TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC: Which Card Grading Service Is Best?
TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC has become a top discussion among collectors seeking the best grading service for Pokémon, sports, or other trading card games. In this article, we’ll explore how these three companies differ in terms of technology, transparency, pricing, and overall value. By the end, you’ll know which option might be the right fit for your collection.
Why Compare TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC?
PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) set industry standards for decades, while CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) brought strict grading and subgrades into the spotlight. Meanwhile, TAG Grading revolutionizes the hobby with AI-powered precision and detailed digital reports. Each approach appeals to a different type of collector. Understanding TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC will help you submit your cards confidently.
PSA – Trusted Name, But Limited Feedback
PSA is the most recognized brand in card grading, widely accepted in the marketplace. Collectors usually see strong resale value for PSA-graded cards, especially in Gem Mint 10. However, PSA offers minimal feedback on why a card earned a specific grade. Additionally, PSA has implemented stricter centering requirements (about 55/45) for top grades, which can make PSA 10s harder to achieve now than in previous years.
CGC – Strict Grading with Optional Subgrades
CGC quickly gained popularity, particularly with Pokémon cards, due to its reputation for thorough grading. You can pay extra for subgrades on corners, edges, surface, and centering. Yet, CGC does not provide a full digital report. Moreover, CGC has faced issues grading counterfeit Pokémon cards, highlighting the challenges of human-based authentication.
TAG Grading – Leading with AI Consistency
TAG Grading emerged as a modern alternative, relying on an automated, AI-driven process for objective evaluations. This approach targets every tiny defect, culminating in a 1000-point scale for ultimate precision. In addition, TAG creates a detailed Digital Imaging & Grading (DIG) report for each card, mapping out its flaws and strengths. Compare this with PSA or CGC, which typically offer less transparency about each flaw (unless you pay for limited subgrades with CGC).
Moreover, TAG Grading stands out by not imposing value-based upcharges — the fee remains the same regardless of your card’s potential market worth. This advantage is huge for collectors afraid of unexpected surcharges if their submission skyrockets in value.
Key Differences in TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC
Below is a concise breakdown:
| Feature | PSA | CGC | TAG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Method | Human graders, minimal feedback | Human graders, optional subgrades | AI-driven, 1000-point scale |
| Transparency | No subgrades/report for basic tiers | Subgrades cost extra, no full digital report | Detailed DIG report included with every submission |
| Fees & Upcharges | $19+ for bulk (membership), up to $149+ for higher tiers | $12+ for bulk, $75 express; upcharges possible | $15-$25 with no upcharges on card value |
As you can see, each grader has strengths: PSA offers top brand recognition, CGC is strict with subgrades, and TAG raises the bar with AI consistency and full transparency.
Referral Discount for TAG Grading
If you’re intrigued by TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC and want to test TAG’s system, consider using this special referral discount. Every time you refer someone, they receive 5% off, and you get a $15 advocate reward. Here’s the code:
Your Discount Code: LXZ-VQZ6BY3
Share this link to give friends and family 5% off.
You’ll earn rewards as they submit cards through your referral!
This straightforward pricing and referral incentive make it easy to try AI-backed grading. Once you see your detailed DIG report, you may prefer TAG’s consistency and data over more traditional methods.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, TAG Grading vs PSA vs CGC comes down to what matters most to you: do you value maximum resale recognition (PSA), strict human grading with partial subgrades (CGC), or a cutting-edge AI system with transparent reports (TAG)? Experimenting with multiple graders may give you the best sense of which style fits your collecting goals.
Interested in learning more about protecting your graded cards? Check out our guide to storing and displaying graded cards for additional tips.