The Reasons Why PSA is Still Beating SGC- The Grading Company War Rages On

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  • Опубликовано: 15 окт 2024
  • It's really difficult for a company to overtake the first company to the market in any industry. PSA famously became the first major company to the card grading market, when they announced themselves to the world by grading the Honus Wagner T206 card in the Gretzky collection and giving it serial number 1. Since then, they've been the leader in the hobby. Many of us have built a large collection of PSA slabbed cards and don't really want to switch. This was mentioned by Mike of ‪@BaseballCollector‬ on one of his recent RUclips videos. Frankly, I get it, and feel the same way. Lots of other collectors are frustrated with PSA's grading standards or other concerns, and have moved on to SGC or another one of the bigger grading companies. So the question remains: "Why is PSA still winning the card grading war?" While none of us have the real answer, most of us have some ideas as to what is holding SGC back. As of posting this video, I think there are two or three main reasons why SGC hasn't caught up to PSA. Here is my opinion and hypothesis of the situation.
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    #psa #baseballcards #sportscards #sgc

Комментарии • 158

  • @kled10
    @kled10 Год назад

    Great video as always!

  • @JC-pu7gi
    @JC-pu7gi Год назад +1

    SGC Is coming when they start selling modern cards at a good retail prices. I think SGC IS GOING to be my favorite I’m tired of PSA inconsistent grading. And SGC BEATS PSA IN ALMOST EVERY CATEGORIES

  • @A.K.1978
    @A.K.1978 Год назад +4

    I have all PSA ,but I will be going with SGC in April when I go to a card show here in upstate New York. I like SGC grading also because they are better with vintage baseball cards . I have a few that I am getting grade a 1953 Whitey Ford and a 1958 Yogi Bear.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      A lot of people are switching over. And I LOVE that 53 Whitey Ford.

    • @A.K.1978
      @A.K.1978 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I have one PSA graded of a 4 and I am going to get the raw one graded in April from SGC when they come to the card show here in Albany NY

  • @BIGREY78
    @BIGREY78 Год назад +9

    SGC IS UNDERRATED !!!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      They're catching up FAST. Not sure how much longer we'll be able to say they're underrated...they may take the lead sooner rather than later.

  • @cryptonite8495
    @cryptonite8495 4 месяца назад

    This is an old video, but I will add that SGC's slab inserts have cutouts to accommodate many different sized cards. PSA doesn't have inserts. It has ridges built into the slab to keep the card in place, and it does have some for several common card sizes. But when they don't have a slab that fits a card, they either let the card slide around between the ridges (more common in older slabs), or they put the card in a clear sleeve to help keep the card from shifting.
    But the bottom line is that, fair or not, when it comes time to sell it is better to be selling PSA. People on eBay who shop for graded cards make PSA one of their keywords. Unless they're SGC fans, the passionate minority. I do think the PSA value advantage shrinks as the card gets older. Personally I use the keyword (PSA, SGC) so my search will bring up both.
    SGC's black insert was the smartest move they ever made. Along with ditching the green label. Can you imagine wearing a green tophat with a tux? 🤣The "tuxedo" is usually the first reason people give for preferring SGC. I like the look, but it doesn't override the value superiority and universal acceptance of PSA. When people talk about grades in general terms they say "PSA 10". It's like Kleenex or Xerox or Frisbee. It is what it is.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  4 месяца назад

      I agree. The slab cutouts make them fit much better.

  • @GVolker1108
    @GVolker1108 Год назад +1

    Love SGC and they don’t reach into their customers pockets like PSA

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I like SGC a LOT. I think they're making a LOT of good moves right now. I look forward to seeing what's ahead for them, and I'm rooting for them to catch up to PSA in many ways for the betterment of the consumer.

  • @BaseballCollector
    @BaseballCollector Год назад

    Great analysis and thanks for the shoutout

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Appreciate the positive feedback. Your channel is great and everyone should be a subscriber to it. It’s easy to recommend quality stuff. 👍🏼

  • @ACollectorsDream
    @ACollectorsDream Год назад +3

    It’s all about the set registry. People pay more to get the card in the PSA registry

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Agreed. That’s why I tried to spend a good section of the video sharing it for those who aren’t familiar with it.

