Guide
Raw vs graded Pokémon cards
When raw makes sense, when slabs matter, and why comps must match the tier you are buying.
Raw cards
Raw means ungraded. Price rides on centering, surface, edges, and collector eye appeal.
Raw can be the best fit for players and set builders. It is also where mislabeled condition hurts buyers most.
Graded cards (PSA, etc.)
Slabs trade on grade, population, and liquidity. PSA 10 premiums can be large on chase cards.
Always match comps to the same grade. A PSA 9 comp does not set a PSA 10 budget.
How CardSearch shows both
Public card pages include raw vs graded sections when tier data exists.
Lyrax reads call out when graded asks look stretched versus recent comps — a signal to research further, not a verdict.