Play with Chips: Virtual Poker for Real Fun

You want to play poker tonight, but you don't have chips. Good news: you don't need them. Virtual chips work just as well and are completely free.

No Physical Chips? No Problem

Physical poker chips are expensive ($50-$400 for a decent set), heavy (15+ pounds), and require storage. They get lost, they get dirty, and someone always forgets to bring them.

Virtual chips solve all of these problems. Everyone uses their phone. The pot is calculated automatically. Setup takes 30 seconds instead of 15 minutes.

Virtual Chip Options

Browser-based trackers: The best option for most groups. Poker Chips Tracker lets everyone join via a link—no app download required.

Mobile apps: Some apps offer chip tracking, but they usually require everyone to download the same app and create accounts.

Spreadsheets: Old school but works. One person manages a Google Sheet that everyone can view.

Quick Setup

1. Host creates a game room
2. Share the link with your group
3. Everyone joins and gets their starting stack
4. Deal physical cards, enter bets on phones
5. Play poker!

Tips for Success

Use a central display: Cast the host's screen to a TV so everyone can see the pot and stacks.

Verbalize bets: Say "I bet 500" as you enter it. Keeps the game social.

Keep phones charged: Have chargers available. Dead phone = can't play.