Top Loader Size Guide: Points, Thickness and What Fits
What 35pt, 55pt, 75pt and 130pt actually mean, how to match a top loader to a card, and when a semi-rigid holder is the better choice.
Top loaders confuse people because the number on the pack does not describe the length or width. It describes thickness, in points, where one point is one thousandth of an inch.
The point scale
- 35pt — a standard single card, sleeved or unsleeved. This is the default.
- 55pt — a thicker card, or a standard card in a double sleeve.
- 75pt to 100pt — patch, relic and jersey cards.
- 130pt and up — thick memorabilia cards and multi-card stacks.
Length and width are almost always 3 x 4 inches, so you are choosing thickness only.
Choosing the right one
Measure the card, or if you cannot, use the rule of thumb: a card that slides in and out with a tiny amount of friction is in the right holder. A card that has to be pushed is in one that is too thin and risks damage on the way in. A card that rattles is in one too thick, and rattling is movement, and movement is wear.
Always sleeve the card before it goes into a top loader. The hard plastic edge of a top loader can scuff an unsleeved card surface.
Top loader vs semi-rigid holder
Semi-rigid holders (the ones grading companies ask for) flex slightly and are designed for submission and transit, not display. They are easier to load and unload without damaging a card, which is why they are the standard for grading submissions.
Top loaders are stiffer and better for storage and shipping. They are harder on a card during loading, so patience matters.
Team bags
A top loader does not seal. Slide the loaded top loader into a resealable team bag if you want dust and moisture kept out, particularly for shipping.
When you should not use one
Do not store an entire collection in top loaders. They are bulky, expensive per card, and a box packed with them is heavy enough to press on the cards at the bottom. Use them for the cards that justify it and keep the rest sleeved and upright in a card box. Our trading cards and collectibles hub covers that wider storage setup.
Anime Realms protectors are still in development. Join the waitlist for the launch email.
Shop sealed anime cards →
Hand-packed Pokémon, One Piece, Dragon Ball and more. Ships in 1–2 days from Georgia.
Browse cards