Best Poker Apps to Play with Friends Online

Poker has become an increasingly popular social game amongst friends. As we move from the tangible, physical world to something more remote, abstract and… well, digital… the online form of poker is booming. The BBC outlines how the pandemic and its resultant lockdown seems to have sped up what was otherwise already happening: namely, the growing popularity of online poker. People were forced to stay at home, and so took to the apps and websites to get their poker kicks and socialize with friends. It was a great way to stay in touch in times where said touch was forbidden. Yet, the soaring popularity of online poker continues today. Moreover, states around the U.S. are increasingly looking at legalizing the online iteration of the game, so watch this space.

With online poker expected to grow, we thought we would look at some of the best poker apps to play with friends online. It is part of our look at the ‘Best Games to Play with Friends Online’. Here are some of our favorites.

888poker

One of the standout features of the 888poker app is that it has instant play, with no download needed. This means you can get playing, betting and (hopefully) winning as quickly as possible, even if you lack space on your smart phone. It’s in the top 5 for player traffic in the world, meaning you’re never likely to run out of opponents. The app allows you to play and practice for free, but has a real-money version on iOS and Android, and it’s even an official sponsor of the World Series of Poker. Choose between Texas Hold’em, Omaha and Stud. Occasionally, you can even join the app’s fast-fold tournaments.

PokerStars

This well-known poker app and website has been running since 2001, and has made a huge name for itself in the business. One of its draws is its vast and varied selection of games. Beyond the expected Texas Hold’em, Omaha and Stud, you can also try your luck at Razz, H.O.R.S.E., Badugi and several other intriguing variations and card games. Another top attraction for PokerStars is its enormous popularity – it is potentially the world’s busiest poker app, so there’s plenty of competition out there. There’s even a $1 million USD tournament each week.

ClubGG Poker

Club GG Poker does things a little differently. Sign up for a monthly membership to get unlimited access to play for live events. You can choose from a huge variety of upcoming events in which to play. Qualify through its so-called Satellites to get your hands on some of the biggest prizes in the world of ClubGG Poker.

The Official World Series of Poker App

This is a way to play on something very real and exciting, as it is linked to the Official World Series of Poker (WSOP). Free WSOP chips are awarded every four hours, and you can choose between the game in the app store and your browser (so downloads aren’t necessary). You’ll find all sorts of cash games and poker tournaments, and can even try your hand at winning virtual WSOP bracelets and rings. The physical (real-life) version of the competition is still up and running. The 2021 World Series of Poker is an 88-day event and attracts the best players from across the globe. And the event is recovering well after the pandemic. In fact, this year is the first time in two years that the festival will be held live.