Choosing a Tarot Deck: 7 Tips to Find the One That Clicks
Picking your first—or next—tarot deck feels personal. The art has to stir something, the cardstock has to feel good in your hands, and the whole package needs to invite you back again and again. Here are seven practical ways to narrow the search and walk away with a deck you will actually use.
1. Start with the art
Lay thumbnails of several decks side by side and notice which images pull your eyes first. Color palette and illustration style matter more than you think. If a deck makes you linger, that is a green flag. If the art feels off, no amount of praise will change the vibe.
2. Check how close it stays to Rider-Waite
Most guidebooks, tutorials, and online meanings are based on the Rider-Waite-Smith system. For easier learning, pick a deck that keeps the same basic scenes, even if the artist updates the look. A more abstract deck can wait until you are fluent in the basics.
3. Hold the cards if you can
Cardstock thickness, matte versus glossy finish, and edge gilding all change how a deck shuffles. Thick cards last longer but may bridge poorly if you have small hands. If you cannot test a deck in person, watch unboxing videos or read user reviews before you buy.
4. Read the guidebook sample pages
A solid little book saves you endless Googling. Look for upright and reversed meanings, suit summaries, and at least a few beginner spreads. If a deck’s guidebook is vague or skimpy, you will be leaning on outside sources from day one.
5. Check community buzz
Browse #TarotDeck hashtags on Instagram or TikTok to see how readers use the deck. Real photos show card size, edge wear, and how the images look in natural light. Community chatter also hints at long-term satisfaction or common complaints.
6. Consider your purpose
If you plan daily draws for journaling, go for imagery that sparks feelings and stories. If you want to read for friends at parties, a deck with bright art and inclusive characters might feel more welcoming. Matching your deck to your reading style keeps sessions smooth.
7. Try a deck interview spread
Pull the deck’s sample images into a digital layout and run a quick six-card “deck interview” spread: What can you teach me, how do we work together, what is your strength, and so on. Notice your gut reactions. If the cards speak clearly even in preview form, you have likely found a match.
Ready to shop?
We curated a lineup of evergreen bestsellers and indie gems on our Decks page at /decks. Each listing includes photos, a short review, and an Amazon link if you decide to pick one up. Not sure where to start? The Rider-Waite-Smith, Light Seer’s, and Modern Witch decks remain friendly first choices.
For a deeper dive into deck care, cleansing rituals, and storage tips, head over to our Tarot Guide at /guide.
Final thought
The best deck is the one that makes you want to shuffle it every day. Trust your eye, listen to your gut, and remember that you can always add more decks as your practice grows.