Gemaco Alphas are much more durable than regular plastic coated card decks. I'd wager a bet and say they would outlast a standard deck of Bikes 7 or 8 times over. Do they compare to Kems or Copags? No, but they dont cost as much either. If you're looking for a classic casino style poker deck then Gemaco, Aristocrats, or Bees are the way to go. If you want to invest in a lifetime of playing from a single deck, buy some Kems. I have approximately 300+ varying decks of cards in my house and the only decks that have withstood my constant shuffles and card flourishes are my Gemaco Alphas and my Tally Hos.