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Online Poker for Real Money
The sheer number of real money online casinos out there these days can be daunting to some, and the best advice anyone can give is to stick to licensed casinos. The two most popular gaming authorities, the Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission, only grant real money online casino licenses to companies that adhere to strict criteria. This includes random number generation and the security of all their players as priorities.
Next, ensuring that a casino is willing to reward your loyalty through bonuses is a big plus. Welcome bonuses are now common with many of the best poker sites offering online casino bonuses on your first deposit; for example, deposit €100, and they’ll give you another €100 bonus money to play with. It shows the casino is willing to look after its players.
It is also a good idea to start playing with play money, especially at the beginning. This will allow you to try more than one site to find which is the best for you personally without the commitment. Master the basics, find the best poker sites for you and then when you are ready to play with real money, poker sites had better watch out!
Play Poker Online Safely
You may be interested in a couple of quiet hands at the end of the working day. You may be considering dumping the job altogether to play poker professionally. Either way, real money poker sites really do up the ante. When you are serious about playing poker, real money is the key to finding out how good of a player you really are.
Advice from our expert poker players would be to prepare a tight budget before commencing. Work out how much you can afford to lose before it starts to seriously affect your finances. Then, stick to it. It’s all too easy to get caught up chasing your losses when you play online poker. The thrill of the round is hard to let go of sometimes. But when the fun stops, so should you.
How To Play Poker Online
Generally, you will first need to create an account with your chosen online casino. It takes just a few minutes, and you can easily make the most of your first deposit through match bonus offers. Then, pick a seat at a table for the poker variant you would like to play.
Take into account the minimum bet (blind) that you feel comfortable contributing, as some tables may be restricted to high rollers. If you choose to play at a table with a live dealer, you can communicate with them via the live chat system. This can also be used to communicate with any one of your fellow players. Just keep to polite banter, though. Any disrespectful behaviour will have you banned faster than you can say “royal flush”.
Different Poker Variations
Whilst the original scoring system in poker is still used in all variations, the number of cards you receive, and can choose from, varies from game to game. This adds to poker’s excitement and can help you to find your favourite when you play poker online.
The best online poker sites will have several poker variants you can choose from so that all players can find something suitable for their taste. Below are eight of the most popular real-money poker games you can play online:
Texas Hold’em
Texas Hold’em is the most popular poker variant worldwide, and it’s easy to find it on the biggest online poker sites. In this game, each player receives two hole cards, and five community cards are dealt face-up on the “board.” The objective is to make the best five-card hand using any combination of the hole cards and community cards.
Players can engage in cash games or tournament formats when they play internet poker of this variety. It is the most popular type of poker, and perhaps the easiest to learn for brand-new poker players.
Omaha
Omaha is another popular poker variant, particularly among players looking for more action than the above variety provides. In Omaha poker online, each player receives four hole cards, and five community cards are dealt on the board. The winning hand must consist of exactly two hole cards and three community cards.
Omaha is typically played in pot-limit or no-limit formats, and it’s widely available on most online poker platforms.
Seven-Card Stud
Before the rise of Texas Hold’em, Seven-Card Stud poker was the most popular poker variant. In this game, players receive seven cards throughout the hand (three face-down and four face-up). The objective is to make the best five-card hand from the seven available cards.
Although Seven-Card Stud is less common on the biggest online poker sites, it’s still possible to find cash games and tournaments for this classic poker game.
Pai Gow Poker
Pai Gow Poker is an intriguing poker variant that combines elements of the traditional Chinese game of Pai Gow and classic poker. It is played with a standard 52-card deck, along with a single joker, which can be used as an ace or in order to complete a straight, flush, or straight flush. In Pai Gow Poker, each player, including the dealer, receives seven cards, with the goal of creating two separate hands: a high hand consisting of five cards and a low hand consisting of two cards.
Pai Gow Poker is a popular choice among players looking for a slower-paced game with a relatively low house edge. Although less common than other poker variants, it can still be found on a number of online poker sites, providing an exciting alternative to more traditional poker games.
Razz
Razz is a lowball poker variant that is similar to Seven-Card Stud, but the goal is to make the lowest possible hand. Aces are low, and straights and flushes don’t count against your hand. Razz is a popular choice for players who want a change of pace from traditional high-hand poker games, and it can be found on various online poker platforms.
Triple Draw Lowball
Triple Draw Lowball, also known as Deuce-to-Seven Triple Draw, is a lowball poker variant where the goal is to make the lowest possible hand. Players receive five hole cards and have three drawing rounds to replace any or all of their cards. This game is popular among seasoned poker players, and it’s available on some of the more comprehensive online poker sites.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a variation of Texas Hold’em, where players receive three hole cards instead of two. After the pre-flop betting round, each player must discard one of their hole cards, and the rest of the hand proceeds like Texas Hold’em. This exciting poker variant adds an extra layer of strategy and can be found on several online poker platforms.
Badugi
Badugi is a unique four-card lowball poker variant where the objective is to make the lowest possible hand with no two cards of the same suit or rank. Aces are low, and the best possible hand is A-2-3-4 of different suits. This lesser-known poker variant is available on a few online poker sites and offers an intriguing twist on traditional poker games.
