Word cards vs. number cards: choosing a setup
When to use Custom (words and pictures) or Traditional (30, 75, 80 or 90-ball) bingo, and which grid size to pick.
Updated
The Setup step has two modes. Custom fills squares with your own words or images, which is right for themed parties, classrooms and icebreakers. Traditional is classic number bingo with a called ball count.
Before you start
- A card open in the editor.
Steps
- Go to Setup and choose Custom or Traditional at the top.
- In Custom, pick a grid: 3 x 3 (up to 25 items, great for young kids), 4 x 4 (up to 45 items) or 5 x 5 (up to 70 items, the classic party card). The counter beside Add items shows how many you've used.
- Add words one by one, or upload images for picture bingo. Images must be JPG, PNG, GIF or WebP, up to 5 MB each. Image uploads are part of the Plus and Pro plans.
- In Traditional, choose a ball count: 30-ball (3 x 3), 75-ball (5 x 5, the US classic), 80-ball (4 x 4) or 90-ball (the UK-style ticket with 3 rows of 9 columns).
- Under Additional options, turn the free space on or off. 90-ball cards never have one.
Which one should I pick?
| Event | Good fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Kids' party or classroom | Custom 3 x 3 or 4 x 4 | Short games, big squares, easy to read |
| House party, shower, office | Custom 5 x 5 | Room for in-jokes and a free space |
| Live game on phones | Traditional 75-ball | Calls are quick and everyone knows the rules |
| Community night, fundraiser | Traditional 90-ball | Line, two lines and full house prizes |
Troubleshooting
I can't add any more words
You've hit the item limit for that grid size. Pick a bigger grid, or remove a few items.
The free space option disappeared
It's hidden for 90-ball bingo, which doesn't use one. Switch to another ball count to bring it back.
Did this solve it?