Michigan Online Poker

Online poker in Michigan is not only legal, but it has also become a permanent fixture in the gaming landscape. Players can enjoy a variety of playing options such as online poker tournaments, spin and go games, and no-limit hold’em cash games within the state.

You can register with BetMGM Poker, PokerStars, and World Series of Poker MI to avail a no-deposit welcome bonus and a first deposit bonus. These bonuses enable you to explore the site with minimal risk. Check out the registration details provided below.

Best online poker sites in Michigan

 

Online poker bonuses and rewards

Similar to other online gambling platforms in Michigan, the top poker websites prioritize customer satisfaction. Therefore, all poker brands offer bonuses and rewards to enhance your account balance. Generally, online poker bonuses are available in two forms: instant bonuses and tournament tickets. While there are various intricacies associated with different types of bonuses, the ultimate outcome typically involves receiving one or both of these rewards.

In general, these are the types of bonuses you are likely to come across:

1. No deposit bonus refers to the free funds that will be credited to your account. Typically, these bonuses are offered when you register for an account, although they are not commonly available. While you can sometimes withdraw them as cash, no deposit poker bonuses are usually provided as site credits and necessitate a specific number of playthroughs to be completed.
2. Deposit bonus: This bonus involves the poker site matching a percentage of your deposit and adding extra funds to your account. The match percentage can vary, including being 100%. However, there will be a maximum limit to the amount that can be matched. It’s important to note that in most cases, the site will release the bonus funds gradually as you play. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware that you may not receive the full benefit immediately.
3. Loyalty or rewards programs: Upon registering, you are instantly enrolled as a member without any effort. Ignoring the program is perfectly fine, but keep in mind that your participation and frequency of play determine your classification and rewards. Accumulate points as you engage in games, which can be exchanged for cash or valuable prizes. The specific amounts may differ, but popular options typically include bonuses, tournament passes, and branded items from the program’s online store.

Receiving unrestricted cash is the most elusive reward, but it is uncommon for online poker sites to offer withdrawable funds as a bonus.

Typically, you will be rewarded with either site credits or tournament tickets. Site credits have a cash-like value, but can only be withdrawn after going through the system’s process. On the other hand, tournament tickets can only be used for tournament buy-ins, and cannot be transferred or exchanged for cash.

Comparing Michigan online poker sites 2023

WSOP Michigan

Review: WSOP Michigan

Download: Play WSOP MI

Best features:

• The new client is smart, highly functional, and delivers a delightful user experience.
• The WSOP tournament series presents a wide array of events, ranging from prestigious bracelet competitions to thrilling ring tournaments.
• Provides a wide variety of satellites for live WSOP events.
• Connects to the well-known Caesars Rewards program.

In March 2022, the World Series of Poker, a highly renowned poker brand, was finally introduced in Michigan.

The major attraction for WSOP Michigan players are the high-profile tournaments, held throughout the week, including daily qualifiers for the WSOP Main Event and the WSOP Online Circuit. Among them, the most significant Sunday tournament in the state is the weekly $100 buy-in, with a guaranteed prize pool of $50K.

The Poker 8 software, utilized by WSOP Michigan and 888poker sites globally, marks a notable advancement compared to the software employed by WSOP’s Nevada and New Jersey sites. With its appealing dark color scheme, the client interface facilitates effortless navigation for players to locate their preferred game types and tournaments.

The WSOP has formed a partnership with 888 poker, a company that runs online poker sites in New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware. Through a multi-state agreement, these sites can combine their player pools, allowing players from different states to compete against each other. Recently, Michigan has joined this agreement, and the Michigan Gaming Control Board has given its approval. Now, it is up to WSOP or other online poker platforms to meet the necessary requirements in order to include Michigan players in interstate poker games.

Our Verdict: WSOP’s arrival in the Michigan online poker scene is a positive development, and there’s even more excitement and advantages to come. The state’s inclusion in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement means that players from Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada can join forces, creating a larger player pool. Additionally, Michigan players can look forward to participating in online Circuit and Bracelet Event series, as well as having the opportunity to win satellite entries for live events like the prestigious WSOP in Las Vegas.