  • @kewl.card.collector2318
    @kewl.card.collector2318 Год назад

    Great video!

  • @BulldogSportsCards508
    @BulldogSportsCards508 Год назад +3

    the only reason PSA is still extorting us is because we allow it. As collectors we determine who we trust and it seems to be PSA for most people unfortunately. They do nothing different than beckett or SGC that is good for us. zero sub grades and zero reason why your card got a bad grade. The transparency just isn't there in the grading industry but we just don't care we continue to support them. If everyone started grading with Beckett tomorrow PSA would be in trouble. This is our hobby so at the end of the day it's our choice.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +2

      It's an interesting situation. I do believe the current "leader" (psa) can be overtaken at some point. At one point, Hondas and Toyotas were considered cheap cars. Now, the Camry and Accord are the two most popular sedans in the world. Like you said, it's up to the customers to decide. If people believe SGC has become a better product, the leader can be taken down. It'll be interesting to see how it plays out.

  • @michaeldenzer6024
    @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

    Still using Sgc! 62 cards recieved today! Ill get in 2 weeks...its all makes sense to sell faster! Psa takes forever!!!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  9 месяцев назад

      Turnaround time matters a lot.

  • @michaelrennicke2156
    @michaelrennicke2156 Год назад +1

    I agree with everything in your discussion here. From the eye appeal (particularly for vintage cards) of the SGC “tuxedo” to all the reasons people still use PSA. Personally, I do not have a lot of graded cards. The ones that I do have for resale, I graded through PSA. That cannot be discounted. But, if I am going to grade cards from my collection, I will absolutely use SGC. There is another reason people might use one brand versus another. Scotty B Cards did a RUclips video not to long ago comparing the protection each companies slabs provide (I think PSA, SGC, and BGS). Looking at drops, fire, water, etc.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Interesting. Thanks for sharing. I'll have to check it out. Having a card slabbed and protected is certainly an important part of the decision making process. Thanks so much.

    • @user-xf2tl8ee3c
      @user-xf2tl8ee3c Год назад

      Wow too much time going through the Ty Cobb cards… took away from the purpose of the video topic

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      @@user-xf2tl8ee3c Appreciate you taking the time to watch and leave a comment. 🙂

    • @gabriels1163
      @gabriels1163 Год назад

      I cracked a psa slab when it dropped off my desk onto carpet, just ridiculously cheap plastic. When I ship psa slabs I always double bubble mailer them, only brand I have to do that with. DSG Grading, one of the smaller brands, uses custom made slabs that are UV proof, waterproof, and close to unbreakable (anything can break if you try hard enough).

  • @michaeldenzer6024
    @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

    I buy what i think is good investment and eye appeal too....

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  9 месяцев назад

      It's always fun buying stuff that you think has a long term upside!!

  • @g.sheridan9809
    @g.sheridan9809 Год назад +5

    The PSA registry creates a collecting strategy/competition for me at least. I really enjoyed this episode, not a lot of new content on the PSA registry.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      Appreciate that a lot. A lot of people aren't even aware that the PSA registry exists. Part of my hope is that others understand why it's fun for collectors, and to hopefully pressure SGC to do something similar. If they do, PSA could be in trouble.

    • @g.sheridan9809
      @g.sheridan9809 Год назад

      Can you imagine, SGC’s after market would explode.

    • @comingnhot480
      @comingnhot480 Год назад

      Registry for the 🏆

  • @TradingCardCave
    @TradingCardCave Год назад

    Great video and analysis. I agree with you on all the points that you made including how SGC is better than PSA.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      Appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment. I'm really hoping that SGC values continue to slowly catch up to PSA. I want those two to be arch rivals...which would be better for all of us collectors.

    • @TradingCardCave
      @TradingCardCave Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I hope so too. There’s no reason they shouldn’t be in the near future! Like you said in the video, SGC needs to get their registry and app running to compete better.

  • @Eugene67
    @Eugene67 Год назад +1

    As a collector of low-grade vintage cards, I will choose SGC over PSA if a card has noticeable writing or stains because SGC does not add "Qualifiers." For example, I purchased a '53 Bowman Color Pee Wee Reese that was stained and received a grade of 1.5. I'm guessing PSA would have added the "ST" qualifier which may scare off some buyers.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Fair point. I know PSA did away with "most" of their qualifiers a year or two ago. Occasionally they will still use them but it's pretty rare.

