Table Change

Overview

A Table Change (also called a table move) is a common procedure in live and online poker rooms where a player asks to be transferred from their current table to another. The primary motivation is usually to improve one's expected value by moving to a table with weaker opponents (softer game) or to escape a table with particularly tough players. Table changes are also used to balance the number of players across tables, especially when tables become short-handed or a new table opens.

Reasons for Requesting a Table Change

• Seeking a softer game: If a player perceives that their current table has several strong opponents (e.g., known professionals or aggressive regulars), they may request a move to a table with more recreational or passive players.
• Avoiding a specific opponent: Sometimes a player wants to avoid a particular opponent who has a psychological edge or a significant skill advantage.
• Table dynamics: A player may prefer a table with more action (looser play) or a more passive game, depending on their style.
• Table size and pace: In live poker, a table that is short-handed may play too fast or too slow for a player's preference. In online poker, players can often see the average pot size and players-per-flop stats before requesting a change.
• Personal comfort: Factors like seat position (e.g., being stuck between two aggressive players) or even physical comfort (smoking, noise) can prompt a change.

Etiquette and Rules

Live Poker

• Players must usually ask the floor supervisor for a table change. The request is typically honored when a seat becomes available at the desired table.
• In many card rooms, there is a list (table change list) that players sign. The floor moves players in order of request.
• It is generally considered poor etiquette to request a table change immediately after losing a big pot or to avoid a specific player in a way that disrupts the game. However, it is a standard and accepted practice.
• Some rooms restrict table changes during certain periods (e.g., during a tournament or when a must-move table is in use).

Online Poker

• Most online poker sites have a "Table Change" or "Move Table" button. Players can usually request a change to a specific table (if seats are available) or to a random new table.
• Sites often enforce waiting periods (e.g., 15-30 minutes) before a player can change tables again, to prevent hit-and-run tactics (leaving a table right after winning a big pot).
• In cash games, table changes are typically unrestricted as long as seats are open. In tournaments, players are usually moved automatically by the software to balance tables.

Strategic Considerations

Table changes are a key part of game selection. Regular players often monitor tables for fish (weak players) and request moves to maximize their win rate. However, overusing table changes can waste time and potentially annoy other players or staff. It is also important to consider the costs: in a live game, changing tables may involve waiting for a seat and missing hands.

Related Terms

• Game Selection: The broader concept of choosing which table or game to play based on skill level and profitability.
• Seat Change: A request to move to a different seat at the same table (often to gain position or change table image).
• Must-Move Table: A secondary table that feeds players to the main game; players may be moved from must-move tables to fill empty seats at the main table.