Tight from UTG, wide from BTN. A complete guide to opening ranges and sizing by position in 6-max cash games.
In poker, the most important factor in deciding which hands to play is position.
A hand opened from UTG (first to act) and a hand opened from BTN (last to act) carry completely different values. The more players left to act behind you, the greater the risk of facing a 3-bet, and the higher the chance you'll be OOP postflop.
Five players remain behind you. This is the seat most likely to face a 3-bet.
Only four players remain behind you, compared to UTG.
UTG range + additions:
Only BTN and the blinds remain. Your opening range widens significantly.
HJ range + additions:
The best position at the table. Only the blinds are left, and you always have position postflop.
The SB is a unique position. Only BB remains, but you are always OOP postflop.
| Position | Online | Live | Reason |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTG | 2–2.5bb | 3–4bb | High 3-bet probability, minimize risk |
| HJ | 2–2.5bb | 3–4bb | Similar to UTG |
| CO | 2.3–2.5bb | 3–4bb | Middle position |
| BTN | 2.5bb | 3–4bb | Only blinds remain, larger size OK |
| SB | 3bb | 4bb | Compensate for OOP disadvantage — largest size |
| Mistake | Why It's a Problem | Correction |
|---|---|---|
| Opening too wide from UTG | Awkward when 3-bet, weak range OOP | UTG should be ≈15% only |
| Opening too tight from BTN | Wasting opportunities from the best position | BTN should open ≈45% |
| Limping/calling from SB | OOP + multiway = worst-case scenario | Raise or fold |
| Same range from every position | Ignoring the value of position | Refer to position-specific range charts |
| Overplaying "decent-looking" hands like K♠J♦, Q♥T♣ | Offsuit broadways are vulnerable to domination | Prioritize suited; be selective with offsuit |
Preflop Opening Checklist
Source: Red Chip Poker, GTO Wizard Blog, Upswing Poker
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