Pros and Cons of online poker
Online Poker: Pros and Cons
- Interact with other players
- Play in tournaments
- Many themed promotions
- VIP Clubs can add extra value
- Requires patience to learn
Why players love online poker sites – top three reasons to hit the virtual table
Online poker has exploded in popularity in the past few decades and online casinos and sweeps casinos haven’t been slow to get in on the act. Here are three reasons you’ll definitely want to check out online poker games:
1. Practice your skills in demo mode
Playing at a sweepstakes casino is always free so there’s no risk to your money. That makes them ideal for beginners who want to practice their poker skills. Many real money casino sites also offer a demo mode that means you can play online poker for free to increase your knowledge but won’t be able to win money.
2. Explore different game types
Playing poker online gives you a chance to explore lots of types of games that you might not have considered. If you’ve stuck to classic poker, give Pai Gow or classic Three Card a try. Or check out some of the modern innovations like HORSE, which offers five different poker games in rotation.
3. Play anytime anywhere
Playing poker online means that you can access games at any time of the day or night. Online casinos also have excellent mobile pages so can be played on your phone from anywhere.
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Online poker speedy guide
New to the world of online poker? My guide has the answers to the most frequently asked questions among new players.
Can you play online poker for free?
It is possible to play free online poker at some sites. This is a great way to brush up your poker skills or test out new strategies.
Is playing poker online safe?
All of the sites I recommend on this page hold full gambling licenses which allow them to offer their services to anyone who meets the age and residence requirements.
Before you sign up, it’s important to check that a site is safe and reliable. Good ways to confirm this include checking for a eCOGRA certificate, partnerships with reputable games providers and a positive online reputation. You can also judge a site’s quality by reading reviews here on GameChampions, where I take an inside look at their credentials.
Is poker online legit?
Online poker sites use random number generators to deal hands that are completely unique. It’s not possible to predict any outcomes so the game is completely fair.
Do I have to download software to play poker online?
No, the vast majority of sites will let you play online poker without having to download any extra software, including
free video poker. The sites I recommend have excellent mobile versions of the desktop site that mean you can play on the go. Some also have native apps which offer advanced customisation.
Top five recommended online poker games
From the basic five card game, poker has spawned hundreds of variations available to play at online casinos. Not sure where to start? These are some of the most popular games:
| Three card poker | Three card poker is one of the most common poker variants you’ll find at online sites. Developed in 1994,
three card poker
is fast paced and pits players against the dealer. It’s played with a standard card deck and the aim is to create the best possible hand using only three cards. |
| Texas Hold’em | Texas Hold’em is a very popular poker variant that’s easy to understand but complex to play. It’s become one of the most popular of all poker types and is often the main event at televised Vegas tournaments!
All players start with two cards and make up the rest of their hand from five face-up community cards in the middle of the table. This makes Texas Hold’em a thrilling game as all players can see a portion of everyone’s hands. |
| Omaha | Omaha poker is similar to Texas Hold’em and has become another very common sight at online poker sites. Players are each dealt four cards and must make their best hand using exactly two of these plus three cards from the five on the table. |
| Seven Card Stud | Seven Card Stud, or sometimes simply Seven Stud is one of the most popular varieties seen at online poker sites. Unlike the games above, each player starts with two face-down cards and one face-up card. A further three additional face-ups can be dealt to help you make your hand and a seventh face-down card. |
| Pai Gow | Pai Gow is another common sight at online poker sites but has a more unusual playing style. Up to seven people can take part in a game of
Pai Gow poker online, with each player attempting to beat the banker by making the best possible five-card and two-card poker hands. The rules are simple but mastering this game requires patience and time. |
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How to pick the best online poker sites
There are many casinos offering online poker, both real money and sweeps, but finding the right one is key to a good time. No worries, because I’ve got tips to help you make your choice:
The best online poker sites, whether free sweeps sites or real money casinos, all offer welcome promotions. This could take the form of Coins for free play or a match on your deposit. A welcome promotion can be a great way to explore the site while you lay out minimal cash but be aware of any restrictions or conditions.
🎮 Game variety and choice
Making sure your favourite games are included at a site is probably the most important consideration when picking a poker site; the games are what you’re there for after all!
If you’re purely poker focussed that’s great but, if you fancy combining poker with other games, then you’ll find a large variety of sites to choose from. Many online casinos offer a fantastic range of slots from premium makers such as Pragmatic and Relax as well as other casino games including
baccarat online, roulette and blackjack.