  • @user-xf2tl8ee3c
    @user-xf2tl8ee3c Год назад +1

    Outside of the price… I think BGS still has the best quality from consistency and transparency standpoint

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I really like subgrades. I don't understand why the others haven't adopted that.

    • @user-xf2tl8ee3c
      @user-xf2tl8ee3c Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards the other companies don’t offer subgrades because it would hold them accountable for consistency. Also, something that rarely gets mentioned they use a penny sleeve to protect the card within the case. That additional attention to detail is appreciated.

  • @ClementeCollector
    @ClementeCollector Год назад +1

    I agree with all the points you made. I only use SGC. But I think PSA biggest advantage, that you didn't discuss is, they made a good name for themselves on modern. Therefore, people chose them, then they didn't want to have a Frankenstein collection. Now that I'm with SGC, I'm not going to buy or use another grading company, I don't want different holders. The registry is number 1, I agree, it's like fantasy football for card nerds. The registry drives up cards, because there's guys that need that card for it and if that card is on a lot of sets it even raises that price higher. Thanks for sharing.

  • @kennethmcgovern3137
    @kennethmcgovern3137 Год назад

    It shouldn’t matter who grades the card if a card is a 10 it should be a 10 across-the-board and worth the same amount of money. I strongly believe in that one card shouldn’t be $1000 more than another car just because it’s a PSA group graded.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I agree. But, I think it's just supply and demand. I think at the moment, there is still a stronger demand for PSA graded cards, not that it should be that way.

  • @Sandman60077
    @Sandman60077 Год назад

    If someone is buying just to have a collection then just buy what ever you like best. But if you're buying as an investment and you want your collection to grow in value also then you have to go with PSA. It's just like investing in the stock market, if there are two stocks to choose from, nobody has ever said "I'll buy the one that has the least growth potential." It's the same thing with slabs, you buy the one that has the most growth potential, and that's PSA.

  • @fernando-mychildhoodcollec5671

    Please agree with everything you said. However, customer service in PSA set register. I have more than six months of asking for new PSA sets and the inclusion of new players. The set register is a business opportunity for SGC or any other company =)

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I agree. If others did a quality set registry like PSA's, I think it could help others start catching up.

  • @stanmusial6
    @stanmusial6 Год назад

    AGREED!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Thanks!! Great minds think alike. :-)

  • @jimmybacas8003
    @jimmybacas8003 Год назад +1

    The first (and last) time I've ever submitted cards to be graded? Beckett in the late 90's. The submission form was a page in a Beckett Monthly you ripped out/filled out and included with your submission. I believe it was around 5 bucks per card if I'm not mistaken. I just buy 'em graded nowadays if I want a slabbed card. It's just become too much for a simple guy like myself who got back in the hobby recently, and the grading prices are a bit too rich for my blood.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      Funny you should say that. I have an episode in editing right now that's scheduled to post on Friday. It deals with exactly that- raw cards vs graded cards, and the dilemma of what way to go.

    • @jimmybacas8003
      @jimmybacas8003 Год назад +1

      @@MidLifeCards SGC is doing a '2023 Topps $9 per card' thing right now. Think about this. If they had some sort of 'once a year' random drawing for card year/brand for a 90 day window, how much revenue would that generate? I'd love to wake up to a notification 'For the next 90 days all '85 Donruss submitted are going to be $9 per card' or something of the like. Just seems like that would be super cool, or maybe I'm too naive in that space.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      @@jimmybacas8003 I'm always for companies doing incentives. My guess is they're doing it for 2023 Topps because they're REALLY easy to grade. So, that can rip through them super fast. I doubt they'd do it for an older vintage era set, because the cards have additional wear. But, I like the idea of things like that and hope the big grading companies will do more incentives to get us to try their service.

    • @jimmybacas8003
      @jimmybacas8003 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I just got a card bought off Ebay in the mail, and a few 2023 Topps cards were used as 'protection'. One of the them a Joey Votto😂

    • @gabriels1163
      @gabriels1163 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I think you nailed it. They are going to be almost exclusively 9s & 10s, and they will fly through them. I worked as a grader for a while and some sets are super easy, and you can get through a couple cards a minute but others like vintage sports or crazy die cuts can take a couple minutes per card.

