Online poker is a great way to spend a few hours playing poker while earning some free cash. However, you need to know what to expect. There are a lot of sites out there and it can be difficult to find the one that suits you. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks that can help you to pick the best online poker site.

The first thing you’ll need to do is open a poker account. Almost all online poker sites have “starter” tables, which are perfect for new players. These offer a low buy-in and a level playing field, making it easy to get a taste of the game without putting too much of your money at risk.

Most poker sites also offer bonuses. They are given out based on how often you play. Some sites even have side games against the house. If you’re interested in a bit more risk, then you can opt to enter the real money versions. You’ll still have to play for your money, but you’ll be able to take a shot at the big ones.

While most online poker sites offer games in the US dollars, some will allow you to play in other currencies. When deciding how to deposit, you might want to ask if the site can accept your bank’s currency. Many sites will convert your funds at a discounted rate.

The best online poker sites offer many different features, from bonuses to promotions. In addition to the standard games, most will offer a number of special format games like Sit & Go’s. Fast-fold cash games are another option. A turbo Sit & Go is a fast-fold cash game that enables you to play more hands at a faster pace.

One of the most important things to know is your state’s laws regarding online poker. If you live in a state that has not legalized online poker, you’ll have to wait until it becomes legal to play. As of this writing, only a few states have authorized online poker, but that number is growing. Eventually, Pennsylvania will likely join the ranks of the legal online poker states. Until then, there’s a good chance you will have to settle for the lesser options.

While no online poker site is going to let you bet on your own cards, you can sometimes use the Random Number Generator to determine who you’re dealing with. This is especially helpful if you’re worried about rounding.

One of the best ways to learn how to play poker is to watch other people. Whether you’re in the throes of a high-stakes session or just trying to learn the ropes, watching others play is a great way to get an edge. Another good idea is to download poker software. Using a desktop program like PokerTracker 4 will give you a detailed view of the games you are playing. It’s also a good idea to look at the stats for the hand you played. Seeing the numbers will help you determine if your opponent’s hand was in the clear.