Video Poker Online vs. in a Casino: Benefits and Drawbacks

Video poker, like other casino games, was born well before its online version. It was already very popular in brick-and-mortar casinos all around the world before the Internet gained traction. But it has also become a huge success at the top online casino game sites.

There are many advantages to playing video poker online. At the same time, some people still prefer the traditional casino experience. Next, we discuss the main pros and cons of the online version compared to a classic video poker machine.

First of all, let's understand the differences between the original video poker game and the version played in a video poker online casino:

• Video poker in a casino: The original video poker game is played on a machine that can be activated with coins or casino chips. Usually, the machine is available in a hall alongside slot machines and other types of games. The player sees the cards on a screen and chooses what to do by pressing old-style, analogical buttons.
• Video poker online: The online version can be played on a web browser or through desktop or mobile apps. You can find the game on the best casino sites, in different versions. All the action takes place on your device's screen. Some variants of the game include bonuses and other benefits for players.

Here are some of the main reasons video poker online has become so popular:

Convenience

Playing video poker online is way more convenient than going to a brick-and-mortar casino. You will just need to enter a website or open the app to access the game you want. So, you can play anywhere and at any time of the day.

Also, depending on the city or country you live in, going to a casino may be out of the question. Many times, there is no casino near your home — or that type of business is just forbidden where you live.

Diversity

Normally, online casinos can offer a greater quantity and variety of games compared to brick-and-mortar casinos. After all, an online platform is not limited by space as much as a traditional place.

The best casino sites can offer dozens of options for different variants of video poker: Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Joker Poker, and much more. In some cases, there is more than one game available for each version. So, you can always find the best online casino game to play.

Low minimum bets

Online casinos are also more flexible with the value of bets. A classic video poker machine may be limited to one or more betting options. However, an online game can be easily programmed to accept many different types of bets — and even different currencies.

One of the benefits it brings to players is the possibility to bet low values. In many cases, you can bet less than $1.00 on each video poker round.

Deals and promotions

Another advantage of online casinos is the bonuses and promotions they usually offer to users. Competition among sites is high. And promotions certainly help them attract new players — as well as retain the older ones.

It is common to find welcome offers, no-deposit bonuses, free spins, and other benefits on casino sites. For players, this means more playtime and more chances to win. All of this while spending the same amount of money or even less.

Free games available

Another advantage of online casinos is having the opportunity of playing video poker for free. Many sites offer demo versions of video poker. You will get a fictitious balance, then you will be able to play as many rounds as you want to try the game without any expenses.

Free versions do not allow you to win real money. But they are a good option for you to have fun and better understand the rules of video poker. It is also an alternative to getting to know different versions of the game.

Despite all those advantages, some aspects will always weigh against a video poker online casino. Below are the main disadvantages it has when compared to a brick-and-mortar casino.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere of a traditional casino fascinates many people. The best casino rooms have engaging decor and lighting, as well as face-to-face service all-round. Not to mention access to other services, such as restaurants, bars, and performances.

Many people prefer to trade all of this for the convenience of being able to play at home or during their daily commutes. So it really depends on your personal preference.

No social interaction

For those who like to be among other people, playing video poker in a brick-and-mortar casino can also be very interesting. Social interaction can make the experience more enjoyable, especially because you will be among other players, having fun and cheering for each other.