  • @joetocco9789
    @joetocco9789 Год назад +1

    Don't forget SGC used to have a set registry, it just never caught on. Most of the high end vintage was and still is in PSA slabs, so they have all the momentum.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Fair point. PSA's registry is so complex and nice, and so many nice cards are in psa slabs, its hard to compete....like you said...that momentum is hard to overtake.

  • @signsofthepastime
    @signsofthepastime Год назад +1

    Thanks for showing what the registry is like, I didn’t know much about it. For me personally, I collect autographed cards so PSA/DNA is what I trust. SGC is dropping the ball not having auto authentication in my opinion. PSA just has the feel and look of a more professional company

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      SGC used to do authentication. They've talked about bringing it back. PSA's label and tech sophistication does seem to be more elaborate and high end. I definitely know what you mean.

    • @signsofthepastime
      @signsofthepastime Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I hope they do because I like them as far as customer service goes and vintage cards look great in their slabs. Hopefully their recent success helps them get these thing in place

  • @DanielCordone9
    @DanielCordone9 Год назад +2

    Your best bet is to avoid sending cards for grading at the moment and buy graded cards at rock bottom prices. I've been getting decent cards graded for $20-30. Saves the hassle of sending cards to PSA and SGC and getting an unfair grade.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Good idea.

    • @michaeldenzer6024
      @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

      Love half grades at Sgc!

    • @DanielCordone9
      @DanielCordone9 9 месяцев назад +1

      @@michaeldenzer6024 SGC pop control the key players and just assign grades, rather than inspecting the actual cards. Rushed my order

  • @republicofcasuals
    @republicofcasuals Год назад

    SGC is better all round, but PSA sells for more.... so you either play the long game and maybe SGC will one day be on the same value level as PSA, or take a hit to profits for faster turn arounds by using SGC. With that said, PSA jumped in and crushed BGS as the slab leader, so anything is possible

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I think you nailed it.

    • @michaeldenzer6024
      @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

      Bgs got crushed because they dont do anything in there business. They just dont care.....

  • @bigdaddycool1366
    @bigdaddycool1366 Год назад

    PSA takes 5 to 7 months for me to get items back. Door to door with SGC is 28 days. No comparison. Black Tux all day...

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I get it. I've had good success with PSA returning cards in under their estimated return time.

  • @thereverendripps1733
    @thereverendripps1733 Год назад

    Gem mint it gem mint for the big 4 companies. The set register and influencers have convinced the hobby PSA grades best, which they do not. I grade with all 4 but I would not buy a PSA 10 over a gem mint of the same card at inflated prices.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I know you’re not alone in your feelings.

  • @johnpersechini4951
    @johnpersechini4951 Год назад

    I can lookup the sale of a psa graded card back many years to see the trend. I can lookup cert and see the actual card and prior sales. The card registry doesn’t matter to me as I tend to collect certain players.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Makes sense. For some the registry is a big deal. For others it doesn’t matter at all.

  • @bigson1973
    @bigson1973 Год назад

    It all comes down to the all mighty dollar. I don't sell many cards but I someday I might have to part with some or all of them and at the current time PSA just holds more resale value then the other companies.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Agreed. When it comes to resale value, psa is the winner time and time again.

  • @vincenterrera8297
    @vincenterrera8297 Год назад

    I would include brand awareness too. PSA is becoming the Kleenex of tissues but for grading companies It's the OG that everyone knows but also everything can see PSA commands top $$ for high grade cards. Everyone wants to buy the perceived best of the best even if other grading companies are doing a better job overall. PSA registry was genius when it was created. It added a psychological layer to buying cards that never existed before. Guys in particular love to compete and even more so brag about what they own. I'm sure the people that are friends with the guy that owns xym #1 ranked Topps basic set all know that he owns the set and how he has the top set for a decade. I could imagine that this alone is adding an extra 15-20% in guys overpaying for cards just for upgrades or the precious top grade in existence whether it is PSA 9 or 10 for some vintage common.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I totally agree. Qtip, Scotch Tape, Uber, etc. First big name in the market is hard to overtake. Great points.

