How to Choose a Magic Trick: 6 Things to Check Before You Buy
Six things to check before buying any magic trick: effect, skill level, method, angles, reset, and physical vs download.
By The Online Magic Store
· 1 min read
In this story 9 sections
Before buying a magic trick, check six things: the effect (watch the demo), the skill level, the method, the angles, the reset time, and whether it's a physical item or a download. Matching these to how and where you perform is the difference between a trick you use for years and one that ends up in a drawer.
1. The effect: watch the demo
The demo shows what the audience sees. Ask yourself: would I be fooled and entertained? Can I imagine performing this in my own style? Remember, demos are often filmed under ideal conditions, so read the rest of the checklist too.
2. Skill level
Be honest about where you are. A trick that's too hard is the fastest way to lose motivation. Our tricks are rated beginner, beginner-to-intermediate, and intermediate.
3. Method
Is it self-working, gimmick-based, sleight of hand, or a hybrid? This tells you how much practice you'll need. Read the 4 ways magic tricks work.
4. Angles
Where can people stand? If you perform at parties, you need tricks that work surrounded. Read what angles mean in magic.
5. Reset
Can you perform it again immediately? For strolling or repeat performances, instant reset matters. Read what reset means.
6. Physical or download?
Does it include a prop, or is it instruction only? Check for "gimmick included" in the title. Read downloads vs physical tricks.
Bonus checks
- Setup: is it ready out of the box, or does it need assembly or DIY work?
- Portability: does it fit in your pocket or need a jacket pocket?
- Audience size: is it close-up, parlour, or stage? Read close-up vs parlour vs stage.
- Compatibility: for phone magic, check iOS and Android requirements.
The quick checklist
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Do I love the effect? | You won't practise something you don't love |
| Is it my skill level? | Too hard means it never gets performed |
| How does it work? | Tells you how much practice it takes |
| Where can people stand? | Must match where you perform |
| How fast does it reset? | Matters for repeat performances |
| What exactly am I getting? | Prop, download, or both |
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose my first magic trick?
Pick a beginner-rated trick you love from the demo, that suits where you'll perform, and that resets quickly.
Are magic trick demos accurate?
They show the effect as the audience sees it, often under ideal conditions. Check the angles and reset information too.
Still unsure? Contact us and tell us how you like to perform.
