For a seasoned poker player, the thrill of high-stakes cash games is unmatched. These tables, with their large buy-ins and massive pots, attract some of the most skilled and dedicated players in the world. While many UK poker sites cater to a broad audience, only a few have the liquidity and player base to consistently offer a reliable schedule of high-stakes cash games.
Here is a look at the online poker sites uk that are known for their high-stakes cash game action.
PokerStars
PokerStars has long been the gold standard for online poker, and its high-stakes cash games are a major part of that reputation. The site’s immense global player pool ensures that you can almost always find a game running at any stake, day or night.
- Traffic and Stakes: PokerStars offers a wide range of high-stakes tables, with blinds often reaching into the hundreds of pounds. The sheer volume of players means there is a constant flow of action, preventing tables from dying out.
- Game Variety: Beyond No-Limit Texas Hold’em, PokerStars also spreads high-stakes cash games for other variants like Pot-Limit Omaha, Seven Card Stud, and Mixed Games. This makes it a top choice for players who specialize in formats other than Hold’em.
GGPoker
In recent years, GGPoker has emerged as a major competitor to PokerStars, and it has done so by attracting a large number of high-stakes players with its innovative software and major tournament series.
- High-Stakes Focus: GGPoker has a dedicated high-stakes section in its lobby, and it’s not uncommon to see some of the biggest names in poker playing at these tables. The site’s “Rush & Cash” fast-fold tables also have high-stakes options, catering to players who want to get in a high volume of hands.
- The GGMillion$: While primarily a tournament, the popularity of the GGMillion$ series has brought a significant number of high-stakes players to the site, creating a spillover effect into its cash game tables.
PartyPoker
PartyPoker is a veteran in the online poker world with a trusted reputation. While it has a strong focus on recreational players, it also provides a good amount of action at the higher stakes.
- Solid Traffic: PartyPoker maintains consistent traffic in its mid-to-high-stakes cash games. While the very highest stakes might not run as consistently as on PokerStars or GGPoker, the tables are often filled with skilled and serious players.
- Player-Friendly Features: The site’s commitment to a fair playing environment, including restrictions on third-party tracking software, appeals to many high-volume grinders who want a level playing field.
Key Factors for High-Stakes Players
When choosing a site for high-stakes cash games, it is important to consider more than just the available stakes.
- Traffic: A high-stakes table is only good if there are enough players to keep the game running. The sites above have the player pools to support consistent action.
- Rake: The rake—the fee the poker site takes from each pot—can have a significant impact on your long-term profitability. High-stakes tables often have a lower rake percentage or a higher cap, but it’s always important to be aware of the exact fees.
- Software and Security: For high-stakes play, a reliable and secure platform is paramount. You need to be confident that the site is well-regulated and that your funds are safe. All of the sites listed are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and have strong security measures in place.
