What Bankroll Size Do You Recommend for Online Poker?

[Nomad]

When you play online, games can move too quickly, and sometimes variance can be very brutal. I have heard from experienced players that at least 50 buy-ins is safe, but I also see some playing more aggressively. What bankroll guidelines have you in place for you survive downswings, for long playing session, without going broke?

 

[Bawse]

It really depends on the stakes you plan to play. I follow a rule of keeping at least 20–25 buy-ins before moving up in tournament stakes.

At higher stakes, though, the more buy-ins you have, the better. Tournament variance is significant, especially when you’re battling through large fields, and it’s important to absorb smaller losses rather than taking big hits to your bankroll. That approach helps protect your long-term success.

For higher stakes, I’d recommend having at least 50+ buy-ins.

 

[uptrendfinancialsignal]

A lot of people are shouting 50 buy-ins like it's that easy. I tried playing with a small bankroll before, and honestly discipline saved me, not plenty of money. If you are reckless, even 100 buy-ins will still vanish. I would say start with what you can lose , then build it gradually.

 

[MRai]

I think it depends on the format, but I keep it simple so that I am on the safe side.
For cash games, around 20–40 buy-ins for my stake is my baseline. I don't play tournament but if you do, you can keep variance is much higher, so 50–100+ buy-ins is more realistic to handle downswings.

If you’re playing regularly or taking it seriously, being conservative helps you stay in the game longer and avoid going broke during normal variance.