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For years, I let the process of grading sports cards intimidate me. I overthought every step, worried about doing something wrong, and ultimately put it off. But once I finally took the plunge, I kicked myself for not trying it sooner. If you’re feeling the same way, trust me—getting started is the hardest part!
For many, the first step is figuring out which company to grade with. While there are several options out there, the right choice depends entirely on your goals and preferences—and how well those align with what each grading company offers.
Factors When Choosing a Grading Company
Each grading company has its own strengths, specialties, and quirks, so understanding the differences can help you make the best decision.
Here’s what I consider when ranking the top sports card grading companies. Again, the weight of each factor will differ depending on whether or not you’re grading for your personal collection or grading to increase the value of a card.
- Resale Value: How much does grading with a company increase the value of a card?
- Turnaround Times: How quickly can you get your cards back?
- Cost: What are the grading fees, and how do they compare to the value added?
- Specialization: Does the company cater to specific needs, like vintage cards, thick cards, or autographs?
- Slab Design and Durability: The appearance and quality of the encapsulation matter for both resale and display purposes.
- Market Reputation: How trusted and respected is the company within the hobby?
With these factors in mind, I’ve created a ranking of sports card grading companies to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
Best Sports Card Grading Companies, Ranked
1. PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)
Let’s face it—PSA remains the gold standard for sports card grading, and is well-known for commanding (usually) the highest resale values. They have grading tiers that cater to a range of collectors and flippers, with competitive costs starting at $19.99 per card for the Value Service (for Collector’s Club members) or $24.99 per card for non-members; both of which have an approximate 45-business-day turnaround. Higher tiers like Regular ($74.99 per card) and Express ($149 per card) offer faster services, with turnaround times of 10 and 5 business days.
Resale Value: PSA-graded cards often command the highest prices in the market.
Turnaround Times: Historically, PSA has experienced longer turnaround times due to high demand, but they have been working to improve this aspect.
Cost: PSA’s grading fees are competitive, with various service levels to accommodate different needs.
Specialization: PSA is versatile, grading a wide range of sports and trading cards.
Slab Design: PSA slabs are clear and durable, with a straightforward and uncluttered label design.
Market Reputation: As one of the oldest grading companies, PSA holds a strong reputation in the hobby.
Overall, PSA is best for those wanting max resale value and don’t mind waiting a bit longer for their cards. When comparing values, look at PSA 10 vs. BGS 9.5, since BGS 10 cards are a lot more difficult to achieve than PSA 10 cards.
That said, it’s impossible to compare every card, and there are times when a BGS 9.5 sells for more than a PSA 10. So here is a snapshot of just a few examples. There are many variables, and I haven’t verified these sales, but according to Market Movers, you can see how much more a PSA 10 might sell for:
2. BGS (Beckett Grading Services)
Beckett is a trusted name, especially for modern cards and collectors who value subgrades. Fees start at $17.95 per card (with subgrades), which takes about 45 business days, while faster services can increase to $124.95 per card with a 2-3 business-day turnaround. Beckett’s slabs are known for their thickness and durability, along with clear display of the mentioned subgrades, adding transparency to the grading process.
Resale Value: BGS-graded cards usually don’t outsell PSA, but those with high subgrades or pristine 10, grades can be highly valued.
Turnaround Times: Like PSA, BGS offers various service levels to cater to grader needs.
Cost: BGS is slightly cheaper than PSA on the lower level, and can turnaround cards faster for less on the higher end.
Specialization: BGS is favored for modern cards, especially those with autographs or thicker memorabilia.
Slab Design: BGS slabs are known for their sturdy construction and clear labeling, with subgrades displayed prominently.
Market Reputation: Beckett has a long-standing presence in the industry, contributing to its solid reputation.
Overall, BGS is best for those who want more transparency with subgrades, along with those who want a chance at max value with a BGS 10. Meaning, because a BGS 10 is so hard to come by, when you get one, it can pay off. Here are some recent examples:
3. SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation)
SGC has built its reputation on consistent grading, relatively lower cost, and quick turnaround times. Their standard service costs $15 per card with an estimated 5–10 business days for processing, making it one of the fastest grading options available. Known for its distinctive black-bordered “tuxedo” slabs, SGC is a popular choice for vintage collectors while gaining traction in the modern card market.
Resale Value: SGC-graded cards have seen increased market acceptance, particularly for vintage cards.
Turnaround Times: SGC is known for offering faster turnaround times compared to some competitors.
Cost: SGC provides competitive pricing, appealing to both collectors and resellers.
Specialization: SGC has a strong reputation for grading vintage cards but is also gaining traction with modern issues.
Slab Design: SGC’s “tuxedo” black-bordered slabs are distinctive and appreciated by many collectors.
Market Reputation: SGC has built a solid reputation, particularly among vintage card enthusiasts.
Overall, SGC is best for those who want a quick grading experience at the best cost. $15 for a 5-10 day turnaround is really tough to beat.
4. TAG (Technical Authentication & Grading)
TAG is a newer player in the industry, leveraging technology to ensure precision and consistency. Fees can start as low as $15 per card for a 10-day turnaround. However, for the full TAG experience and their 1000-point QR score, the cost increases to $30 per card. TAG focuses on modern cards and emphasizes transparency, with detailed digital reports accompanying each graded card. Their sleek, tech-driven approach appeals to tech-savvy collectors and those looking for a modern alternative.
Resale Value: As a newer entrant, TAG-graded cards are still establishing their market presence.
Turnaround Times: TAG offers efficient turnaround times, leveraging technology to streamline the process.
Cost: TAG’s pricing is competitive, with a focus on providing value through technological innovation.
Specialization: TAG focuses on modern cards, utilizing technology to enhance grading accuracy.
Slab Design: TAG slabs are designed with a modern aesthetic, incorporating detailed grading information.
Market Reputation: As a newer company, TAG is building its reputation through technological advancements in grading.
Overall, TAG is best for those who want MAX transparency. For example, when you grade with PSA, the most you know is that the card was graded a 9, 10, etc. With BGS, you get a little more info on the four main grading factors via subgrades. But with TAG, you can better differentiate between a “high” 10 and a “low” 10.
5. Arena Club
Arena Club is carving out a niche in the grading space with competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Standard submissions cost $15 per card, and are returned in approximately 21 days. Arena Club emphasizes transparency and aims to streamline the grading experience. Their slabs are sturdy and visually appealing, designed to attract both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the hobby.
Resale Value: Arena Club is emerging in the market, and its graded cards are gradually gaining recognition.
Turnaround Times: Arena Club aims to provide prompt grading services, appealing to collectors seeking quicker results.
Cost: Arena Club offers competitive pricing structures to attract a broad range of collectors.
Specialization: Arena Club is working to establish its niche within the grading industry.
Slab Design: Arena Club’s slabs are designed to be both protective and visually appealing.
Market Reputation: As a newer entrant, Arena Club is in the process of building its reputation among collectors.
