Poker summer is right around the corner, and like clockwork, the same question comes up: How much rake is everyone charging?
I want to talk about it from a different perspective. Let's talk about competition.
Competition drives improvement
I’ve been very critical of certain poker room management software in the past – not just because I thought it could be better, but because there wasn’t enough pressure for it to improve.
When there’s no real competition, things get stale.
Then I learned about PokerAtlas. I’m biased because, yes, I work for them – but I work for them because I think they’re great. They put a lot of thought into players, staff, operations, and reporting.
There are other strong software providers too, such as Bravo, kHold’em, and the WSOP LIVE app.
Now you’re seeing features improve across the board. Registration is smoother, reporting is sharper, and the overall player experience is better. Triton has this new shot clock that's like a chess clock. It looks incredible.
Competition is forcing them to improve.
Because you either improve or you get left behind.
Don't just talk, act
The same is true for poker tournaments.
If you keep playing a tournament series regardless of the rake, you’re not putting yourself in a position to see that rake reduced – you’re actually weakening competition.
If, however, you choose to play where the rake matches what you’re willing to pay, alongside the series you think is too expensive, you create competition. And that pressure helps drive prices down.
If you complain about rake but still fire anyway, you’re surrendering leverage.
If you actually want better structures and lower rake, you have to create pressure. That means:
- Playing elsewhere if it makes sense
- Supporting rooms that treat you fairly
By following these simple ideas, you help create real competition. In turn, it'll make the entire industry better.
Don’t forget: competition is what drives improvement.
Watch the video above for the full breakdown.
Justin Hammer is the Live Events Director for PokerAtlas, an online tournament director for the Texas-based poker app Hijack, and a tournament director at Thunder Valley Casino Resort. He also works as a consultant and is a minority owner of Desert Bluffs Casino in Kennewick, Washington.
For more info, visit PokerAtlas.com, HijackPoker.com, and bluffs.poker. Follow Justin on X.
