With online poker continuing to grow in popularity worldwide, one of the first big decisions new players face is choosing which poker site to join. Not all online poker rooms are created equal – the leading options can differ quite a bit in terms of game variety, stakes, software capability, bonuses, traffic levels and more.
This guide breaks down the key factors to evaluate so you can select the ideal real money online poker site, like Skycity Casino Online, for your priorities and playing style as a new or recreational poker player.
Key Criteria for Picking an Online Poker Room
When surveying the landscape of online poker sites available in your region, keep these aspects in mind as you compare and contrast the leading options:
User-Friendly, Feature-Rich Software
An online poker site’s software platform and interface touches almost every aspect of playing experience. Be sure to read player reviews and test out any poker site’s software yourself before committing to it. Priorities here include:
- Visual Appeal – Modern, crisp graphics and easy navigation
- Game Play – Smooth functionality and action for multi-tabling
- Customization – Table themes, avatars, layout options
- Tools – Hand history reviews, opponent stats, note-taking
Top sites also offer mobile apps for on-the-go play on iOS and Android devices.
Solid Traffic Levels Across Stakes
One of online poker’s big advantages over live play is having opponents available 24/7. But all sites differ in their player pools and traffic distribution across stakes. Be sure the poker rooms you’re considering offer plenty of action for your preferred game types, limits and formats.
Traffic tracking sites can give you hard numbers on cash game traffic and tournament fields to inform your decision. Just beware that traffic can fluctuate.
Diverse Game and Tournament Variety
While No Limit Texas Hold’em attracts the most action, it’s not everyone’s favorite. Make sure any poker site on your shortlist also spreads the poker variants you like to play, along with a healthy tournament schedule. Games to look for include:
- Omaha
- Stud
- Mixed Games
- Sit and Gos
- Multi-Table Tournaments
- Specialty formats like Shootouts, Superturbos and more
Ideally you want a poker room with solid offerings across game types, tournament speeds, buy-in levels and guaranteed prize pools.
Lucrative New Player Bonuses
Nearly all online poker rooms these days run new player promotions in the form of first deposit bonuses, free spins/tickets and more. This gives you extra value just for signing up and making an initial deposit. Make sure to shop these new player deals when choosing a poker site. Things to compare:
- Bonus % Match – 100% or higher is ideal
- Rollover Terms – Lower playthrough requirements are better
- Time Limits – Duration for releasing bonus funds
- Promo Codes – Copy/paste for activation
Maximize the return by taking advantage of poker bonus clearing assistance.
Secure, Fast Banking Methods
Any real money poker site needs to provide solid cashier support for deposits and withdrawals. Priorities here include:
- Processor Speed – Fast payout request approvals/processing
- Fees – Low/no fees for transactions
- Security – Encrypted data, trusted processors
- Options – Credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfer
- Limits – High enough for your bankroll size
Be sure to confirm which methods are available in your country before committing to any poker site.
Responsive, Knowledgeable Support
Even the best poker sites can use a hand from support now and then. You want to see options for getting assistance when needed, ideally 24/7.
- Channels – Live chat, phone, email, social media
- Availability – Round-the-clock options preferred
- Responsiveness – Fast replies to questions
- Resources – FAQs, help articles, forums
Getting support questions answered directly by knowledgeable reps makes a big difference if any issues arise.
Match Your Priorities to Pick the Best Site
With these criteria in mind, making an informed choice on online poker rooms comes down to knowing your priorities as a player and matching up with the site that best fits your needs and style.
Are you a tournament grinder where a packed MTT schedule trumps all? Maybe cash game traffic volume and fishiness matter above bonuses. Or perhaps you want a poker client packed with customization for multi-tabling.
Make your own list of must-haves, nice-to-haves and dealbreakers. Weigh the pros and cons of your top site candidates. Then sign up to give your #1 pick a shot. With the right amount of due diligence, you’ll join an online poker room well-suited for your goals and enjoyment.
