Lotus ScanCardCastle vs Lion's Eye
Which MTG card scanner is better for you? A detailed comparison of features, accuracy, pricing, and more.
CardCastle and Lion's Eye represent two specialized approaches to MTG scanning that rarely overlap in target audience. CardCastle focuses on multi-card scanning, large collection management, and store-level operations with its CardBot hardware. Lion's Eye specializes in accurately identifying the hardest cards to scan, like Secret Lair and non-standard printings. CardCastle is cross-platform while Lion's Eye is iOS only, and each excels in scenarios where the other falls short.
Quick Overview
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | CardCastle | Lion's Eye |
|---|---|---|
| Scanning Accuracy | 4/5 Strong accuracy in single and multi-card modes. Handles standard cards reliably across large collections and different scanning conditions. | 5/5 Best-in-class variant identification with collector number detection. The go-to scanner for Secret Lair, special editions, and non-standard card layouts. |
| Scanning Speed | 5/5 Multi-card scanning provides the highest throughput available in a mobile app. CardBot hardware pushes speed even further for store operations. | 4/5 Good scanning speed with auto-scanning in Plus tier. Optimized for accuracy over raw speed, which is the right trade-off for its target users. |
| Price Tracking | 3/5 Basic pricing data available for scanned cards. Functional but secondary to the scanning and collection management features. | 3/5 Basic price information, but the accurate variant identification means prices shown correspond to the actual card you have, not a similar-looking reprint. |
| Collection Management | 5/5 Top-tier collection management with 30k+ card support, custom tagging, web access, and hardware integration. Built for scale. | 4/5 Good collection management that evolves through active community feedback. The developer's responsiveness means features are added based on real collector needs. |
| Value for Money | 4/5 Subscription justified by multi-card scanning and large collection features. Clear value for stores and high-volume collectors. | 4/5 Free basic scanning with fair Plus pricing. The engaged developer and community support add value beyond the feature set. |
Our Verdict
These apps are built for different collectors. CardCastle is the right choice for store owners, bulk scanners, and anyone managing a large collection across multiple platforms. Lion's Eye is the right choice for collectors who prioritize accurate variant identification, especially those with Secret Lair and special printings. If you run a store, get CardCastle. If you collect special editions, get Lion's Eye. They complement rather than compete with each other.
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.