Whether you’re on a budget or a high roller, being aware of poker stakes can improve gameplay. Most players prefer smaller bets when playing for fun, so micro stakes are a popular option. However, there’s something that just ups the ante when high stakes are available. Of course, it all depends on your bankroll and skill. So don’t knock low to mid stakes.
Knowing the table stakes is vital in poker tournaments, whether it’s a sit and go (SNG) or multi-table tournament (MTT). We’re focusing on online tournaments because the odds matter more than virtual games.
But where can you find these tables and play safely online? We’ve done the legwork, and these are our best online poker sites to play at:
Best Poker Stakes Sites
Types of Poker Stakes
When it comes to choosing your bets and chip denominations, a little background is needed. Here are the average stake sizes we found:
Micro Stakes Poker
Playing online with smaller bets is a great way to keep learning how to play because it never breaks the bank. The lowest possible stakes for cash games are $1 to $10. While SNGs are $2 to $50 for a tournament. So, you can literally play for pennies.
Low Poker Stakes
Usually, these tables are featured for slightly higher buy-ins, and the bets range between $11 to $50 for tournaments. To stay on budget, we recommend getting 20 buy-ins and double-checking the fees.
Mid Stakes
Like low stakes, these tables generally have a smaller buy-in amount advertised. However, every poker table will have fees, so factor that into your wagers of $51 to $200.
High Stakes Poker
And the highest stakes are usually over $200, on tables for pro players. These are the tabletops that will see huge wins, like in the World Series of Poker. So, you’ll need a large bankroll to fund your chips and fees.
Games You Can Play Online
Variety is rife at poker sites, and the number of versions is something to admire. Remember, you can play these variants at live poker tables, online tournaments, and virtual games.
So, here are some of our top picks:
- Caribbean Stud
- Texas Hold’Em
- No Limit Hold’Em
- Omaha
- Jackpot Sit ‘n Go
- Razz
- Badugi
- Five Card Draw
- HORSE
- Seven Card Stud
- Five Card Stud
- Seven Card Draw
Poker Table Limits
Before deciding on a table to play at, take a look at the limits. These will indicate the poker stakes and how big the pot can get. To play for real money, you’ll pay in the first bet with the pot limit in mind. But watch the player that might push the limit. They’ll be susceptible to tilt, or bad choices, and could lose chips fast.
Also, for stud pokers, pay attention to your place at the table. If you’re on the left of the dealer, you’ll have to place the highest bet, and the person next to you will place the lowest. Always aim for the middle or end of the table so that you can play your hand smartly. Try not to raise and call when you can during the game.
