If you’re new to tarot, one of the first things you’ll notice is just how many different tarot decks are available. From traditional decks based on centuries-old systems to beautifully illustrated modern interpretations, there is a tarot deck for almost every interest, aesthetic and reading style.
But with so many options, how do you know which tarot deck is right for you?
Understanding the different types of tarot decks is a great place to start. While most standard tarot decks contain 78 cards divided into the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana, the artwork, symbolism, structure and traditions behind each deck can vary considerably.
Whether you’re looking for your first tarot deck or adding another deck to your collection, here’s a guide to some of the most common types of tarot decks you’ll come across.
1. Rider-Waite-Smith Tarot Decks
The Rider-Waite-Smith system is one of the most recognisable tarot traditions and has had a major influence on countless modern tarot decks.
First published in 1909, the Rider-Waite-Smith deck features artwork by Pamela Colman Smith under the direction of Arthur Edward Waite. One of its defining features is the fully illustrated Minor Arcana, which gives readers visual scenes and symbols to work with rather than relying solely on suit symbols.
This makes the Rider-Waite-Smith system particularly approachable for people learning tarot, as the imagery provides plenty of visual cues for interpreting the cards.
At Spectrum Store, you can find several interpretations of this classic system, including the Rider-Waite Tarot Deck, Radiant Rider-Waite Tarot Deck, and Universal Waite Tarot Deck. The Universal Waite re-colours Pamela Colman Smith’s iconic artwork while retaining the original symbolism.
Good for: Beginners, traditional tarot readers and anyone who wants to learn using a widely recognised tarot system.
2. Tarot of Marseille
The Tarot of Marseille is another important tarot tradition with deep historical roots. Its distinctive artwork and traditional structure have influenced tarot decks for generations.
Compared with Rider-Waite-Smith decks, Marseille-style decks generally feature simpler imagery in the Minor Arcana. The numbered cards often use arrangements of suit symbols rather than illustrated scenes, making the reading approach somewhat different.
Spectrum Store carries the Marseille Tarot, a 78-card deck curated by Anna Maria Morsucci and designed by Mattia Ottolini. The deck combines elements from the historic Conver deck with details inspired by other early Marseille decks.
For collectors interested in historical styles, there are also other Marseille-inspired options, including the Golden Tarot of Marseille, which restores artwork based on Claude Burdel's 1751 woodcuts and adds gold details to the cards.
Good for: Tarot enthusiasts interested in historical traditions, traditional symbolism and exploring tarot beyond the Rider-Waite-Smith system.
3. Thoth Tarot
The Thoth Tarot is another influential tarot system, associated with Aleister Crowley and illustrated by Lady Frieda Harris.
The deck is known for its distinctive Art Deco-inspired artwork and complex layers of symbolism. Its imagery incorporates concepts associated with astrology, Kabbalah, alchemy, mythology and other esoteric traditions.
Because of this, Thoth-based tarot can offer plenty to explore for readers who enjoy studying symbolism and the deeper systems behind tarot.
For those interested in exploring this tradition, Spectrum Store carries the Pocket Swiss Crowley Thoth Tarot Deck. The deck features the artwork of Lady Frieda Harris and includes symbolism connected to astrology, Kabbalah, Egyptian imagery and other esoteric concepts.
Spectrum Store also carries A Crowley Tarot Handbook, which provides additional information about the symbolism and methodology associated with the Crowley Thoth Tarot.
Good for: Readers who enjoy symbolism, esoteric traditions, astrology and studying tarot in greater depth.
4. Modern and Themed Tarot Decks
Not every tarot deck follows a traditional visual style. Modern tarot decks often reinterpret the traditional 78-card structure through different themes, cultures, artistic movements, characters and storytelling styles.
These decks can make tarot feel more personal and visually engaging. You might find decks inspired by mythology, nature, animals, fantasy, contemporary life or particular artistic traditions.
For example, Spectrum Store’s collection includes the Japanese Art Nouveau Tarot, which combines traditional Japanese motifs with Art Nouveau aesthetics. The 78-card deck features artwork by Marga Biazzi with instructions by Debora Mayfair.
There are also more unconventional options such as the Trionfi Della Luna Tarot, a 78-card deck inspired by Marseille-style tarot but featuring playful moon-faced characters and whimsical artwork.
Good for: Readers who want artwork and themes that feel visually inspiring or personally meaningful.
