Top 40 Best Tarot Decks of All-Time (2020)
Finding the best tarot deck
for you is a deeply personal and important journey. As an avid tarot
reader myself I know that there are so many things to consider!
How do the pictures appeal to you? Can you easily decipher the cards’ meanings? Will you be using your deck for personal or commercial use?
The good news is that not only the number of tarot enthusiasts is growing, but also the number of beautiful tarot decks. So I’m sure you will find a tarot deck that resonates with you.
*Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. To learn more, click here.*
How do the pictures appeal to you? Can you easily decipher the cards’ meanings? Will you be using your deck for personal or commercial use?
The good news is that not only the number of tarot enthusiasts is growing, but also the number of beautiful tarot decks. So I’m sure you will find a tarot deck that resonates with you.
*Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. To learn more, click here.*
Our reader’s best-voted Tarot Decks
If after looking at deck options you’re unsure about which set to choose, keep reading. Below the list, you’ll find some tips on how to choose a deck that resonates with you.
P.S. Don’t give much thought to the old myth that you should never buy your own tarot deck, we’ll debunk that like true mythbusters.
1. Rider-Waite Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Rider-Waite tarot deck is considered the gold standard among the tarot community. This deck offers vibrant and classic interpretations of each major and minor arcana card. Although this deck originated in 1909, it still remains one of the best tarot decks in any collection.
2. The Wild Unknown Tarot Deck
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The
Wild Unknown is a full card deck that embodies magic and mystery. The
deck comes with a detailed and easy to understand guidebook to help you
learn the ins and outs of readings, as well.
3. Renaissance Tarot Decks
SEE ON AMAZONThe Renaissance Tarot deck by Brian Williams combines the European Renaissance and Roman and Greek mythology. The cards feature images of gods and deities that correspond to their card’s meaning.
If you know a thing or two about this period in European history, this could be an easy deck for you to understand and appreciate.
4. The Good Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Good Tarot deck revolves around the present and positive outcomes. Rather than providing divination or fortune-telling, this deck offers an affirmation on each card rather than a meaning. The main aim of this deck is to express the highest good of all.
5. Cosmic Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Cosmic Tarot deck illustrates unique, ornate designs inspired by familiar figures in our lives. This deck would be a good match for those who read more intuitively, as the literal and symbolic landscape of each card is ornate and detailed, but not always obvious to your average beginner.
6. ShadowScapes Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe ShadowScapes Tarot deck is a popular choice among many new-age tarot readers for its modern look and feel. The cards feature stunning watercolor illustrations. Anyone who is a fan of fantasy would appreciate and love this deck since the artwork models after the same theme.
7. The Gilded Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe beautiful and color-saturated imagery on the cards in The Gilded Tarot deck makes it stand out among others. It is based on the Riders-Waite deck, which gives makes it appealing for those who appreciate the traditional model but are looking for a more visually striking option to fit their needs.
8. The Mythic Tarot Deck
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The
Mythic tarot card deck is another option that shows Greek gods and
goddesses. The collection originated in 1989 but has been reprinted
almost every year since, so there are always fresh, new illustrations to
choose from.
9. The Golden Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Golden Tarot deck consists of imagery inspired by the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance. The edges of each card are adorned with gold gilt and have rich colors that ring true to the time period they represent.
10. The Gaian Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Gaian Tarot deck was created for those who believe in earth-centered spirituality. The cards depict wildlife, plants, and elements.
11. The Illuminated Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Illuminated Tarot deck consists of 53 ornately decorated cards. While most decks have 78, this option is modeled after traditional playing cards. The Major Arcana are combined with certain Minor Arcana cards, providing a more profound and all-inclusive reading.
12. Housewives Tarot
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The
Housewives Tarot deck is a kitschy one, packaged in a faux recipe book
container. The artwork style is reminiscent of the fifties and depicts
attitude, style, and fashion.
13. The Next World Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Next World Tarot encompasses a world where justice relies on love and respect – perfect for the modern-day new age reader!
14. The Hermetic Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Hermetic Tarot deck is unique in that it is illustrated only in black and white. It emphasizes the mystical and astrological senses of the Golden Dawn order.
