Toploader PT Meaning: What it is and how it's measured.
Understanding PT (Point Thickness) to find the right toploader for your cards.
📏 PT Calculator: Find Your Perfect Toploader Size
Accepts decimals (0.035) or fractions (1/12)
What Does PT Mean for Toploaders?
PT stands for "point" — a standard measurement unit in the trading card hobby used to measure card thickness. One point equals 0.001 inches (one-thousandth of an inch).
Quick Formula:
1 PT = 0.001 inches
35 PT = 0.035 inches
55 PT = 0.055 inches
For example, a 15pt trading card is 0.015 inches thick — the standard thickness for most base cards from Topps, Panini, and Donruss.
Quick Toploader Size Guide
Select your card type to find the perfect toploader:
Standard Cards
Thickness: 35-40PT
Recommended Toploader: 35pt Toploader
Examples: Base Topps, Donruss, most NBA/NFL/MLB cards
How to Measure Toploader Thickness (PT)
Method 1: Using a Caliper
- Place card between caliper jaws
- Record measurement in inches (e.g., 0.035" or 1/12")
- Enter into calculator above (accepts decimals or fractions)
- Get instant PT recommendation with product link
Method 2: Stack & Measure
- Stack 10 identical cards
- Measure total height in inches
- Divide by 10 for single card thickness
- Enter result in calculator above
Always Use a Penny Sleeve First!
A penny sleeve is essential before placing any card in a toploader. It prevents surface scratches and protects card edges during insertion.
Why Card Shellz Easy Glide Sleeves?
Specialty Sized Toploaders
Not every collectible fits the standard 3x4" toploader. These protect oversized, mini, and unique items — from tobacco minis to full-size photos.
Each specialty toploader is archival-safe, rigid, and crystal-clear. Pair with Easy Glide Sleeves for a flawless fit.
Toploader PT FAQs
What is 35pt toploader meaning?
A 35pt toploader is designed for cards that are about 0.015-0.020 inches thick with some extra room for the penny sleeve. This is the standard size for most base trading cards including Topps, Panini, and Donruss regular issue cards. The '35pt' refers to 35 points of thickness.
What does PT mean on toploaders?
PT stands for 'point' - a unit of measurement equal to 0.001 inches. Toploaders are sized by PT to match different card thicknesses. A 55pt toploader has an opening for cards that is 0.055" wide and holds premium cards such as Chrome and Prizm.
Do all cards fit in 35pt toploaders?
No. While standard base cards fit 35pt toploaders, premium cards like Chrome, Prizm, and Optic need 55pt. Jersey patches need 100-130pt, and jumbo relics require 180pt or thicker toploaders.
What's the difference between 35pt vs 55pt toploaders?
The difference is 0.020 inches (20 points). 35pt toploaders are for standard cards, while 55pt toploaders accommodate thicker premium stock like Prizm and Chrome. Using the wrong size causes damage or loose protection.
How thick is a 100 pt toploader?
A 100pt toploader is 0.100 inches thick (1/10 of an inch). It's designed for thick cards like jersey patches, autograph relics, and thick insert cards. Most collectors need 130pt toploaders for comfortable fit with patch cards.
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