Buying Magic Cards

Catalog card art

I recently realized that I've never posted about where to buy Magic cards. Today's post is an overview.

While some basic Magic products (like booster packs, bundles, and some preconstructed decks) can be found at retailers like Walmart and Target, there are much better places to shop when you want to add to your collection:

1. Your local game store.
• This should be the obvious and first choice. Supporting your local game store is good for the community (and a great place to meet other Magic players). Most LGS offer sealed products for MSRP, though some have rewards programs that give discounts. Some LGS also sell singles.
2. TCG Player or Cardmarket.eu.
• Both sites feature a huge conglomeration of online vendors (from professional sellers to individuals), available in one web location for your convenience for both sealed products and singles. You choose the product(s) you want from the seller(s) you want and pay once for multiple shipments. If you're in America, TCG Player is your choice. If you're in Europe, Cardmarket. The latter is much cheaper.
3. Other good online options.
• The below sites offer singles and sealed products, some custom content (like unique tokens or pre-made starter decks for various audiences), bulk collections, rewards programs, and often buy single cards as well.
• CoolStuffInc.
• I've used CSI for almost twenty years now. Their customer service is outstanding and the rewards program is solid. Shipping times aren't what they used to be, but I've noticed that across the board.
• TrollandToad.
• Much like CSI.
• CardKingdom.
• Like CSI, but with higher prices and (I'm told) faster shipping.
• MiniatureMarket.
• Sealed products only. Good prices but slow shipping.
• StarCityGames.
• Much like CSI, I think.

I'd avoid buying cards on Amazon- I've heard reports of fake cards or tampered products.

There are other options, of course, but the above are 'verified' and dependable (though the conglomeration sites may have questionable sellers on them- check ratings or stick with powersellers to avoid disappointment).