PSA vs BGS vs SGC: Which Grade Should You Buy?

Three companies dominate sports-card grading: PSA, Beckett (BGS), and SGC. All grade 1–10, but the details differ.

PSA

The most widely traded. A PSA 10 (Gem Mint) is the market benchmark for most modern cards, and PSA slabs are usually the most liquid — easiest to buy and sell.

BGS (Beckett)

Beckett prints four subgrades (centering, corners, edges, surface) on the label, so you see exactly why a card got its grade. It also uses half-points — a BGS 9.5 is common, and the rare BGS 10 Black Label (all four subgrades a perfect 10) commands a big premium.

SGC

Known for its clean black "tuxedo" holder and a strong reputation with vintage cards — though it's grown fast in the modern market too.

Which should you buy?

• For liquidity and resale, PSA is the safe default.
• For a modern card where you want proof of a true gem, a BGS 9.5 or Black Label stands out.
• For vintage, many collectors trust SGC.

Whatever the label, the card inside is what matters. Browse our graded inventory — and we buy graded cards too.