Choosing the Best Grading Company for Your Trading Cards PSA BGS CGC SGC or AI
- Andy
- Aug 23, 2025
- 5 min read
Intro to the Graded Card Market
The trading card market has exploded into a global sensation, mixing passion with investment opportunities. Grading is a key factor in determining the value of your cards, verifying authenticity, and boosting buyer confidence. With numerous grading companies to choose from, collectors often grapple with a vital question: Which grading company is the best fit for me?
In this guide, we will explore five major grading companies: Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), Sportscard Guaranty Corporation (SGC), and innovative AI-based options like TAG. We’ll break down their grading systems, slab appearances, turnaround times, costs, resale value, and overall market perception. By the end, you will clearly understand which service fits your needs as a collector or investor.
Grading Scales and Strictness
PSA
PSA employs a simple 1–10 grading scale without half-points. A PSA 10 signifies a gem mint card, while grades of PSA 9 or 8 indicate minor imperfections. Collectors favor PSA for its consistency; a PSA 10 is instantly recognized in the market. However, without subgrades, it's challenging to pinpoint a card’s specific strengths. In 2022, PSA graded over 7 million cards, underscoring its popularity.
BGS
BGS takes a more intricate approach with half-point grading scales and subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface qualities. For example, a BGS 9.5 retains visual quality akin to a PSA 10, attracting collectors. The most coveted grade is the Black Label (Perfect 10), which is rare and can sell for 2 to 3 times the price of a PSA 10.
CGC
Initially known for easing into 9.5 grades, CGC has shifted to a stricter grading model where 10s are uncommon and designated as “10 Pristine” or “Gem Mint 10.” This transition is gaining traction, especially among comic book and trading card collectors alike. Recent data indicates that CGC's graded cards have seen a 30% increase in market value recently, courtesy of its reputation for quality.
SGC
SGC has carved its niche, especially with vintage card aficionados. With a grading scale similar to PSA's, SGC is recognized for its rigorous grading standards, often yielding cards that can sell for 15-20% less than PSA graded cards, depending on demand. The distinctive black border of SGC slabs is found attractive by a vintage crowd, enhancing the overall presentation.
AI-Based Services
New AI grading services like TAG are generating excitement in the industry. These companies utilize cutting-edge algorithms to assess quality with accuracy and speed. Although still developing, early adopters have reported that AI can complete assessments in as little as a few minutes. While the future of AI grading is still uncertain, it holds promise for changing how we look at card grading.
Slab Designs and Aesthetics
PSA Slabs
PSA slabs feature a clear, straightforward design that highlights the card beautifully. The easy-to-read label and secure casing make it a popular choice among collectors, ensuring the card itself shines.
BGS Slabs
BGS slabs are known for their bulkier, more detailed designs, featuring subgrades that appeal to those seeking transparency. The distinctive black and gold color scheme elevates their aesthetic, while the coveted Black Label stands out as a trophy within any collection.
CGC Slabs
Like their comic book counterparts, CGC slabs feature clear cases and colorful labels, creating an attractive presentation. This modern look appeals to those with a penchant for aesthetics.
SGC Slabs
With their black-bordered slabs, SGC offers a classic and appealing presentation, particularly for vintage cards. This design resonates strongly with collectors who appreciate how it compliments older card styles.
AI-Based Slabs
While AI grading firms are still figuring out their slab designs, many aim for sleek and modern aesthetics. Collectors can anticipate innovative designs that reflect the tech-forward nature of their grading process.
Turnaround Times and Costs
PSA
While PSA's turnaround times can be slower during peak periods, they offer various service levels geared towards different budgets. For a quick turnaround, select the Express service, but costs can escalate to nearly $200 per card for rapid processing.
BGS
BGS also provides multiple turnaround options, including expedited services that cost more but deliver in less time. Typical fees range from $15 to $100, depending on service urgency and the card's value.
CGC
CGC has garnered a reputation for faster processing times, especially for bulk submissions, averaging around 10-15 days. Their pricing, usually between $10 and $40, remains competitive, especially for those submitting multiple cards.
SGC
SGC is among the fastest, often processing orders within a few weeks, and their pricing makes them attractive, averaging around $25 per card. Their blend of speed and affordability has resonated with many collectors.
AI-Based Services
AI-based grading services promote rapid assessment. Initial pricing is estimated to range from $10 to $30 per card, making them an appealing, budget-friendly option for collectors seeking quick turnaround. TAG is currently the most popular and sought after AI grading company and is growing at a very fast rate.
Resale Performance and Market Perception
PSA
Cards graded by PSA consistently achieve the highest resale prices, particularly in high grades. With extensive brand recognition built over 30 years, PSA graded cards can sell for as much as 300% more than ungraded versions in some cases.
BGS
BGS holds a respectable position in resale markets, especially for cards with subgrades. Notably, Black Label cards can command prices rivaling even the highest PSA 10 grades, often resulting in sales above $10,000 for top tier cards.
CGC
Though still establishing its market presence in trading cards, CGC graded cards are seeing a rise in value. Certain rare cards have already doubled their value in less than a year as CGC gains momentum and recognition.
SGC
SGC has a dedicated following, particularly among vintage collectors, and while its resale values may not rival PSA or BGS, the quality and consistency lead to many collectors willing to pay a fair price.
AI-Based Services
The resale performance of AI-graded cards remains to be seen, but initial feedback suggests a promising reception. If accuracy can be verified over time, AI grading could become a viable alternative, potentially reshaping resale dynamics.
Making the Right Choice
Selecting the best grading company for your trading cards hinges on your specific goals as a collector or investor. Whether your focus is on speed, cost, or resale value, each service has its unique strengths.
PSA remains a staple for many, while BGS offers detailed transparency. CGC and TAG are on the rise, and SGC has the trust of vintage enthusiasts. Meanwhile, AI-based grading holds potential for the future.
By understanding each grading company’s ins and outs, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your collecting strategy. Enjoy your journey through the fascinating world of trading cards!