, and almost every tarot guidebook, course, and app is based on it. If your deck follows this system, learning will be easy because resources are everywhere.
Some decks use a different structure (Thoth, Marseille, or completely original systems). These are wonderful too, but they can be harder for beginners because the card names and meanings may differ from what you find online.
Our recommendation for your first deck: go with a Rider–Waite-based deck. You can always add other systems to your collection later.
3. Think About Quality
A tarot deck is something you hold in your hands, shuffle, and spread out on a table. The physical quality matters more than you might think.
Here are the things that separate an average deck from a great one:
- Card stock thickness. Measured in gsm (grams per square meter). Standard playing cards are around 270–300 gsm. A premium tarot deck is 330–400 gsm. Thicker cards feel more substantial, shuffle better, and last longer.
- Finish. Matte finish has a soft, modern feel. Linen finish adds a subtle texture that makes cards easier to handle. Glossy finish is smooth but can stick together in humid weather.
- Edge treatment. Some decks have gilded edges (gold, silver, or colored). This is mostly decorative, but it looks stunning and protects the edges from wear.
- Foil details. Metallic foil stamping on card backs or borders adds a premium feel. Gold foil on a dark background catches light in a way that photographs cannot fully show.
You can absolutely start with a basic deck. But if you want something that feels special in your hands, pay attention to these details.
4. Read Reviews from Real People
Before you buy, look for reviews from people who actually own the deck. They will tell you things the product photos cannot: how the cards feel, whether the printing is clear, whether the box is sturdy, and whether the deck lives up to expectations.
Pay special attention to reviews that mention how the deck looks in real life compared to photos. Screen colors can be misleading, and a deck that looks amazing online sometimes looks different in person. Good reviews from verified buyers are the most reliable source of information.
5. Do Not Overthink the Guidebook
Many decks come with a printed guidebook that explains the meaning of each card. This is helpful but not essential. You can find the meaning of any Rider–Waite card with a quick online search or a free app.
A printed guidebook is a nice bonus, especially if it includes notes from the artist about their creative choices. But it should not be the main reason you pick one deck over another.
What If I Want to Use It as a Gift?
Tarot decks make surprisingly great gifts. They are personal, beautiful, and a little unexpected. If you are buying for someone else, here are some tips:
- Choose a deck with artwork that matches the person’s taste, not yours.
- Look for decks that come in a sturdy, attractive box — it makes the unboxing experience feel special.
- A Rider–Waite-based deck is the safest choice if you are not sure what the person prefers.
- Some stores offer free shipping over a certain amount, which can make a bundle of two items more appealing.
Your first tarot deck does not need to be perfect. It just needs to be something you feel drawn to. Look at the art. Touch the cards if you can. Read a few reviews. And then trust your instinct.
Most tarot collectors will tell you the same thing: their first deck was not their last. But it was the one that started everything.
Still deciding? Take a look at our full collection. Every deck is designed with care, printed on premium stock, and shipped worldwide.