What Does Juice Mean in Poker?
Juice, often referred to as ‘vigorish’ or ‘vig,’ is the fee charged by a bookmaker or house for taking a bet. In poker, it can also refer to the commission taken by the casino from each pot in a cash game, commonly known as the rake.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Juice:
Juice is commonly mentioned when discussing the cost of participating in cash games or placing bets, as it’s a standard term for the fees deducted by the house.
In-Game Example:
During a cash game, you notice that a portion of each pot is taken by the dealer. This deduction is the juice or rake, ensuring the house makes a profit regardless of the game outcome.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Factor in the juice when calculating potential winnings to ensure profitability over time.
- Common Mistake: Ignoring the impact of the juice on your overall bankroll, leading to overestimation of profits.
- Pro Tips: In low-stakes games where the juice can have a higher relative impact, focus on maximizing your edge to counteract this cost.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: Online games might have a lower juice due to reduced operational costs, but it varies by platform.
Alternative Names:
Vigorish, Vig
FAQs:
Q: Is the juice the same in every poker game?
A: No, the juice can vary depending on the casino or poker room, the game type, and stakes involved.
Q: Can players avoid paying juice?
A: In most standard games, no. Juice is a necessary fee for the house, but some promotions or player rewards can offset it.
Learn More
For more information on how juice affects your game strategy, visit online poker resources.
