PSA vs BGS vs CGC: Pokemon Card Grading Service Comparison (2025 Guide)

Grading your Pokemon cards can dramatically increase their value and preserve them for the long haul. But with several grading companies out there, how do you choose the best grading company for Pokemon cards? In the world of trading cards, three names stand out: PSA, BGS, and CGC. PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and BGS (Beckett Grading Services) have been grading cards since the 1990s, while CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) is a newer player that quickly gained popularity among Pokemon collectors. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll break down PSA vs BGS vs CGC in terms of grading scale, turnaround time, resale value, reputation, and cost. Whether you’re a casual collector (kids, parents, newcomers) or a high-end investor, read on to find out which grading service is right for your Pokemon cards.

Why Grade Your Pokemon Cards?

Submitting your cards to a professional grading service means they’ll be evaluated, authenticated, and sealed in a protective case (often called a “slab”). But when and why should you grade Pokemon cards? Here are some key reasons and considerations:

• Preserve & Protect: Grading encases your card in a hard plastic slab, protecting it from wear, scratches, and environmental damage. This is ideal for rare vintage cards or prized collectibles you want to keep in pristine condition.
• Authenticate & Prevent Fakes: Professional grading companies verify that the card is genuine. The slabbed card comes with a certification number, giving buyers confidence that your Charizard or Pikachu isn’t a counterfeit.
• Increase Resale Value: A high grade (e.g., a PSA 10 Pokemon card) can multiply a card’s market value. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for cards graded Gem Mint by a reputable service. Grading can turn a $50 raw card into a $500 gem if it scores top marks.
• Aesthetic & Display Appeal: Graded cards just look professional. The uniform slabs make for an impressive display, and many collectors enjoy showing off a graded collection on a shelf or wall. It’s a great way for kids and adults alike to showcase their favorite cards.
• When to Grade (and When Not To): Not every card needs grading. Generally, you’ll want to grade cards that are valuable, rare, or highly sentimental. For inexpensive modern cards or well-played cards, the grading fees might cost more than the card is worth. As a rule of thumb, consider grading if you believe the card could grade well (e.g., PSA 9 or 10) *and* its likely graded value far exceeds the grading fee. For example, grading a first edition Base Set holo makes sense; grading a common recent card probably doesn’t.

Grading Scale & Standards: PSA vs BGS vs CGC

All three major grading services use a 10-point scale to rate a card’s condition, but there are some differences in their grading standards and notations. Understanding these differences is key to the PSA vs CGC vs BGS debate:

PSA Grading Scale (1–10)

• Grade Range: PSA grades Pokemon cards from 1 (Poor) up to 10 (Gem Mint). PSA does not use half-point grades like 9.5; only whole numbers are assigned.
• Gem Mint PSA 10: A PSA 10 is the coveted “Gem Mint” grade, indicating virtually perfect condition. PSA’s standards allow very slight imperfections even at 10 (for instance, very minor centering off by up to 55/45 is acceptable).
• Grading Philosophy: PSA is known for consistent grading but is sometimes considered slightly more lenient on centering and minor flaws compared to its competitors. This means getting a PSA 10 can be a bit easier for certain cards, which partly explains why PSA 10s are relatively common on modern cards. However, that leniency can be a pro for those seeking top grades, as PSA might award a 10 where another company might give a 9.5.

BGS Grading Scale and Subgrades

• Grade Range: BGS also grades on a 1 to 10 scale, but unlike PSA, Beckett includes half grades (e.g., 9.5 Gem Mint) and a detailed subgrade system. It’s possible to get grades like 9.5 or even 10 on a BGS label, based on subgrades.
• Subgrades: Beckett evaluates four subcategories for each card: centering, corners, edges, and surface. Each subgrade is scored out of 10. These subgrades are printed on the label (if you opt for subgrades service) and the overall grade is generally the average, with some rules (e.g., a card won’t get a 10 overall unless all subgrades are very high).
• Perfect Score – Black Label: BGS 10 “Pristine” is hard to achieve, but there’s also the legendary “Black Label” BGS 10 — which means all four subgrades are a perfect 10. Black Label Beckett cards have black trim on the label and are extremely coveted by collectors (often commanding sky-high prices due to their rarity).
• Grading Reputation: Beckett is often seen as very strict, especially at the higher end. BGS 9.5 is roughly equivalent to a PSA 10 in the eyes of many collectors. BGS’s detailed grading gives you more insight into a card’s specific flaws, which appeals to those who want full transparency on why a card got the grade it did.

