What are Poker Software Tools, and Do You Need Them?

min read
A man on a tablet device with poker chips and cards projected out of the screen.
BetMGM Apr 18, 2024, 3:14 AM

If you want to establish yourself as a worthy poker player, then using poker software tools is something you might consider. While it’s not impossible to succeed without them, investing in poker tools could take your gameplay to the next level. Many legends and online poker players of this generation attribute part of their success to the use of such tools, and so could you.

While software tools don’t guarantee success and can’t be regarded as a sure thing, they can help you improve your game and possibly even help you win a few poker tournaments. Moving up the ranks and being a revered poker player is something many poker enthusiasts aspire to.

That being said, if you’ve been wondering what software do online poker players use, then you’ve come to the right place. Get the answers you need and more in this high-level introduction.

Understanding Poker Software Tools and What They Can Do

Simply put, poker software tools can be apps or web-based and are used to analyze the statistics of poker players, games or tournaments. When used correctly, these tools can give you an idea of the probability of your hand winning against your opponents, conduct range analyses, as well as improve your gameplay and poker strategy when you play against simulated opponents. These are just some of the most notable benefits of poker tools.

Whether you play poker online or in person, familiarizing yourself with these software tools is a must to get ahead in this much-loved casino game. Used in conjunction with poker theory, these tools can give you the upper hand.

Different Types of Software Tools Available

There are various types of software tools that you can consider, which typically fall under one of the following three categories: equity calculators, database software and solvers. These are used for reviewing some of your hands, generating statistics relating to your hands, as well as studying poker game theory, respectively.

However, to truly get ahead, you should be asking yourself, “What poker software do pros use?”

Currently, two of the most popular poker tools used by pros are PokerTracker 4 and Equilab. Each of these can make your gameplay a lot smoother and increase your chances of winning if you take the time to understand how they work and how to use them to your advantage.

PokerTracker4 is a useful tool to help you get a better overview of a game. It processes raw-hand history files – such as time, date, player’s names, stack sizes, and the action in the hand – to help you formulate an improved poker strategy. It generally only shows you your statistics from a hand, which can help you assess how your opponents see you.

Equilab, on the other hand, can help you analyze your chances of winning a pot in any given situation. It’s therefore categorized as an equity calculator.

These software tools are widely considered acceptable to use when you play online poker for real money. However, heads-up displays (HUDs) are not allowed in some instances. HUDs collect and display your opponents’ statistics, which is why some sites have banned them. When playing poker online, it’s best to have a look at what the site’s policy says about HUDs to ensure that you adhere to the guidelines.

Which Kinds of Players Might Benefit From the Different Types of Tools?

The set of poker tools you eventually decide on should depend on where you are in your poker journey, more so if you’re looking to pursue it professionally. For example, if you’re still relatively new to the game, then you might consider starting with understanding poker theory. This, along with the use of solvers, can help you become more comfortable and confident when playing.

If you’ve put in the hours and have a few accolades to your name, then solvers might not be at the top of your list. Instead, you might be more interested in using equity calculators and database software. These can help you develop a more effective poker strategy by analyzing your hands, ultimately increasing your chances of emerging triumphant in your games.

In a nutshell, poker software tools are for everybody who wants to get better at playing poker. Even greats such as Daniel “Kid Poker” Negreanu can attest to the benefits of using poker software tools, so there’s no need to shy away from them!

Improve Your Gameplay With Poker Tools at BetMGM

Whether you’re a novice or experienced poker player, different types of poker tools and software could give you an advantage over your opponents. While nothing beats continuous practice to improve your skills and gameplay, some tools could improve your overall poker strategy. 

If you’re ready to put some of these to the test and see how they could benefit you, register at BetMGM to explore what an online casino has to offer.

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Our BetMGM editors and authors are casino experts with a wealth of knowledge of the online casino industry at all levels. Their coverage includes company news, game reviews, how-to instructional articles, strategy guides, and editorials showcasing BetMGM’s superior product and game library.

Our BetMGM editors and authors are casino experts with a wealth of knowledge of the online casino industry at all levels. Their coverage includes company news, game reviews, how-to instructional articles, strategy guides, and editorials showcasing BetMGM’s superior product and game library.