Buying sleeves for the first time throws up a surprising number of size questions: standard, perfect fit, inner, outer, small. Get it wrong and cards either won't go in or slide around loose. The good news is that Magic: The Gathering uses one standard card size, so the choice is simple.
The short answer: MTG cards measure 63 × 88 mm (2.5 × 3.5 inches). Standard sleeves, typically around 66 × 91 mm, fit them, and perfect-fit inner sleeves of about 64 × 89 mm go underneath for double sleeving. Small sleeves made for smaller card games won't fit.
What size are MTG cards?
Magic: The Gathering cards are 63 × 88 mm, or 2.5 × 3.5 inches. Many other collectible card games use the same standard size, so the same sleeves and deck boxes often work across games.
What size sleeves do MTG cards need?
Standard-size sleeves, usually around 66 × 91 mm. Exact dimensions vary slightly by brand, which is why some feel snugger than others. Any sleeve sold as standard size will fit.
What are perfect-fit sleeves?
Perfect-fit sleeves, also called inner sleeves, are cut to fit the card almost exactly, at around 64 × 89 mm. They go on first, with a standard sleeve over the top. Together they protect against moisture and dust far better than a single sleeve.
Will small sleeves fit MTG cards?
No. Small sleeves, sometimes sold as Japanese size, are made for smaller card games and are too narrow and short for MTG cards. If a pack says small, it isn't for Magic.
How do I double sleeve a card properly?
Slide the card into the perfect-fit sleeve, then put it into the outer sleeve upside down, so the inner sleeve's open end goes in first. The two openings end up at opposite ends, which seals the card in.
How many sleeves do I need for a Commander deck?
A Commander deck has 100 cards and many packs contain 100 sleeves, so buy a few extra for tokens and spares. If you double sleeve, you'll need the same number of inner sleeves too.
Matte or glossy sleeves?
Matte sleeves reduce glare and usually shuffle more smoothly, which is why many Commander players prefer them. Glossy sleeves show artwork vividly but can stick together and reflect overhead lights.
Does sleeve size affect which deck box I need?
Very much. Double sleeving makes a deck noticeably thicker, so a box built for 100 single-sleeved cards won't take the same deck double sleeved. SquadPod Slim is sized for a 100-card Commander deck in single sleeves plus ten tokens, and it also takes smaller 50- or 60-card decks double sleeved. Our guide to single versus double sleeving explains capacity in more detail.
Do sleeves change how cards shuffle?
Yes, for the better. Sleeved cards slide past each other evenly and don't get marked or bent. Our guide to shuffling a Commander deck covers technique.
Do sleeves stop cards curling?
They help by slowing moisture exchange, especially when double sleeved, but storage conditions matter most. Our guide to why MTG cards curl explains why.
How do I sleeve cards without damaging them?
Hold the sleeve open slightly, slide the card in straight rather than at an angle, and don't force the corners against the sleeve's edge. Sleeve on a clean, flat table and check each card sits fully inside before moving on.
How often should I replace sleeves?
When they split, go cloudy or start sticking together. Replace the whole deck at once so every card still looks identical from the back.
Are MTG sleeves interchangeable with other card games?
Often, yes. Card games that use the same standard 63 × 88 mm cards take the same sleeves. Check the card dimensions before buying, because some games use the smaller size.
Do sleeves make a deck taller as well as thicker?
Slightly. Sleeves add a few millimetres to the width and height of each card, and deck boxes are designed to allow for that. Outer sleeve dimensions are what matter when checking whether a deck will fit.
What sleeve should I use for my commander?
The same sleeve as the rest of the deck, so it never stands out if it ends up in your library, with a toploader for protection between games. Our guide to protecting your commander card covers the options.
SquadPod Slim Commander deck box
Holds 100 single-sleeved cards and 10 tokens in two side-by-side stacks, with your commander displayed in an included toploader behind the front window. Hinged lid, click-shut latch, five colourways.
More Commander guides
- How Many Cards Fit in an MTG Deck Box? Single vs Double Sleeving Explained
- How to Shuffle a Commander Deck Without Damaging Your Cards
- Why Do MTG Cards Curl? How to Stop Foil Cards Warping
- How to Protect and Display Your MTG Commander Card
Magic: The Gathering is a trade mark of Wizards of the Coast LLC. This is an unofficial guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Wizards of the Coast. SquadPod® is a registered trade mark of Blubbercove Ltd.