Explore the top Ohio poker sites accessible online. After examining 104+ different platforms, we’ve selected the finest legal online poker sites accepting players from Ohio. Scroll through our analysis of each site’s strengths and weaknesses, and learn valuable strategies for playing poker on regulated online platforms.

The Purpose of Our Ohio Online Poker Guide

The purpose of this guide is to provide players in Ohio with a comprehensive resource to navigate the world of the best offshore poker sites. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the game, this guide aims to arm you with the information you need to make informed decisions about where to play online, and how to maximize your enjoyment.

By offering an overview of the current state of online poker in Ohio, including the legal landscape and recent developments, this guide will help players understand the context in which they are operating. Additionally, by outlining key criteria for evaluating online poker sites, such as game variety, bonuses, payment options, user experience, and customer support, this guide will empower players to make choices about legalize online poker, that align with their preferences and priorities.

Ultimately, the goal of this guide is to serve as a trusted companion for Ohio poker players, helping them navigate the complexities of online gaming and ensuring that their experiences are both enjoyable and rewarding. Whether you’re looking for the best sites to play poker on, tips for improving your game, or guidance on how to stay safe and secure while playing online, this guide has you covered.

Legal Landscape of Online Poker in Ohio

The legality of online poker in the state of Ohio is a complex and ever-evolving topic. In order to understand the current online poker legal landscape, it is important to examine the history, legislation, and court cases that have shaped it.

History of Online Poker in Ohio

Online poker has been present in Ohio since the early days of the internet. The first online poker rooms began operating in the 1990s, and by the early 2000s, it had gained a significant following in Ohio. However, at that time, there were no laws specifically addressing online poker or gambling in general.

In 2006, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) was passed at the federal level. This law made it illegal for banks and financial institutions to process transactions related to online gambling. While it did not explicitly make online poker illegal, it effectively forced many other online casinos and poker sites out of the US market.

Ohio’s Stance on Online Poker

Ohio has a long history of being conservative when it comes to gambling laws. The state has strict regulations in place for land-based casinos and other forms of gambling, mandated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission, and this extends to the legal online poker realm as well.

Currently, there are no laws in Ohio that specifically address online poker. However, the state does have a broad definition of gambling that could potentially include online poker. As such, it is not legal for operators to offer online poker games within the state.

Court Cases Involving Online Poker in Ohio

In 2012, a group of poker players in Ohio were arrested and charged with illegal gambling for participating in online poker games. This case brought the issue of online poker legality to the forefront in Ohio.

However, in 2013, the charges against the players were dropped after it was determined that Ohio’s laws did not clearly define online poker as illegal. Since then, there have been no major court cases regarding online poker in Ohio.

Potential for Legalization

There have been efforts to legalize and regulate online poker in Ohio, but they have yet to come to fruition. In 2016, a bill was introduced in the state legislature that would have allowed for the licensing and regulation of online poker operators. However, it failed to gain enough support and ultimately did not pass.

In recent years, there has been a shift towards a more progressive attitude towards gambling in Ohio. With neighboring states like Pennsylvania legalizing online poker, there is potential for the state to follow suit in the future.

Comparison of the Best Online Poker Sites in Ohio

While online poker may not be currently legal in Ohio, there are still many options for players looking offshore sites to play from within the state. Here is a comparison of some of the best online poker sites available to Ohio residents:

Ignition: Best Overall

Ignition isn’t your lighter-flicking spark plug; it’s software designed to ignite efficiency for accountants and bookkeepers. Here’s a breakdown of its features, the good it can bring, and the not-so-bright aspects to consider:

Features:

• Proposal Powerhouse: Craft, customize, and send professional-looking proposals in a flash, impressing clients from the get-go.
• Auto-Pilot Payments: Set up proposals to collect payments automatically. No more chasing down clients for overdue invoices!
• Engagement Letters on Fire: Manage engagement letters and streamline the renewal process electronically within Ignition itself.
• Accounting Software Soulmate: Integrate seamlessly with popular accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks Online for effortless data transfer.
• Recurring Billing Blaze: Automate recurring billing for clients, saving you time and ensuring timely payments.
• User-Friendly Interface: Ignition boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easy to learn and navigate, even for tech-timid bookkeepers.

