Choose your first American Mahjong set in this order: confirm the rules your group plays, check the full tile breakdown, compare dimensions and readability, then choose the artwork and package. A beautiful tile set and a complete table kit are different purchases.
1. Confirm the playing-tile breakdown
For standard American play with NMJL rules, look for 152 playing tiles: 108 suited tiles, 16 Winds, 12 Dragons, 8 Flowers and 8 Jokers. A complete 160-tile box adds 8 extras and a complete 166-tile box adds 14. Check what those extras are; they are not always all blanks. A traditional 144-tile set without Jokers is not the same purchase. Compare the box counts.
2. Compare dimensions and the tile faces
Compare the listed tile height, face width and thickness with any racks you already own. Our tile-size and rack-fit guide explains how to take and compare those measurements. Look at close-up photos of the numbers, suits, Flowers and Jokers, and choose markings you can distinguish comfortably. If a measurement is missing, ask before ordering.
Compare the faces in actual product photos
Compare how you identify the numbers and suits in each design. The tile-name glossary explains the names used in the listings.
These images illustrate face designs. Read the selected option for the supplied tiles and accessories, and use the listed measurements to compare sizes.
3. Read the material and finish details
Acrylic, melamine and resin are material descriptions. They do not by themselves establish the weight, dimensions or finish of a particular tile. Engraving and UV printing are different processes and can be combined. Use the individual product description for the stated construction, and ask us to clarify a missing detail.
4. Compare the selected package
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Tiles | The playing-tile count and spare breakdown |
| Racks and pushers | Whether four are supplied, already owned or purchased separately |
| Storage | The bag, box or case named in the selected option |
| Mat | Whether it is included and fits your table |
| Rules card | Obtain the current card used by your group separately from our tiles |
Compare tiles-only prices with tiles-only prices, and kits with kits. Accessories in a display photograph are not a packing list; the named listing and option determine what you receive.
5. Choose the design for the player
For a gift, start with the recipient’s preferred colours or theme. Compare floral and garden, coastal, blue-and-white or Christmas designs, then return to the practical checks above. Design preference does not establish rules compatibility.
6. Plan for production and delivery
Some products are made to order or offered for pre-order. Read the production information on that listing separately from the transit estimate at checkout. If the set is needed for a particular occasion, ask about timing before ordering. Read the Shipping Policy.
Browse Mahjong tile designs · Compare options under $100 · Product and order questions
Your first-set purchase checklist
- Confirm the game and annual card used by your group; read the card checklist.
- Identify the playing tiles and the separate spares; compare the box counts.
- Check actual tile measurements against the racks you will use.
- Write down the accessories named in the chosen option and the equipment you already own.
- Check the final currency, selected option and checkout delivery estimate before ordering.
Continue choosing your set
Tile size and rack fit guide · Product and order FAQ · Browse Mahjong designs
Editorial review: Joker & Jade, 25 October 2026. Playing-tile reference: the American Mah Jongg Association tile inventory. For NMJL-style playing rules and the current annual card, consult the National Mah Jongg League. About Joker & Jade.