Quick answer

Choose a swivel card tray if players sit around the whole table and you want the deck to rotate toward whoever is dealing or drawing. Choose a flat tray if you want a lower profile, simpler storage, or you are setting up on a smaller surface. In the KEM lineup, the clear swivel tray (581082) and black swivel tray (581055) both rotate 360 degrees and hold up to two decks, while the flat black tray (581080) does the same job without a rotating base. For most bridge tables, a swivel tray is the easier pick; for tight tables or travel bags, the flat tray wins.

What the swivel actually changes at the table

A swivel card tray sits on a rotating base, so the card well can be turned toward the player who needs it. That matters most in bridge, where the deal moves around the table and each player draws from the same deck. Instead of reaching across the table or asking someone to pass the cards, you rotate the tray. The KEM clear swivel tray (581082) and black swivel tray (581055) both swivel a full 360 degrees and hold one or two decks of standard playing cards. The clear version keeps the cards visible from every seat, which helps when you are checking that the deck is complete or counting remaining cards. The black version gives the same rotation with a darker finish that hides smudges and blends into darker table covers.

Where a flat tray makes more sense

A flat card tray skips the rotating base. The KEM flat black tray (581080) holds one or two decks of standard cards, has smooth edges, and is built for multi-deck games like Canasta and Hand and Foot. Because it does not rotate, it takes up less vertical space and is easier to slide into a game bag or stack on a shelf. If your table is already crowded with score pads, drinks, and a table cover, a flat tray keeps the footprint predictable. The trade-off is access: players on the far side of the table will still need to reach or ask for the deck to be passed. In games where the deck stays in one place and only one or two people deal, that is rarely a problem.

Matching the tray to your table and game

Bridge tables are usually smaller and rounder than poker tables, so a swivel tray pays off because it brings the cards to each of the four seats without anyone stretching. Poker night often uses a larger oval table with more players; there, a flat tray can sit near the dealer and stay put, or you can use a swivel tray if the deal rotates. If you already use a bridge table cover, check that the tray base sits flat on the fabric. The KEM wool-nylon cover (581041) has a smooth playing surface, and a swivel tray with a smooth base will rotate on it without catching. On a bare table or a slick surface, both tray styles stay put as long as the base is clean and dry.

Trade-offs to weigh before you buy

  • Rotating access vs. simplicity: A swivel tray lets every player turn the deck toward themselves, which is a real advantage in bridge and other games with a rotating deal. A flat tray does not rotate, so someone still has to pass the cards or reach across. Pick swivel if the deal moves around the table; pick flat if the deck stays in one spot.
  • Visibility vs. smudge resistance: The clear swivel tray (581082) keeps card faces and backs visible from any angle, which helps with deck checks. The black swivel tray (581055) hides fingerprints and wear better but you cannot see the cards through the tray. Choose clear for visibility, black for a cleaner look over time.
  • Footprint vs. storage: A swivel base adds height and a slightly larger footprint, which can matter on a crowded bridge table. The flat black tray (581080) is lower and easier to store or travel with. Measure your free table space before choosing a swivel model.

Tray facts at a glance

  • Card Tray: Swivel, Plastic, Clear: Clear plastic swivel card tray that holds up to two decks of standard playing cards and swivels 360 degrees. You can see the cards from any seat and rotate the deck toward the dealer or drawer without passing cards.
  • Card Tray: Swivel, Plastic, Black: Black plastic swivel card tray that holds up to two decks of standard playing cards and swivels 360 degrees. Same rotating access as the clear version, with a darker finish that hides fingerprints and matches dark table covers.
  • Card Tray: Plastic, Black: Black plastic flat card tray that holds one or two decks of standard playing cards and is described as durable and lightweight with smooth edges. A lower-profile option for multi-deck games, smaller tables, or packing into a game bag.
  • Bridge Table Cover, Wool-Nylon, Design #01 - 2-Card Diamond and Club, Green: Wool-nylon bridge table cover in green with a 2-card diamond and club design, made for a smooth playing surface. Gives the tray a stable, soft surface so it does not slide or scratch the table during play.

Which tray fits your table?

Best for

  • Bridge players at a four-seat table who want the deck to rotate toward each player
  • Poker nights where the deal moves around the table and players sit on all sides
  • Anyone who wants to see the cards clearly through the tray (clear swivel model)

Not for

  • Very small tables where a rotating base would crowd the playing area
  • Players who mainly need a compact, packable tray for travel or storage
  • Games where the deck stays with one dealer and never needs to rotate