Copag vs. KEM Playing Cards: A Detailed Comparison (13 Viewers)

[Isildur1]

Hi everyone,

I’ve had the opportunity to use both Copag and KEM playing cards, and I wanted to share my thoughts on how they compare. Each brand has its strengths, and the right choice really depends on your priorities. Here’s a breakdown of my experience:

1. Durability​

• KEM: Known for their resilience, KEM cards are made from cellulose acetate, which makes them highly resistant to bending and warping. They hold up well under regular use and have an impressive lifespan. However, they can be more sensitive to extreme temperatures and humidity, so proper storage is key.
• Copag: Made from 100% PVC plastic, Copag cards are also very durable and slightly more forgiving in less-than-ideal conditions. They’re less prone to warping and can be easier to maintain for players who don’t want to fuss over storage conditions.

2. Feel and Shuffle Experience​

• KEM: These cards have a smooth yet slightly "waxy" feel, which some players love for their luxurious handling. However, they may take a little getting used to if you’re accustomed to PVC cards. They shuffle beautifully once broken in.
• Copag: Copag cards have a more consistent "matte" texture that feels softer in hand and is easier to grip. They shuffle smoothly right out of the box and are very beginner-friendly.

3. Aesthetics and Print Quality​

• KEM: KEM cards often feature sharp, elegant designs with vibrant colors. Their edges and corners are precision-cut, giving them a polished, high-end appearance.
• Copag: While their print quality is excellent, Copag designs lean more toward functional and straightforward. Their edge detailing isn’t as refined as KEM’s but is still very good for the price.

4. Price and Value​

• KEM: The premium price of KEM cards reflects their high-quality material and long lifespan. They’re a great investment for serious players who value top-tier equipment.
• Copag: More affordable than KEM but still excellent in terms of quality. They offer fantastic value for casual and semi-serious players who want durable cards without breaking the bank.

5. Maintenance​

• KEM: Require a bit more care, especially in terms of climate control and cleaning. However, they’re easy to wipe down if they get dirty.
• Copag: Extremely low maintenance and more forgiving if left out or used in a variety of conditions.

Final Thoughts​

• Choose KEM if you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury, feel, and aesthetics and are willing to invest in proper care.
• Choose Copag if you want a reliable, durable set of cards at a lower price point with minimal maintenance.

Both are exceptional brands that will elevate your games. I’d love to hear your thoughts—do you have a preference, or have you had a different experience with these cards? Let’s discuss!

 

[Kam]

I have both. Copags every day of the week and twice on Sunday when KEMs are 2.5x-3x the cost.

There’s a lot more options than Copags though as well, although they’re the easiest decent plastic cards to get at least in the US.

 

[upNdown]

I love Kem. I think they’re heads and shoulders better than anything else on the market. But to me, this statement is suspect:

They’re a great investment for serious players who value top-tier equipment.

KEM costs a full three times as much as Copag - $60 per setup bs $20 per setup. It’s ridiculous. If money isn’t an issue, sure, go ahead and pay 3x more for the best. But as far as I’m concerned, Kem’s recent price increases has made them moot - I’ll never pay 3x to 7x more for consumables, no matter what the quality.

 

[BPTDirector]

If you have apes that are prone to damaging cards Kem card cost is prohibitive.

 

[Josh Kifer]

If you have apes that are prone to damaging cards Kem card cost is prohibitive.

Or if you like decks to not naturally bow over time.....

 

[cpac54]

Personally, I’ll take KEM cards every day of the week, but even I have my limits when it comes to price. $55-60/setup is beyond ridiculous

 

[allforcharity]

"Kem" and "highly resistant to bending and warping" cannot be used in the same sentence, paragraph, or book.

 

[Bacon Dad]

There must be a glitch in the matrix…

 

[MC_CPA]

If buying Kems, make sure to get the actual boxed kems with the gold lettering and not the non-boxed silver letter kems with the old packaging... if you're paying double the price you should get the right box.

 

[CdnBeerLover]

To be honest, while I own Kem's and Copags, I don't use either of them. I tend to reach for Fournier and Desjgn first. Even when Kems were more reasonably priced, they were still well down my llist of card preferences out of the cards in my possession. The current pricing for Kem make me thankful I'm not a fan of them.

 

[NotRealNameNoSir]

This is just ChatGPT?

 

[cigarherb]

I have both. I have an old set of Kems that are difficult to play with since they have bowed. The Copaq's are my favorites. Never had an issue with them.

 

[redrobin3]

This is just ChatGPT?

Reads pretty scary close to an AI

 

[surfik]

https://www.pokerchipforum.com/resources/the-redneck-poker-card-database-2-0.76/

All Hail Dix!

 

[RagingAZN]

I remember railbirding Isildur1 when he was playing the nosebleeds against Ivey, Dwan, etc.

What a time to be alive!