Online Poker And Live Poker: Which Is Better?

So you are interested in wanting to play poker but what is the best avenue to start learning the game? Should you go to a live casino or an online casino? Does it really make a difference? The answer really depends. Some finds it harder to shift from online poker to the real thing while some poker players who are used to playing in a casino have a hard time adjusting to online poker. The level of difficulty will depend on the differences between the two and your preferences.

Playtime

Obviously, for a live poker game, you can not just play anytime you want. You need to find people to play with, schedule it, or go to an actual land-based casino to play.

For online poker, you have the convenience of playing anytime you want, no matter where you may be as long as you have a good Internet connection.

Amount Of Focus

When you play poker online, you do not really need to fully concentrate because online casinos have a notification that will signal if it is your turn to make a move. When you are playing in a real game though, it is your responsibility to know when it is your turn to act.

Playing a live poker game also needs your full attention and focus to catch your opponent’s poker face. You have to observe your opponents and see if they have any “telling” signs that they are bluffing. Meanwhile, if you are playing online, you do not see your opponent’s face so there is no need to go full-on observant. However, it is also said that you are not a “real poker player” until you have your own poker face or you can call out a bluff.

Protecting Your Cards

When playing a live poker game, there can be a lack of personal space at a card table, especially if you have six or more players. There isn’t much elbow room and it will be hard to protect your cards from your seatmates.

Online poker has an advantage in this area because you do not have to worry about other players seeing your cards at all. You can do whatever you want while playing instead of watching your cards like a guard dog.

Handling Chips

Poker players who start online have a hard time handling actual chips. They have no idea how they should be stacked to make the whole process easier.

Those who are used to playing live poker also miss the feeling of handling chips. There is just something thrilling about raising a call while pushing your chips forward across that velvet table.

Distraction And Temptation

When you play a live poker game, it is easy to get distracted especially in a land-based casino. You have servers bring food and beverages to your table. You can hear spectators behind you. And you get chided for walking away from the game, making it almost impossible for you to stop playing.

In an online poker game, you can play anywhere and limit your distractions. If you feel like you are on a losing streak, all you have to do is log out with peace of mind. It is easier to stop and not be addicted when you play online.