  • @wax2thefuture647
    @wax2thefuture647 Год назад +2

    I collect the cardboard not the plastic

  • @kylemccormack4120
    @kylemccormack4120 Год назад

    CSG for me.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I'm not gonna lie. The CSG slabs are really nice looking.

  • @MrOlivasalone
    @MrOlivasalone 6 месяцев назад

    I like SGC slab. I grade SGC and CGC

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  6 месяцев назад

      I love how the tuxedo slab makes cards pop.

    • @MrOlivasalone
      @MrOlivasalone 6 месяцев назад

      @@MidLifeCards agree! And it has some weight to it and stands out. Plus I really like the fast turnaround time and price. The extra 3 to 4 dollars adds up when your submitting 20 plus cards.

  • @jonfishmacon
    @jonfishmacon Год назад

    csg needs to do color match and win...... PSA registry matters , csg has one now

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Agree on the registry. PSA's is outstanding and is a big part of why they're way ahead.

  • @Doors067
    @Doors067 Год назад

    Sgc doesnt upcharge me as somebody who collects 90% of the cards I get and doesn't have funds for huge upcharges that is massive! Do I lose 20% for using sgc, yes. But it helps my wallet so much that I can stay in the hobby and buy more cards

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      That’s a really good way of looking at it and it’s hard to disagree. SGC has a lot going for them and I think they’re gaining momentum.

  • @jude999
    @jude999 Год назад

    Thinner slabs and MUCH better looking labels for me.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I like the labels for psa as well. But, I like the black border on the sgc slabs...especially for vintage cards.

  • @pete5691
    @pete5691 Год назад +1

    Psa dethroned beckett because people wanted the 10 instead of a 9.5 gem mint and were willing to pay more for it. Eventually it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy. The registry set thing attracts big names and big money which attracts small money. Vintage is different because I think a lot more people buy the card over the grade in vintage.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      All fair points. Thanks for taking the time to share.

    • @pete5691
      @pete5691 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I should have started my comment with “in my opinion”!

  • @davelachey8118
    @davelachey8118 Год назад

    Another enjoyable video. I think PSA’s longevity with collectors, registry, their app, authenticating Autos, and higher resale are all factors. For me it’s the Autos. I send my vintage to SGC if not autographed, and modern to PSA but I don’t collect much modern. I do send an occasional higher value vintage card to PSA if I expect to sell it but I think the resale/value gap is narrowing on vintage especially. I like the SGC slabs for cards pre-60’s. There’s something about a vintage card in an SGC holder-they seem to belong together. I’ve graded 250 cards in the past year with both companies and I can say SGC’s service is outstanding. They’ve responded to all questions in 2 hrs or less and their turnaround time is great

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      No doubt that SGC has so much going for it. Customer service (response time and turnaround time) are two of their biggest strengths. I think you make a great point about the autographs. I know SGC used to do that, but chose to move away from it. It's really a tough one, because you don't want to do "everything" at an average level. Sometimes it's just best to do "some things" REALLY REALLY well. I think that's the sweet spot that they're trying to settle into. In a recent interview, their CEO seemed open to authentication of autos again, but sometimes they have to be strategic on where to head first. @breakoutcards did a livestream with the SGC CEO a couple of weeks ago, which I watched. If you haven't checked it out, go over to his RUclips channel and watch it. It's definitely worth your time.

    • @davelachey8118
      @davelachey8118 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards Yes I saw that interview, and I agree it with the notion of doing fewer things really well, especially as a smaller company. They do grade 2000 and newer autos for free so that’s nice if you have an Auto that’s already authenticated, but most of mine are vintage. I also am a big fan of Ryan Nolan and what he’s done with his channel and for Vintage.

  • @PokemonRocketPulls
    @PokemonRocketPulls Год назад

    Everyone get over this b.s. and just collect what you like. 💯

  • @gabriels1163
    @gabriels1163 Год назад +1

    I despise psa . IMO they are worse than almost every company out there. Even the newer and still small companies that most people have not heard of are way better than psa. They have ugly dated looking labels, cheap brittle plastic that easily breaks and scratches, no information given about your grade even on the ones with qr codes. And their grading is inconsistent to the point where its a total crapshoot what grade you will get on any card. The card store I work for stopped dealing with psa completely, its just not a good company to do business with. Today I was at the offices of the grading company we use now and saw hundreds of psa slabs being broken out and regraded with this much smaller company, made me happy.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I totally get the frustration. For me, I'm happy that we have multiple companies to choose from. Thankfully, it sounds like you've found a company that is a better fit, which is great. Personally...I think they all have different pros and cons, so I just try to go with the ones with the most pros. :-)

