Anyone Black Dots vs Purple Checkerboard: Which Deck Wins?
By Playing cards for cardistry & magic, limited edition deck. | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Comparisons
Compare Anyone Black Dots and Purple Checkerboard playing cards on design, price, and handling. Find out which patterned cardistry deck suits your style and budget.
Quick answer
Choose the Anyone Black Dots Playing Cards if you want a subtle, classic look that won't distract from your cardistry or magic. Choose the Anyone Purple Checkerboard Playing Cards if you prefer a bold, eye-catching design and want to spend less.
Design and visual impact
The Black Dots deck uses a simple black dot pattern on the card faces, giving it a clean, understated appearance that works well for both practice and performance. The Purple Checkerboard deck, by contrast, features a striking purple checkerboard pattern that immediately draws attention. Your choice here depends on whether you want the cards to blend in or stand out during flourishes and tricks.
Price and value
At catalog prices, the Black Dots deck is listed at USD 24.57 (compared to a regular price of USD 39.00), while the Purple Checkerboard deck is USD 10.98 (compared to USD 18.00). Both offer savings, but the Purple Checkerboard is significantly more affordable. If budget is a primary concern, the Purple Checkerboard is the clear pick. However, the Black Dots may appeal if you prefer a more subdued design and are willing to pay more for it.
Handling and stock
The supplied catalog does not specify stock or finish for either deck, so we can't compare handling characteristics directly. Both are standard-sized playing cards from the Paperdecks brand, which suggests similar quality, but if you need specific information about card stock, finish, or durability, check the product pages or contact the store for details.
Key trade-offs
- Visual subtlety vs boldness: Black Dots offers a classic, understated look; Purple Checkerboard makes a loud statement. Pick based on whether you want the cards to support or star in your performance. Consider where you'll use the deck most—dimly lit venues favor subtle designs, while bright settings can handle bold patterns.
- Price vs design preference: Purple Checkerboard is less than half the price of Black Dots at catalog prices. If you love the checkerboard look, you save money; if you prefer dots, you pay a premium. Set a budget before choosing—both are discounted, but the price gap is significant.
- Handling information gap: Neither deck's stock or finish is listed, so you can't compare handling from the catalog alone. If handling is critical, seek more details before buying. Check product pages or ask the store for stock and finish specs if you need specific handling characteristics.
Product facts
- ANYONE BLACK DOTS PLAYING CARDS: Black dot pattern on card faces for a distinctive look. The subtle pattern keeps the focus on your moves rather than the cards themselves.
ANYONE BLACK DOTS PLAYING CARDS - ANYONE PURPLE CHECKERBOARD PLAYING CARDS: Purple checkerboard pattern for a distinctive, eye-catching look. The bold design adds visual flair to performances and practice sessions.
ANYONE PURPLE CHECKERBOARD PLAYING CARDS
Which deck is right for you?
Best for
- Cardists who prefer a clean, classic design that doesn't distract from the moves.
- Magicians who want a subtle deck for close-up work.
Not for
- Buyers on a tight budget who still want a patterned deck (choose Purple Checkerboard).
- Those who want a bold, attention-grabbing deck for performance.