Before joining an online poker site it’s important to check that it provides payment methods that suit you. Many online poker real money sites allow deposits and withdrawals using credit/ debit cards, e-wallets and online bank transfers but a growing number also accept cryptocurrency including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Doge.
Playing at a sweeps casino means you won’t have to lay out any money but you will have the chance to redeem real cash prizes and gift cards.
Regular players at some online poker sites can benefit from loyalty programs. Usually, these programs are organised into tiers, with each level unlocking different rewards. If this interests you then make sure your chosen casino includes this facility.
Whether you can access real money online poker games depends on where you’re playing from. For example, if you’re a resident in the US, you’ll find a large selection of sweepstakes and social casinos that let you enjoy poker games using virtual currencies called Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins. These sites are legal in many states and Sweepstakes Coins you win can even be redeemed as real money prizes.
Players in some states however, such as New Jersey, can also access online poker sites legally. However, the legal guidelines can and do change very frequently so it’s always best to check the individual requirements for your region before you sign up. You can use the banners on this page to see the best options for your location.
How to play poker online – a quick guide
Joining an online poker site is a very straightforward process. Follow my quick guide to get started:
1. Find your best poker site
The first step, and possibly the most complex, is to find the poker site that best meets your needs. I’ve provided pointers on the judging criteria you can use to help you above.
2. Register for a new account
Use the banners on this site to travel to your chosen poker site. Hit the ‘sign up’ or ‘register’ button to open a new account. Then, complete your details including full name, address, email and age.
3. Verify your details
Before you can redeem a prize or withdraw winnings, you’ll have to confirm your identity. This usually requires you to submit a copy of your ID, such as a passport, and proof of your address, such as a utility bill.
If you’re playing at a sweeps casino, you’ll receive free Gold and Sweeps Coins to begin your play. Gold Coins are used to play for entertainment and can’t be redeemed as prizes whereas Sweepstakes Coins can be redeemed as real world prizes. Real money casinos might offer a matched deposit or even free entry to poker games.
5. Start playing
It’s time to hit the lobby and pick your favourite poker game to start!
Tips for playing poker online
There’s no guaranteed way to win more regularly while playing poker online but these tips can help to increase your enjoyment and take advantage of any bonuses:
💰 Maximize any available promotions
Whichever poker site you choose, it always pays to be on the lookout for promotions. Sign up to receive emails, follow the site on social media and check a brand’s ‘Promotions’ page regularly to view the latest deals.
🎮 Choose a site that matches your experience level
When taking the first steps on your online poker journey it’s best to look for a site that offers low stake games and an easy to use site. Some of the best even have resources on how to play poker which are very valuable to new members. Many also let you play free poker online in demo mode.
As your skills become more advanced you’ll want to consider a site with larger fixed limit games, tournaments and a bigger variety of base titles including Omaha and Texas Hold’em.
🛡️ Always play responsibly
Only ever play online poker with money you can afford to lose. All of the sites on the on-page banners here have an emphasis on responsible gambling and a number of tools you can use to help you limit your playing. This includes being able to set daily, weekly or monthly deposit limits and time out periods.
Conclusion – my verdict on playing poker online
Playing online poker is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic casino game, and the options out there on the web are basically endless! If you’re interested in playing for cash prizes you’ll be able to find lots of real money casinos but, if you live in an area where this type of play is limited, you can join a sweepstakes casino.
It’s vital to do your research and pick a reputable site that offers the games and features that you’re interested in. You can check out more guides and reviews on GameChampions to help you track down your perfect poker place.
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Poker online FAQ
🃏 Are there any tricks you can use to win at online poker?
There are no cast iron hacks or tricks that can help you win at poker more regularly. However there are a few things you can do to improve your bankroll management to help you withstand losses and increase your understanding. Playing in free mode is an excellent way to learn the ropes if you’re new or to test out new strategies.
🤔 How do I know online poker games are fair?
The best way to ensure an online poker game is fair is by playing at a reputable site. For real money poker, this means playing at a site with a full license. At sweeps casino, you should check that the site has a positive online reputation and fully meets all sweeps casino regulations.
🤑 Can you play poker online for free?
There are lots of online casinos that will let you play online poker for free. This is a great option for new players especially as it provides an opportunity to increase your skills before risking any of your real money.
