SPR in poker: stack-to-pot ratio explained
SPR (stack-to-pot ratio) is the effective stack divided by the pot on the flop. It tells you how committed you are: the lower the SPR, the easier it is to get all in with a good hand; the higher it is, the stronger your hand needs to be to play for stacks.
How to calculate SPR
Section titled “How to calculate SPR”SPR = effective stack ÷ pot size on the flop
Example: you raise to $3 in a $0.50/$1 game, one player calls from the big blind. The pot is about $6.50 and you each have $97 left. SPR = 97 ÷ 6.5 ≈ 15.
See effective stack.
What different SPRs mean
Section titled “What different SPRs mean”| SPR | Typical spot | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Under 4 | 3-bet and 4-bet pots, short stacks | Top pair and overpairs are usually good enough to get all in |
| 4–10 | Single-raised pots with a few callers | Two pair or better for big pots; one pair plays carefully |
| Over 10 | Deep single-raised pots | One pair should usually keep the pot small; sets and draws gain value |
Using SPR to plan
Section titled “Using SPR to plan”- Before you call preflop, think about the SPR you’ll have. Small pairs and suited connectors want high SPR (deep stacks) to win big when they hit. See set mining.
- Big pairs and A-K like low SPR: it’s easy to get all in with them on the flop. That’s one reason to 3-bet them. See 3-bet pots.
- On the flop, with SPR under 4 and a strong hand, don’t slow-play: plan to get the money in over two streets.
Common mistakes
Section titled “Common mistakes”- Stacking off with one pair at SPR 15+ against a tight player.
- Calling preflop with small pairs when the SPR will be low.
- Folding an overpair at SPR 2 when only a few chips are left behind.
See also deep stack poker and pot control.
What is SPR in poker?
Section titled “What is SPR in poker?”The stack-to-pot ratio: the effective stack divided by the pot on the flop.
How do I calculate SPR?
Section titled “How do I calculate SPR?”Divide the smaller of the two stacks by the size of the pot on the flop.
What does a low SPR mean?
Section titled “What does a low SPR mean?”With an SPR under about 4, one strong pair is usually good enough to get all in.
Which hands like a high SPR?
Section titled “Which hands like a high SPR?”Small pairs and suited connectors, which can win big pots when they make sets, straights or flushes.