CGC Grading Scale (New 10-Point System)

• Grade Range: CGC originally followed a similar scheme to BGS with 9.5 Gem Mint and optional subgrades. However, as of 2023, CGC revamped its scale: cards previously labeled 9.5 are now being labeled as CGC 10 Gem Mint. CGC still uses half-point increments for lower grades (such as 8.5, 9.0) and continues to offer subgrades for those who want them.
• Pristine/Perfect Grades: Under CGC’s system, a grade of 10 can have different distinctions. A basic CGC 10 (now Gem Mint) is achievable for many pack-fresh cards. There is also a higher label for exceptional cards: CGC 10 Pristine (and even a CGC Perfect 10 if all subgrades are 10). These are akin to BGS’s Pristine and Black Label tiers. A CGC Perfect 10 is extremely rare and signifies a flawless card by their standards.
• Grading Reputation: CGC gained a reputation for very strict grading, particularly on centering. Many collectors found that CGC was tougher on modern Pokemon cards, meaning a card that might squeak by as a PSA 10 could get a CGC 9 or 9.5. This strictness has earned respect among serious collectors. With CGC’s recent move to label more Gem Mint 10s (instead of 9.5s), their grading scale is more in line with PSA’s, potentially boosting CGC card values in the long run.

Slab and Label Design

Each grading company encases cards in a tamper-evident plastic holder (often called a “slab”) with a label displaying the grade and card details. The quality and look of these slabs can matter to collectors who display their cards. Here’s how PSA vs BGS vs CGC slabs compare:

PSA Slabs

• Size & Protection: PSA slabs are relatively slim and lightweight. They offer good protection against bending or handling, though they are a bit thinner than BGS and CGC slabs. PSA’s case design has been refined over decades to keep cards secure without being too bulky.
• Label Aesthetics: PSA labels have a clean, simple look – typically a white label with red trim and the PSA logo. The label includes the card’s name, set, number, and grade. While not flashy, PSA’s label is iconic in the hobby. Some collectors appreciate its simplicity and the fact that it doesn’t distract from the card.
• Stacking & Storage: PSA slabs have interlocking ridges that make them easy to stack neatly. Many report that PSA slabs stack more securely (less wobble) compared to other brands. The lighter weight also makes large collections of PSA-graded cards easier to handle or carry.

BGS Slabs

• Size & Durability: Beckett’s slabs are known for being thick and heavy-duty. They feel very solid in hand – arguably the most robust slab of the three. This bulk can be a pro for protection (it’s like a tank for your card) but can make storage a bit more space-intensive.
• Label Aesthetics: BGS labels come in different colors depending on the grade: typically a gold label for grades 9.5 and 10 (with a special black label for the perfect 10), and silver label for lower grades (or for BGS cards without subgrades). The label displays the subgrades (if selected) and overall grade. Beckett’s label and slab have a premium feel; a BGS 10 with a gold or black label really stands out visually.
• Stacking & Misc: BGS slabs do stack, but given their weight and thickness, they may not stack as snugly as PSA’s. They’re extremely tough (dropping a BGS slab, your floor might take more damage than the card!). One consideration: BGS cases have been known to have a tiny bit of inner card movement if shaken (especially if the card is thin), but generally they use inner sleeves to help with this. Overall, many high-end collectors love the sturdiness of Beckett slabs.

