Pokémon Card Storage: Binders vs. Toploaders
Introduction
Binders, if not, are probably the longest-serving invention for Pokémon collectors as the cards themselves. You hope each card will encapsulate the exact feeling when you first unwrapped it, but promptly imprison your Pokémon into a transparent enclosure yet again.
I trust this process mainly for two reasons:
- Some cards are irreplaceable at first sight, and binders add to our reasonable precautions.
- Where else could you want to put these?
If you decide it is worth the investment to load your cards into a quality binder, congratulations—you made your first genuine purchase.
Although in terms of protection and display, my handed-down Snorlax ironically won't serve any justice for this blog.
Are Binders Worth Buying Over Toploaders?
For the record, top loaders are a non-official product sold by Pokémon.
One of the main advantages binders provide—something top loaders don't—is the ability to display your cards in an impressive miniature gallery. The design of a Pokémon card is one of its most attractive features, and how you display it is entirely up to you.
However, top loaders have evolved beyond their original purpose. Many online stores now offer UV-light coatings that protect the cards inside. I recommend top loaders over binders. Binders are suitable, but mainly for an expansive collection.
The Best Budget Options
Below, we’ve compiled a short list of binders available which will be good for
1. Game of Bricks – Mint Keeper 12 Pocket Premium Zip Trading Card Binder
You’ll be pleased to hear that Game of Bricks has its very own trading card binder on sale that are different from our competitors.
- Premium padded cover
- 20 double-sided archival-safe 12-pocket pages
- Black web material for a non-slip grip
- 480 side-loading pockets
- Zipped closure for added security
- No PVC / Acid-free materials
2. Mint Keeper – Standard Soft Card Sleeves (100 Sleeves)
Here, a purchased binder—let alone a card—is never fully complete without sleeve pockets. Buying these double with a top loader is highly recommended and will further increase the protection of your cards.
Having a bundle at hand while you unwrap your rare Pokemon cards will be incredibly useful in the long run.
- MintKeeper Standard Soft Sleeves are compatible with most standard size and thickness trading card games, providing an easy fit placing your cards into sleeves
- Measuring 67mm x 92mm and suitable for cards up to 63mm x 88mm
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Penny sleeves are best paired with MintKeeper Toploaders, Semi-Rigid and TCG Binders
- Manufactured from clear, acid-free polypropylene, these sleeves are compatible with Pokemon, Dragon Ball, MTG, Match Attack and many more
- Each pack contains 100 clear Soft Sleeves
3. MintKeeper – 252 Toploader Binder (9 Pocket)
If you're interested in another MintKeeper product, check this one out. It's a more compact upgrade, designed to fit inside most backpacks.
- 14 double-sided premium 9-pocket pages
- Holds up to 252 toploaders (35pt size only)
- Padded PU leather cover for extra durability
- Reinforced spine and cover for maximum security
- Designed to close securely even when at full capacity
Final Thoughts
Whether you go for a binder or a toploader, the choice depends on your collection size and storage needs.
- Binders are great for displaying cards in an organised way.
- Toploaders offer better protection and a more compact way to store valuable cards.
Which one will you choose? Let us know in the comments.
Author: Gabriel Simamora
