NEW ZEALAND
ENGLISH
Casino Terms Glossary
Big blind (bb) — is the larger of the two forced bets in poker posted before cards are dealt. Set by the table stakes or tournament level, the bb seeds the pot, drives action, and anchors standard raise sizes (like 2–3bb). This casino term shapes position, risk, and bankroll decisions.
Understanding Big blind (bb)
In gambling, Big blind (bb) meaning refers to a compulsory wager that rotates around the table so every player funds the pot in turn. The formal Big blind (bb) definition sets the minimum preflop price and a reference for bet multiples (2bb opens, 3bb re‑raises). Blind size determines average pot, positional pressure, and variance, so it’s vital for game selection and bankroll management at any casino. At 101RTP you can compare reliable casinos and use our Slot Simulator (Gaming Session Simulator) and Bonus Value Score calculator to translate stake sizes into realistic session budgets when you mix poker with slots play.
Examples of Big blind (bb)
Here are practical examples of how the big blind (bb) works:
- Cash game stakes $1/$2: UTG opens to 3bb ($6), the big blind has already posted $2 and needs $4 more to call; 100bb stacks equal $200.
- Tournament level 500/1,000 with 1,000 big blind ante: the bb posts 1,000 blind plus 1,000 ante; a standard open is 2.2bb (2,200).
- Missed blind: if you step away and miss your bb, you must post the bb (and sometimes a dead blind) or wait for it to reach you again.
- Straddle allowed: UTG places a live $4 straddle in a $1/$2 game, effectively increasing the biggest forced bet and average pot size.
FAQs
What is the Big blind (bb) in poker?
In poker, the Big blind (bb) is the larger forced bet posted before cards are dealt. It defines the minimum preflop price and anchors common raise sizes, such as 2–3bb opens. Because it rotates seat to seat, every player contributes to the pot, creating action in casino cash games and tournaments.
How does the Big blind (bb) affect bet sizing and strategy?
The Big blind (bb) sets the scale for bet sizing: opens, re-raises, and stack depth are expressed in bb. A 3bb raise in a deep game risks less, proportionally, than 3bb when short-stacked. Position versus the bb matters too; acting last postflop makes defending the bb more profitable.
Can the Big blind (bb) change during a session?
Yes. In tournaments, the Big blind (bb) increases at scheduled levels, raising the cost per orbit and the pressure to act. In cash games, blinds are fixed by stakes, but tables can change or players can agree to a larger game. House rules also allow straddles that effectively enlarge the bb.
Is 100bb a good poker buy-in size?
Many players treat 100bb as a standard buy‑in because strategy charts, pot odds, and implied odds are often built around that depth. But what is “good” depends on skill, risk tolerance, and table. Shorter stacks lower variance; deeper stacks increase leverage and complexity. Always align buy‑in size with bankroll.
Do antes change the Big blind (bb) meaning or definition?
Antes do not change the Big blind (bb) definition; the bb remains the larger forced bet. However, antes increase the pot before the flop, improving the price to open-raise and defend wider ranges. Big blind ante formats collect one ante from the bb each hand, simplifying antes without changing core meaning.
Why does the Big blind (bb) matter for bankroll management in a casino?
Big blind (bb) size dictates how fast chips (and money) move, affecting variance, session length, and risk of ruin. Translating stake size into real currency helps you pick sustainable games and limits at a casino. For practical planning, 101RTP offers trusted reviews and tools that help align stakes with your bankroll.
How can a player learn what is the best way to defend the Big blind (bb)?
Study positional ranges, pot odds, and postflop play at various stack depths, then practice. Focus on defending with hands that play well out of position and exploit raise sizes. For structured learning, 101RTP publishes clear explanations of Big blind (bb) meaning and related concepts so you can build sound strategies.
About the Author