CGC Slabs

• Size & Protection: CGC slabs are a middle ground between PSA and BGS. They are thicker and heftier than PSA’s, but slightly less bulky than Beckett’s. They provide solid protection and feel quality-made. One notable difference is that CGC’s plastic is ultra clear, giving a crystal-clear view of your card (PSA and BGS plastic has a slightly frosted look along the edges).
• Label Aesthetics: CGC labels are typically blue (for their standard grading scale). The label includes the card details and grade, and if you opted for subgrades, those will be listed in smaller text. The design is modern and clean, though some collectors initially weren’t fans of the blue color. (In early 2023, when CGC integrated their sports and TCG grading under one umbrella, they introduced a refreshed label design, but the changes are subtle.) The important part is the info is clear and easy to read.
• Stacking & Misc: CGC slabs stack reasonably well, though like BGS, they don’t have as tight a fit as PSA when stacked. The clarity of the CGC case is often praised – your card almost looks like it’s floating without a holder. One thing to note: older CGC slabs had reports of being prone to scuffing or minor cracking if mishandled, but overall they hold up well. For many Pokemon collectors, the CGC slab’s balance of protection and clarity is a big draw.

Side-by-side comparison of Charizard VMAX Champion’s Path graded Gem Mint 10 by CGC, PSA, and BGS. Each slab showcases unique label design, grading standards, and collector appeal.

Turnaround Time & Grading Fees

How long it takes to get your cards back – and how much you’ll pay – are major factors when choosing a grading service. Let’s compare PSA vs CGC vs BGS turnaround times and costs (note: exact prices and times can change, but we’ll use general current figures as of 2025):

PSA Turnaround & Costs

• Turnaround Speed: PSA has improved its turnaround times after the huge backlogs of 2020–2021, but it’s still relatively slow for the cheapest service levels. Economy and bulk submissions (often only available to PSA Club members) can take around 2–3 months (60–90 days, sometimes more during busy periods). If you need speed, PSA offers higher tiers (Express, Super Express, etc.) which can range from ~5 days to a few weeks, but those are much pricier per card.
• Cost per Card: PSA’s pricing is tiered based on the service level and the declared value of your card. For example, as of 2025 the TCG Bulk rate (for trading cards) is about $19 per card (with a minimum quantity and requiring a membership) and has a value cap (e.g., cards valued under $500). The regular economy service might be ~$25–30 per card. Higher tiers like Express can be $75+ per card. PSA also charges more if your card’s value after grading bumps it into a higher category. While PSA’s lower-tier prices are fairly affordable, the membership fee (for bulk submissions) and upcharges on high-value cards are factors to consider.
• Additional Notes: PSA frequently runs specials or quarterly grading deals for members which can lower costs. However, if you’re an international collector (outside the US), shipping and import fees with PSA can add to the turnaround time and cost, since PSA is U.S. based (though they have opened some international offices). Overall, PSA is typically chosen when maximizing value is more important than saving a few bucks on fees or a few weeks of time.

BGS Turnaround & Costs

• Turnaround Speed: Beckett’s estimated turnaround for their standard service is often in the 1–2 month range, but in practice BGS has also faced delays during high-demand periods. They offer different service levels: e.g., a bulk or economy that might take 45+ business days, a standard around 20–30 days, and premium levels (express) that can be a few weeks or even days. Historically, BGS hasn’t been the fastest unless you pay for their premium tiers.
• Cost per Card: BGS recently updated their pricing to be more competitive. Base economy grading might be around $20 per card (sometimes even as low as $15 in promotions), which is similar to PSA’s bulk, and importantly BGS doesn’t require a membership for that price. However, that base price might not include subgrades printed on the label – adding subgrades can cost extra (many collectors opt for subgrades because it’s a signature feature of BGS). Higher tiers for faster turnaround or high-value cards can cost $50, $100 or more per card. One positive: Beckett does not usually charge extra for higher value cards (no “value upcharge” like PSA does), so for very expensive cards some prefer BGS’s flat fee structure.
• Additional Notes: BGS had a bit of turmoil in the past couple of years, with some collectors complaining about slower turnaround and less communication. They have been trying to catch up and win back business with new pricing and no required memberships. If you value the subgrades and might chase a Black Label, you might be willing to pay BGS’s premium. But if you’re on a tight budget or need a card graded fast, Beckett might not be your first choice unless you shell out for express service.

