Introduction
Walking into a metaphysical shop for the first time can feel like wandering onto the set of a witchy movie. Incense, crystals, shelves of decks with names like Moonchild Tarot and The Star Seeker Oracle—and all of them staring at you like, “Pick me.”
Online isn’t better. One innocent Etsy scroll and suddenly you’re eleven decks deep wondering, Okay but which one is actually for me?
If you’ve ever thought, How do I even begin to choose a tarot deck?, you’re not alone.
First, let’s gently retire the biggest myth: your first deck does not have to be gifted to you. That superstition made sense when decks were rare and passed down like heirlooms. Now they’re mass-printed, indie-made, and widely available. You absolutely can buy your own—and honestly, it’s often way more meaningful when you do.
Choosing a deck isn’t about rules or impressing “serious” readers. It’s about finding a tool that feels like a mirror for your intuition—a “soul deck” that meets you where you are. Some people click with their first deck. Others try a few before it feels right. Either way, it’s personal.
This guide walks you through the three main tarot systems, how to match a deck’s art and energy to your vibe, and how to test your connection before you commit.
The 3 Main Tarot Systems (Know What You’re Buying)
Before you fall for a pretty box, it helps to know what kind of tarot language it’s speaking. Most decks use one of three main systems:
- Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS)
- Thoth Tarot
- Tarot de Marseille
They all use 78 cards, but the symbolism and structure are a little different.
Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS): The Beginner’s Classic
If you search “best beginner tarot deck,” almost everything you see will be RWS-based. Most books, courses, and websites assume you’re using this system.
First published in 1909 and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, RWS decks are famous for their fully illustrated scenes—even in the Minor Arcana. The 3 of Swords is a heart pierced by blades; the 10 of Cups is pure rainbow-family energy. You can look at the pictures and instantly feel the mood without memorizing a textbook.
If you’re new, this is the easiest starting point. It’s like learning basic chords before you try jazz improvisation.
Thoth Tarot: The Thinker’s Deck
The Thoth Tarot, created by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris, is dense, layered, and unapologetically nerdy. It pulls in astrology, numerology, alchemy, and Kabbalah.
Visually, it’s abstract and cosmic. Many cards include keywords like “Virtue,” “Strife,” or “Lust” printed right on them. It’s powerful—but not always friendly to beginners who just want clear stories and simple imagery.
If you love big concepts and deep symbolism, Thoth can be a fascinating long-term study deck.
Tarot de Marseille: The Old Soul
Tarot de Marseille is one of the oldest known systems, with roots in 17th-century France. It’s stripped-down, elegant, and very traditional.
The Major Arcana will look familiar—The Lovers, The World, The Chariot. But the Minors are pips: just symbols (three cups, five swords) instead of full illustrated scenes. You rely more on numbers and suits than on storybook imagery.
For some people, that feels too abstract. For others, it’s exactly what they want—a clear, almost mathematical way to read the cards.
Quick takeaway: if you’re brand-new, start with an RWS-based deck. Thoth and Marseille will feel much easier once you already “speak tarot.”
Art Styles & Energy: What Resonates With You?
Once you know your system, it’s time for the fun part: aesthetics and energy.
There’s no single “best beginner deck.” The best deck is the one that makes you feel something when you look at it—curiosity, comfort, a quiet yes. That reaction is your intuition.
A few common styles:
Traditional
These decks stay close to Pamela Colman Smith’s original art or lean into vintage vibes. They feel witchy, old-school, and ritual-heavy. Ideal if you love history, classic occult aesthetics, or that dusty-bookstore mood.
Modern / Minimalist
Clean lines, simple shapes, plants, animals, soft color palettes. Decks like The Wild Unknown or Modern Witch Tarot live here. They give you breathing room—perfect if you don’t want to decode super busy artwork.
Collage / Surreal
Think layered images, portals, galaxies, strange dream-logic scenes. These decks speak in poetry more than prose. Great for journaling, shadow work, or reading when you want your subconscious to join the conversation.
Inclusive / Diverse
Decks featuring a wide range of bodies, genders, cultures, and abilities. If the traditional RWS art doesn’t reflect your reality, these decks can make your practice feel way more grounded and welcoming.
