English, Japanese or Chinese Pokémon Cards – Which Should You Buy?

Pokémon cards are printed in several languages, and the packs aren't the same product with a different language on them. Pack sizes, prices, card lists and release dates all differ. Here's how the three we stock compare.

English packs hold 10 cards. English sets are the ones you'll need for official Play! Pokémon tournaments in the UK, and they're the easiest to trade and resell here. If you're building a deck or collecting a set to sell on later, start here. Browse English Pokémon cards.

Japanese packs hold 5 cards and cost less per pack. Japanese sets come out first, often months before their English versions, and many collectors prefer their print quality and finish. Japanese sets are also smaller, so a box gets you closer to completing one. They're the choice for collectors who want new sets early. Browse Japanese Pokémon cards.

Simplified Chinese packs include the Gem Pack series, which is only released in Chinese and has its own card list and artwork. That makes Gem Packs one of the few ways to pull cards you won't find in any English or Japanese set. We also stock Chinese editions of releases such as 30th Celebration. Browse Chinese Pokémon cards.

Quick answer

Not sure which set to start with? Our New Releases page shows the latest arrivals in every language.