If you are getting into the TCG hobby, then you definitely need to learn about all of the ways that you can protect your cards! The hobby represents a significant investment from many players and collectors and the last thing you need is damage or scratched cards. While we 100% endorse the use of sleeves, we also think that is important to look into other options, especially for when you are travelling. Binders and portfolios are certainly something that every newcomer needs to be versed in!

Binders and portfolios features pockets so you can easily browse through your collection or keep them safe whilst on the move. They come in several different styles, including binders with removable pocket pages, zip binders and strap binders. Most binders feature side-loading pockets as they stop your cards from falling out during transit. Check out our full guide down below and find the binder that fits you and your needs.

There are 2 main types of binder: Strap Binder and Zip Binder. A Strap Binder closes with a simple elasticated strap or cord and the pages are visible at the side, top and bottom. A zip binder, utilises a robust zip and closes off the pages fully. For most purposes we definitely recommend zip binders. They are a tad more expensive than strap binders, but they offer a ton more protection! If you are looking to store a lot of cards and therefor need a lot of binders then strap binders might be better option.

9 Pocket

We consider the 9 Pocket binder to be the standard binder that is good for most uses. It fits neatly into most backpacks and stores easily on bookshelves. It is the most common of the three sizes for a reason. If we were to recommend a specific use for the 9 Pocket, then we would definitely say that is great for holding your trades! Having a dedicated trade binder is an important part of the hobby as it is much easier to build your collection or grab the cards that you're after with help from other hobbyists. We heavily suggest that you grab a 9 pocket binder, fill it up with your trades and head to your local gaming store!

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12 Pocket

12 Pocket Binders feature 12 cards per page and therefore you can hold a lot more cards in one binder. The main downside to this is that a 12 Pocket binder is much larger and harder to store or transport. Whereas a 9 Pocket can fit fairly easily into most backpacks, the 12 Pocket will be a very snug fit, if it fits at all. That being said, we very much recommend the 12 Pocket for collecting sets. If you are trying to get a master set of a particular expansion, only 12 Pockets usually have the capacity to fit the full set!

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4 Pocket

4 Pocket binders are the smaller, more compact cousins of the larger 12 and 9 pocket! 4 Pocket binders are perfect for deckbuilding. Most card games, including Pokemon and Magic the Gathering, only allow for a maximum of 4 copies of any particular card and therefor it is very easy to store your cards for a deck you're currently building in a 4 Pocket Binder. If you're the sort of player that is constantly building decks, then grabbing a couple of 4 Pocket Binders is a great solution to keep the decks separate and organised.

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Check out the related products section down below to check out a selection of binders! Don't forget to check out the exclusive binders from VaultX that we have collaborated on to celebrate the release of several epic Pokemon sets! Alternatively, you can browse our entire range of accessories, including sleeves, deckboxes, playmats and more, by clicking the button below.

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