Chebchoub
Poker is one of life's mysteries
Loyaler
They both differ in terms of enjoyment and some strategies; the most important thing is choosing the right time and place, and applying the bankroll rules.
tuitui
Rock Star
Platinum Level
I've been playing tournaments like 95% of the time and now I tried some longer cash game sessions. Oh dear it is boring! That kind of feels like work. 
I actually thought I would enjoy it, but apparently I do not. Stakes and situation remain the same over and over. There is no clear progression in the game, but decisions are repeated in a similar way from hand to hand. This makes the experience so flat. Also realized I am not as good in cash as in tournaments, so I will take a break from cash now.
I actually thought I would enjoy it, but apparently I do not. Stakes and situation remain the same over and over. There is no clear progression in the game, but decisions are repeated in a similar way from hand to hand. This makes the experience so flat. Also realized I am not as good in cash as in tournaments, so I will take a break from cash now.
Newzooozooo
Legend
Loyaler
I prefer tournaments because, in my opinion, everything is much simpler in tournaments with expenses and bankroll management. At least for me, everything is simpler
I don't like cash games because it's hard for me to stop and not continue playing if the limit for the session has been spent. I don't have this problem with tournaments
I don't like cash games because it's hard for me to stop and not continue playing if the limit for the session has been spent. I don't have this problem with tournaments
R
rufininha14
Rock Star
Platinum Level
To make a living from poker, I believe you have to invest in paid games. But if it's just for a hobby or to make extra income occasionally, you might play freeroll tournaments. However, to build a bankroll and live off poker, you undoubtedly have to play paid games.
Traduzir
Traduzir
anasslaaleg
Rock Star
Platinum Level
It all depends on your goals and playing style. Cash games offer a stable environment, flexible scheduling, and less pressure: ideal for improving and mastering your game. Tournaments, on the other hand, provide adrenaline, potentially significant winnings, and a competitive atmosphere, but demand patience and intense concentration. If you prioritize stability, opt for cash games. If you enjoy challenges and high payouts, tournaments might be a better fit.
G
GrannySmit77
Rock Star
Platinum Level
It depends how much time I have to invest in that particular session. If it's my day off and I have plenty of time, I might decide to play a tournament. If I can only play for a very short period of time, I choose online cash games. I can't say I'm very lucky with online cash games, but I'm just a recreational player. Most of the time I try to limit the damage.
Ruslan L
Legend
Platinum Level
s0ftdumps
Visionary
Platinum Level
Cash games are far easier to stabilize from a bankroll and mental game perspective, and being able to quit, change tables, or adjust stakes on demand is a massive edge that tournaments just do not offer.
That said, I think the comparison can get skewed if it is framed purely as income reliability. Tournaments reward a different kind of skill, ICM pressure, population exploitation, and endurance, and some players genuinely convert those edges better than small, repeatable cash game spots.
hardongear
Legend
Platinum Level
I enjoy both. Cash tables during the week and 10+ min blind level MTT's on the weekends. If I'm honest I'm better, more consistent and make more $$$ playing cash.....I simply love the challenge MTT's offer more. That's why both.
As for which is better that will depend on what each person personally prefers.
As me in 2026 I've challenged myself to switch from full-ring to 6 max so my number of MTT's played this year will be very low to maybe none. If I play any it likely be in the bigger series pokerstars offers.
Cheers!!!
As for which is better that will depend on what each person personally prefers.
As me in 2026 I've challenged myself to switch from full-ring to 6 max so my number of MTT's played this year will be very low to maybe none. If I play any it likely be in the bigger series pokerstars offers.
Cheers!!!
Julpukka
Enthusiast
Silver Level
I love to play low buy in tournaments. When I go to big tournaments im very stressed. Maybe one day I will have ability to play also bigger tournaments, but for now I will stay at low buy in games. Cash games arent for me