Pros:

• Automation Army: Features like automatic payments and recurring billing free up valuable time for accountants and bookkeepers, letting them focus on higher-level tasks.
• Workflow Stream Machine: Streamlined proposal creation, engagement letter management, and accounting software integration boost overall workflow efficiency.
• Happy Client Havens: Professional proposals and automated payment options enhance the experience for your clients, fostering stronger relationships.
• Time-Saving Takeoff: Ignition’s user-friendly interface and automation features can significantly reduce time spent on repetitive tasks.
• Flexibility Flyers: The ability to customize proposals and manage recurring billing caters to diverse client needs and preferences.

Cons:

• Reporting Raincloud: While Ignition offers basic reporting functionalities, some users might find them lacking compared to dedicated accounting software.
• Cost Conundrum: Ignition has a subscription-based pricing model, which might be a hurdle for smaller accounting firms or those on a tight budget.
• Learning Curve: While user-friendly, there’s still a learning curve associated with any new software.

Bovada: Exciting KO tournaments

Bovada is a popular online gambling site offering a variety of features, but it’s important to be aware of both the benefits and drawbacks before considering using it.

Features:

• Sports Betting: Bovada boasts an extensive sportsbook with a wide range of betting options across major and minor leagues.
• Live Betting: Wager on games as they unfold with Bovada’s live betting feature.
• Casino Games: Enjoy a large selection of slots, table games, and video poker titles.
• Poker Room: Bovada features a dedicated poker room with cash games, tournaments, and mobile compatibility.
• Bonuses and Promotions: Bovada offers welcome bonuses for new players and occasional promotions.
• Mobile App: A user-friendly mobile app allows you to access all of Bovada’s features on your smartphone or tablet.

Pros:

• Variety: Bovada caters to sports bettors, casino enthusiasts, and poker players under one roof.
• Convenience: The mobile app makes it easy to gamble on the go.
• Competitive Odds: Bovada generally offers competitive odds on sporting events.
• Cryptocurrency Support: Deposit and withdraw funds using Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for added privacy.

Cons:

• Legality: Bovada operates as an offshore sportsbook and casino, meaning it’s not legal in all US jurisdictions. This lack of regulation poses a risk for players.
• Limited Bonuses: Compared to some competitors, Bovada’s promotions can be scarce, particularly for returning players.
• Withdrawal Restrictions: Free withdrawals are limited, and fees may apply for certain withdrawal methods.
• Customer Service Concerns: Some reports suggest Bovada’s customer service may not be the most responsive.

BetOnline: Weekend tournaments

BetOnline is a one-stop shop for online gambling, and online sports betting, offering a variety of features for sports bettors, casino players, and poker enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of its offerings and the good and bad:

Features:

• Sports Betting: Bet on a vast selection of sports with competitive odds, including live betting options.
• Racebook: Wager on horse races from around the world.
• Casino Games: Dive into a library of slots, table games, live dealer options, and specialty games.
• Poker Room: Enjoy a bustling poker room with tournaments, cash games, and a variety of formats.
• Bonuses and Promotions: BetOnline offers a generous welcome bonus and occasional promotions for existing players.
• Multiple Deposit Options: Fund your account using various methods, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.

Pros:

• All-in-one Platform: BetOnline caters to a wide range of gambling interests, eliminating the need for multiple accounts.
• Competitive Odds and Bonuses: They generally offer attractive odds and a solid welcome bonus to get you started.
• Cryptocurrency Friendly: Deposit and withdraw funds using Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for faster transactions and potentially lower fees.
• Live Dealer Games: Experience the thrill of real casino action with live dealer blackjack, roulette, and other games.

Cons:

• Limited Withdrawal Options: Compared to some competitors, BetOnline offers fewer free withdrawal methods. Fees may apply for certain withdrawal methods.
• High Credit Card Fees: Deposits made with credit cards incur a significant processing fee.
• Customer Service Concerns: Some users report occasional difficulties reaching customer support.
• No Live Streaming: Unlike some competitors, BetOnline doesn’t offer live streaming of sporting events.

