Lotus ScanCardCastle vs Helvault
Which MTG card scanner is better for you? A detailed comparison of features, accuracy, pricing, and more.
CardCastle and Helvault offer contrasting value propositions for MTG collectors. CardCastle is a subscription-based powerhouse with multi-card scanning, web access, and hardware support, while Helvault is completely free with unlimited scanning and no ads on iOS. CardCastle targets stores and serious collectors who need professional-grade tools, while Helvault serves casual to mid-range collectors who want the most for zero cost. Your collection size and professional needs will guide this decision.
Quick Overview
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | CardCastle | Helvault |
|---|---|---|
| Scanning Accuracy | 4/5 Accurate in both single and multi-card modes. Proven reliability on collections exceeding 30,000 cards makes it dependable at scale. | 4/5 AI-powered scanning handles standard cards well. Consistent accuracy without background requirements makes it reliable for personal collection scanning. |
| Scanning Speed | 5/5 Multi-card scanning and CardBot hardware provide the fastest throughput options in the category. Unmatched for bulk scanning operations. | 4/5 Good, consistent scanning speed. Not designed for bulk operations but handles personal collection scanning smoothly and without delays. |
| Price Tracking | 3/5 Basic pricing for scanned cards. Functional for quick valuations but not the app's primary value proposition. | 3/5 Limited price source options. Adequate for casual price checking but not suited for in-depth market analysis. |
| Collection Management | 5/5 Professional-grade collection management with custom tagging, web access, 30k+ card support, and CardBot integration. The most scalable option available. | 4/5 Unlimited free collection with iCloud sync and CSV export. Excellent for personal use, though it lacks the advanced tagging and web features of professional tools. |
| Value for Money | 4/5 Subscription cost is justified for stores and power users who need the advanced features. Not ideal for casual collectors on a budget. | 5/5 Unbeatable value at zero cost with unlimited features, no ads, and no subscription. The best free option for iPhone collectors. |
Our Verdict
The choice is straightforward: if you run a store or manage a large professional collection, CardCastle's multi-card scanning, web access, and hardware support are worth the subscription. If you are a personal collector who wants excellent scanning and collection tracking without spending anything, Helvault is the smarter pick. Helvault's iOS-only limitation means Android users default to CardCastle regardless of budget.
Consider Lotus Scan
Looking for an MTG scanner that combines fast AI-powered recognition, real-time price tracking, and collection management? Lotus Scan for iPhone delivers all three without requiring a white background or subscription.