The key factors to look for in a good deck of cards are smooth handling and resistance to marks and bends...

1. COPAG CENTENARY BOXSET

Limited-edition replicas of the original 1908 Copags, these silky-smooth cards handle like a dream

MATERIAL 100% PLASTIC INDEX JUMBO
£29.99 (twin boxed set)
(www.pokerbits.co.uk)

2. COPAG MAGNUM

Startling aesthetics coupled with smooth handling set these Copags apart from the field

MATERIAL 100% PLASTIC INDEX MAGNUM
£5.77 a pack
(www.poker-shop-europe.com)

3. EX-VEGAS CASINO CARDS

If you’re looking for a unique deck of cards that are also cheap as chips, these fit the bill

MATERIAL PLASTIC-COATED CARD INDEX SUPER
From £1.99 a pack
(www.poker-shop-europe.com)

4. PURE 24K GOLD CARDS

Perfect for the mantelpiece but also somewhat impractical...

MATERIAL GOLD-PLATED METAL INDEX STANDARD
£59.99 a pack
(www.elitelifestyleco.com)

5. COPAG EPOC

Striking looks and, like all Copags, highly resistant to wear and tear

MATERIAL 100% PLASTIC INDEX STANDARD
£10.27 a pack
(www.poker-shop-europe.com)

6. COPAG STANDARD

Similar durability to the KEMs but for half the price

MATERIAL 100% PLASTIC INDEX JUMBO
£10.99 (twin pack)
(www.pokerbits.co.uk)

7. KEM ARROW

The cards by which all others are measured. Sleek and highly durable

MATERIAL 100% PLASTIC INDEX JUMBO
£20.99 (twin pack)
(www.pokerbits.co.uk)