Cataloging a Pokémon collection by hand is slow. Between reprints, set symbols, and tiny collector numbers, typing every card into a spreadsheet takes hours. Scanning your cards with your phone turns that job into a few minutes of pointing your camera.
Why Scan Instead of Typing
A modern collection can span dozens of sets across English and Japanese releases. Entering each card manually means:
- Squinting at the collector number in the bottom corner
- Matching the set symbol to the right release
- Guessing at the variant (holo, reverse holo, first edition)
A scanner reads all of that for you. Arca identifies the card on-device in a couple of seconds and fills in the set, number, and variant automatically.
How to Scan Your Cards
Step 1: Open the scanner
Launch Arca and tap the scan button. The camera opens with a framing guide to help you line up the card.
Step 2: Line up the card
Place the card on a flat, non-reflective surface, or hold it steady in good light. Fill the frame with the card and keep it roughly straight. Arca detects the card edges and captures automatically when it has a clean read.
Tip: avoid direct overhead light that reflects off holo cards. Diffused daylight or a lamp off to the side works best.
Step 3: Confirm and add
Arca shows the matched card with its set and number. Set the quantity, choose the variant if needed, and add it to your collection. Then move straight to the next card — there’s no need to leave the scanner between cards.
Step 4: Review your collection
Every scanned card lands in your collection with its current market price attached, so you immediately see what your cards are worth.
Getting the Best Scan Results
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Blurry capture | Hold steady and let the camera focus before it captures |
| Glare on holo cards | Angle the card or move your light source to the side |
| Wrong match | Ensure the collector number and set symbol are visible and in focus |
| Slow scanning | Scan against a plain, contrasting background |
After You Scan
Once your cards are in Arca, you can:
- Track your portfolio value as prices move day to day
- See price history for any card from 7 days to 6 months
- Fill in the Pokédex as you collect each creature’s cards
- Find exactly which cards you still need to complete a set
Scanning is just the start — it’s the fastest way to get from a shoebox of cards to a collection you can actually track.
Download Arca free and scan your first card in seconds.
Start your collection today
Download Arca free and scan your first card in seconds — English and Japanese cards, live prices, no account needed.