Collectors often see PT (point or point thickness) listed on trading card supplies but aren’t sure what it means. PT is how the hobby measures the thickness of a trading card or holder. Understanding PT ensures you pick the right toploader for your cards—too small and your card won’t fit, too big and it slides around.
What Does PT Mean in Toploaders?
PT stands for “point,” a measurement of card thickness. One point is equal to 0.001 inches. A 35pt trading card is 0.035 inches thick. Most standard base cards from Topps, Panini, and Donruss fall into the 35pt range.
PT Guide: Card Type vs. Toploader Size
| Card Type | Approx Thickness | Recommended Toploader |
|---|---|---|
| Standard base card | 35-40pt | 35-40pt Toploader |
| Chrome/Prizm premium stock | 55pt | 55pt Toploader |
| Patch cards / relics | 100pt–130pt | Thick Toploader |
| Jumbo relics / Booklets (folded) | 180pt - 360pt | Thick Toploader |
Should You Use a Sleeve Inside a Toploader?
Yes. A penny sleeve is essential before placing a card in a toploader. Sleeves protect the surface from scratches and help guide the card into the holder without catching edges.
Our Easy Glide Soft Sleeves have notched corners for smooth insertion, making them the perfect partner for toploaders.
How to Measure Your Card’s PT
For thicker cards you can measure the cards thickness with a caliper or ruler and then convert that into point.
Example
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Card measures 1/8" = 0.125" = 125PT -> Buy 130PT toploader
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For thinner cards you can stack them and measure but in general standard base cards use 35pt and premium cards use 55pt.
FAQs
What does PT stand for?
PT stands for “point,” equal to one-thousandth of an inch.
Do all cards fit in 35pt toploaders?
No. Base cards do, but premium stock, relics, or graded cards need thicker holders.
Can I use the toploader for PSA or BGS submissions?
It's possible but not preferred. Semi-rigid are the preferred holder for graded card submissions but if you do use a toploader, we recommend our extra tall soft sleeves for easy removal of the card by the grader.
Final Word: Protect What You Collect
Knowing the right PT size means better protection and easier storage. Whether you’re sleeving Pokemon cards, sports rookies, or vintage sets, Card Shellz has you covered with:
Protect What You Collect—shop the full line of card protection supplies today.