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BetMGM Poker MI

Review: BetMGM Poker Michigan

Get the BetMGM MI Poker App now!

Best features:

• The design is straightforward and uncluttered, allowing for effortless navigation.
• A friendly monthly tournament series is available, offering buy-ins starting at $20 and going up to $1,060.
• You have the opportunity to earn M Life Rewards at both MGM Grand Detroit and various other MGM locations.
• Fast Forward is a cash game that provides a “fast-fold” feature.

In March 2021, BetMGM Poker made its debut in Michigan, becoming the state’s second authorized online poker platform. Utilizing the identical software employed by partypoker US network sites, including BetMGM Poker sites in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, this new platform offers an immersive gaming experience. The esteemed MGM Grand Detroit casino, recognized as the largest casino in Michigan, serves as the land-based partner for BetMGM Poker.

Initially, the site experienced a slow start in terms of traffic and is still behind PokerStars. However, it has made progress and is gradually catching up. Occasionally, BetMGM organizes the BetMGM Online Series, a monthly tournament series that draws a considerable number of participants for specific events. While the BetMGM Poker client is practical and user-friendly, it may not possess the same level of refinement as other online poker platforms. Nonetheless, certain players appreciate its simplicity as it allows them to concentrate more on gameplay without distractions.

Users of desktop and laptop devices, whether they are using PC or Mac, have the option to download the client onto their computers. Additionally, both Apple (iOS) and Android users can access the app designed specifically for their respective devices.

In conclusion, BetMGM Poker in Michigan may not be the best choice for cash games due to its generally low traffic. However, the poker site does offer a wide range of frequent and diverse tournaments that players in Michigan might find appealing. It is advisable for players to consider adding popular events with guaranteed prize pools to their weekly schedules. Additionally, it would be beneficial to keep an eye out for the monthly BetMGM Online Series whenever it becomes available.

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PokerStars Michigan

Review: PokerStars Michigan 

Download: Play PokerStars Michigan

Best features:

• New Jersey benefits from a shared player pool.
• Consistently experiencing heavy traffic on a restricted US website.
• In addition to no-limit hold’em and pot-limit Omaha, there are various mixed games and variants available.
• Cutting-edge software with a user-friendly and intuitive interface.

In late January 2021, the first online poker room in Michigan was introduced through a collaboration between PokerStars and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

The Michigan site quickly rose to become the most popular platform for PokerStars in the United States. It attracted a large number of players, thanks to prestigious events like the renowned “COOP” series, which boasted massive prize pools. The inaugural editions of the Michigan Championship of Online Poker (MICOOP) and the Michigan Spring Championship of Online Poker (MISCOOP) achieved remarkable success.

PokerStars owes much of its success to its cutting-edge client software, which has propelled it to become a thriving platform since its global launch in 2001. With over 20 years of continuous improvement, PokerStars undeniably offers the most seamless and dependable online poker experience worldwide. Currently, in Michigan, there is no competition as PokerStars.com stands out as the most appealing site for players based on their user experience.

Combining the player pools from Michigan and New Jersey, PokerStars became the pioneer operator in the state to introduce interstate play in January 2023.

To experience PokerStars, users can download and install the PokerStars client on their desktop or laptop (compatible with PC or Mac). Additionally, an app for Apple (iOS) and Android mobile devices is also accessible to enjoy PokerStars on the go.

Our assessment: Currently, there is very little to criticize about PokerStars.com, and the recent integration of a shared player pool with New Jersey further enhances its strengths. This enables PokerStars to attract a substantial number of participants for its major tournament series, and its daily and weekly MTTs continue to enjoy a consistently high turnout as well.

Poker games available at real money poker sites

NLHE is the top choice for poker players in Michigan, as well as in most other locations. In fact, the majority of tournaments offered on Michigan’s online poker sites are in this format, with variations like turbo, deep-stacked, and progressive knockout. Occasionally, there are also pot-limit Omaha tournaments available.