CGC Turnaround & Costs

• Turnaround Speed: CGC built its brand in part on offering faster turnaround times. In many cases, CGC can grade and return cards within 30 days or so for regular submissions. Even bulk orders (if you send a lot of cards) often come back in about 1–2 months, which has generally been quicker than PSA’s bulk. CGC also offers an express tier (at higher cost) if you need even faster service.
• Cost per Card: CGC’s prices have been very competitive, often the lowest of the big three. For example, a standard tier might be around $15 per card for cards valued under $500 (no membership required for basic pricing). They also allow bulk submissions (e.g., 50+ cards) at even lower rates, sometimes as low as ~$12 per card for large batches, making them great for grading lots of modern cards or sets. CGC does offer membership plans (paid annually) which can give small discounts and other perks, but unlike PSA you don’t need to be a member to submit cards at the regular rates.
• Additional Notes: Because CGC is newer in the card grading scene, they didn’t face the same overwhelming backlog initially, so they’ve maintained better turnaround times. However, as they grow in popularity, wait times have fluctuated. Still, in 2025 CGC is generally the speediest option for Pokemon card grading at the economy level. Lower fees and faster returns make CGC popular among collectors who have many mid-value cards (like modern Charizard VMAXes or promo cards) that they want graded quickly and cheaply. International collectors also benefit from CGC’s efficient process (they are based in the US but have partnerships for overseas submissions, and their shipping is pretty streamlined).

Resale Value & Market Perception

One of the biggest considerations for investors and collectors alike is how a graded card will perform on the secondary market. In other words, what’s the resale value of a PSA 10 vs CGC 10 vs BGS 9.5? And how do other collectors view each brand? Let’s break it down:

PSA: King of Resale

• Highest Market Prices: PSA-graded Pokemon cards typically fetch the highest prices. For instance, a Charizard or Pikachu in PSA 10 often sells for more than the same card graded 10 by another company. The market has long favored PSA for its consistency and brand prestige. High-end buyers, especially in the U.S., usually trust PSA grades the most, which translates to dollars when you sell.
• Popularity & Reputation: PSA was the first major card grading service and has graded over 40 million cards (across all TCGs and sports). They have an extensive population report online, and a huge collector registry community. This history means a lot of collectors “stick with what works” – PSA is a known quantity. The phrase “PSA 10” has almost become synonymous with a perfect card in the hobby. For better or worse, PSA’s name carries weight, and that adds a premium to their slabs.
• Liquidity: If you plan to resell, PSA slabs generally have the fastest sales and widest audience. Whether at card shows, on eBay, or in Facebook groups, you’ll find more demand for PSA-graded cards. This liquidity makes PSA attractive to investors – you know if you need to cash out, a PSA card will likely move quicker.

BGS: Niche Highs and Lows

• Black Label Premiums: Beckett’s resale value story is a tale of two extremes. On one hand, a BGS 10 (especially the Black Label 10) can sell for absolutely astronomical prices – often far exceeding what a PSA 10 would sell for. This is because the BGS Black Label is seen as an “ultimate pristine” card, and some collectors will pay a huge premium for that perfect label. For example, a modern Charizard in BGS Black Label 10 might fetch multiples of the PSA 10 price simply due to its rarity.
• BGS 9.5 vs PSA 10: On the other hand, the more common BGS grade for gem-mint quality is 9.5. Unfortunately for sellers, BGS 9.5 cards generally sell for less than PSA 10s of the same card. In many cases, a BGS 9.5 will be valued similar to a PSA 9 or somewhere in between a PSA 9 and PSA 10 price. This is partly because buyers know a PSA 10 is “all or nothing” whereas BGS 9.5 could indicate the card just missed that top grade.
• Perception & Usage: BGS remains highly respected for its accuracy and detail. It’s often the preferred service for certain segments, like some sports card collectors and those who love the subgrade transparency. In the Pokemon world, Beckett had a strong following for grading trophy cards and modern chase cards (especially during the boom) when people were chasing Black Labels. However, with some recent customer service missteps and slower turnaround, BGS has lost a bit of market share to PSA and CGC. It’s still considered a top-tier grader, but unless you get that golden 10, your BGS card might not outsell a comparable PSA.

