Poker has always been one of the most popular card games, played anywhere from high-end casinos to one’s own living room. It has become even more popular with the advent of the online poker site, where people from anywhere in the world can play. In fact, over the last two years, online poker has become the fastest growing sector of online gambling. Televised games and player interviews helped boost its image, but for the most part, it is popular simply because it’s a fun, easy and entertaining game.

More strategy

Although the rules are the same, the nature of online poker gives it a few advantages over its real-life counterpart. In the traditional poker, one can “read” his opponent’s movements to predict his next moves; some players even rely entirely on body language throughout the game. Obviously, you don’t have this advantage on an online poker site, so you are forced to use strategic analysis and observe your opponent’s betting patterns. This helps improve your play and makes you a better player, online or offline.

Faster play

In an online poker site, you don’t have to wait for the cards to be collected, shuffled, and dealt in between games. These delays can make you lose your momentum in a brick and mortar casino. With a higher rate of play, you can finish more games online in the same amount of time—up to 30 games an hour, although a rate of 90 or more is possible at a relatively fast pace.

Multiple tables

It is possible to play two or more tables at a time in an online poker site, an almost impossible feat in the traditional version. On most sites, this offers another way to increase your limit, and thus increase your earnings. You can play four to 10 tables at a time, depending on the site rules. Some of the more enthusiastic players play eight tables simultaneously and make up to $100 per ten hands.

Lower limits

Poker sites can have limits as low as $0.01 to $0.02, while conventional games charge up to $2. This makes online poker ideal for those who just play for fun, since there isn’t much risk and you can concentrate on enjoying the game.

Beginner-friendly

A typical online poker site includes tutorials to help beginners through the learning curve. Even someone who has never played before can easily pick it up. Some of the best tutorials can be found at Doing Poker, a fast-growing online poker community. There are also site intros for those who have played conventional poker but are new to the online version. To help you get started, most sites offer a “free money play” where you can practice your skills without putting actual money at stake.