Pokémon card grading is booming in 2025. Here's why:
- Demand Surge: The Pokémon TCG's 30th anniversary and the release of the Prismatic Evolutions set have driven record submissions to grading companies like PSA, CGC, and BGS.
- Value Increase: Grading can skyrocket card values. For example, a $130 ungraded card can reach $500 as a PSA 10.
- Top Grading Companies: PSA leads with brand recognition and resale value, CGC offers fast processing for modern cards, and BGS caters to premium collectors.
- Popular Sets: Prismatic Evolutions, Year of Eevee Collection, and vintage Base Set cards dominate submissions.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of grading trends, market drivers, and the future of Pokémon card grading.
2025 Pokémon Card Grading Market Overview
Main Market Growth Drivers
In 2025, the Pokémon card grading market is growing rapidly due to two key factors. First, the release of the Prismatic Evolutions set has sparked a surge in demand for grading services [1]. Second, the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon Trading Card Game has brought a wave of activity among collectors. This milestone has reignited interest from long-time fans and attracted new collectors, leading to a noticeable rise in grading submissions across all major providers [1].
These trends, paired with the timeless popularity of Pokémon cards, are fueling the grading market's expansion. Professionally graded cards often fetch much higher prices, keeping demand for authentication services strong [3].
Year-Over-Year Grading Numbers
The market's momentum continues in 2025, with three major companies - PSA, BGS, and CGC - dominating the scene, each catering to collectors in unique ways [2].
| Grading Company | Key Features | Market Role |
|---|---|---|
| PSA | Easier grading standards, strong brand recognition | Industry leader |
| BGS | Detailed sub-grades for precision | High-end service provider |
| CGC | Half-grade options, quicker turnaround times | Specialist in TCG cards |
Among these, CGC has stood out in 2025 by offering faster processing times and a specialized authentication process tailored for TCG cards. This includes detailed surface checks and hologram verification, setting a new standard for accuracy [2].
The Pokémon grading market continues to thrive, appealing to both casual enthusiasts and serious collectors. This rising demand highlights the growing popularity of certain Pokémon card sets, which will be discussed in the following section.
Top Graded Sets in 2025
Most-Submitted Card Sets
The Prismatic Evolutions set stands out by blending Generation 1 and Generation 9 Pokémon with the Terastal mechanic. Its chase cards, especially those featuring Pikachu and Eevee, consistently rank among the most-submitted cards to major grading companies [1].
| Set Name | Key Features | Reasons for Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Prismatic Evolutions | Gen 1 + Gen 9 Pokémon, Terastal mechanics | Chase cards, 30th anniversary |
| Year of Eevee Collection | Exclusive artwork, limited release | High demand, standout designs |
| Base Set (Vintage) | Original 1st Edition cards | Nostalgia, investment appeal |
While these sets dominate submissions, newer collections are also catching collectors’ attention.
Rising Sets in the Market
Special edition and promotional cards are gaining momentum in 2025, particularly those tied to the Year of Eevee celebration. These cards attract both seasoned collectors and newcomers with their distinct artwork and mechanics, leading to a surge in grading activity across major services [1].
Old vs New Sets: Grading Trends
Data from PSA highlights a notable contrast between vintage and modern sets. In 2023 alone, 4.4 million Pokémon cards were graded, a trend that continues strongly into 2025 [3]. Modern sets like Prismatic Evolutions see high submission rates thanks to growing collector interest and potential investment returns. On the other hand, vintage cards remain sought after for their historical importance and rarity, often commanding much higher premiums when graded compared to their ungraded versions [3].
This mix of vintage and modern sets reflects the wide-ranging appeal of Pokémon cards, capturing the interests of both nostalgic fans and investment-focused collectors alike.
Major Grading Companies in 2025
Top Grading Companies Market Share
PSA graded an impressive 15.3 million cards in 2024, marking a 13% growth compared to the previous year, which further cemented its position as the market leader [2]. CGC also saw substantial growth, processing 1.9 million cards in 2024 - a 36% increase - thanks to its competitive pricing and quicker processing times [2].
| Grading Company | Market Position | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| PSA | Market Leader | Strong brand, highest resale value |
| CGC | Rising Competitor | Fast processing, budget-friendly |
| BGS | Premium Service | Detailed sub-grades, strict criteria |
| SGC | Emerging Player | Quick service, vintage card expertise |
Current Costs and Wait Times
Grading services now cater to a wide range of collector needs with tiered pricing options. PSA's pricing starts at $15 for bulk submissions (for members) and goes up to $600 for premium services. Standard turnaround times average about 65 business days [2][4].
BGS offers plans starting at $15 for basic grading without sub-grades, climbing to $200 for premium options. Processing times vary from 2 to 60 days [2]. CGC remains a strong contender with bulk submissions priced from $15 and an average turnaround time of just 30 days [4].
Recent Market Entrants
The grading industry is becoming more competitive, with new players entering and established companies expanding. SGC, for instance, processed 1.87 million cards in 2024 - an impressive 46% jump from the previous year [2]. Although PSA acquired SGC, it continues to operate independently, focusing on fast service and expertise in vintage cards.