Everygame: Stellar Poker Rewards Program

Everygame Poker to play online poker and caters to a niche audience of US players seeking a reliable online poker experience. Here’s a closer look at its offerings, along with the advantages and disadvantages to consider:

Features:

• US Player Focus: Everygame prioritizes the US market, offering features and promotions tailored to American players.
• Cash Games and Tournaments: Enjoy various Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Omaha Hi-Lo formats, including freerolls, Sit & Gos, and Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs) with guaranteed prize pools.
• Soft Player Pool: Everygame is known for attracting a player base that might be less skilled compared to some competitors. This can be an advantage for casual players.
• Generous Bonuses: Everygame offers a substantial welcome bonus and ongoing promotions to incentivize players.
• Rakeback Program: Everygame features a tiered rakeback program that rewards players for their activity, regardless of skill level.
• Mobile Compatibility: Enjoy a user-friendly mobile platform for playing poker on the go.

Pros:

• US Player Friendly: Features and support cater to US players, potentially creating a more familiar environment.
• Soft Competition: The player pool might be less competitive compared to other platforms, potentially benefiting casual players.
• Attractive Bonuses and Rakeback: The generous welcome bonus, ongoing promotions, and tiered rakeback program offer significant value for players.
• Mobile Compatibility: Play your favorite poker games from anywhere with the convenient mobile app.
• Reliable Customer Service: Everygame is known for offering helpful and responsive customer service to its players.

Cons:

• Limited Game Variety: Compared to some competitors, Everygame offers a smaller selection of games, primarily focusing on Hold’em and Omaha variants.
• Smaller Player Base: The focus on the US market results in a smaller player pool compared to global platforms. This might affect the variety of cash games and tournament options available.
• Limited Banking Options: Deposit and withdrawal options might be more limited compared to some competitors.
• Software Not the Most Modern: While functional, the poker software might not be as visually appealing or feature-rich as some other platforms.

CoinPoker: Decentralized Poker with Cryptocurrency

CoinPoker stands out as a distinctive online poker platform, leveraging the power of blockchain technology to provide a secure and transparent gaming environment. It differentiates itself by facilitating transactions exclusively in cryptocurrency, appealing to a tech-savvy audience. This platform offers a variety of features designed to enhance the user experience, including fast and anonymous transactions, reduced fees compared to traditional online poker platforms, and a global reach that allows players from around the world to participate without the restrictions of traditional banking systems. When considering CoinPoker, it’s important to weigh the pros, such as increased security and the innovative use of technology, against the cons, which might include the volatility of cryptocurrencies and the learning curve associated with blockchain technology.

Features:

• Blockchain Technology: CoinPoker utilizes blockchain technology for secure, decentralized transactions.
• Cryptocurrency Transactions: Players can deposit, withdraw, and bet using a variety of cryptocurrencies.
• Cash Games and Tournaments: Play Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Open Face Chinese games in cash game or tournament format.
• Unique Buy-in System: CoinPoker uses CHP tokens as the main currency for buy-ins, with the option to exchange other cryptocurrencies into CHP on the platform.
• Mobile Compatibility: Access the platform and play poker on-the-go with the convenient mobile app.

Pros:

• Decentralized Transactions: Using blockchain technology adds an extra layer of security and transparency to transactions.
• Cryptocurrency Friendly: CoinPoker is exclusively for cryptocurrency transactions, which can be beneficial for players interested in using this type of currency.
• Unique Buy-in System: The use of CHP tokens as the primary currency for buy-ins adds a unique aspect to gameplay.
• Mobile Compatibility: Play poker anytime and anywhere, thanks to the convenient mobile app.

Cons:

• Limited Player Base: CoinPoker is still a relatively new platform, resulting in a smaller player pool compared to more established platforms. This might limit the variety of games and tournaments available.
• Cryptocurrency Volatility: The value of cryptocurrencies can be volatile, which might affect players’ bankrolls and winnings on the platform.
• Limited Banking Options: As the platform exclusively uses cryptocurrency, players might face limitations in terms of deposit and withdrawal options.
• Less Familiar Interface: The user interface for CoinPoker might be less familiar and more complex compared to traditional online poker platforms. This could potentially deter some players.

