UK's Top Live Dealer Poker Casinos

What’s so great about live dealer poker?

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Poker at land-based casinos is a social game in which you pit your wits against other players. And whilst computer generated poker is very popular, it doesn’t quite compare to the real deal when it comes to the social aspect. However, playing online poker with a live dealer lets you enjoy the social experience of the game from the comfort of your own home. The ability to interact with your dealer through the live chat feature adds another dimension to the game, which provides a realistic casino experience. At some online casinos you’ll also be able to chat to other players, all of which adds to the communal atmosphere. Don’t live near a casino? None of your friends interested in poker? Fear not – the live dealer brings the casino to you.

Play against the dealer

The one big difference between playing live poker online and at land-based casinos is that, in most online games, you’ll be wagering against the house rather than other players. This gives the game a slightly different dynamic. When playing poker in a land-based casino you’ll usually be playing other bettors face-to-face, meaning there’s a chance you’ll encounter some experienced gamblers. If you don’t have a particularly good poker face you may risk losing out in these situations, especially if skilled players are able to better read your body language and facial expressions. Whilst some may feel that playing against the dealer detracts from the game, it in fact gives it an exciting new dimension and means that you can focus on developing other aspects of your strategy.

Choice of games

There are many different variations of poker, and there are now more available in live dealer games than ever before. Whether you want to play a fast, straight forward game of 3 Card or Caribbean Stud, enter a strategic contest of Texas or Casino Hold’em, of if you want to mix it up a bit and go for a Hi-Lo variant, our list of recommended online casinos has got you covered. The games on offer do vary across casinos, and the rules, betting odds and bonuses on offer may differ slightly between each site, so it’s worth checking this out before you play. If you’re not familiar with a particular game, there’s plenty of guides and betting tips available to show you the ropes – just keep in mind that no strategy can guarantee you a win in poker.

Improve your game

Whilst land-based casinos can be excellent fun, they can also be an unforgiving environment for inexperienced or unlucky gamblers- especially at the poker table. This is just another reason that playing live poker online is so great: you can enjoy the fun of the game away from the heat of an actual table. As you’re only betting against the house, you’ll be able to work on your method with less pressure but you’ll still have the rush of live poker. Of course, you’ll still need to know the rules, but your dealer may be able to help you out with certain questions and queries as you play.

Play at your convenience

As with all online casino gaming, one of the major advantages of live poker is that you can enjoy it from a location of your choice. Of course, the fact that it’s streamed from a land-based or purpose built casino means it operates slightly differently to non-live casino games. Luckily, lots of online casinos also have apps for iPhone and Android devices, and some even give you the option to stream in HD. You’ll just need to make sure you’ve got enough data and a good enough connection to stream without interruption. Let’s face it, the last thing you want is for your game to crash just before the dealer draws a card!

Authentic and immersive experience

It’s fair to say that, whilst computer generated poker is a fun game to play, it doesn’t truly replicate the buzzing atmosphere of a land-based casino. Live dealer poker, on the other hand, goes a fair way towards accomplishing that. However, it isn’t just that your hands are dealt by a genuine dealer in a real casino environment that makes live dealer poker so authentic. Casinos work hard with their setups to provide you with the most immersive view possible, creating a unique and realistic casino vibe.

Follow these simple steps to get started playing live poker online

Find your casino

First things first, you need to figure out where you’re going to place your bets. With so many online casinos offering players the chance to play live poker, there’s something out there to cater to everyone’s needs. Want to play when you’re on the go via a mobile app? Searching for some juicy sign-up deals and no deposit offers? Or perhaps you’re looking for a particular poker variation. Have a browse through our comparison guide to help you pick the right live poker room for you.

Pick your game

Once you’ve found your ideal casino it’s time to decide which poker game you want to play. Casinos offer a variety of live dealer poker games, so whether you fancy a round of traditional Texas Hold’em or feel like upping the tempo with the faster 3 Card poker, we’ve got you covered. Each poker variation has its own unique features which helps create an exciting and enjoyable gambling environment.

Join a table and start streaming

Now you’ve chosen which game you’re going for, the only thing left to do is join a live table and get involved. Playing live poker differs from the computer generated version in that you’re live streaming the game, so get comfortable and make sure you’ve got a good internet connection so that you don’t miss anything. Most games are set up so that your view will consist just of the dealer sitting at the table, sometimes with others in the background. Your dealer will then be able to speak and interact with you and you can get the game started.

Get betting

Now you’re all set up, it’s time to get playing. Set your bankroll, choose your table stakes, hope for a decent hand and, most importantly, enjoy the fun. Make sure to keep an eye out for any bonus offers that you can take advantage of and always bet within your means. Good luck!

Ready to play?

Now you’re aware of the fundamentals, the only thing left to do is to sign up and get playing. We’ve reviewed the top live poker casinos for you, giving you information on the simplest apps, the games available and the best betting bonuses out there, from free cash to matched deposits. All you need to do is compare casinos, pick out a favourite and sign up! Whichever casino you choose, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands, as all our recommended online casinos are fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Just remember to play responsibly, bet within your means, and focus on enjoying the thrill of live dealer poker.