The Vibe Check
Before buying, do a quick gut check. Look through sample images and notice your reaction.
Do you feel:
- calm and held?
- inspired and curious?
- weirdly drained or turned off?
You’re going to see these images over and over. You don’t need to justify why you like (or dislike) a certain style. Tarot is a conversation between you and the deck; you’re allowed to be picky about who you’re talking to.
“The Interview”: How to Test a New Deck
Once you’ve found a deck you like, try a little “interview” reading. It’s basically a first date with cards.
You can do this with an open sample deck in a shop or right after unboxing at home.
Shuffle slowly, take a breath, and ask:
- What is your strength?
Maybe you pull The Star—a deck that leans hopeful and healing. Or Queen of Swords—sharp, honest, and zero tolerance for nonsense. - What is your weakness?
Every deck has one. Five of Swords might hint it can be blunt. Seven of Cups might suggest it leans dreamy, confusing, or slippery. - What are you here to teach me?
Strength could point to self-trust. Death might signal deep transformation. The Fool might say, “You’re here to take more risks and stop overthinking.”
Write down what you pull and your first impressions. When you look back months later, you’ll probably realize the deck was brutally honest about itself from day one.
After that, cleanse your deck however feels right—smoke, breath, moonlight, knocking on the cards—before you dive into your first real reading.
Where to Buy?
There are two main lanes: mass-market decks and indie decks. Both are valid; they just serve different needs.
Mass Market
You’ll find these on Amazon, in bookstores, metaphysical shops, and big-box stores.
Upsides:
- Usually more affordable
- Easy to replace if damaged or lost
- Tons of reviews and flip-through videos online
Downsides:
- Card stock can be thinner or very glossy
- Art may feel a little generic if you want something ultra-specific
Still, don’t underestimate them. Popular decks like Modern Witch Tarot and Light Seer’s Tarot are mass-market, beginner-friendly, and beloved for a reason.
Indie Decks
Indie decks are usually self-published by artists and sold via Etsy, Kickstarter, or creator websites.
Upsides:
- Unique, personal artwork and themes
- Often higher-quality printing and packaging
- Your money directly supports the artist
Downsides:
- More expensive
- Limited runs or longer shipping times
- Harder to replace if something happens to your copy
If you like doing research before committing, understanding the psychological benefits of using tarot for self-reflection can help you decide which deck’s imagery and system will best support your personal journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have more than one deck?
Yes. Tarot is not a one-deck-only situation. Some people stay loyal to a single “ride-or-die” deck, others have a full collection.
You might end up with:
- one deck for daily pulls
- one for shadow work or deeper emotional readings
- one that’s just gorgeous and makes you feel creative
Different decks can pull out different facets of you.
What if I don’t connect with the deck I bought?
It happens. You open the box, flip through the cards, and feel… meh. That doesn’t mean you’re bad at tarot. It just means this particular deck isn’t your match.
You can:
- give it a little time and keep practicing
- use it as a study deck or art inspiration
- re-home it—gift, trade, or donate
When the right deck finds you, it won’t feel like forcing chemistry.
How do I store or care for my deck?
There’s no single sacred method. Some people wrap theirs in silk, others toss them in a pouch or keep them in the original box. The main thing is: treat it with care.
If it feels a bit “off,” cleanse it—moonlight, smoke, sound, shuffling with intention. Whatever makes it feel refreshed to you.
Do I need to be psychic to read tarot?
No. You don’t have to see the future in HD to pull cards. Tarot is more like a mirror than a crystal ball. The more you practice, the easier it becomes to connect the imagery to your intuition and your real life.
Conclusion
Choosing your first tarot deck is a little like dating: exciting, occasionally overwhelming, and weirdly revealing. There’s no single perfect deck you have to nail on the first try—just the one that feels right for right now.
Start with an RWS-based deck to learn the basics. Then, when you’re ready, follow your curiosity into other systems or aesthetics that won’t stop calling your name.
Most importantly, let your intuition lead, not trends. If you keep coming back to the same deck—clicking the listing again, picking up that same box in the shop—pay attention. That pull is the point.
And now I’m curious: what ends up being your first deck? Do you fall in love at first shuffle, or does the connection grow slowly over time?
