How to Choose a Tarot Deck: Finding the Right Cards

There are thousands of tarot decks. Which one should you choose? The deck that calls to you is the right one—but here's how to navigate the options and find cards you'll connect with.

Start with Rider-Waite-Smith

For beginners, the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) deck remains the standard. Most books and online resources reference it. Learning on RWS gives you a foundation that transfers to any deck.

The imagery is straightforward—each card tells a story. The symbolism is widely documented. You'll find endless resources explaining every card.

Deck Types

RWS-Based Decks

Follow the Rider-Waite structure with different art styles. Good for beginners because resources apply. Examples: Radiant Waite, Morgan-Greer, Universal Waite.

Thoth Decks

Based on Aleister Crowley's system. Different card names, astrological associations. More complex—better for advanced readers or those drawn to Crowley's work.

Marseille Decks

Traditional French style. Minor Arcana show symbols rather than scenes. Requires different reading approach—intuition over imagery.

Oracle Decks

No standard structure. Each deck has its own system. Can be simpler for beginners but doesn't teach traditional tarot. Good for intuitive reading.

What to Consider

Art style. Do you prefer classic, modern, fantasy, minimalist? You'll spend hours looking at these images— make sure you like them.

Card size. Larger cards are harder to shuffle. Consider your hand size. Standard tarot is already larger than playing cards.

Card stock quality. Thicker cards last longer but may be harder to shuffle. Linen finish shuffles smoothly. Glossy shows wear.

Diversity. Does the deck represent people like you? Many older decks feature only white figures. Modern decks offer diverse representation.

Theme alignment. Some decks have themes—nature, animals, mythology, pop culture. Choose something that resonates with your interests.

The best deck is the one you'll use. Don't worry about what's "proper" or "authentic." Your connection to the cards matters more than tradition. If a deck calls to you, that's your deck.

How to Browse

Online galleries: Search "[deck name] flip through" to see all cards
Local shops: Handle cards before buying if possible
Reviews: Read what other readers say about usability
Instagram/Pinterest: See cards in use by actual readers

First Deck or Fiftieth

First deck: Go with RWS or RWS-based. Build your foundation before exploring. You can always get more decks.

Expanding collection: Consider what's missing. Do you need a deck for specific purposes (love, shadow work)? Or are you drawn to a particular art style?

Red Flags

Decks with no guidebook and no online resources (hard to learn)
Decks where you strongly dislike several cards (you'll avoid them)
Decks with poor quality printing or card stock
Decks that feel "cool" but don't actually resonate with you

Trust Your Intuition

If a deck keeps appearing in your life—on Instagram, in shops, in conversations—pay attention. That's often the deck meant for you. Don't overthink the decision.

Buy the deck that excites you when you see it. The cards will meet you where you are. Your first deck won't be your last— this is the beginning of a collection, not a permanent choice.

Remember: tarot is a practice, not a possession. The deck is a tool. Your relationship with it develops through use, not selection. Choose, then read.