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Casino Terms Glossary
Add-on — is an optional, paid top-up of tournament chips available at a set time (often the first break) in casino or online poker events. This gambling term lets a player increase stack size without re-entering, shifting variance, table pressure, and expected value. Some casinos also use “add-on” for small booster extras in promotions.
Understanding Add On
In gambling, Add-on meaning is the right to buy extra chips once per the event’s rules, separate from a rebuy or re-entry. The Add-on definition used by casinos is a scheduled optional purchase that enlarges a player’s stack without resetting the seat. It matters because chip-per-dollar value, blind structure speed, and the payout ladder shape ROI. On 101RTP you can find trusted casino and slot reviews and use our Slot Simulator and Bonus Value Score to plan bankroll strategy and bonus play more profitably.
Examples of Add On
Here are typical Add-on situations a casino player might see:
- First-break MTT add-on: $50 for 10,000 chips when the $100 buy-in gave 15,000. The chip-per-dollar is better now, so many players take it.
- Rebuy vs add-on: During early levels, a rebuy replaces a busted stack; at the break, an add-on is available even if you’re the chip leader.
- Online poker series: Add-on offered in “rebuy/add-on” events; late registrants can still purchase at the break per rules.
- Casino promo usage: A slot tourney sells a $10 add-on for extra entries or a small chip boost—optional and separate from the main buy-in.
FAQs
What is an Add-on in a casino tournament?
An Add-on is an optional purchase that adds chips to a player’s stack at a scheduled point, typically a break, without changing seats or resetting the stack. This Add-on definition contrasts with re-entry, which starts a new stack. It’s common in casino and online poker events and can alter variance and survival odds.
How does an Add-on differ from a rebuy or re-entry?
A rebuy replaces a busted or short stack during the early levels, while re-entry creates a new entry after busting. An Add-on happens at a set time (often first break) and can be taken even if you’re chip leader. In simple terms: rebuy/ re-entry restart; Add-on enlarges your current stack.
Can an Add-on improve my ROI in gambling tournaments?
Yes, if chip-per-dollar is strong, blinds are escalating, and you leverage a skill edge. More chips reduce variance and bubble risk. Evaluate cost versus chips gained, remaining field size, and payout structure. If the structure is fast and add-on value is high, taking it often increases expected value for the player.
Is taking the Add-on always correct for a casual player?
Not always. If your bankroll is tight, structure is slow, or chip-per-dollar is poor, you might skip it. Recreational players should weigh entertainment value, session length, and comfort with risk. The Add-on meaning isn’t “mandatory”—it’s a flexible option that should fit your casino budget and goals.
Do online casinos use Add-on for bonuses or spins?
Some promos borrow the term for extra spins or top-ups, but the classic Add-on meaning is poker-specific. For bonus-focused gambling decisions, compare true value and wagering rules. 101RTP reviews and our Bonus Value Score help you judge which casino offers and stakes deliver the best chance to profit from promotions.
Why do casinos offer Add-ons in tournaments?
Add-ons increase overall prize pools and extend average playtime, which many players enjoy. They also let skilled players buy a better chance to realize their edge. From the casino’s perspective, it boosts engagement and guarantees chip liquidity, especially in faster structures where early stacks can shrink quickly.
How can I decide whether the Add-on is worth it before the break?
Estimate chip-per-dollar versus the initial buy-in, check your stack versus average, and consider blind growth and payout ladder. If you’re below average in a fast structure, an Add-on can stabilize your position. For broader casino choice and bankroll planning, 101RTP provides trusted reviews plus tools to optimize bonus and stake selection.
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