Juicystakes: A Reliable, Well-Rounded Poker Platform

Juicystakes stands out as a comprehensive online poker platform, providing a wide array of game options that cater to the preferences of both US and global players. What sets it apart is not just its extensive game selection, including everything from Texas Hold’em to more exotic variations, but also its user-friendly interface and robust security measures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for all. Among the pros, players can enjoy a diverse community of fellow poker enthusiasts, competitive tournaments, and potential for lucrative winnings. However, potential cons include the variability of game availability based on player location and the need for a stable internet connection to ensure uninterrupted play.

Features:

• Global Player Base: Juicystakes welcomes players from around the world, creating a diverse player pool.
• Cash Games and Tournaments: Play Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, and other popular variants in cash game or tournament format.
• VIP Program: Juicystakes offers a tiered VIP program with rewards for active players.
• Generous Bonuses and Promotions: Take advantage of various welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, and ongoing promotions.
• Mobile Compatibility: Access the platform and play poker on-the-go with the convenient mobile app.

Pros:

• Global Reach: Players from different countries can enjoy playing together, adding to the diversity of gameplay.
• Variety of Game Options: Juicystakes offers a wide range of game options, from popular variants like Hold’em and Omaha to less common games like Mixed Games.
• VIP Program and Bonuses: Active players can benefit from the tiered VIP program and various bonuses and promotions offered by Juicystakes.
• Mobile Compatibility: Play poker anytime and anywhere with the convenient mobile app.

Cons:

• Less US Player Friendly: While welcoming US players, some features on Juicystakes might not be as tailored to their needs compared to other platforms.
• Competition Might Be Tougher: With a global player base, the competition on Juicystakes might be tougher compared to US-focused platforms.
• Limited Banking Options: While offering various deposit and withdrawal methods, Juicystakes might have fewer options compared to some competitors.
• Software Not the Most Modern: While functional, the poker software might not be as visually appealing or feature-rich as some other platforms. Nevertheless, Juicystakes remains a reliable and popular choice for both casual and professional players alike.

Conclusion

Overall, both ACR and Everygame offer appealing options for US players seeking online poker opportunities. Their focus on the US market might create a more welcoming environment for American players, and their cash game and tournament selections cater to different skill levels and bankrolls. However, each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses that should be considered before making a decision. Factors such as game variety, customer service, and mobile compatibility may play a significant role in determining the best fit for each individual player. Ultimately, it is important to research and try out different platforms to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences as a poker player. So, make sure to carefully consider all aspects before settling on a platform to ensure an enjoyable and profitable online poker experience.

FAQs

Can players from all US states join ACR and Everygame?

No, both platforms have specific geo-restrictions in place. Make sure to check their terms and conditions before signing up.

Are there any other notable differences between ACR and Everygame?

Yes, some of the key differences include game variety, customer service channels, and mobile compatibility.

Are there any other poker platforms that cater to US players?

Yes, there are several other popular options such as Ignition Poker, BetOnline, and Bovada. It is recommended to research and compare different platforms to find the best fit for your poker needs. Overall, ACR and Everygame offer competitive options with their own unique features and advantages for US players. So, it is worth exploring all your options before making a decision.

Will online poker ever be legal in Ohio?

The future of online poker legality in Ohio is subject to change, dependent on legislative action. Currently, there are no laws explicitly legalizing online poker, but given the trend of gambling legalization and regulation in other states, it is possible Ohio may follow suit in the future. Interested individuals should monitor ongoing legislative developments closely.

Are private poker clubs legal in Ohio?

In Ohio, private poker clubs operate in a gray area of the law. While not officially sanctioned, these clubs often find ways to host games without directly violating state gambling laws. However, the legality of these establishments can be complex and varies based on their specific operations and local enforcement policies. Patrons and operators who play poker online alike should seek legal advice to ensure compliance.

Does Ohio have poker rooms?

Yes, Ohio has several legal poker rooms located within licensed casinos throughout the state. These venues offer a variety of poker games, including tournaments and cash games, in a regulated environment. Poker enthusiasts in Ohio can enjoy playing in these legal settings, which adhere to state gambling regulations and provide a secure atmosphere for players.