Online poker takes the classic card game and cranks it up a notch. Played on a computer or mobile device, it allows players from around the world to compete for real cash prizes. In addition, the game also provides a chance for players to win satellite entries into some of the best live tournaments in the world. Players can play for as little as pennies or millions of dollars.

Regulated online poker returned to the US in 2013 with the first states passing laws and licensing operators. The industry was growing rapidly, but a setback soon came with the passage of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), which made it illegal for payment processors to process funds related to online gambling. This effectively cut off the money flow and sank many sites.

In 2019, the number of states that offer regulated online poker continues to grow. While California is currently missing from the list, the state’s legalization process is progressing and should allow it to join a multi-state poker agreement in the future.

The best online poker sites feature a variety of games and stakes to suit any level of experience. The software is generally easy to use and offers simple and clear betting buttons. A wide range of payment options is available including credit/debit cards and Bitcoin. In addition, the top online poker sites also accept cryptocurrency payments like Ethereum and Litecoin.

When choosing an online poker site it’s important to find one that gets a lot of traffic in the games and stakes you’re interested in. This is because the more players that are competing for those seats, the tougher the games will be. A good way to test this is by manually loading up the site and seeing how many games are running for each game type at the stakes you’re interested in playing.

Another important consideration is the quality of the table software. This is a big deal, especially for newer players who may not have a ton of experience with playing poker on a computer. The best online poker sites feature software that is visually appealing and user-friendly, with large betting buttons and an uncluttered interface.

Lastly, the top online poker sites offer helpful tools and resources to help players improve their game. For example, they often provide training sessions and video tutorials to assist players in developing their skills. Some of these video tutorials are free, while others have a small cost attached to them. These tutorials are a great way to learn more about the game and improve your chances of becoming a high-stakes player.

Another helpful resource is online poker strategy books. These books can be found on a variety of websites and cover topics from basic rules to more advanced strategies. Some of these books are even available for free. However, if you’re looking for more in-depth knowledge about the game, consider enrolling in an online poker coaching program like Mechanics of Poker. This program will help you master all the necessary skills to become a successful high-stakes poker player.