  • @thereverendripps1733
    @thereverendripps1733 Год назад

    For vintage, no question it is SGC. VINTAGE is trending up, but Vintage is not where the dollar are. PSA rules modern/ultra modern because of ROI. Many will disagree, but the dollar rules. I am trying to learn to use SGC for flipping, but you HAVE to do your research.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Flipping is a risky game, but can be profitable when done correctly. I have a video coming out on Friday where I do a deep analysis of recent ebay auction sales prices...comparing SGC to PSA. I thought the results of the analysis were VERY interesting. I hope you'll check it out.

    • @thereverendripps1733
      @thereverendripps1733 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I will check it out. If there are no PSA graded cards, SGC is definitely in play. I am using them for a test. I only buy raw and usually not the mass produced stuff. I am also more hockey now and that is a sport where collectors buy the card.

  • @GoldenSlumber474
    @GoldenSlumber474 Год назад +1

    Good video again Graig. Although I’m an SGC fan due to those initial 8-9 factors you listed, I’m beginning to understand why PSA has so many diehard supporters for the 3 big reasons you listed. I always felt that those true blues had consumed too much PSA-koolaid considering the way PSA treats their loyal customers but I have to admit that those 3 PSA advantages may be enough to keep their fans loyal. If I had started my collection in the early 90’s, I might have been part of the cult 😉 today since I do try to maintain some uniformity in my PC but that’s no longer viable with all the graded slab choices today. I don’t expect SGC to build its own registry & app as it would be an exorbitantly expensive with a low probability of success tipping the needle to SGC’s advantage. No, I think SGC is quite happy with the status quo & their current position & reputation in the grading world.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      So, I've got two things to say to you, my friend:
      #1- @JunkWaxHero recently commented on one of my posts that he heard a rumor that SGC is working on an app. I hope it's true for all the SGC fans out there.
      #2- Even if EVERYONE in the world stopped paying attention to my RUclips Channel overnight, I'd still make content so you and I can continue to converse. I appreciate you!! :-)

    • @jbscardbreaks4389
      @jbscardbreaks4389 Год назад +1

      Sgc doesn’t invest money into technology but they should even the security features of sgc slabs and there plastics are way behind even csg.

  • @vintagecollector5340
    @vintagecollector5340 Год назад

    Good video. While what you mentioned was all true, you have to also keep in mind that PSA also grades a variety of stuff, including memorabilia like photographs, game tickets, etc. To the best of my knowledge, SGC doesn't grade anything other than sports cards. Game tickets and photos are beginning to catch alot of attention. I think once photos and game tickets really start becoming a big deal, then PSA will continue to thrive even more over SGC. PSA is light-years away from SGC and way ahead of the game.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      SGC is also grading Pokemon, now. That said, you make good points. PSA is a "one stop shop" for all of your grading needs. They'll grade just about anything. That's a "pro" if you collect a lot of stuff, but it also can be a negative, as it drives up overhead, staffing, and eventually turnaround times. I'm certainly not recommending one over the other, but for people that collect a lot of stuff, I think you're absolutely right.

    • @vintagecollector5340
      @vintagecollector5340 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards I try to call it as I see it. I have to agree that PSA should be expanding to help keep turnaround times reasonable. If SGC ever does start grading seriously to compete with PSA, they'll eventually have to branch out into other sectors of the hobby if they plan to take over anytime in the near future. It's also important to note that while SGC does currently have faster turnaround times, that could also be because PSA still has the most business. Remember the COVID years when PSA got backed up, and SGC thought they would just take over and be able to handle the load? The ending result was disastrous. If I recall correctly, SGC also got overwhelmed with orders and their turnaround times began to suffer for it, as well.

  • @Eaglesfan220
    @Eaglesfan220 Год назад

    SGC is really only good if you want to flip a card fast while a player is hot, Unless of course you do like the SGC holder for PC but most don't. I do about 40-60 auctions per week on Ebay plus my COMC listings and all my SGC stuff still goes significantly lower than PSA.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I did a video comparing SGC vs PSA values, as noted in this video. I found that higher end stuff has a big PSA premium. But cheaper cards in lower grades, there's no real difference in value.

