Why you should grade your trading cards in 2026

 

If you look at your binder from when you were younger, you may notice that you have a rare card that is in excellent condition. Instead of selling it on eBay, you can get it graded, which in most cases can triple the card's value. The question that most people have is which service should you choose? I will go over four services in terms of strictness and how they operate, so that you know which one is best for your needs.

Why should you get your cards graded?

1.Its a great investment if you have a card worthy of investing in.

2. Permanent sturdy protection from slabs

3. Significant increase in value compared to ungraded cards

NOTE: Don't get a card graded unless you know it is in extremely good condition!

All grading prices listed are for single cards and not bulk.

 PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)

lowest cost to grade - $25 per card with a 4-month grading period

Pros

-Most recognized and accepted card grading company on the Market.

-can send in cards for grading through select GameStop's

-Has one of the highest resale prices.

Cons

- Longer times to process submission

-Many more Fees

-many documented instances of card damage

-known inconsistent grades

CGC (Certified Sports Guaranty

Lowest cost to grade - $20 per card with a 5-week grading period

Pros

-Most affordable submission fee/cost

-Significantly faster and more efficient grading process

-Much sleeker aesthetic

Cons

-Significantly smaller resale price compared to PSA

-The recent logo change has caused market confusion.

-Less time in the spotlight compared to other companies.

Beckett

Lowest cost to grade $17.95 per card with a 2-1/2-month grading period

Pros

-Black label 10's are the most valuable grade a card can get out of every company.

-Scores have detailed reasons for the chosen grade.

-No upcharge based on the card's worth

-Best option for autographed cards.

Cons

-Anything that is 9.5 and below is worth less than PSA 

-Strictest card grader around.

-Thicker and more tacky slab design

TAG (Technical Authenticity and Grading)

Lowest cost to grade $39 per card with a 1-month grading period

Pros

-Fast Grading times

-Scores have detailed reasons for the chosen grade, similar to Beckett.

-Best Slab Quality

-Consistency

Cons

-Cards are graded by AI (Clankers)

-Lower resale value

-Harder to sell on the market

-less reputable

Which company should you choose?

It depends on what you want to be graded. If you want value, choose PSA. If you have a good card in mint condition, you should choose Beckett. If you want affordable, choose CGC. It is up to you which company to choose and remember that you don't have to only get cards graded from a single company.