How to Play the Bubble in Poker Tournaments

The bubble is one of the most intense and strategic phases of any poker tournament. It’s the point just before players start making money—often resulting in high-pressure decisions, shifting dynamics, and drastic changes in playstyle. Whether you’re short-stacked, average-stacked, or a chip leader, understanding bubble strategy can mean the difference between a bust-out and a deep run.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to adjust your game based on your stack, table dynamics, and opponents’ tendencies to exploit the bubble effectively.

What Is the Bubble in a Poker Tournament?

The “bubble” refers to the stage in a tournament where only a few players need to be eliminated before the remaining players reach Master Poker Vietnam the money. For example, if 100 players enter and 15 get paid, the bubble begins when there are 16–17 players left.

The bubble is critical because:

Players tighten up to avoid busting
Aggressive players can accumulate chips easily
Mistakes here are often costly in terms of equity

Bubble Strategy for Short Stacks

If you’re short-stacked (less than 10 big blinds), the bubble is a high-stakes moment. Your main goals:

Don’t blind out – You need to find a spot to shove with fold equity.
Pick spots carefully – Jam over tight players, especially those protecting their stacks.
Avoid loose big stacks – They’re more likely to call light and knock you out.

Sometimes it’s correct to tighten up slightly if others are about to bust, but generally, you can’t afford to fold too much.

Bubble Strategy for Medium Stacks

As a medium stack, you’re in a delicate position:

Avoid confrontations with bigger stacks who can eliminate you.
Pressure short stacks, especially if they’re just trying to fold into the money.
Steal blinds selectively, particularly from tight players in early positions.

You have enough chips to apply pressure but not enough to risk your tournament life carelessly. Play smart, not scared.

Bubble Strategy for Big Stacks

As a big stack, the bubble is your playground:

Apply maximum pressure on short and mid-stacks.
Open wide from late position, especially if the blinds are playing passively.
Punish players trying to fold into the money—especially in the blinds or under the gun.

Big stacks should be fearless aggressors on the bubble. The threat of elimination gives you leverage others don’t have.

Key Factors to Consider During the Bubble

ICM (Independent Chip Model): Understand that chips lost are more valuable than chips won at this stage.
Player tendencies: Tight players fold more—exploit them. Loose players require stronger ranges.
Payout structure: Is it a min-cash or a huge pay jump? Adjust your risk level accordingly.
Table dynamics: Who’s stalling? Who’s desperate? Use this information to time your aggression.