What Does Collection Mean in Poker?
In online poker, ‘Collection’ refers to the portion of each pot that is taken by the house in cash games as a fee for hosting the game. This is often known as the ‘rake’.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Collection
Players often discuss collection or rake when comparing different card rooms or online platforms, especially when assessing the cost-effectiveness of playing over time.
In-Game Example
During a $1/$2 cash game, the dealer announces, “Rake $2,” as they pull a small percentage from the pot before awarding it to the winner.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Choose games with lower collection to maximize your profit over time.
- Common Mistake: Ignoring the impact of rake on your long-term winnings.
- Pro Tips: Consider playing in games with rake caps or timed collection to better manage your bankroll.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: Online games may have lower rake percentages but can charge more frequent fees. Live games might have higher caps but less frequent deductions.
Alternative Names
Rake
FAQs
Q: What is a typical rake percentage in cash games?
A: Rake typically ranges from 2.5% to 10% of the pot, with many card rooms implementing a cap per hand.
Q: How does rake affect my overall poker strategy?
A: Rake reduces your effective winnings; thus, a solid strategy must account for this cost when calculating expected value and profitability.
