Magnetic Dice Trays vs Standard Trays: Which Stays Put?

Quick answer

A magnetic dice tray stays put because magnets hold it closed in transit and keep the rolling surface flat during play, while a standard tray relies on gravity or a simple fold. If you carry dice to games and want a tray that protects your table and contains rolls, a magnetic tray like the Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet is the more reliable choice. Standard trays can work for a permanent home table, but they are less secure for travel.

How magnetic closure changes tray behavior

Magnetic trays use small magnets along the edges to snap the tray into its open, flat position and to hold it shut when folded. That matters in two ways: during play, the tray resists shifting when you roll heavy dice, and in transit, it stays closed so dice do not spill into your bag. A standard tray often uses a folding hinge or a simple snap, which can pop open if bumped.

The Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet measures 8.5" x 11" when flat, the same width and length as US Letter paper, and folds smaller for carrying. Its velvet rolling surface and vegan leather exterior are designed to quiet loud rolls and protect wooden tables from metal dice. Those are concrete benefits you can compare against any standard tray that lacks a magnetic closure.

Portability and table protection compared

For travel, the key question is whether the tray stays closed in a backpack or dice bag. A magnetic tray that stays closed prevents dice from escaping and keeps the rolling surface clean. Standard trays without magnets may need a strap or rubber band to stay shut, which adds a step every time you pack up.

Table protection is another differentiator. The Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet has a velvet rolling surface that quiets dice noise on plastic tables and a vegan leather exterior that is strong enough for metal dice. A standard tray made of thin fabric or bare wood may transmit more noise and offer less cushioning against heavy metal dice.

When a standard tray still makes sense

If your tray never leaves the house and you roll mostly lightweight resin dice, a standard tray can be perfectly adequate. It may cost less and be lighter. But if you often play at game stores, conventions, or friends' houses, the magnetic closure and durable materials of a magnetic tray reduce the chance of spills and table damage.

Consider your dice type too. Metal dice like the 7pc RPG Set - Drakona Khaos Hemera are heavier and can dent soft surfaces. A tray with a velvet lining and sturdy exterior, like the Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet, handles that weight better than a flimsy standard tray.

Trade-offs: magnetic vs standard

• Closure security: Magnetic trays snap shut and stay closed in transit; standard trays may need extra straps or can pop open. Choose magnetic if you transport your tray often.
• Table protection: Magnetic trays with velvet lining and sturdy exterior cushion heavy dice and reduce noise; standard trays may be thinner and louder. If you use metal dice, prioritize a tray with a protective lining.
• Cost and weight: Standard trays are often lighter and cheaper; magnetic trays add a small premium for convenience and durability. Decide based on how often you play away from home.

Product facts

• Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet: Magnetic Rectangle Tray - Blue Velvet: velvet rolling surface, vegan leather exterior, 8.5" x 11" when flat, easy to carry, quiets loud dice rolls, keeps dice from flying off the table. This tray protects tables from metal dice and contains rolls, making it a strong choice for travel and heavy dice.
• 7pc RPG Set - Blood Ancient: 7pc RPG Set - Blood Ancient: 7-piece resin set with a red color scheme, part of the Ancients line. These lighter resin dice are less likely to damage tables, so a standard tray may suffice if you only use resin dice.
• 7pc RPG Set - Drakona Khaos Hemera: 7pc RPG Set - Drakona Khaos Hemera: metal dice set with gold-tone plating. Metal dice are heavier and can damage soft surfaces, so a durable tray with a velvet lining is recommended.

Which should you choose?

Best for

• Players who carry dice to game stores, conventions, or friends' houses
• Anyone using heavy metal dice who wants to protect tables and reduce noise

Not for

• Players who only roll lightweight resin dice at a permanent home table and want the lightest, cheapest option