Some Pokémon sets get all the hype — but what about the ones that fly under the radar? In this guide, we’re counting down the 10 most underrated Pokémon card sets that offer incredible art, value, and chase potential but are often overlooked by collectors.
Whether you’re investing, building a binder, or looking for unique sealed product, these hidden gem Pokémon sets deserve a second look.
If you’ve pulled a shiny Charizard or rediscovered your childhood binder, you’re probably asking: is grading Pokémon cards worth it? In 2025, grading can dramatically boost a card’s value—but it also costs time and money.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide when grading makes sense, what it costs, and how to know if your card is grading-worthy or better left raw.
What Is Pokémon Card Grading?
Grading is the process of sending a card to a professional company like PSA, CGC, or Beckett, where it is:
Authenticated
Evaluated for condition (centering, edges, surface, corners)
Japanese vs English Pokémon Cards: Key Differences & Buyer Guide
When buying Pokémon cards, many collectors and players ask: Should I get Japanese or English cards? Both have their unique appeal, but they differ in print quality, rarity, artwork, pricing, and availability. In this guide, we’ll compare Japanese vs English Pokémon cards across multiple factors to help you make the best choice for your collection or deck.
Key Differences Between Japanese and English Cards
1. Print Quality
Japanese cards are widely known for their superior print quality. This includes:
Sharper colors and cleaner lines
Smoother card surfaces
Tighter centering
Collectors often praise the consistent quality control in Japan, which results in fewer printing defects.
“For grading purposes, Japanese cards usually score higher on centering and print quality.”
