Grading explained: PSA vs. Beckett vs. CGC

For many collectors, it's not just about the card itself, but also about its condition and authenticity . That's where grading comes in: an independent assessment of your card by a professional grading company. The card is enclosed in a plastic slab, provided with a grade and a label.

But what are the differences between the three best-known grading companies: PSA, Beckett and CGC ?

What is grading and why is it important?

Grading determines the condition of a map based on factors such as:

• Surface: scratches, print lines or stains.

• Edges: whitening, chips or damage.

• Angles: sharp or curved.

• Centering: How symmetrically the artwork and edges are printed.

A higher grade means more value. A PSA 10 can sometimes be worth ten times as much as the same card in Near Mint .

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)

• Reputation: PSA is the most recognized grading company worldwide and often the standard in the market.

• Scale: 1 to 10, with 10 = Gem Mint .

• Advantages: high market acceptance, easy to sell, large database of graded cards.

• Disadvantages: strict turnaround times, sometimes long queues.

👉 PSA 10 stands for top quality and usually fetches the highest sales prices.

Beckett Grading Services (BGS)

• Popularity: Very popular with American collectors.

• Scale: 1 to 10, but with extra detail: subgrades (centering, edges, corners, surface).

• Advantages: Subgrades provide transparency; Beckett 10 “Black Label” is extremely rare and sought after.

• Disadvantages: somewhat more expensive, not always the same international recognition as PSA.

👉 A BGS 9.5 with strong subgrades can sometimes be worth more than a PSA 10.

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company)

• Popularity: Relatively new to Pokémon, but quickly gaining popularity.

• Scale: 1 to 10 with decimals (for example 9.5).

• Advantages: often cheaper and faster than PSA or Beckett, reliable slabs, transparent grading system.

• Disadvantages: slightly less market recognition for resale.

👉 CGC is a good option for modern cards or collectors who grade primarily for their own collection.

Which one should you choose?

• PSA: Best choice if you're looking for long-term value and marketability.

• Beckett: Ideal for those wanting subgrades and hoping for that legendary Black Label .

• CGC: accessible, cheaper and faster – a good entry point for modern cards.

Conclusion

Grading not only protects your Pokémon card but also increases its security and market value. Whether you choose PSA, Beckett, or CGC depends on your goals: investing, collecting, or simply enjoying a neat bib in your binder.

👉 Extra tip: Make sure your cards are clean and well-protected before submitting them. Use sleeves and toploaders to prevent damage.