Table Selection Score

Overview

Table Selection Score (TSS) is a heuristic metric commonly used in online poker to assist players in choosing tables with the highest potential profit. It aggregates several opponent statistics—such as VPIP (Voluntarily Put Money In Pot), PFR (Pre-Flop Raise), and aggression factor—into a single numerical value. A higher TSS typically indicates a weaker or more passive table, which is more profitable for a skilled player.

Calculation

There is no universal formula for TSS, as it depends on the tracking software or player-defined weighting. However, most implementations follow a similar logic:

• High VPIP: Players who play many hands are often weak-passive or loose-aggressive, contributing to a higher TSS.
• Low PFR: Players who rarely raise pre-flop signal passivity, increasing TSS.
• Low 3-bet percentage: Indicates opponents who do not apply pressure, also inflating TSS.

Example: A table with an average VPIP of 45% and an average PFR of 8% would earn a higher TSS than a table with VPIP 25% and PFR 20%.

Usage

TSS is primarily used by regulaars to quickly filter tables in the lobby. Players sort tables by TSS descending to find the softest games. It is also used in automated seat-change scripts (where allowed). However, TSS should not be the sole criterion; stack sizes, table stakes, and number of players also matter.

Limitations

• TSS may misrepresent short-term variance: a table with one strong player and nine weak ones might still have a high average TSS, but the strong player can offset profits.
• It is less reliable for tournament table selection, where blind structure and stack depth play larger roles.
• Over-reliance on TSS can lead to table hopping that violates site terms of service.

Related Concepts

• Table Selection: The broader practice of choosing profitable tables based on various factors.
• VPIP: Voluntarily Put Money In Pot—key indicator of looseness.
• PFR: Pre-Flop Raise—measure of aggression.
• Fish: Slang for a weak player, often targeted via TSS.