5 Reasons why Pokemon Bulk Bins are Great for Collectors

I recently discussed the joy of looking at Pokemon bulk bins. However, I think it’s also important to properly clarify the benefits of this process. It is not for everyone, and may not be an option at every card shop. But when given the chance, try to find a Pokemon bulk bin and sift through it.

Pokemon Bulk Bins have So Many Cards

It should go without saying, but I don’t think people fully grasp the sheer volume of cards in bulk bins. We are talking about hundreds to thousands of cards waiting to be looked through. Granted, some may be energy cards, or even code cards. Given the varied back-prints of said code cards, those are also somewhat of a collectible these days. 

Putting that aside, the overall card volume of Pokemon bulk bins is both fantastic and a tad overwhelming. You can pick up two handfuls of cards and barely see anything is missing from the bin. Going through row after row is a time-consuming process, but in a fun way, so prepare adequately. 

Free Multi-hour Entertainment

As mentioned in the other article, bulk bin sorting is free entertainment. You can walk into any card store with bulk bins and just sift through them. No purchase required, although it is VERY difficult to walk out empty-handed. Going through card after card can make hours – yes, plural – go by in the blink of an eye.

That is also the fun part of Pokemon bulk bins. If you have time to kill, take a box, sit off in the corner, and see what you can find. If you’re in a hurry, pick out 2 handfuls of cards and see what treasures may lie within. Even if you don’t find anything you’re looking for, it is still time well spent, because….

Pokemon Bulk Bins = Artist Discovery

You never fully know what you can find in Pokemon bulk bins these days. Some may only have newer cards, others may contain vintage items. What languages and conditions will cards be in? I am blessed with my LCS, as they separate vintage from modern bulk , and toss energy cards into their own bulk bins.

Regardless of what you pull out of a box, it is an artist discovery journey. You will see familiar artist names and ones you’ve probably never heard of. In some cases, you may even find an artist’s only Pokemon TCG card. Or, if you’re lucky like me, you pick up a dozen Komiya and a dozen Morii cards at 25 cents each. It’s all possible!

Pokemon TCG Drawing Evolution

There are vast differences between vintage cards, modern cards, and everything that comes in between. Even though some artists may stay the same, their styles will evolve. In my search, I was lucky to find 2000-era cards from one artist, and a 2024 card from their work. The style differences are night and day, yet the essence remains the same.

One cannot deny that any Pokemon from 20 years ago will look nothing like it does today in a lot of cases. Compare an old Pikachu to today’s version and you will see what I mean. The overall “shape” might be similar, but there are dozens of tiny differences. Plus, every artist draws a Pokemon slightly differently, making for some very interesting bulk bun finds. Pokemon bulk bins will highlight this evolution quite well.

Pokemon Bulk Bins Are Good for the Budget

Although this may be the main drawing point for Pokemon bulk bin hunting, it doesn’t necessarily need to be. Yes, it is a TON cheaper than buying sealed products and hoping for a card you really want. But it is also a completely different experience from opening packs or booster boxes. One doesn’t have to replace the other, they can complement one another nicely.

That said, Pokemon bulk bins are fantastic for anyone on a budget. I don’t mean budget as in “financial peril” necessarily, more as in “responsible spending”. I can walk out of my shop with 20 cards for 5 euro, or I can walk out with 1 card. That choice is entirely ours to make, which makes this process all the more enticing.