Tourneys to Cash Game

Author: Texas Holdem
Category: Texas Holdem FAQ

Hi,

I’ve been into No Limit Holdem for more or less a year now. Just two months ago, I decided to play online $10-$20 sit and go tourneys. Well, playing at such level has been profitable in a way but when I already think of the number of hours I’ve invested, it seems to me it’s not profitable at all.

Recently, I tried small cash games, $25 NL, maximum of 6 players. At such level, I was actually able to discover some stuff. First, short handed play allows me to play more hands. Second, game moves more quickly and can be very exciting. Third, lesser hands can win vs. 10 player table. Fourth, fewer maniac players in the cash game vs. $10-20 tourney, but frequent heads up situations. And lastly, more respect shown for raises and check raises and fewer large pots due to the short handed game.

Now, how do you find my realizations? And about the idea that cash games are the way to go, do you agree? And do you think sticking with short handed cash games is far better than moving to a full table? And if you’ll be asked, does the possibility of larger pots outweigh the potential advantage of playing short handed? Does that change as the money placed increase?

Glad to hear from you soon.

Thanks in advance.

Best regards,
Jenz
Jenz,

Cash games are better for some than others. It depends on how well you are doing. Some people play only tournaments and others play only cash games. In regards of hourly earn rate, you can play multiple tables at one time to increase your earn rate.

Also, if you have a bigger advantage in the short handed games, then you will probably want to stick with them. Yes, the pots in 10 handed games are bigger usually, but if you can win more pots in 6 handed, you will have a better long term rate. Would you rather win 5 pots of $20 each in a 6 handed game in an hour or 2 pots of $30 each in an hour for a 10 handed game. See my point?