Hold’em and Omaha are the only games offered by BetMGM Poker and WSOP. For players seeking a variety of games, including mixed-game formats, PokerStars is the sole option. PokerStars provides a range of cash games that include:

• limit seven-card stud
• limit seven-card stud hi-lo
• limit razz
• pot-limit 2-7 triple draw
• limit 2-7 triple draw
• Badugi
• The game called H.O.R.S.E. consists of the following poker variations: limit hold’em, Omaha hi-lo, razz, stud, and stud hi-lo.
• The game 8-Game consists of H.O.R.S.E. combined with 2-7 triple draw, PLO, and NLHE.

Every day, PokerStars hosts a tournament known as the “Change-Up,” offering players a refreshing break from the standard NLHE or PLO games. In this tournament, participants get the opportunity to play various exciting games like H.O.R.S.E., stud, razz, and Badugi.

Tournaments and Cash Games in Michigan

Although the game options at Michigan poker sites may be primarily restricted to no-limit hold’em and Omaha variations, there is still a considerable amount of diversity. All authorized poker sites offer a regular selection of daily and weekly tournaments, a wide range of cash game stakes, and their unique touch to some beloved classics.

PokerStars Tournaments and Cash Games

PokerStars offers a wide range of exciting tournaments, including frequent tournament series as well as popular daily and weekly multi-table tournaments. These events often come with guaranteed prize pools, ensuring thrilling competition. While some tournaments follow the progressive knockout (PKO) format, the majority stick to the traditional multi-table tournament (MTT) style.

Some of the well-liked daily tournaments on PokerStars are:

• Regular MTTs include The Big $5, The Big $10, The Big $15, and The Big $30.
• The Turbo MTTs: The Hot $5, The Hot $10, The Hot $30, The Hot $50.
• The Lunchtime Hot $20 guarantees a prize pool of $1,000.
• The Nightly Stars Tournament guarantees a prize pool of $10,000, with a buy-in of $100.
• Introducing Change-Up, a diverse game format featuring tournaments that are not limited to NLHE (No Limit Hold’em). Join in for just a $20 buy-in and compete for guaranteed prize pools of $500 or $1K.

PokerStars MI hosts a range of highly sought-after weekly tournaments.

• Introducing Thursday Thrill, a thrilling event with a $200 buy-in and a guaranteed prize pool of $15,000.
• The Sunday Warm-Up guarantees a prize pool of $3,000 with a buy-in of $30.
• Sunday Supersonic is a poker tournament with a $50 buy-in and a guaranteed prize pool of $5,000.
• The Sunday Marathon event guarantees a prize pool of $10,000 with a buy-in of $100.

PokerStars offers a variety of game options. Sit & Go tournaments are available with buy-ins ranging from $1 to $500. Additionally, there are Spin & Go tournaments, which have a jackpot-style format and buy-ins ranging from $1 to $10. The top prizes for Spin & Go tournaments range from $10 to $30. For cash games, the stakes vary. In no-limit hold’em, the range is from $0.01/$0.02 to $25/$50, while the 8-Game mix allows for stakes as high as $100/$200. However, most players tend to stick to lower stakes, with NLHE games of $0.50/$1 and below being the most popular.

PokerStars has recently introduced the fast-paced “Zoom” game to its shared player pool in Michigan and New Jersey, just like on its global sites.

BetMGM Tournaments and Cash Games

There is always a range of multi-table tournaments scheduled at BetMGM Poker, offering guaranteed prize pools. These tournaments have buy-ins starting from $0.25 and $1, with the highest being a $535 weekly tournament. Additionally, the monthly BetMGM Online Series often includes a tournament with a buy-in of $1,060.

BetMGM Poker in Michigan hosts a variety of regularly scheduled tournaments that are highly favored among players.

• The Daily $10K is a poker tournament with a buy-in of $109 and a guaranteed prize pool of $10,000.
• The event Mega Tuesday guarantees a prize pool of $12,000 with a buy-in of $535.
• The Sunday tournament has a $35K guaranteed prize pool and requires a $215 buy-in.

