If you’re considering stepping into the world of tarot, you might feel an exciting sense of possibility—and a bit of overwhelm—when you see how many decks are available. Choosing your first tarot deck is a personal and meaningful experience. The right deck will help you unlock your intuition, build your confidence, and become a trusted companion as you explore the mysteries of tarot. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the best tarot decks for beginners, including what to look for, how to choose, and a handful of beloved recommendations from seasoned readers.
What Makes a Tarot Deck Good for Beginners?
The best tarot decks for beginners have a few things in common. Clear and recognizable imagery is essential—the pictures on each card should tell a story and make the meanings easy to grasp, even for those new to tarot. Decks that follow the traditional Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) system are especially helpful, since most tarot books, guides, and online resources use this structure. A quality guidebook is also a must, providing you with card meanings, sample spreads, and tips for getting started.
How a deck feels in your hands matters, too. Standard tarot cards are about 2.75″ by 4.75″, but there are also mini decks and oversized options for different preferences. Most importantly, a good beginner tarot deck is one you feel drawn to—one that sparks curiosity, excitement, or even just a sense of comfort when you see the artwork.
How to Choose Your First Tarot Deck
Trusting your intuition is the most important part of the process. When browsing for your first deck, notice which images or colors attract you. Take a look at sample cards—many publishers, reviewers, and online shops provide full images of the deck so you can get a sense of the overall vibe.
Reading reviews and watching deck walkthroughs on YouTube or Instagram can be incredibly helpful. This lets you see all the cards (not just the cover art), and hear firsthand how other readers connect with the deck. Consider your own learning style: If you’re visual, you might prefer decks with lots of detail and color. If you’re more analytical, you may want a deck that sticks closely to traditional symbolism with a detailed guidebook.
Don’t worry about “the rules.” There’s a persistent myth that your first deck must be a gift. In reality, it’s empowering and magical to select your own. Feel free to buy the deck that excites you most!
Recommendations: Best Tarot Decks for Beginners
When it comes to the best tarot decks for beginners, several tried-and-true options stand out. The classic Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot is the foundation of most modern decks. Its straightforward images and familiar symbolism make it a fantastic starting point, and you’ll find endless resources to guide your learning. If you prefer something with a little more color, the Radiant Rider-Waite Tarot offers a vibrant, recolored version of the original deck.
For those seeking a modern touch, the Light Seer’s Tarot by Chris-Anne has become a favorite among new readers. Its artwork is soulful, contemporary, and inclusive, with a helpful companion book. Another popular choice is the Modern Witch Tarot by Lisa Sterle, which updates the RWS system with diverse representation and a bold, empowering style.
If you want something compact and simple, the Everyday Tarot Mini Deck by Brigit Esselmont is a great option. Its clean, minimalist images are ideal for daily draws or travel. For those who appreciate richly colored, borderless art, the Morgan-Greer Tarot is a classic with deep, evocative scenes that are easy to read.
Each of these decks is based on the RWS system, has clear artwork, and comes with a guidebook or plentiful online support—making them excellent picks for anyone just starting their tarot journey.
Building a Connection with Your New Deck
Once you have your deck in hand, spend some time getting to know it. Flip through the cards, notice which ones stand out, and observe how the images make you feel. Shuffling the deck and pulling a “card of the day” is a wonderful way to learn gradually. Sleeping with your deck under your pillow or keeping it on your altar can help you develop an energetic bond.
Use the guidebook as a reference, but don’t be afraid to trust your own impressions. Tarot is as much about intuition as it is about memorizing meanings. Over time, you’ll develop a personal relationship with your cards that goes beyond any book.
Tips for Beginner Tarot Readers
When you’re just starting out, keep it simple. Begin with one-card or three-card spreads, such as past-present-future or situation-action-outcome. Keep a tarot journal to track your readings, questions, and insights. Practicing a little bit each day is far more effective than cramming once a week.
Be gentle and patient with yourself. Tarot is a journey, not a race. If you feel stuck, reach out to online tarot communities—there are many supportive spaces where you can ask questions, get feedback, and share your progress with others who are learning, too.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Tarot Decks for Beginners
Can I use any tarot deck as a beginner?
Technically yes, but decks based on the Rider-Waite-Smith system with clear imagery are the easiest for learning and have the most resources available.
What if I don’t like my first deck?
That’s completely normal! You can try another deck, trade with a friend, or keep it for special readings. Many readers collect multiple decks and find that their preferences change over time.
Do I need to cleanse my new tarot deck?
It’s a good idea to energetically clear your new deck. Try shuffling, knocking on the cards, using incense or sage, or leaving it in moonlight overnight.
Should I memorize all the meanings before reading for others?
Not at all! Use your guidebook, trust your intuition, and allow your understanding to deepen with experience.
Deepening Your Tarot Journey
Choosing one of the best tarot decks for beginners is just the first step. As you grow more comfortable, explore new spreads, experiment with different decks, and seek out books or online courses. The journey of tarot is deeply personal—each reading is a conversation between you, your deck, and your higher self.
If you’re looking for support, inspiration, or community, consider joining a group like the Sacred Circle Community, where you can share readings, ask questions, and learn from experienced tarot readers.
Join Our Sacred Circle Community
Ready to dive deeper into tarot? Join our Sacred Circle Community for live workshops, deck reviews, and a supportive space to share your readings and questions with fellow beginners.
Join the Sacred Circle Community and discover the best tarot decks for beginners together!
Trust Yourself and Enjoy the Adventure
Choosing your first tarot deck is a magical and personal experience. When you select one of the best tarot decks for beginners—with clear imagery, a supportive guidebook, and a design that resonates with you—you’re setting yourself up for an inspiring and rewarding exploration of tarot. Remember, there is no single “right” deck—only the one that feels right for you right now.
May your first deck open doors to intuition, insight, and transformation. Happy reading!