CGC: Growing Respect and Value

• Lower Past Prices (Closing Gap): When CGC first started grading Pokemon cards (circa 2020–2021), collectors noticed that a CGC-graded card often sold for less than its PSA-graded counterpart. For example, a CGC 9 was usually cheaper than a PSA 9 of the same card, sometimes significantly so. This was largely due to CGC being new and collectors being unsure how to “value” their grades (and the fact that CGC 9.5s were not as familiar as PSA 10s).
• Recent Market Trends: Fast forward to 2024–2025, and CGC Pokemon card values have been climbing. The gap between CGC and PSA resale prices has been narrowing. Especially for modern cards and certain mid-tier collectibles, buyers are increasingly comfortable with CGC grades. The company’s decision to label Gem Mint as 10 (instead of 9.5) also helped, as now a CGC 10 carries more weight in the market’s eyes. You might see a CGC 10 sell near or even equal to a PSA 10 in some cases, depending on the card and the buyer.
• Perception & Niche: CGC has become a favorite among many Pokemon collectors due to its fast service and strict grading. Some fans will even say, “If it’s a CGC 9 or 10, you know it’s a really strong card,” implying they trust the rigor of CGC’s grading. The brand is especially strong in the TCG community (Pokemon, Magic, etc.), while it’s still growing in sports cards. As CGC continues to establish a track record, confidence in their slabs keeps improving, and so do the prices people are willing to pay. Still, as of 2025, a PSA slab generally edges out CGC in resale value, but CGC is not far behind and may be worth it when factoring in their lower grading fees.

Quick Comparison at a Glance:

Feature	PSA	BGS	CGC
Grading Scale	1–10 (no 9.5s or subgrades)	1–10 (0.5 increments, subgrades)	1–10 (0.5 increments; Gem Mint 10 used to be 9.5)
Slab & Label	Slim, lightweight; red label	Thick, ultra-sturdy; gold/black label	Medium thickness; blue label
Turnaround (Economy)	Slow (2–4 months)	Slow (1–3+ months)	Fast (1–2 months)
Cost per Card	Moderate ($18–30 with membership)	High ($20+; subgrades extra)	Low ($12–15 with bulk discounts)
Resale Value	Highest (PSA 10 is gold standard)	Varies (Black Label 10 is top-tier; others slightly lower vs PSA)	Rising (currently a bit behind PSA/BGS for 10s)

Pros and Cons of PSA, BGS, and CGC

We’ve gone over a lot of detail. To help summarize, here are the general pros and cons of each major Pokemon card grading company:

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)

Pros:

• Widely recognized and trusted brand – PSA graded cards have the broadest appeal among buyers.
• Highest resale values overall, especially for PSA 10 grades on key Pokemon cards.
• Huge population report and set registry community (great for tracking how many of each card exist in each grade).
• Consistent grading standards developed over decades.
• Slabs are slim, lightweight, and easy to store/display; PSA labels are simple and classic.

Cons:

• Turnaround times can be slow (months) at the affordable tiers, which tests patience.
• Can be expensive to grade, especially once you factor membership fees for bulk and upcharges on high-value cards.
• No subgrades provided – you only get a single number grade, which offers less insight into the card’s specific flaws.
• PSA’s slightly lenient grading on things like centering means not every “PSA 10” is absolutely perfect – some picky collectors might prefer a stricter standard.
• Popularity means high submission volumes, which in the past led to massive backlogs (PSA has largely caught up now, but it’s something to watch during hobby booms).

BGS (Beckett Grading Services)

Pros:

• Detailed subgrade system – you know exactly why your card got the grade it did. This transparency is great for learning about your card.
• The possibility of a BGS Pristine 10 or Black Label 10, which if achieved can significantly increase the card’s value (the allure of that black label is real!).
• Excellent slab quality – very sturdy, great protection for long-term preservation.
• No membership required to submit, and typically no upcharge for higher value cards (flat rate pricing can save money for expensive items).
• Respected name in the hobby (especially for sports cards and high-end modern cards); many veteran collectors have a soft spot for Beckett.

