How to Find the Best Online Poker Sites
Online poker takes the classic game of card-playing and cranks it up a few notches. It’s possible to play for free or for the smallest stakes you can imagine (literally pennies). You can also play for satellite entries into some of the world’s biggest live tournaments. And you can do it all from the comfort of your own home or office on your laptop, desktop computer or smartphone.
There was a time when the difference between “live poker players” and those who played only online was quite stark. But as the technology advanced and poker became more streamlined it’s become a lot easier to pick up and learn. And now, with most of the best sites offering multi-table play, there’s no reason not to give it a go.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been playing for years there are some things you need to take into consideration before committing any money. First, you’ll want to ensure that the site you choose is legitimate and offers a secure environment. Look for a license from a trusted gambling regulator such as the UK Gambling Commission, ARJEL in France or the Malta Gaming Authority. In addition, check that the software used by the poker room is visually appealing and easy to use.
Another important factor is the type of poker games that the site offers. If you’re looking to play for real money it’s important that you find a site that offers the types of poker you like to play. The most popular games include NL Texas Hold’em and NL Omaha, but there are also plenty of other variants such as PLO, HORSE and FRAZZE.
The best poker sites often offer a range of promotions to entice new players to sign up and start playing for real money. These may include a welcome bonus that gives you a percentage of your initial deposit. It might be a straight-up percentage or it could be a points system where you can earn and redeem rewards for playing poker. Whatever the case, it’s important to find a good deal and make the most of it.
It’s also worth considering if the poker site offers rakeback for its players. This is a great way to boost your bankroll and keep more of your winnings. The best poker sites pay back a big chunk of your rake on a regular basis.
In the US, regulated online poker is available in three states – Nevada, Delaware and New Jersey. But it’s still a long road ahead and the future of regulated poker isn’t yet certain. We’ll keep you updated on major news, legislative progress and more as it unfolds.