Best Poker Solver App: Level Up Your Game

Poker solvers calculate mathematically optimal strategies. They're how the pros study, and they're more accessible than ever. Here's what you need to know.

What is a Poker Solver?

A poker solver is software that calculates Game Theory Optimal (GTO) strategies. Given a specific situation, it determines the mathematically perfect play—the strategy that cannot be exploited.

Solvers work by running millions of simulations, finding the equilibrium where neither player can improve by changing their strategy. The output tells you exactly how often to bet, check, raise, or fold with every hand.

Who Needs a Solver?

Serious grinders: If you play $2/$5+ live or $100+ online, solver study is essential. Your opponents are using them.

Recreational players: Probably not worth it. The time investment is significant, and at low stakes, exploitative play beats GTO anyway.

Home game players: Definitely not. Your edge comes from reading your friends, not memorizing solver outputs.

Best Options in 2026

PioSOLVER: The industry standard. Powerful but expensive ($249-$1099) and requires a beefy computer.

GTO Wizard: Cloud-based, so no hardware requirements. Subscription model ($49-$99/month). Great for beginners.

Simple Postflop: More affordable ($149) with a gentler learning curve. Good for intermediate players.

Free options: PokerStove (equity calculator only) and some limited free tiers from paid solvers.

How to Use Effectively

Start with preflop: Master opening ranges and 3-bet ranges before diving into postflop.

Study common spots: Focus on situations you encounter frequently, not exotic edge cases.

Understand the "why": Don't just memorize outputs. Understand why the solver makes certain plays.

Apply selectively: GTO is a baseline. Against weak players, exploitative adjustments often win more.