15. The Practical Magic Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Practical Magic tarot deck is the perfect combination of modern, easy to understand and fun. Each card depicts modern images along with well-known catchphrases and archetypes. Tarot newbies love this deck!
16. The Morgan Greer Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Morgan Greer Tarot is another example of a reworking of the Rider-Waite deck. The characters on the card are shown in close up and are fairly easy to understand, making it a good first deck for a beginner.
17. Chrysalis Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Chrysalis Tarot deck focuses on a spiritual journey. The illustrations are otherworldly in nature and archetypes are meant to guide you down your spiritual path.
18. The Wonderland Tarot Decks
SEE ON AMAZONThe Wonderland Tarot deck consists of illustrations based on Sir John Tenniel’s artwork in Alice’s Adventures and Through the Looking Glass.
This deck is perfect for a beginner that is already familiar with the main characters in these stories. The archetypes of each character match up well to the meaning of the cards.
19. Revelations Tarot
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The
Revelations Tarot deck has imagery that is reminiscent of a stained
glass window. The depictions are beautifully illustrated and
double-ended, each displaying an upright and reversed image in the
center of the card.
20. Sun and Moon Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Sun and Moon tarot deck offers a unique mashup of mythology and astrology. The resulting insight is easily accessible and grants valuable insight.
21. Deviant Moon Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Deviant Moon tarot deck is inspired by childhood dreams. It’s playful depictions appeal to the reader’s imagination.
The extremely talented artists Patrick Valenza combined his visions and childhood dreams in his Tarot deck but also released this fully illustrated book that takes you behind the scenes to peek at the creative process and artistic inspirations that gave rise to this popular tarot deck, definitely an addition to this stunning tarot deck.
22. Neo Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Neo Tarot deck comes as a deck and book combo. The book is attached to the cutout, exemplifying how much the duo belongs together.
The direction offered in the book makes it perfect for beginners and is a beautiful approach fresh approach to self-care, healing & empowerment.
23. Kawaii Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThis cutesy interpretation of the traditional tarot deck brings a light and fun feel to any reading. It is visually appealing and meant to appeal to those who love all things kawaii.
24. Tattoo Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Tattoo Tarot deck is exactly what it sounds like: it depicts card characters as tattoos. If you are a body art fanatic, this one might be right for you.
The
set includes 78 cards of the tarot deck based on traditional tarot
iconography, luxuriously packaged in a gift box with a stunningly
designed 28-page booklet.
25. Cat Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Cat tarot is a fun and playful approach to the average tarot deck. As expected, each character is interpreted as a cat in this full-size deck.
A very entertaining modern twist to the classic tarot that combines authenticity with a feline sense of humor, perfect as a gift for any Cat Lover. It comes with a guidebook on how to get the most out of your cat’s wisdom.
26. Mystic Mondays Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONMystic Mondays is a tarot deck that was designed with the modern reader in mind. The depictions are bright and colorful and feature holographic edging.
This deck strikes an amazing balance between minimalism and colorful vibrancy and is great for everyday use.
27. Angel Tarot Card Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Angel Tarot card deck is a light and easy to digest collection. The full-card compilation includes images of unicorns, mermaids and fairies.
28. Santa Muerte Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThe Santa Muerte Tarot deck was designed around the Day of the Dead. For this reason, it works as a powerful tool for readings driven by the mysticism surrounding this day.
29. Celtic Tarot Card Deck
SEE ON AMAZONAs the name suggests, the Celtic tarot deck revolves around Celtic mythology and tradition. If you are familiar with this, this deck will be much easier and more enjoyable for you to work with.
30. The Linestrider Tarot Card Decks
SEE ON AMAZONThe Linestrider tarot deck shows breathtaking images that walk the line between ethereal and reality. The minimalist approach to illustration will do much to enhance your reading.
31. Herbal Tarot Divination
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Each
card in the Herbal Tarot Divination pack depicts a different medicinal
herb. The idea of this illustration technique is to encourage the reader
to base their reading off of intuition and knowledge of the herb in
question.
