Opening sizes should vary by position. We break down optimal sizing for each seat, plus the key differences between online and live play.
"Isn't the raise size always just 3bb?" — No, it isn't.
Getting the size wrong leads to problems:
| Position | Size | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| UTG | 2–2.2bb | Highest chance of facing a 3-bet → minimize risk |
| HJ | 2–2.3bb | Similar to UTG |
| CO | 2.3–2.5bb | Only BTN/blinds left — can size up slightly |
| BTN | 2.5bb | Only blinds to act → secure fold equity |
| SB | 3bb | Compensate for OOP disadvantage → largest size |
| Position | Size | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| All positions | 3–4bb | A 2bb open in live games attracts too many callers |
| With limpers | +1bb per limper | 2 limpers → raise to 5–6bb |
EP (UTG, HJ) — why use a smaller size:
LP (BTN, SB) — why use a larger size:
Source: GTO Wizard Blog, Upswing Poker, PokerCoaching
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