Mahjong tile size and thickness are the specs that photos hide. Two sets can both be “American mahjong” and still feel completely different in your hand, because their tiles are different sizes.
There is no single standard that every maker follows, so the numbers on a listing really do matter. This guide explains the three measurements, how to measure a set you already own, and how size affects racks, walls, reading and storage.
Key takeaways
- Tile size is given as three numbers: height, width and thickness, usually in millimeters.
- Our tiles measure 35 x 25 x 11 mm (1.38 x 0.98 x 0.43 inches). We do not call that a “standard” size, because no one size is followed by every set.
- Bigger and thicker tiles often feel heavier and can be easier to read; smaller and thinner tiles often feel lighter and easier to carry.
- If you already own a set, measure one tile and compare it with the listing before you buy.
- Check that your racks, if you plan to use ones you already own, suit the tile width and thickness.
The three numbers
A good listing gives you height, width and thickness:
| Measurement | What it describes | Our tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Height | The long side of the tile face | 35 mm (1.38 in) |
| Width | The short side of the tile face | 25 mm (0.98 in) |
| Thickness | How deep the tile is, seen from the side | 11 mm (0.43 in) |
Listings sometimes use inches, sometimes millimeters, and some use only one number or an overall description such as “large.” Words like that are not enough to compare sets. Ask for the three numbers.
Converting between inches and millimeters
One inch is 25.4 millimeters. To convert millimeters to inches, divide by 25.4. For example, 35 mm ÷ 25.4 is about 1.38 inches. To go the other way, multiply inches by 25.4.
How to measure a tile
You do not need special equipment, though a small caliper makes it faster.
- Pick a plain tile, such as a dot or a bam, and place it face up on a flat table.
- Lay a ruler marked in millimeters along the long edge to get the height.
- Measure across the short edge for the width.
- Turn the tile on its side, or hold it against the edge of the ruler, to read the thickness.
- Repeat with one more tile to confirm the numbers. Round to the nearest half millimeter.
Write the three numbers on your phone. Next time you compare sets, you will have a reference.
How size changes play
Weight and feel
Larger, thicker tiles generally feel heavier and make a more solid sound when they land. Smaller, thinner tiles generally feel lighter and quieter. Neither is better in itself. Which one you prefer is a matter of taste and of who is playing.
Racks
Racks are made with a tile size in mind, and a rack holds one player's tiles in a row. If you plan to use racks you already own, check that the width and thickness of the new tiles suit the rack, since tiles that are too thick may not seat well. Our sets do not include racks, so this is worth checking before you order.
Reading
Larger faces are usually easier to read at a glance, which some players value for evening games or when sharing a table with older relatives. Smaller faces let more tiles sit comfortably in a hand.
Walls and table space
Four walls of 19 stacks each take up the center of the table. Larger tiles build bigger walls and take more room, so measure your table if it is on the small side. For the setup steps, see building the four walls.
Carrying and storage
A full 152-tile set has some weight, so check the listing before carrying it often. A lighter set is easier to bring to a friend's house or a club, and a smaller set takes less space in a case. See what you need to play American mahjong for the other items to plan for.
Comparing a new set with your current one
| If the new tiles are... | Expect... | Check... |
|---|---|---|
| Smaller than yours | A lighter, quieter feel | Whether the faces are still easy for everyone to read |
| About the same | Little change | Thickness, which can differ even when the face size matches |
| Larger than yours | A heavier feel, bigger walls | Table space and whether racks fit |
If you are replacing tiles in a set rather than buying a whole new one, match all three numbers as closely as you can. A tile that differs by a millimeter can catch when the wall is pushed. We cover that problem in why all eight jokers should match.
A short scenario
Imagine a player named Dana who has used her mother's set for years. She is thinking about a second set that is lighter to carry to her club. She measures a tile from her mother's set and finds it is a little bigger and noticeably thicker than the listing for the new set.
Instead of guessing, she makes a list: the new tile is smaller, so it will feel lighter and take less table space. Her current racks may not seat the thinner tiles as snugly. Her friends have good eyesight, so reading the smaller faces should be fine. With the numbers in front of her, she can decide what she is comfortable with, rather than relying on a photo.
What to ask a seller
- The height, width and thickness in millimeters.
- Whether all 152 tiles, jokers included, are exactly the same size.
- Whether racks, a case or mats are included, or whether you need to buy them separately.
- How the tiles are packed and how long delivery takes.
Try it at your next game
Measure one tile from the set you play on and write down the three numbers. Then pick up a tile and notice how it feels: heavy or light, easy or hard to read from across the table. Ask each player what they like. You will quickly learn what you want from a new set.
Wondering how many tiles to expect? See how many tiles are in an American mahjong set. The count is 152 whichever size you choose. You can also read about the game on the National Mah Jongg League website.
Frequently asked questions
What size are American mahjong tiles?
It depends on the maker. There is no single size followed by every set. Ours are 35 x 25 x 11 mm (1.38 x 0.98 x 0.43 inches), and you will find both larger and smaller sets elsewhere.
How thick should a mahjong tile be?
There is no rule. Thickness is a matter of preference, tied to how heavy you like tiles to feel and what your racks can hold. Compare the number on the listing with a tile you already know.
Do bigger tiles make the game easier?
They can make faces easier to read, which helps some players. The rules do not change with size, so neither choice gives anyone an advantage.
Will my racks fit new tiles?
That depends on the rack. Check the width and thickness of the tiles against the slot of your rack, if you can measure it. Our sets do not include racks.
Can I mix tiles from two sets?
You can, but only tiles of nearly identical size and finish will play smoothly together. Even a small difference can catch in the wall or make a tile easy to spot.
How do I measure tile size without a caliper?
Use a ruler marked in millimeters, and read the number against the edge of the tile. For thickness, hold the tile on its side against the ruler's edge. A small caliper is quicker, but not required.
About our sets. A SOLMAY American mahjong set has exactly 152 tiles (36 dots, 36 bams, 36 craks, 16 winds, 12 dragons, 8 flowers and 8 matching jokers), each 35 x 25 x 11 mm, with original artwork UV-printed on glossy pearlescent acrylic. Sets are printed to order in Vietnam. Racks, pushers, mats, bags and the yearly card are not included. See the mahjong sets.
Keep reading
- Printed vs. engraved tiles
- How many tiles are in an American mahjong set?
- What you need to play American mahjong
- Why all eight jokers should match
These guides follow the way American mahjong is commonly played with the National Mah Jongg League card. Groups sometimes add house rules, so agree on yours before the first hand, and always use the current year's official card. SOLMAY is not affiliated with the NMJL.
