PSA, BGS, CGC and SGC: Grading Explained
What each grading company is known for, how their scales differ, and how to choose one for your next submission.
HYP3 TeamSeptember 8, 20268 min read
Grading puts a card in a tamper-evident slab with a condition score and a certification number. That number lets anyone verify the card on the grader's website, which is why graded cards are easier to buy, sell and trust.
PSA
PSA is the most widely recognized grader, especially for sports cards and vintage. It uses a 1–10 scale, and a PSA 10 Gem Mint is the grade most collectors chase.
BGS (Beckett)
Beckett gives subgrades for centering, corners, edges and surface alongside the overall grade. Its top labels, Pristine 10 and the rare Black Label, are highly valued on modern cards.
CGC
CGC built its reputation in comics and has become a major name for Pokémon and other trading card games, with a clear slab and a Pristine 10 above Gem Mint 10.
SGC
SGC is known for its black tuxedo-style label, which many collectors love for vintage cards, and for quick turnaround times.
How to choose
- Check which grader the market prefers for that card. It can change resale value.
- Compare turnaround times and fees for your declared value.
- Stay consistent within a set or player collection if you can.