These are the most popular variants available when you play online poker, but some sites will offer alternatives. Becoming more prevalent is a combination of two or more methods in one game to mix up the playing styles. All the best poker sites will free-play games for you to practice before you decide to graduate to real-money poker sites.
Mobile and Live Dealer Poker
The convenience that online casinos brought to the game of poker radically has changed how people play. No longer having to organise times and transport to meet at your local casinos, friends are now able to meet up online from the comfort of their homes. The same gaming experience is still to be had, but now you can also play with people you don’t know and may never meet.
The inclusion of mobile casinos online has now taken that convenience one giant leap further. All the best poker sites can be played directly through your web browser on your phone or by downloading mobile poker apps. No longer restricted to your home, for those people who want to win real money, poker sites are literally in the palm of your hand.
And if that wasn’t enough, the newest technological breakthrough can see you playing at a table with a real-life dealer. Many online casinos now provide live dealer casino action in high definition for seamless poker play, at home or on the go. When you play poker, real money can be won anywhere you choose to play and at any time.
Online Poker Tournaments
The best online poker sites will arrange special online poker tournaments that you can enter. A bigger pot will always be up for grabs, so it’s a great option if you’re looking to take that next step in your gameplay.
An online poker tournament usually runs as a knock-out. Each player will be required to “buy in” at the beginning, which will be the amount you are allowed to play with. This keeps it fairer across the board, as players of all levels can attend. As people lose their chips, they are eliminated from the competition, with the last man standing as the winner.
The bigger the pot, the more important it is to take the competition seriously and a good organisation is critical. The top poker sites will take care to ensure everything runs smoothly and that the game is fair and square for the players.
For the players, it’s a great way to have even more fun and see if they have what it takes to take on the big boys of online poker. If your big dream is to join any of the hardcore poker tournaments in Las Vegas, playing online poker tournaments is a great way to get started and test your skills.
Types of Poker Tournaments
- Freeroll Poker Tournaments
- Sit and GO Poker Tournaments
- Satellite Tournaments
- Bounty Tournaments
- Multi-Table Tournaments
Best UK Poker Sites
UK online poker sites have been a popular destination for poker enthusiasts across the globe. They operate within a well-regulated market under the supervision of the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). The UKGC is responsible for ensuring that all UK poker sites comply with strict guidelines to provide a safe, secure, and fair gaming environment for players.
UK poker sites are required to hold a valid UKGC license to operate legally within the country, just like the best casinos online UK. This license guarantees that the online poker room adheres to high standards of responsible gambling, security, and player protection. It also ensures that the games are regularly tested for fairness and that the operator maintains the necessary financial resources to pay out winnings promptly.
Top Online Poker Sites UK
Top UK poker sites stand out due to their exceptional qualities that cater to a wide range of players. These qualities include:
- Game variety: A diverse selection of poker variants, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Stud, ensures that players can find their preferred games easily.
- User-friendly software: The best UK poker sites offer reliable and intuitive platforms, which make playing poker enjoyable and easy to navigate.
- Lucrative promotions and bonuses: Generous welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and loyalty rewards help to keep players engaged and motivated.
- Safety and security: Reputable UK online poker sites employ advanced security measures, such as SSL encryption, to protect player information and transactions.
- Player support: Top online poker sites in the UK provide excellent customer support through multiple channels, such as live chat, email, and phone, ensuring that players can resolve issues quickly.
- Mobile compatibility: UK poker players increasingly prefer playing on the go, so the top UK poker sites offer mobile-friendly platforms or dedicated mobile apps for a seamless gaming experience.
By choosing a reputable UK poker site, players can enjoy an exciting and safe online poker experience that caters to their individual preferences and skill levels.
How to Improve Playing Online Poker?
Unlike many casino games, poker is not dependent on just luck. There are many poker strategies that can make you a better overall player. The simplest way to become a better poker player is by practising as much as you can. There are many poker rooms that offer free online poker where players can just gain experience without depositing any money.
To excel in the world of online poker, players must put in consistent effort and adopt a strategic approach. Here are some steps to help you become a better online poker player:
- Choose the right poker platform: Start by exploring several online poker sites to find the best online poker site that suits your preferences, skill level, and budget. A user-friendly interface, game variety, and attractive promotions are key factors to consider.
- Learn the rules and strategies: Familiarize yourself with the rules and basic strategies of your chosen poker variant. Invest time in studying resources like books, articles, and videos to gain a solid foundation.
- Start with low stakes: Begin by playing low-stakes games to minimize potential losses while gaining experience. As your skills improve, you can gradually move on to real money games with higher stakes.
- Analyze your hands: Review your hand histories and analyze your gameplay to identify areas for improvement. Many online poker players use tracking software to gain valuable insights into their strengths and weaknesses.
- Join poker communities: Engage with other online poker players through forums and social media platforms. Sharing experiences and discussing strategies can help you gain fresh perspectives and improve your game.