32. The Fountain Tarot Card Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Fountain Tarot card deck is a wonderfully crafted, modern tarot deck. The accompanying guidebook offers in-depth interpretations that are great for first-time readers, as well.
The Fountain Tarot is an incredible re-envisioning of any classic tarot deck, bringing the traditional archetypes and symbology of tarot into a contemporary context.
This set is a perfect gift as this 79 silver-gilded cards with original oil paintings and die-cut rounded corners come with a 112-page guidebook in a holographic shimmer box with magnetic-closure and lifting ribbon.
33. Wood Engraved Tarot Decks
SEE ON AMAZONEach card in the wood-engraved tarot deck is designed to look just like that – wood engraved. This is the perfect occult or mystical gift for the spiritual person in your life, that you can even custom-engraved with someone’s initials.
34. Bleu Cat Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONBleu Cat Tarot captures antics and expressive body language of the Blue cat, playful and clear cards for a beginner and cat-lover alike.
Using the gentle, knowing humor of a Siamese Cat’s daily life, the accompanying fun and easy guidebook offers cat-wise reflections of the pulled Tarot card that will tickle your fancy while teaching you the ways of the Ca(t)arot.
35. Arcanum Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONThese cards are not only gorgeous, but they also photograph beautifully with realistic figures set among lush and magical landscapes and settings.
The art is so detailed that if you are a beginner reader you will be able to figure out what the card means by the details in the image.
Designed to connect the deepest parts of your soul to the highest realms of the divine, the Arcanum Tarot will show what you need to see in order to move forward toward your destiny and goals.
36. The Cosmic Cycles Tarot
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The
Cosmic Cycles Tarot deck is one of the best decks that represent
today’s reality. The illustrations on the cards include well-drawn,
diverse characters with a great representation of personality.
37. Spirit De La Lune Tarot
SEE ON AMAZONSpirit De La Lune Tarot is an oracle deck that draws its interpretation from the cycles of the moon.
It is easy to read and is unique in that the cards are all circle, so if you’re looking to switch it up a little without sacrificing ease of understanding and use, this is an option for you.
38. Ethereal Visions Illuminated Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONThe Ethereal Visions Illuminated tarot deck features more traditional looking illustrations with a modern twist. This is a modern interpretation of the Rider-Waite deck.
39. Spiritsong Tarot Deck
SEE ON AMAZONSpiritsong tarot deck combines the ideas of divination and animal guide. The cards might depict a certain animal or an abstract idea or interpretation.
Each animal was specifically selected based upon Shamanic and Native American symbolism, merging each animal’s unique power with modern-day tarot practices. This pack is recommended for use by more advanced tarot readers.
40. The Green Witch Tarot Decks
SEE ON AMAZONBeautiful vivid imagery incorporated with the old religion, present witchcraft practices, natural energies, and the elements of the world. This Green Witch Tarot Deck opens up a channel between our spiritual being, plants, animals, and the user of the deck.
Stunningly illustrated and guided by a book to easily interpret the powerful symbols and energetic wisdom of these cards to find the answers you need.
41. BONUS: Game of Thrones Tarot Card Set
SEE ON AMAZONThis is only for the real GOT and TAROT lovers out there. What a perfect intersection of our two favorites.
This
deluxe box melds the tradition of the tarot with the deep archetypes of
Game of Thrones with 78 masterly crafted cards and a 114-page hardcover
2-color booklet, presented in a gorgeously illustrated gift box.
The perfect gift for any Game of Thrones lover to keep that dragon fire burning.
The old myth: can you buy your first tarot deck yourself?
One of the main things that stop tarot enthusiasts from diving into Tarot reading is the old wives’ tale that says you shouldn’t buy your first tarot deck, but that it must be given to you.Although this is a mistaken belief that almost all psychic readers have heard of, it is nothing more than silly superstition.
Most readers believe that this myth comes from a time when tarot decks were not difficult to find, in some places, it was a crime to use them. Because they were sold on the ‘black market’ of the time, you would need to know the right person to get your hands on a set.
Buying or attempting to purchase from the wrong person was dangerous. Thankfully, times have changed.
