Rider–Waite–Smith, Marseille and Thoth are different tarot traditions, not interchangeable sets of pictures. Labyrinthos’ comparison of tarot deck traditions describes Marseille’s numbered suit patterns, Rider–Waite–Smith’s illustrated scenes and Thoth’s dense esoteric imagery. Names and numbering can also differ. When using a card guide, first check which tradition and deck its explanation assumes.
Compare what the numbered cards show
Labyrinthos’ deck-tradition comparison describes Marseille’s pip-style numbered cards and Rider–Waite–Smith’s narrative illustrations. That visual difference matters when you are following an explanation based on a particular scene. Thoth uses another visual and symbolic vocabulary.
Our suggested first check is simple: open your guidebook beside the actual card. Is the described detail present? If it is not, do not force yourself to see it. Record which deck your notes refer to.
Watch for differences in labels and order
Labyrinthos’ deck comparison also provides correspondences between card names across the traditions, including changes involving Justice and Strength numbering and some court-card labels. Individual artists may introduce further naming choices.
Use our Major and Minor Arcana guide for an introduction to those broad groups, then consult your own deck’s guide for its names. Our recommendation is to copy the printed card name accurately before adding an equivalent from another system.
Choose a learning approach you can follow
Try this original comparison exercise before choosing a study direction. Look at one numbered card from each tradition. Note the objects, arrangement, labels and details that you want explained. Which guide can answer those questions clearly?
Read our tarot suits guide for a starting vocabulary. You do not need to declare one tradition universally better. For learning, we suggest choosing a coherent deck-and-guide pairing rather than mixing unexplained rules from several sources at once.
Keep deck preferences separate from service promises
An educational comparison does not establish which deck a paid reader will use. Check the service’s stated process and avoid assuming a specific tradition from a decorative image. Love by Koko’s reading options describe the available formats and question choices.
If your concern is about your connection with a person, begin with that concern. You can use tarot symbolism for reflection without treating a particular deck as proof of accuracy or a guarantee about the relationship.
Explore your question in a personal reading
For a symbolic perspective on your connection with this person, you can ask a custom question in a Signature Video Reading: “What could I reflect on about the perspective I am bringing to this connection?” Koko personally records the reading, with a starting price of $99 and starting length of 15 minutes. Standard delivery is 7–10 days; optional 24-hour Express adds $49.
Read our guide to choosing a love reading. Readings are for entertainment and reflection. They do not establish another person’s thoughts or promise an outcome.