SGC’s rise underscores the shifting dynamics in the market, driving improvements in services and pricing. As competition heats up, collectors can expect further advancements and new opportunities in the grading industry.
2026 and Beyond: Market Predictions
Market Size Forecasts
In 2023, PSA graded a record-breaking 4.4 million Pokémon cards [3], setting the stage for even more growth by 2026. Several factors are expected to drive this expansion:
| Growth Driver | Expected Impact |
|---|---|
| 30th Anniversary | High submission rates for vintage cards to continue |
| Prismatic Evolutions | Momentum for modern card grading remains strong |
| AI-Enhanced Authentication | Faster processing and lower costs |
| New Market Entrants | Increased competition and service improvements |
As demand rises, new technologies in grading will be essential for meeting expectations and improving customer experience.
New Grading Technologies
AI is changing the way grading is done, offering tools that make the process faster and more consistent. Here's how it's reshaping the industry:
- AI-Enhanced Authentication: Better detection of counterfeits and more consistent grading standards.
- Faster Turnaround: Automation will cut down processing times significantly.
- Lower Costs: Streamlined operations will make services more affordable.
These tech-driven changes will heat up competition among established names like PSA and CGC, as well as newcomers looking to stand out.
Long-term Market Outlook
The Pokémon card grading market is set for steady growth over the long term, supported by several factors:
- New card releases keep collectors engaged.
- Grading is becoming a widely accepted standard in the hobby.
- Technology is making grading services more accessible.
- The secondary market continues to demand reliable authentication.
To stay ahead, grading companies will need to embrace new technology while ensuring their authentication and quality standards remain top-notch.
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Should You Grade Pokemon Cards? (PSA vs. CGC vs BGS)
Card Shops List Directory Services
With the growing interest in Pokémon card grading, Card Shops List connects collectors to local and online professional grading services, making it easier to access authentication across the industry.
Services for Card Collectors
Card Shops List makes it simple for collectors to find grading services tailored to their needs. Using the directory's advanced filtering system, users can search based on:
| Service Category | Options Available |
|---|---|
| Location Type | Local Shops, Online Services |
| Card Focus | Pokémon TCG Experts, Multi-TCG Providers |
| Service Level | Basic Grading, Premium Authentication |
| Additional Services | Card Breaks, Trading Events, Buy/Sell |
This helps collectors easily identify the right grading services for their specific requirements.
Grading Service Locations
The platform offers updated information on grading service locations, including partnerships with top grading companies. Listings feature both physical shops and online providers, ensuring collectors everywhere can find accessible options. For areas without direct access to major grading companies, Card Shops List highlights authorized intermediaries who can assist with the grading process.
As the demand for grading services grows, Card Shops List continues to connect collectors with reliable providers, ensuring everyone has access to the services they need.
Summary and Key Points
The Pokémon card grading market is thriving in 2025, with record submission volumes reported by major grading companies. Newly released sets, particularly Prismatic Evolutions, dominate submissions, while upcoming sets are sparking interest among collectors [1].
Here's how the key grading companies stack up:
| Grading Company | Market Position |
|---|---|
| PSA | Industry leader with the highest recognition |
| BGS | Known for premium services |
| CGC | Expanding its presence in the market |
Grading can dramatically increase a card's value. Take the 1st Edition Base Set Charizard as an example: its value jumps from $1,900 ungraded to an impressive $16,270 in PSA 10 condition [3].
Several factors are driving market growth:
- The Pokémon TCG's 30th anniversary celebrations in 2025 [1]
- Advancements in grading technology
- Easier access to grading services through platforms like Card Shops List
- Growing interest from both collectors and investors in authenticated cards
Collectors have a range of grading options to choose from, with prices and turnaround times varying by company. The best choice depends on individual goals, as each grading service offers its own set of strengths [2].
Authentication remains a key factor for serious collectors and investors, heavily influencing card values and market trends. As the grading market evolves, staying updated on the latest developments is essential for making informed decisions and maximizing returns.
FAQs
Is PSA more valuable than CGC?
In 2025, Pokémon card collectors often find themselves deciding between PSA and CGC for grading. Generally, PSA-graded Pokémon cards fetch higher resale prices, especially for vintage and base set cards [2]. This is largely due to PSA's established market presence and strong appeal among investment-focused collectors.
On the other hand, CGC has been gaining momentum, particularly with modern Pokémon cards and non-sports cards. CGC is recognized for its stricter grading standards, sturdy cases, and competitive pricing. While CGC-graded cards tend to sell for less than PSA's, this price gap has been shrinking through 2024-2025 as CGC continues to build its reputation [2].
In short, PSA is better suited for those prioritizing resale value, thanks to its market recognition. Meanwhile, CGC appeals to collectors focused on grading precision and modern card collections. The choice ultimately depends on your goals: are you looking to maximize investment returns or enhance the quality of your personal collection? Both grading services cater to different needs in the evolving 2025 market.