How to choose a tarot deck that is right for you
Buying your first (or newest) deck is a super exciting process! It can also be extremely overwhelming because of the sheer number of Tarot decks available for purchase.When you add in the fact that each option has its own energy and artistic symbolism, the process of picking just one can become anxiety-producing.
While watching an experienced reader give a reading using two different decks, Sarah decided she needed a second set of cards.
An hour after walking into her local bookstore to buy another deck, Sarah left emptyhanded. It wasn’t that they didn’t have any tarot cards she liked–they had hundreds! She simply couldn’t decide on a new deck.
So, where should Sarah (or anyone looking for the perfect tarot deck) begin? Here are 8 of the best ways to select a Tarot deck that will take your readings to the next level.
1. Go with your intuition!
My number one rule when it comes to buying a deck of cards: your tarot deck must resonate with you. Like choosing a partner, selecting a tarot deck is all about personal connection!Just as you wouldn’t pick your wedding dress, husband, home, or vehicle-based on someone else’s opinion, the same is true of the cards.
Here’s an example. Many readers love Oracle Decks instead of Tarot decks. They like that the cards have straightforward messages such as “You are born entrepreneur and your self-employment opportunities are endless” or “You are a spiritual teacher and have the ability to counsel others.” When they read with these cards, there are no surprises and the message is clear.
If you’re more into Oracle Decks, my article about Angel Cards is a must-read!
These spiritualists believe that how the reading falls and the cards that surround each one can change a card’s message. For this type of reader, an oracle deck wouldn’t feel right.
Go with your intuition. What energy do you pick up from the tarot deck? Is there a personal connection between you and the Tarot deck you are considering? The feeling is much more important here than logic.
2. Explore the Imagery Of Each Tarot deck Card
Write around 100-200 words about how the imaginary. Write that I view tarot as a form of art and we all have our own aesthetic preferences when it comes to the type of art we prefer.Maybe you like minimalism, computer-generated, watercolor style, woodblock prints, black and white, etc. No matter what your artistic preference, there is sure to be a deck out there for you; it’s just up to you to find it.
Like many other people, I view tarot as a form of art. Most tarot decks contain very few words on the faces of their cards.
What are front and center is imagery that must be individually interpreted? Tarot decks are known for both their ability to predict the future and beauty. This makes every reading unique, like a thumbprint.
Maybe you like minimalism, computer-generated, or watercolor style while your best friend prefers woodblock prints, black and white, etc.
No matter what your artistic preference, there is sure to be a deck out there for you; it’s just up to you to find it.
3. Keep in mind your current tarot level
If you are new to Tarot, you may prefer to start learning with the most popular Tarot deck, the Rider-Waite deck. This is the go-to for most tarot readers starting out for a few reasons.For one, it is easy to understand based on the imagery alone. Take the Six of Swords for example. You can see just by looking at this card that one is (or will soon) be leaving a person, place, or situation behind.
This is one of the major meanings of the Tarot, but it isn’t something that you have to know by memory. By simply looking at the card, most readers would be able to give the person they are reading for a solid understanding of what is happening.
Also, the Rider-Waite has been around for over 100 years. For this reason, there is more information available surrounding this deck than any other.
When
you are first learning to read cards, it can be reassuring to have lots
of interpretation info available to read. Choosing a less-known deck
makes studying all 78 tarot cards more difficult.
Once you feel comfortable as a reader, you consider venturing out a bit. The Everday Witch is a cool option for those wanting to embrace the witch within.
Animal lovers could try this fun Cat Tarot deck while those who like black and white might buy the Hermetic Tarot. Take some time to mull over cards from different sets and see which you feel most comfortable reading.
4. Do you want to Go Traditional Or Modern?
When it comes to tarot decks that are two types–traditional and modern. A deck doesn’t have to be one or the other though. I like to think of their design as a pendulum.
A
deck’s design can be traditional, modern or something in between. Again,
there isn’t really a right or wrong answer here. It is all about
personal preference.
They usually have more conservative images and a conventional feel. If you are reading for your grandmother, a traditional deck might be best. If you want to shake things up a little, consider purchasing a more contemporary setting.
