In the early days of online poker, players were hesitant to switch from playing in live casinos. After all, something about the atmosphere and excitement of sitting around a table with other players couldn’t be replaced by banging away on a computer keyboard.
However, over time it became clear that online poker had some significant advantages over its live casino counterpart โ now, online poker is fast overtaking live casino games. Here are the top reasons why.
1. You can play from anywhere in the world
One of the great things about online poker is that you can play it from anywhere in the world. All you need is a computer and an internet connection โ you could be sitting in your living room, at a cafรฉ, or even on the beach!
This convenience is one of the major reasons online poker is so popular and is only set to become more so. With live casinos, you’re limited to playing in physical locations.
2. You can play at any time of day or night
Another benefit of playing online poker is that you can do so anytime. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, there will always be a game starting that suits your schedule.
In contrast, live casinos have set operating hours. If you want to play outside those hours, you’re out of luck.
3. You can get more hands in per hour
One of the biggest advantages of online poker is that you can get a lot more hands per hour than at a live casino. This is because there are no pauses between hands to shuffle and deal โ the software takes care of all that.
This means online players can see up to three or four times as many hands as they would in a live game, which gives them a significant advantage in honing their skills and strategy.
4. You can take advantage of bonuses and promotions
You can take advantage of a wide range of bonuses and promotional offers when you play online poker. These might include welcome bonuses for new players, reload bonuses for existing players, free poker games, and special VIP programs with exclusive benefits. Live casinos also offer promotions, but they pale compared to online ones.
5. No travel costs or waiting for tables to open up
When you play online poker, there are no travel costs or waiting for tables to open up. You can jump into a game and start playing immediately โ no need to book a hotel room or wait for a table to free up.
You often have to wait for other players to finish games in a live casino before you can play. And, of course, you have to factor in travel costs if the casino has located some distance from where you live. This is not the case with online casinos. Furthermore, you always have the option to play free online poker without risking any real money.
6. An almost unlimited number of opponents to play against
When you play online poker, there’s virtually an unlimited number of opponents you can play against. No matter what day or night it is, you’ll always be able to find someone to compete against.
This is in contrast to live casinos, where the number of players at any given time is limited by the number of tables and chairs available.
7. A wide variety of stakes and games available around the clock
Online poker offers various stakes and games available around the clock. Whether you’re a high roller, a wsop online veteran, or just starting, you’ll be able to find a game that suits your budget and playing style.
In live casinos, you’re limited to the number of tables and games available at any time. Finding a game that suits your budget and playing style can make it hard.
8. You can play anonymously
Another advantage of online poker sites is that you can play anonymously if you want to. This can appeal to players who don’t want to reveal their identity for whatever reason.
Live casinos require you to show your ID and give your name when you sit down at a table. This information is then registered in the casino’s database.
9. You can find games with softer competition
Online poker sites often have various players of varying skill levels. This means you can find games with softer competition if you want to โ something hard to do in live casinos. The competition is often stiffer in live casinos since players of all skill levels are typically mixed.
10. Improved gameplay features
Poker games online often offer improved gameplay features that make it more fun and exciting. For example, some sites offer features like avatars, hand histories, and auto-muck options.
While live casinos also offer some of these features, they are often not as advanced as what you’ll find online.
Online is the way to go
Online poker is growing in popularity for many reasons. It offers players convenience, a greater selection of games, and the opportunity to play with people worldwide. If you’re looking to get started in online poker, GGPoker is an excellent option. Sign up today and see why online poker quickly overtakes live casino games!