Cons:

• Grading fees are on the higher side if you want subgrades (which most people do for BGS). It can be pricier than PSA/CGC when comparing similar service levels.
• Generally slower turnaround at the lower price tiers; you often have to pay for faster service to get your cards back in a reasonable time.
• Resale value on anything less than a BGS 10 tends to lag behind PSA. For example, BGS 9s and 9.5s don’t sell as well as PSA 9s and 10s respectively, in most cases.
• Slabs are bulky – they take up more space and weight, which can make shipping or carrying large collections more cumbersome.
• Recent inconsistency and communication issues – some collectors feel BGS’s customer service and grading consistency have wavered a bit in recent years, leading a few to switch to other services.

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company)

Pros:

• Typically the most affordable grading option of the three – great for grading lots of cards without breaking the bank.
• Fast turnaround times, which means you get your cards back sooner and can sell or enjoy them without a long wait.
• Strict and consistent grading, especially on centering and surface – many trust that a CGC 9 or 10 truly earned that grade.
• Optional subgrades (if you pay extra) for more detail, but even without them, the grading notes are generally consistent enough that seasoned collectors can tell why a card got its grade.
• Slab has crystal clear plastic – displays the card beautifully. The blue label is distinctive and includes a lot of info clearly.

Cons:

• Market value slightly behind PSA for equivalent grades – you might not get quite as high a price selling a CGC 9 or 10 as you would with PSA (though this gap is narrowing over time).
• Less historical data – as a newer service, CGC doesn’t have the decades of hobby presence or the massive population report that PSA and BGS have (although they are quickly accumulating a large database of graded Pokemon cards).
• Changing scales – the recent change from 9.5 to 10 for Gem Mint might confuse some, and earlier CGC slabs with 9.5s exist, which could create slight inconsistencies when buying/selling if people aren’t aware of the update.
  
• Not as dominant in sports cards – irrelevant for Pokemon-only collectors, but worth noting if you also collect other trading cards. PSA and Beckett still lead in sports, whereas CGC’s strength is mostly in TCGs and comics.

Which Grading Service Is Best for Your Pokemon Cards?

So, PSA vs CGC vs BGS – which is the best grading company for Pokemon cards? The honest answer: it depends on your collecting goals and priorities. Each service shines in different areas. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:

• If you prioritize resale value or have a high-end investment card: Go with PSA. For trophy cards, vintage holos, or any card you plan to sell for top dollar, PSA’s wider market appeal will usually net you the highest price. High-end investors trust PSA’s brand the most.
• If you value having the absolute best condition label or love detailed feedback: Consider BGS. It’s the only way to chase a Black Label 10, which can make a card a centerpiece of any collection. Also, if you’re the type who wants to know the exact strengths and flaws of a card (thanks to subgrades), Beckett is a great choice. Many serious collectors will grade PC (personal collection) cards with BGS for the detailed info and impressive slab.
• If you want speed, affordability, and you’re grading modern cards (or a large batch): CGC is an excellent option. For set collectors, people who open a lot of packs and want to grade their pulls, or those on a budget, CGC offers the best value. You’ll spend less per card and get them back faster, which is also great for kids or newer collectors who are excited to see their cards slabbed without waiting half a year.
• For international collectors: All three services are U.S.-based, but PSA and CGC have been expanding globally (PSA has offices in Europe and Asia, CGC has international submission centers). If shipping to the US is a concern, look into which service has a partner or location nearer to you. PSA’s global reach is currently a bit more established, but CGC is catching up. Beckett also accepts worldwide submissions, but turnaround might be slower.
• If you’re unsure or just doing it for fun: If you simply want your favorite card graded as a keepsake (say, your child’s beloved Pikachu), any of the three will do the job of preserving and authenticating. You might lean PSA for the name recognition, or CGC if you want to save on fees. Sometimes, the answer might even be “whichever is running a special discount when you’re ready to grade” – all three companies occasionally offer deals.

In short, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. A high-end Charizard 1st Edition might be best with PSA, while a stack of latest-set Ultra Rares could be perfect for a CGC bulk submission. And if you’re chasing perfection, maybe send that one immaculate card to BGS and try for the Black Label glory!

Ready to get your cards graded or add some graded gems to your collection? OG Cards is here to help. Whether you’re investing in a piece of Pokemon history or starting a fun project with your kids, grading can enhance the experience – and OG Cards is happy to guide you every step of the way. Good luck, and happy collecting!