Some include more women, minorities, and symbols that aren’t a part of traditional cards. The Rider-Waite tarot deck is not for everyone–and that’s okay!
If traditional tarot decks don’t resonate with you, that doesn’t mean that you aren’t a powerful reader. Would we say that Picasso is less of a painter than another great because they didn’t use the same paint?
Again, connect with your Higher Self and choose what feels right for you.
5. How Does the Deck Depict Your Favorite Card?
Keep in mind that purchasing a tarot deck isn’t like buying a new sweater. It takes a great deal of thought and consideration. Take time to look up the deck you’re considering and make sure that the artist’s interpretation of the cards that you love the most is spot-on with how you read these same cards.
The lion depicted on the Strength card is one that I really connected with. If he isn’t featured in a certain deck, I probably wouldn’t buy it.
Take a moment to think about your favorite card. Which is the most important to you?
6. Find A Size That Fits
I have small hands. This is something I never really considered a problem until started reading tarot.Each card in the Rider-Waite deck is 6 3/4″ in height x 4″ in width. Standard Tarot card sizing is 2.75″ x 4.75″ (70mm x 121mm) which means the RW deck is a lot bigger than some other decks.
It
wasn’t until I bought a second deck that I realized my trouble
shuffling my cards wasn’t my ‘clumsy hands’ as much as it was the size
of the cards.
Look at the sizing on the card packaging, do a quick Google search online, and practice shuffling the cards (if you have the opportunity.)
7. How are you going to use the tarot decks?
Tip number seven is a reminder that it is crucial to consider the types of Tarot readings you’ll be doing before actually committing to a certain deck. If you are simply wanting to read for yourself, you easily can find a deck that’s perfect for your personal desires.The Soulful Woman is a personal favorite because of its message of empowerment. The Love Your Inner Goddess is a deck I use a lot, as well. However, these aren’t my go-to cards for reading for others.
This
is one of the main reasons that professional tarot readers usually have
a number of decks on hand before they begin a tarot reading.
8. Check For Quality
Finally, you’ll want to ensure the cards that you buy are of high quality so that you can use them for years to come. While writing this article, I linked my personal knowledge of tarot with a great deal of research.Stumbling upon a deck that I thought to be the most beautiful of any that I’ve seen. I couldn’t wait to recommend them (and to buy a deck for myself.)
Although the design was
beautiful, the manufacturer cut-corners during production. If this isn’t
fixed, it will cost the creator dearly. No matter how beautiful the
imagery is, it is best to avoid these types of decks if at all possible.
How to take care of your deck
Taking care of your tarot cards is just as important of a process as buying them. Below are a few important tips that can help you make the best of your deck and protect their energy as well (yes, this is a thing).Storing your Tarot Decks
You’ll want to make sure that they aren’t left out, especially for others to touch since allowing others to handle your cards can disturb their energy and make them unusable for reading.
Clean your Tarot Cards
Regardless of what deck you’re using, when you are done with a reading you will need to cleanse them. The options for doing so are endless, but white sage and crystal cleansing are two favorites.
Getting your first deck
Hopefully, after reading this article you feel much more at ease (and excited) about buying a new deck than you did before.Remember that you are the one who will be using your cards day in and day out, so you’ll want to choose based on your intuition, artistic eye, and other personal preferences while still considering things like sizing and quality.
Once bought, you’ll be able to start reading right away, but make sure to take care of them! If you do so, you’ll be able to use them for self-improvement and guidance for many, many years.
Can’t wait for your new deck? Get a Free Online Tarot Reading right now
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It has truly worked miracles for me and my relationship with my loving and supportive husband. Can’t you wait for your new deck or are you just interested in giving it a try? Just click the button below for your online Tarot Love reading (only 1 per person).
Some Final Words
Now that we have gone over some of the top tarot decks of 2020, you should have an idea of what is out there.There are tarot decks that are perfect for people of any age, and from any walk of life. Whether you’re a beginning tarot reader or an expert mystic that gives daily readings, we got you covered with our ultimate list of the best-voted tarot decks for all-time.
No matter what you choose, the best part is, there is always a new and fresh option right around the corner!
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