- Manage your poker account: Develop a bankroll management strategy to ensure you play within your limits and avoid unnecessary risks.
- Practice consistently: The key to success in online poker is regular practice. Dedicate time to play and studying the game, continuously refining your skills and adapting to the ever-changing poker landscape.
By following these steps, you can steadily enhance your performance at the online poker table and increase your chances of success in the long run.
Poker Bonuses
In the world of online poker, bonuses serve as enticing incentives designed to attract new players and keep regulars engaged. While not as ubiquitous as casino promotions, poker bonuses still offer substantial value, albeit with a different structure tailored to the poker environment. These bonuses can be a bit rarer to find and often come with specific playing requirements that align with the strategic and skill-based nature of poker. Here’s a look at the types of bonuses you might encounter on poker sites:
- Welcome Bonuses: Many poker sites offer welcome bonuses to new players. These can include a match on your first deposit, giving you extra funds to play with. Unlike instant casino bonuses, poker welcome bonuses are usually released in increments based on the amount of rake generated by the player.
- No-Deposit Bonuses: Although rare, no-deposit poker bonuses provide players with a small amount of money to try out the site without needing to make a deposit. These are great for testing the waters but come with strict wagering requirements.
- Reload Bonuses: For existing players, reload bonuses offer an incentive to deposit more funds into their account. Similar to welcome bonuses, they often match a percentage of the deposit and are released as the player contributes to the rake.
- Freeroll Tournaments: A unique form of bonus, freeroll tournaments allow players to enter for free with the chance to win real money or prizes. These tournaments are a popular way for poker sites to reward loyal players or promote special events.
- Loyalty Programs: Many poker sites feature loyalty or VIP programs, where players earn points for playing. These points can be exchanged for bonuses, cash, or entry into exclusive tournaments. The more you play, the higher your loyalty level, unlocking greater rewards.
- Refer-a-Friend Bonuses: Some sites offer bonuses to players who refer friends to the poker site. Once the referred friend signs up and meets certain playing criteria, the referrer receives a bonus, often in the form of tournament tickets or cash.
Poker bonuses are designed to complement the long-term nature of poker playing, rewarding consistent play and strategy development. Given the rake-based structure of poker economics, these bonuses often require players to engage more deeply with the platform, making them a bit more strategic than the instant gratification of casino bonuses. Always read the terms and conditions of any poker bonus to understand the release criteria and ensure it aligns with your playing habits and goals.
Most Common Mistakes in Online Poker
In this section, we will delve into the top 10 rookie mistakes often made by poker beginners. Understanding and avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for improving your gameplay.
Position
One common oversight by poker beginners is the importance of the position. Remember that having a later position in the betting round provides a significant advantage.
Too aggressive
While aggression can be an effective poker strategy, it's essential to understand the importance of timing and not overdoing it.
Incorrect bet amount
Newbie poker players often struggle with bet sizing, either making their bets too small or excessively large.
Ignoring the number of players
Inexperienced players frequently fail to recognize that the value of their hand decreases as the number of players at the table increases.
Too legible
Many beginners tend to bet in direct correlation with the strength of their hand, making it easy for seasoned players to read their moves.
Calling
Some beginners might mistakenly believe they have a moral obligation to call an opponent's bet, even when folding would be the smarter move.
Risk too much money
New players may be prone to gambling more than they can afford to lose, leading to significant financial consequences.
Too emotional
Poker players, beginners and veterans alike can sometimes let their emotions dictate their gameplay, which often results in suboptimal decisions.
Failure to Practice
Beginners might be so eager to jump into real-money games that they neglect the importance of practising and refining their skills.
By recognizing and addressing these common mistakes, beginner poker players can work to improve their skills and become more formidable opponents at the table.
Online Poker FAQs
Is it safe to play on various online poker sites?
Yes, most reputable online gambling sites employ advanced security measures to protect player information and transactions. Always choose a licensed and regulated poker site for the safest experience.
What makes a great online poker site?
A great online poker site offers a wide variety of poker games, lucrative poker bonuses, user-friendly software, strong security measures, responsive customer support, and options for both cash games and tournaments.
Is online poker legal in my country?
Legal online poker varies by jurisdiction. It’s essential to research the laws in your country or region to determine if online poker is allowed and under what conditions.
Can I make real money playing poker online?
Yes, you can make real money on poker sites by participating in cash games and tournaments. However, it’s crucial to practice and develop your skills to improve your chances of success.
Are poker bonuses worth it?
Poker bonuses can be valuable, offering additional funds or rewards to enhance your gaming experience. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of each bonus, as some may have specific requirements or limitations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, online poker has become a popular pastime for players worldwide, offering an exciting and convenient way to enjoy the game. The biggest poker sites cater to a wide range of preferences and skill levels, enabling players to find the perfect platform to suit their needs.
By choosing a legal online poker site with great features, a diverse selection of games, and lucrative bonuses, players can enhance their overall gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual player looking to have some fun or a serious poker enthusiast aiming to make a profit, online poker provides countless opportunities for growth and entertainment. Embrace the challenge, develop your skills, and enjoy the thrilling world of online poker.