Sit & Go tournaments are available on BetMGM Poker, offering buy-ins ranging from $1 to $500. It is important to note that BetMGM Poker differs from PokerStars as it solely provides hold’em (no-limit and limit) and pot-limit Omaha games. Although BetMGM Poker previously offered seven-card stud in other states, this particular variant is currently unavailable on the Michigan site.

Cash games in NLHE and PLO have a wide range of stakes, starting from as low as $0.01/$0.02 and going up to $25/$50. On the other hand, fixed-limit hold’em games, while not as popular, offer stakes ranging from $0.02/$0.04 to $30/$60. BetMGM Poker does offer a fast-fold game called Fast Forward, but it rarely runs due to insufficient player participation.

WSOP.com Tournaments and Cash Games

In WSOP Michigan, players can explore four main game categories: cash games, tournaments, sit & go’s, as well as the exciting BLAST poker, a jackpot-style sit & go game offered by WSOP and 888 poker.

WSOP MI offers a variety of cash games including no-limit hold’em, pot-limit Omaha, and fixed-limit hold’em. The no-limit hold’em cash games have a wide range of stakes, starting from as low as $0.01/$0.02 blinds and going up to $100/$200. Similarly, the pot-limit Omaha games also have stakes starting from pennies and reaching a maximum of $50/$100. On the other hand, the stakes for fixed-limit hold’em cash games range from $0.05/$0.10 to $10/$20.

MTTs offer various buy-ins and come in a range of formats, with guarantees reaching as high as $15K on Tuesdays, $20K on Thursdays, and $50K on Sundays.

Just like cash games, WSOP MI offers only NLHE and PLO tournaments. Unfortunately, they do not host stud or mixed game MTTs. The tournament options consist of regular and short-handed MTTs, knockout and progressive knockout bounty tournaments, freezeouts and rebuy/add-on tournaments, as well as SNAP fast-fold tournaments. You can also choose from various speeds, including regular, turbo, and super turbo.

WSOP MI offers satellite opportunities for players to participate in live WSOP tournaments, including the prestigious WSOP Main Event, with buy-ins as low as $1. Additionally, players can take part in the WSOP Online Bracelet Series and WSOP Online Circuit series, giving them a chance to compete for highly sought-after gold bracelets and rings.

Sit & Go tournaments offer a diverse range of buy-ins, starting from as low as $0.25 and going up to $200. Additionally, players have the flexibility to choose between heads-up, six-handed, or nine-handed formats.

BLAST is WSOP’s unique variation of a hyper turbo sit-n-go tournament, featuring an exciting jackpot element. With just four players needed to start, participants automatically become eligible for a thrilling jackpot drawing. The outcome of this draw holds great significance as it determines a multiplier, capable of multiplying your initial buy-in from double to an astonishing 10,000 times. Moreover, this multiplier also dictates the duration of the BLAST sit-n-go tournament. Once the timer runs out, all players are forced to go all-in until a victor is determined.

How Michigan online poker works

In Michigan, it is legally permissible to engage in online poker for real money. However, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the operations and regulations governing regulated online poker platforms in the state.

Who can play?

To begin with, individuals aged 21 or above are mandated to comply with Michigan’s age requirement for engaging in online poker within the state. This stipulation should not be unexpected. In light of Michigan’s inclusion in the MSIGA, WSOP Michigan participants will soon have the opportunity to challenge players hailing from New Jersey, Delaware, and Nevada. It is worth noting that PokerStars and BetMGM do not endorse inter-state poker.

The great thing is that being a resident of Michigan is not a requirement to play. Whether you are a visitor or a resident, as long as you are of legal age, you have the chance to enjoy online poker.

How to download the app or poker client

To begin, select one of the provided links to visit your preferred website. Depending on your device, you may download the app for your mobile or the poker client for your desktop computer. Utilizing our links often grants you access to the most favorable welcome bonuses. It is essential to take note of any poker bonus codes listed, as they can provide additional cash and advantages for your account.

Downloading and installing the app through the given PokerStars and BetMGM links should pose no challenge for Apple and Android device users. After successfully installing the app or client, simply locate the sign-up button positioned at the top of the screen.