    • @Eaglesfan220
      @Eaglesfan220 Год назад

      @@MidLifeCards Sure on the lower end values are comparable but the SGC stuff is much harder to sell and auctions can go really low.

  • @lindsaywhited2740
    @lindsaywhited2740 Год назад

    PSA guarantees their grade and the card that they encapsulate which no other grading company provides. No other grading company does that

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Do you know what exactly the guarantee entails? That's an interesting point I had never really considered.

    • @rhq5461
      @rhq5461 8 месяцев назад

      They guarantee to give you crap grades so that you will resubmit then they somehow become a 10

  • @michaeldenzer6024
    @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

    No consistancy in grading at psa!!!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  9 месяцев назад

      Their consistency certainly is weak right now.

  • @jasonerdman9612
    @jasonerdman9612 Год назад

    Very simple psa values are higher sgc better overall company better looking slab better customer service most important better turn around times!!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      A lot of people agree with you and I'm interested to see how it unfolds over the next couple of years.

  • @888strummer
    @888strummer Год назад

    I only buy PSA. I don't send cards to PSA. My first experience was terrible so I only buy PSA on ebay. PSA is worth more and much more in demand, so I stick with PSA despite disliking their corrupt practices in the past.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Lol. I think there are a lot of people that share that exact sentiment.

  • @randomsalmon4603
    @randomsalmon4603 Год назад

    PSA has the worst looking labels on their slabs! I also hate the PSA grading scale; it's horrible! Not all PSA 10s are created equal; why not make a 10-Pristine level at PSA?

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I hear ya for sure. I hear the exact same complaints in the opposite direction about SGC, though. I just like that we have options so each person can go with the company that works for them. :-)

  • @DanielCordone9
    @DanielCordone9 Год назад +1

    PSA and SGC are awful grading companies. Beckett is clear number one

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I know a lot of people swear by Beckett. Whatever people prefer is what they should go with.

  • @jesusrules44
    @jesusrules44 Год назад

    I like the SGC slab better, but I like the PSA label better!!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I agree with that. The PSA label seems more "professional" to me. It also has more security features on it like holograms/barcodes/etc.

  • @england8331
    @england8331 Год назад

    SGC Labels are ugly. If they worked on that they'd have the nicest slab imo. Grading companies should keep up and provide sales prices of the cards they grade. Providing a sales reference helps the Buyers and would build brand popularity bigtime.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I know PSA has a section of their website that is "auction prices realized"...which does that with publicly reported sales prices, but obviously doesn't include prices for sales at shows and stuff.

  • @chrisalvarez3162
    @chrisalvarez3162 Год назад

    PSA because of the data they have created for all there cards. The log they have is far superior to all others

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Being the first into the market and the leader for so long has certainly created a massive advantage.

  • @michaeldenzer6024
    @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

    People are brainwashed to believe that. Dosnt make it true....things are changing!

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  9 месяцев назад

      I totally think that SGC is on the rise.

  • @michaeldenzer6024
    @michaeldenzer6024 9 месяцев назад

    Psa wont get my business.....wont pay join fee balogne......

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  9 месяцев назад

      I know of a lot of people that have switched to SGC.

  • @timstickler4877
    @timstickler4877 Год назад

    PSA has gotten fat and lazy. So many people have PSA slabs and they know they will lose money if a PSA 10 is devalued somehow. At the end of the day it's collectors that drive demand. So if collectors are more willing to buy slabs from other companies then things will change. As for me, I prefer HGA slabs for my PC but if I am looking to flip a card I would probably go with PSA just because of market demand. I feel like HGA has the best looking slabs and I can't complain about their grading.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      Appreciate your comments. I like how HGA goes outside of the box and incorporates colors into their labels. I also think a hybrid grading system has a lot of long term potential in the market.

  • @michaelcreeden1560
    @michaelcreeden1560 Год назад +1

    At this point, I am grading mostly for my PC. I submitted cards (early 80s golf cards) to SGC that were received on 2/24, and they were graded 2/28. Got an email 3/1 saying they were already shipped. Hard to beat that turn around time. I also like the sleek look of the black slab. I would be surprised if more people don't leverage them, especially if they run more promos like they are now for Topps 2023 Series 1.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      I totally get it. SGC is so fast and the customer service is awesome, and the black framing of the slab pops. I totally get why people are switching over.

