What is a good ROI in poker cash games?

I’ve been playing online poker since 2007, way before black Friday when the games were super soft due to the whole of America being able to play.

Back then I was beating 50NL ($50 buy ins) at around 8 big blinds per 100 hands (5-10bb/100) and moved up to 100NL at the start of 2011 where my win rate dropped closer to break even. But back then rakeback deals were really strong, and I was getting 40% rakeback from iPoker on a custom affiliate deal so I was able to earn decent money with enough volume.

However Black Friday happened a few months after I moved up and overnight games became so much tougher without the American player pool. I moved on to focussing on online business.

Then GTO Wizard launched in 2020 during covid and it brought my attention back to the game. No longer did you have to try to work out for yourself, or ask questions in poker forums such as 2+2 about how to play a hand, it was all solved. Go here for GTO poker meaning.

This enabled players to exploit their opponents so much more, and as such the games became a lot tougher again.

A good ROI (Return on Investment) in poker cash games is a crucial metric for measuring a player’s profitability and success over time. So what does it look like in 2024?

Understanding ROI in Cash Games

In cash games, ROI is typically measured in big blinds per 100 hands (bb/100) rather than as a percentage. This metric provides a more accurate representation of a player’s performance, as it accounts for the varying stack sizes and bet amounts in cash games.

What Constitutes a Good ROI in Cash Games

A good ROI in poker cash games can vary depending on several factors, including the stakes, player skill level, and game type. However, here are some general guidelines:

Micro and Low Stakes (NL2-NL25)

At these levels, a good win rate typically ranges from 5bb/100 to 10bb/100 for top players. Elite players may even achieve win rates of up to 15bb/100 at the lowest stakes like NL2.

Mid Stakes (NL50-NL200)

As the competition gets tougher, win rates tend to decrease. A good win rate at these stakes is generally considered to be between 3bb/100 and 6bb/100 not in 2024.

High Stakes (NL200+)

At high stakes, even the best players in the world may struggle to maintain win rates above 3bb/100. A win rate of 1bb/100 to 3bb/100 is often considered excellent at these levels.

Factors Affecting ROI in Cash Games

Several factors can impact your ROI in poker cash games:

Skill Level: The better your skills, the higher your potential ROI.
Game Selection: Choosing softer games with weaker opponents can significantly boost your ROI.
Rake: Higher rake can eat into your profits, reducing your overall ROI.
Tilt Control: Maintaining emotional control during downswings is crucial for long-term profitability.
Bankroll Management: Proper bankroll management allows you to withstand variance and play your best game.

Improving Your Cash Game ROI

To improve your ROI in poker cash games, consider the following strategies:

Study and Practice: Continuously work on improving your poker skills through study and deliberate practice.
Game Selection: Be selective about the games you play, focusing on tables with weaker opponents.
Bankroll Management: Adhere to strict bankroll management guidelines to avoid going broke during downswings.
Tilt Control: Develop strategies to manage tilt and maintain emotional control during play.
Track Your Results: Keep detailed records of your play to identify leaks and areas for improvement. You can also use ChatGPT.

Remember that achieving a consistently positive ROI in poker cash games takes time, dedication, and continuous improvement. Even the best players in the world started with modest win rates and worked their way up through study and experience.

By focusing on developing your skills, managing your bankroll effectively, and making smart game selections, you can work towards achieving and maintaining a good ROI in poker cash games.