PSA vs BGS vs CGC vs TAG Slabs: Which Protector Fits Which Holder
· UpdatedShort answer: PSA, BGS, CGC and TAG holders are different sizes, so a protector built for one grader usually does not fit another. For Slabium: the Guard Bumper PSA and Guard Acrylic PSA fit PSA only, the Guard Acrylic BGS fits Beckett only, the Metal Case PSA fits PSA, CGC and TAG, and the SLABIUM BAG display window takes all four.
You ordered a protector, it arrived, and it does not fit your slab. It is the most common mistake in graded card protection, and it happens because every grading company designed its own holder. This guide shows which protector fits which slab, with the dimensions that explain why.
Why slab size matters
A protector only works if it fits precisely. Too loose and the slab rattles inside, so the corners still take the hit. Too tight and the case will not close, or it puts pressure on the holder. Holders differ in height, width and thickness by only a few millimetres, which is exactly enough to break the fit.
Graded slab dimensions compared
| Grader | Height | Width | Thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSA (standard) | 135.8 mm (5.34 in) | 80.3 mm (3.16 in) | 6.3 mm (0.25 in) |
| BGS (Beckett) | 130.8 mm (5.15 in) | 83.0 mm (3.27 in) | 8.5 mm (0.33 in) |
| CGC | 135.0 mm (5.32 in) | 80.3 mm (3.16 in) | 7.5 mm (0.30 in) |
| TAG | 134.8 mm (5.31 in) | 80.0 mm (3.15 in) | 7.3 mm (0.29 in) |
Typical outside dimensions of standard holders, from published digital caliper measurements. Holders vary slightly between production runs, so allow about ±0.5 mm. Thick-card and tall holders are larger. Full details in our slab dimensions guide.
Two things stand out. BGS holders are shorter, wider and thicker than PSA holders, so PSA and BGS protectors are never interchangeable. And PSA, CGC and TAG share almost the same height and width but differ in thickness, which is why a case with a little depth tolerance, like the Metal Case, can take all three.
Fit chart: Slabium protectors by grading company
| Product | PSA | BGS | CGC | TAG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLABIUM BAG (display window) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Guard Bumper PSA | Yes | No | No | No |
| Guard Acrylic PSA | Yes | No | No | No |
| Guard Acrylic BGS | No | Yes | No | No |
| Metal Case PSA | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Acrylic Box PSA | Yes, with protector on | Yes, inside a Guard Acrylic BGS | Inside a Metal Case | Inside a Metal Case |
PSA slabs
PSA has the widest choice. Start with the Guard Bumper PSA ($9.99, 38 colorways) for corner and drop protection. Step up to the Guard Acrylic PSA ($14.99, 40 colorways) to protect the faces from scratches and stack cleanly. For your best cards, the Metal Case PSA ($24.99, 36 colorways) adds an aluminum frame, UV-protective glass and a magnetic closure. Not sure which? Read how to choose the best PSA slab case.
BGS (Beckett) slabs
Because BGS holders are thicker and shorter, they need a dedicated fit. The Guard Acrylic BGS combines a TPU guard with a clear acrylic case and keeps the label and the subgrades fully visible, in 12 colorways. It also slides into the Acrylic Box PSA for display.
CGC and TAG slabs
The Metal Case PSA fits standard PSA, CGC and TAG slabs up to about 8 mm thick, so one case covers three grading companies. That makes it the simplest choice if your collection mixes graders. More detail in our CGC and TAG slab protector guide.
Carrying mixed slabs
The SLABIUM BAG is a crossbody sling with a front display window. The window is built around the slab, not the grader, so it takes PSA, BGS, CGC and TAG holders. The main compartment holds a phone, deck box, toploaders, keys and wallet.
How to check your slab before ordering
- Read the grader on the label: PSA, BGS, CGC or TAG.
- Check whether the holder is a standard size. Thick-card holders (for patch or memorabilia cards) and tall holders do not fit standard protectors.
- If you are unsure, measure the thickness with a ruler or calipers and compare it to the table above.
- Still unsure? Email info@slabium.store with a photo of the slab and we will tell you what fits.
Frequently asked questions
Will a PSA bumper fit a CGC slab?
No. CGC holders are thicker. For CGC, use the Metal Case PSA.
Will a PSA guard fit a BGS slab?
No. BGS holders are shorter, wider and thicker. Use the Guard Acrylic BGS.
Which protector covers the most graders?
The Metal Case PSA: PSA, CGC and TAG. For carrying, the SLABIUM BAG window takes all four.
Do your protectors fit thick-card or tall PSA holders?
No. Our protectors are made for standard holders.
Can I put a protected slab in a display box?
Yes. The Acrylic Box PSA holds a PSA slab with its Guard Bumper, Guard Acrylic or Metal Case still on, and a BGS slab in its Guard Acrylic BGS.
