How to choose a trading card inspection tool
Compare the jobs of a loupe, a digital inspection tool and a centring guide. Choose an inspection setup for grading preparation, card shows or selling cards.
Read the guideTIDAL collector guides
Card inspection guides
Practical checks for Pokémon and trading card collectors. Inspect condition before you buy, trade, sell or submit for grading.
How to inspect Pokémon cards before buying
A buyer's checklist for card-show and online purchases, covering exact card identity, surface condition, corners, edges and useful seller photos.
Read the guideHow to spot scratches and print lines on Pokémon cards
Check card surfaces under different lighting angles, distinguish holder marks from card marks, and record defects before buying or grading.
Read the guideHow to check Pokémon cards before grading
A practical pre-grading checklist for Pokémon card collectors: inspect surfaces, corners, edges and centring before choosing cards to submit.
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