5. Artistic and Collector Tarot Decks
For some tarot enthusiasts, choosing a deck is about more than reading cards. The artwork, production quality, packaging and overall design can make a deck an appealing collectible.
Premium tarot decks may feature special finishes, gilded edges, detailed guidebooks, luxury packaging or distinctive artwork.
For example, Spectrum Store carries the Japanese Art Nouveau Tarot (Premium) as well as other premium and speciality tarot editions.
These decks can be especially appealing if you enjoy collecting tarot, displaying your decks or exploring different styles of tarot artwork.
Good for: Collectors, art lovers and experienced tarot readers looking for something distinctive.
6. Mini and Pocket Tarot Decks
Want to take your tarot cards with you? Mini and pocket tarot decks offer a more compact alternative to standard-sized decks.
The smaller format can make them convenient for travel, carrying in a handbag or simply keeping a deck close by for spontaneous readings.
Spectrum Store's collection includes compact options such as the Pocket Rider-Waite Tarot Deck. It features the familiar Rider-Waite imagery in a smaller format and comes with an instruction booklet covering upright and reversed meanings.
There is also the Pocket Swiss Crowley Thoth Tarot Deck, which brings the Thoth system into a portable format.
Good for: Travellers, readers who want a portable deck and anyone who prefers smaller cards.
7. Tarot Decks With Guidebooks
If you're still learning tarot, a deck that comes with a guidebook can be particularly useful.
Guidebooks can introduce the meanings of the Major and Minor Arcana, explain the deck's unique symbolism and provide suggested spreads or reading techniques. Some decks are specifically designed to make learning easier by providing additional information directly alongside the cards.
For example, Spectrum Store carries the Beginner's Guide to Tarot, a 78-card deck and 192-page illustrated book set designed to introduce newcomers to tarot.
Another option is the Complete Tarot Kit, which includes both a Rider-Waite Tarot deck and Crowley Thoth Tarot deck alongside an introductory tarot book, spread sheet and reference chart.
Good for: Beginners, self-learners and anyone who wants additional reference material while practising.
How Are Tarot Decks Different?
Although many tarot decks contain 78 cards, they can feel completely different to use. Here are some of the main things to consider when comparing tarot decks:
Artwork and visual style
Some readers connect strongly with realistic illustrations, while others prefer minimalist, colourful, fantasy-inspired or historical artwork.
Tarot system
If you want to follow a particular tarot tradition, consider whether the deck is based on Rider-Waite-Smith, Marseille, Thoth or another system.
Minor Arcana imagery
Pay attention to how the Minor Arcana is illustrated. Rider-Waite-Smith-inspired decks generally feature illustrated scenes, while traditional Marseille decks often use simpler pip-style designs.
Guidebooks and learning materials
A detailed guidebook can be helpful if you're learning tarot or if a deck introduces its own symbolism and interpretation system.
Size and portability
Standard decks are comfortable for many readings, while mini and pocket decks are easier to carry around.
Personal connection
Perhaps most importantly, consider whether you connect with the deck's artwork, theme and overall atmosphere. Tarot is highly visual, so choosing imagery that draws your attention can make learning and practising more enjoyable.
How to Choose the Right Tarot Deck for You
There isn't one tarot deck that everyone needs to use. The right deck depends on what you're hoping to get from your tarot practice.
If you're completely new to tarot, a Rider-Waite-Smith-based deck can give you a familiar foundation for learning the traditional card meanings.
If you're interested in tarot history, explore Marseille-style decks and historical reproductions.
If you're drawn to astrology, Kabbalah and esoteric symbolism, a Thoth-based deck may give you plenty of material to study.
If artwork and aesthetics are important to you, explore modern and themed decks until you find a visual style that resonates with you.
And if you want something you can bring everywhere, a pocket or mini tarot deck may be the perfect addition to your collection.
Explore Tarot Decks at Spectrum Store
From traditional Rider-Waite-Smith decks to Marseille and Thoth-inspired systems, modern artistic interpretations and portable tarot decks, there are countless ways to explore the world of tarot.
At Spectrum Store Singapore, you'll find a curated collection of tarot cards featuring different traditions, themes, artwork styles and formats. Whether you're buying your first tarot deck or looking for something new to add to your collection, explore the Tarot collection at Spectrum Store and discover a deck that speaks to your style.
Start exploring tarot and find your next deck today.