Home Games
Running Home Games is one of the most enjoyable ways to play poker. Clucking at your friends as they agonise over a decision, running a great bluff or outplaying someone in a tight spot can make for an enjoyable time. Make sure you get plenty of snacks for the table, and if you're buying new equipment, then you're in luck, because our experts have provided their recommendations below.
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Chips (Basic)
These chips are perfect for new players to the game. They do not have values on them, meaning you can assign your own, making them suitable for both Tournaments and Cash Games. The carrying case is sturdy and reliable, protecting the chips from getting damaged.
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We recommend getting 500 chips, so that when your home game grows, you can accommodate up to 10 people. ​
Playing Mat
Slowplay's Godel playing mat is well and truly the only mat we would recommend. There are cheaper mats available to go over your dining table, but the difference in price compared to the increase in quality between this and a basic mat, means we can only recommend this one. It is both smooth for playing on, but is also water repellent, should anyone spill a drink. The carrying case also makes it easy to transport to a friends house. The Art Deco design rounds it off nicely, and is sure to have admirers.
Chips (Premium)
Slowplay make some of the highest quality chips in the world. Seriously, these chips are better than lots of the Casino's we have played in. They are perfect for chip tricks and for those of you looking for an elevated experience when running your game.
Again, we chose the unnumbered chips so that you can use them across both tournaments and cash games.
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We recommend getting 500 chips, so that when your home game grows, you can accommodate up to 10 people.​
Cards (Premium)
Copag cards are widely used by many large tournament series, including the World Series of Poker. They are very well designed, difficult to mark, and are likely to last you for years. We recommend these for anyone running a regular game, as they are not that much more expensive than the bicycle cards.
Poker Table
This Raykeep Poker table is a must have for anyone looking to put up a serious game. It folds up easily, meaning it is easy to store, and with it's cushioned elbow rests means you'll all be comfortable at the table. Drinks holders in front of each player means you'll be able to keep drinks safely away from the felt. There are higher quality tables available, but the clincher for us with this was the value for money it offered to customers.
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This table is more expensive in the UK, so we recommend the Redtooth table instead.