How to Choose an Online Poker Site

If you want to start playing online poker, you may be a bit overwhelmed at first. There are literally over 500 online poker rooms to play at, and that number keeps growing every day. Plus, with all the different networks, bonuses, and promotions offered, how are you supposed to choose a room? This article will help you find the poker site that is right for you.

Factors to Consider:

Bonus - Almost every online poker room today offers their players some sort of sign up deposit bonus. Some rooms even offer players a no deposit bonus of $5-$10 so they can try out online poker without risking their own money. If you'd like to try out real money play without risking your own money, you may want to look at a room with a no-deposit bonus.

Besides no-deposit bonuses, rooms also offer deposit match bonuses. Although some rooms offer huge bonuses, even up to $1000, make sure you research how hard it is to clear the bonus and how long you have to do it. The rooms that offer insane bonuses usually make you play thousands of hands at high limits just to clear them. The best option for new players is to find a site with a decent size but easily cleared bonus, so you can earn your bonus money quickly while you get used to the site.

Integrity - Although all major rooms are extremely trust worthy and reputable, some of the smaller rooms are fly by night operations. If you choose to play at a smaller online poker room, make sure you do some research on the site's history. You're always better off at one of the major sites as far as financial safety goes, because they have never had any issues with deposits or withdrawals.

Support - Once again, if you pick a major site you won't have any problems with this. However, if you want to try one of the smaller sites make sure they offer at least email and toll-free phone support, if not live chat or other forms as well. Most sites are great, but just make sure to do your homework.

3D or 2D - One of the newest rages in online poker is the rise of 3D poker sites. These sites offer stunning visuals, an in depth experience, and weak players to play against. Since most players are just there for the great software, you'll find that they are inexperienced and lose their money freely. However, you may see a slow down of hands per hour. If you'd like to learn more about 3D poker, check out our 3D poker room page.

Now you should have an easier time selecting an online poker room. Sign up today, and get playing. Good luck!