7 Best Tarot Decks for Beginners (Reader-Tested Picks)
How We Chose These Decks
When picking the best tarot decks for beginners, we looked at:
- Symbolism clarity (easy-to-read imagery)
- Art style (traditional vs modern aesthetics)
- Cardstock durability (shuffle feel, longevity)
- Accessibility (affordable, widely available)
The Rider-Waite-Smith deck was our baseline, as most books and courses teach from it. But we also included modern, Instagram-ready decks and playful options for readers who want personality.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Deck | Style | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rider-Waite-Smith | Classic, symbolic | Absolute beginners | $15–25 |
| Light Seer’s Tarot | Modern, colorful | Visual learners, journaling | $20–30 |
| Everyday Witch | Playful, witchy | Wicca & lighthearted energy | $20–30 |
| Tarot of 78 Doors | Storytelling, intuitive | Shadow work & beginners | $25–35 |
| Modern Witch Tarot | Diverse, contemporary | Inclusivity & fashion | $20–30 |
| Mystic Mondays | Bold, geometric | Minimalist readers | $25–35 |
| Golden Art Nouveau | Luxurious, ornate | Beginners who love shine | $25–40 |
Deck Reviews
Rider-Waite-Smith — Timeless Classic
The most widely used beginner deck. Its clear symbolism, bright colors, and direct imagery make it easy to learn. Almost every tarot guidebook references it.
👉 Shop Rider-Waite-Smith Deck
Light Seer’s Tarot — Modern & Instagram-Ready
One of the most beloved modern decks. With soulful artwork and relatable imagery, it’s perfect for journaling and pulling intuitive meanings.
👉 Shop Light Seer’s Tarot
Everyday Witch Tarot — Playful Symbolism
Witty illustrations and witchy themes make this a lighthearted yet insightful choice. Great for readers who want symbolism without intimidation.
👉 Shop Everyday Witch Tarot
Tarot of 78 Doors — Highly Recommended for Beginners
This deck is a hidden gem. Each card represents a doorway—both literal and symbolic—making interpretations intuitive even without memorization. Excellent for beginners working on intuition.
👉 Shop Tarot of 78 Doors on Amazon
Modern Witch Tarot — Inclusive & Relatable
Bright, fashion-inspired artwork and diverse characters. A refreshing update of Rider-Waite that resonates with today’s readers.
👉 Shop Modern Witch Tarot
Mystic Mondays Tarot — Bold & Minimalist
Perfect for design lovers. Clean, neon-inspired visuals that pop on Instagram while still being easy to interpret.
👉 Shop Mystic Mondays
Golden Art Nouveau — A Touch of Luxury
Shimmering gold foil accents elevate classic tarot imagery. Great for beginners who want their first deck to feel special and magical.
👉 Shop Golden Art Nouveau
Cleansing & Bonding: 4 Simple Rituals
Once you choose your deck, try these beginner-friendly ways to connect with it:
- Sleep with it under your pillow for 3 nights.
- Use candlelight or incense smoke to clean the energy of the deck in-between readings.
- Knock 3 times on the deck to clear old energies.
- Shuffle daily even if you don’t read.
- Pull a card-a-day to build familiarity.
FAQ: Does Your First Deck Need to Be Gifted?
No! That’s a myth. Many modern readers buy their own first tarot deck. What matters most is choosing a deck that resonates with you visually and spiritually.
Final Thoughts
The best tarot decks for beginners are the ones that make you want to pick up your cards daily. Whether you prefer the tradition of Rider-Waite, the vibrancy of Light Seer’s, or the unique symbolism of Tarot of 78 Doors, your first deck will set the tone for your tarot journey.
👉 Ready to begin? Grab your beginner deck here: Best Tarot Decks on Amazon.