Just like online casinos in Michigan, prepare to provide your personal information when setting up your account. The following details will be required:

• Your name
• Phone number
• Email address
• Date of birth
• Social Security number

In Michigan, online gambling sites typically have these standard requirements. Additionally, you must select a suitable screen name, password, and possibly answer security challenge questions. Next, locate the designated area to input our bonus code, which is typically the sole optional box on the webpage. Ensure that you accurately enter the code as displayed, including any uppercase letters, and avoid any spelling errors.

Once you’ve done that, simply click the submit button located at the bottom, and you’ll be all set to proceed.

How to deposit and cash out at Michigan poker sites

If you want to engage in real money play on a Michigan site, it is essential to use your own funds. Moreover, it is natural to desire the ability to withdraw any winnings in case you hit the jackpot. Fortunately, every Michigan poker site offers various convenient methods for both depositing and cashing out promptly.

You have the following options available if you wish to make a deposit.

• You can use either a credit or debit card for payment, and both Visa and Mastercard are accepted. However, it’s important to confirm with your bank beforehand as some may have restrictions on depositing to online poker sites or charge high cash advance fees.
• Michigan online poker rooms accept Skrill and PayPal as electronic wallet payment options.
• When utilizing online bill pay for various transactions, it is possible to utilize this service to directly transfer funds from your bank account to the poker site as well.
• Most Michigan poker sites accept electronic checks, specifically VIP Preferred or ACH, which are essentially paper checks in digital form.
• The most popular prepaid card options, namely Play+ and Paysafecard, function essentially like self-gifted gift cards.
• With PayNearMe, you have the option to deposit cash into your accounts at 7-Eleven and Family Dollar stores.

For instance, at the MGM Grand Detroit casino, you now have the option to personally deposit and withdraw funds from your BetMGM Poker account through their affiliated land-based partners.

Are Michigan online poker sites safe?

Absolutely! Playing on Michigan’s legal online poker sites is completely safe. All the sites mentioned above have obtained full licenses and are regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board. You can have peace of mind knowing that this page will never promote poker sites that fail to meet these requirements. Every authorized poker site in Michigan prominently displays the MGCB logo and/or states that it is “authorized and regulated by the MGCB.”

If you happen to find a website that is not listed on this page, it is highly probable that it is an offshore poker site. Such sites are not subject to the regulations and laws of Michigan or the United States. Invariably, offshore sites do not collaborate with the MGCB, nor do they have any affiliations with a Michigan-based partner or have offices within the US.

By engaging in activities on such websites, you significantly increase the chances of jeopardizing both your personal and financial security. International platforms frequently operate in legal gray zones and countries with less rigorous business regulations.

These sites cannot be relied upon to report to a competent regulatory authority. Often, the regulator lacks the power to address any problems, including payout issues, associated with the site. What’s more concerning is that the regulatory body might even be affiliated with the same organization. Ultimately, there is no justification to take any risks when there are now legally established online poker platforms in Michigan. It is best to stick to Michigan sites that are both legal and secure.

Will Michigan share player pools with other states?

Yes, but currently limited to PokerStars. In January 2023, PokerStars successfully introduced interstate poker by merging its player pools from Michigan and New Jersey.

After enduring a wait of several months, the shared liquidity seemed to be on the verge of becoming a reality.

On April 6, 2022, Michigan gained acceptance into the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement. The MGCB has officially endorsed the agreement, marking the last significant obstacle in enabling Michigan players to join their counterparts in Delaware, Nevada, and New Jersey.

BetMGM and WSOP are now responsible for introducing their own versions of interstate play.

Live poker rooms in Michigan

There is a wide range of live poker options available in Michigan, with several casinos in the state having their own dedicated poker rooms. Below are the various opportunities you can explore for playing poker in person at Michigan’s casinos.

