Big Blind & Small Blind Poker Rules: Simple Explanation
If you’ve ever watched a poker game, you might have heard terms like “big blind” and “small blind” and wondered what they actually mean. They can feel mysterious at first, especially if you’re new to how poker works.
Understanding blinds could be a handy first step whether you play at home, in a card room, or online. Blinds keep the game moving and ensure there is something to play for from the very start.
This blog looks at the differences between the big blind and small blind, how blinds work in practice, and why they matter. If you want a clear, simple explanation, you’re in the right place, so keep reading.
What Are the Big Blind and Small Blind in Poker?
In poker, the big blind and small blind are two compulsory bets that start each hand. You’ll see them in games like Texas Hold’em and Omaha. These bets are put in before any cards are dealt.
The small blind is posted by the player to the left of the dealer button. The big blind is posted by the next player along. The big blind is usually twice the size of the small blind, although the exact amounts depend on the table stakes.
Blinds are not based on the cards you hold. They exist to create an initial pot and to prompt action. Everyone takes turns posting them as the dealer button moves around the table with each new hand.
If you play online, the blinds and table limits are usually shown before you join. It might be worth checking the table information so you know the stakes and structure.
If you do decide to try your hand at poker, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Do the Blinds Work in a Poker Game?
Blinds are posted before the cards are dealt. First comes the small blind, then the big blind, which is usually double. At a £1 or £2 table, for example, the small blind is £1 and the big blind is £2.
Once the blinds are in, the dealer gives two cards to each player. The first person to act is the player after the big blind, often called under the gun. They can fold, call the big blind, or raise. Action then moves around the table.
If nobody raises, the big blind has the option to check and see the flop. After the hand is complete, the dealer button moves one seat to the left and so do the blinds. Over time, every player takes each position, which keeps things even.
Online, the software posts blinds automatically when it is your turn. Game lobbies show the stakes and rules, so you can pick a table that suits your budget and pace.
Big Blind vs Small Blind: What’s the Difference?
Although both blinds are forced bets, they do not play the same. As noted earlier, the small blind sits to the left of the dealer button and the big blind sits to the left of the small blind. If the small blind is £1, the big blind is usually £2.
Preflop, the big blind acts last in the initial betting round. If there is no raise, the big blind can check to see the flop. If there is a raise, the big blind has the final decision on whether to call, fold, or reraise. This gives the big blind a little more information than the small blind at that moment.
Postflop, the order changes. The small blind usually acts first on every remaining street, which can make decisions more difficult. The small blind has some chips committed from the start but is often out of position, so careful hand selection and sizing matter. By contrast, the big blind has already invested more before the flop and will often defend a bit wider, especially against smaller raises, because some of the cost is already paid.
These differences explain why the two seats feel distinct, even though both are simply part of the rotation.
Why Are Big and Small Blinds Important?
Blinds are forced bets that create action and structure. Without them, players could wait indefinitely for premium starting hands without risking anything, slowing the game to a crawl.
By putting money in the pot before the cards are dealt, blinds ensure there is something to contest immediately. At a £1/£2 table, the hand begins with £3 in the middle, and that initial pot shapes early decisions.
In tournaments, blinds usually rise at set intervals. Increasing blinds encourage play, prevent stalling, and move the event towards a finish. In cash games, blinds typically stay the same unless you choose a different table.
Details about starting amounts and blind structures are shown in the game information. A quick look before you sit down could help you know what to expect.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