    • @freedomthefreeman487
      @freedomthefreeman487 Год назад

      They are way more expensive than CSG($12/card), Beckett($16/card), TAG(doing specials at $14/card)

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      @@freedomthefreeman487 very true.

  • @DerethAC
    @DerethAC Год назад

    It's all about resale. PSA is the king of resale values. It's really that simple.
    Also, SGC fans like yourself never seem willing to accept that most people don't like SGC's slabs. I get that YOU and other SGC fans like the look of their slabs. I get that you think that the black matte look makes vintage pop, but that doesn't mean that most people agree with you. You even outright dismiss the possibility in own your poll that you mention in the video.
    I personally think that they look ugly and cheap, and are by far the worst of the big four (PSA, SGC, BGS, CSG). I've read opinions of collectors on a variety of forums, and for the most part the only people who rate SGC slabs at the top of the list are the ones that also shill for them.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      I appreciate your comment. Dialogue is fun, and it's really the basis for my RUclips Channel. That said, I have TWO SGC slabs in my collection. Two. EVERY other slab in my collection is PSA. Also- I recently sent off 25 cards to be graded from PSA, while I've only done one submission with SGC. So, I wouldn't say I'm an SGC fan. I have no skin in the game. I don't get anything from anyone. I'm just an independent guy that looks at different topics, and loves to see what others think. I think you make some fair points, but I certainly don't "shill" or know anyone who does.

    • @DerethAC
      @DerethAC Год назад

      ​@@MidLifeCards This is only the third or so video of yours that has popped up in my feed, and the others that I can remember prior to this were both SGC related too, including:
      "Who Grades Harder, PSA or SGC?"
      "Comparing SGC and PSA Values For Modern Baseball Cards"
      "Comparing PSA and SGC Card Values - What does the DATA actually say?"
      SGC has sponsored RUclips channels in an effort to try and gain more traction in the hobby, and I've seen a number of videos of RUclipsrs putting up content similar to these videos in order to shill for SGC. Off the top of my head, The Sports Card Dad is one of them. He does a good job of disclosing it, and many others do not.
      I have an ethical problem with the lack of disclosure of this, so if I have wrongly assessed your intentions, then I apologize to you.
      With all of that said, my original point remains. You are very quick to give SGC the nod when it comes to the appearance of their slabs, and I think that this is something that you're missing. IMO, based on the opinions that I've heard from people in all types of formats, most people do not care for SGC's slabs.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад

      @@DerethAC No need to apologize, but I appreciate you following up. I can assure you that I haven't received a dime from SGC. I think your criticism is fair. I agree that SGC has marketed on RUclips, which is actually something I wish PSA and others did. SGC going to RUclips to become involved, like a recent interview the SGC CEO did on @breakoutcards, shows their interest in connecting with collectors. My personal opinion is that the black frame around the SGC slab makes the vintage cards pop. That said, I think the sophistication of the label that PSA uses with the holograms, design, serial numbers, QR codes, etc, make it better protected against counterfeits as well as having a more "professional" label look. I'm not the be all and end all, I'm just an opinion. I appreciate the discussion and disagreements. That's part of the fun. It's like Sports Talk Radio. Everyone has an opinion, and I WANT people to share. That said, I appreciate your comments very much. Thanks for watching, commenting, and following up. All opinions are welcome here. 🙂

    • @nathanmulkey
      @nathanmulkey Год назад

      couldn't disagree more

    • @DerethAC
      @DerethAC Год назад

      @@nathanmulkey Disagree about which part?

  • @mr.fancypants1524
    @mr.fancypants1524 Год назад +1

    Do any grading companies go to card shows and grade on site? I've got a card that I do not want to send through the mail.

    • @MidLifeCards
      @MidLifeCards  Год назад +1

      Yes. A lot of them do. Becket, PSA, and SGC do regularly. Depends on the size of the show and the partnership with the promoter of the show. But, they're absolutely available at the bigger shows.

  • @Hogfan6494
    @Hogfan6494 Год назад

    Great video!!!