The Main Differences between a Poker and Bridge Deck

bridge and poker cards

The two most played card games in the world are the bridge and poker games. A huge number of people play these games for leisure and entertainment. But many people still cannot tell the difference between the poker playing cards and bridge cards.

Despite both being card games, there are numerous differences between the two games. The bridge community are die hard fans of the game. Some say you never stop learning new strategies to win. Poker is much more globally recognised. It can be played for real money at online casinos by using Paysafecard, debit cards and many other casino payment methods.

Similarities between the Bridge and Poker Cards

Before we delve into explaining what the differences are, we have to first of look at where these cards are similar. Apart from the jokers, plus the extra cards, each of the decks involved in poker and bridge comes with 52 cards. So, this means that players can play poker games with bridge cards, and can also play bridge games with poker cards. It is good to note that this gesture is very common among card players. But once it comes to the dimensions, the differences are noticed.

Differences between the Bridge and Poker Cards

If you take your time to study the cards involved, you will notice that the poker cards are not as narrow as the bridge cards. The bridge cards are narrower. This is because bridge games demand that you have the cards for a longer time in your hands than you would hold cards in poker. They designed the bridge cards in such a way that they won’t be a burden to the person holding them, hence the reduction in the size of the width.

When measured, the length of the bridge cards is 3.5 inches, while the width is 2.25 inches. When the poker cards are measured, the length returns 3.5 inches, while the width is 2.50 inches.  The simple explanation is that the poker decks are wider than those of bridge games. It is also worth nothing that most of the playing cards available come in the same size as the poker deck.

How to Store and Take Care of the Cards

The bridge cards are mostly made of plastic. You can take care of these cards in a specific manner. For example, to store these cards, a constant temperature is needed. The best temperature for cards of this nature is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You must place the cards into their packages whenever you are done playing with them. It’s best to place the jokers and extra cards on the top while the others come below them. This will avoid any form of warping.

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Narciso Baldo is the Director and Head Coach of Texas Hold'em Questions. He has been playing poker for over 16 years. After spending many years as a professional, he now runs UK poker training site Texas Hold'em Questions. Narciso regularly writes poker articles sharing tips, strategy, news and experience with gambling enthusiasts. Narciso also writes for reputable gambling portal Casino City Times, (bio here). Contact: info@texasholdemquestions.com