Simple math could then be easily applied and a sound strategy and counter strategy developed. What poker tracking programs did is add fuel to the fire by giving players the tools necessary to break every aspect of poker strategy down into nuts an bolts. Authors like David Sklansky and Mason Malmuth had begun building upon what Doyle Brunson had started way back in 1978* when he published Super System.

Indeed, a string of high-quality books on theory had been written between the late 90’s and early 2000’s. In fact, people had already started thinking deeply about theory years before it even existed. Now don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that tracking software was the sole reason that poker developed into the game it is today. Note: If you play on Ignition, Bovada, or Bodog, P4 and HEM2 won’t work without a converter or card catcher. Or, just go with HEM2, my personal favorite. My advice is to try both and see which one you like more.

HEM2 is time-tested and easier to navigate (also cheaper).

PT4 is a bit newer with more advanced features.

If you are on the fence about which to choose: If you are an analytical player who loves to dive into statistical analysis and break down the game into the nuts and bolts, then Pokertracker 4 (PT4) or Hold’em Manager 2 (HEM2) is for you. Check the latest price and get a 30-day free trial. I used PokerTracker for a number of years and has a few newer features and updates. PokerTracker 4Ī very smooth functioning tracking software that has awesome HUD and personal study capability. It also has versus hero stats that I love! PT4 does not come with this feature. Choose this one if on a budget as it is priced much more cheaply than PokerTracker4, yet will do basically exactly the same thing.

I have spent thousands (yes thousands) of hours using Hold’em Manager, or HEM. Best Programs For Analysis and Advanced HUDs 1. Here are the only tracking software programs that I recommend. If you use tracking software for no other reason, a HUD is almost a must-have if you want to excel at poker. Poker players are creatures of habit, and once you have played a few hands with someone, a heads-up-display (HUD) will give you a really accurate picture of what they are doing at the table. Tracking software allows you to gain powerful insights into what is going on at the tables through statistical analysis. Whether you play cash games or tournaments, analyzing the games of both you and your opponents is an important part of improving as a player.

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