List of poker rooms in Michigan casinos

Michigan casino card room	Address	No. of tables
Bay Mills Resort & Casino	11386 W. Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, MI 49715	4
FireKeepers Casino Hotel	11177 E. Michigan Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49014	26
Greektown Casino-Hotel	555 E. Lafayette St., Detroit, MI 48226	12
Gun Lake Casino	1123 129th Ave., Wayland, MI 49348	14
Island Casino	W399 US-2, Harris, MI 49845	6
Kewadin Casino	2186 Shunk Rd., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783	4
MGM Grand Detroit	1777 3rd Ave., Detroit, MI 48226	17
MotorCity Casino Hotel	2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit, MI 48201	17
Odawa Casino	1760 Lears Rd., Petoskey, MI 49770	6
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort	6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858	14

Michigan online poker FAQ

Can I play online poker in Michigan?

Indeed, online poker is permitted in Michigan, with various operators providing a wide range of consistently available tables, daily and weekly tournaments, and occasional exclusive series featuring substantial guaranteed prize pools.

What online poker sites are in Michigan right now?

There are three online poker sites in Michigan. PokerStars entered the market first, closely followed by BetMGM Poker. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) made its debut approximately a year later.

How does an online poker site know I’m in Michigan?

In order to ensure compliance, Michigan-based online poker sites, casinos, and sportsbooks are required to consistently confirm the whereabouts of their players. This is achieved through the utilization of geolocation software, which relies on the GPS feature of your mobile device to accurately determine your position before granting access to the site. If you are using a laptop or desktop computer, you will need to separately download this software or obtain it through the site to verify your location.

The websites remain steadfast in maintaining this requirement. They are subject to severe penalties and consequences, such as losing their licenses, if they fail to diligently enforce the in-state condition. In essence, you must confirm your location within Michigan before engaging in any betting activities, including making your initial bet, raising, calling, or folding.

Can online poker be trusted in Michigan?

Indeed, Michigan online poker games are truly fair. The allocation of cards is facilitated by random number generators employed by online poker platforms. The Michigan Gaming Control Board diligently examines and supervises the utilization of this technology to ensure the equitable presentation of games.

The websites are not biased towards any specific player’s victory. They implement rigorous security measures to prevent collusion, bot usage, and any other unfair practices.

What was the first legal online poker site in Michigan?

In Michigan, PokerStars MI held the distinction of being the inaugural poker site to debut. Its launch occurred on January 29, 2021, just a week after the legalization of online casino gaming and online sports betting in the state. Subsequently, BetMGM Poker entered the scene on March 22, 2021, while the World Series of Poker made its debut on March 28, 2022.

Are home poker games legal in Michigan?

Although home games are technically not permitted in Michigan, there are various legitimate and regulated poker rooms located throughout the state. Additionally, Michigan’s gaming law permits certain charitable organizations to host poker games at standalone facilities.

What poker variants do Michigan poker sites offer?

No-limit Texas hold ’em is the primary focus of tables and tournaments on Michigan online poker sites. Omaha is also offered, but to a lesser extent. Occasionally, you may come across a game of Omaha or pot limit Omaha in the regular rotation. PokerStars also offers several other game types such as seven-card stud, razz, 2-7 triple draw, Badugi, 8-Game, and HORSE. However, these games and tables are uncommon and typically limited to special tournament play.

How do you play PokerStars in Michigan?

To begin, ensure that you have successfully downloaded the PokerStars client. Utilize the PokerStars link provided on this page. It is necessary to download the app onto your mobile device or the poker client onto your desktop computer. By utilizing our links, you may have access to welcome bonuses. Additionally, our bonus codes can provide additional advantages to your account, so be sure to record them as well.

Downloading and installing apps and clients should pose no problem for Apple device users. On the other hand, Android users will need to navigate to their device’s security settings and enable downloads from unknown sources in order to proceed.

After installing the app or client, locate the sign-up button at the screen’s top to register an account and discover tables or tournaments for playing.

Can Michigan players compete for WSOP bracelets online?

Certainly! Starting in March 2022, Michigan poker enthusiasts have the opportunity to participate in WSOP MI. This exciting launch allows online players to engage in satellite events, where they can vie for a chance to secure a spot in prestigious live WSOP tournaments like the iconic WSOP Main Event. Furthermore, the WSOP Online Circuit series presents another thrilling avenue for players to compete and potentially earn coveted WSOP-C rings.