Best US-Friendly Poker Sites & Top Offshore Rooms 2025
Online poker remains a popular choice for US players, but with strict regulations limiting access to legal sites, many turn to offshore poker rooms. These sites offer wider availability, larger player pools, and fewer restrictions, making them an attractive option for American poker enthusiasts.
In this article, we’ll explain why offshore poker sites are so popular, their key advantages, and the best poker sites for US players in 2025.
Table of Contents
Best US Online Poker Sites
Comparing the Top 5 US Poker Rooms
Here’s how the best poker sites in the USA compare in terms of their main features.
| Poker Site | Rank | Welcome Bonus | Traffic Level |
| CoinPoker | Best Online Poker Site in the US | 150% up to $2,000 | Medium |
| ACR Poker | Huge Guaranteed Prizes | 100% up to $2,000 | High |
| BetOnline | Soft Games | 100% up to $1,000 | Medium-High |
| Stake.us | Sweepstakes Poker Room | 25 Stake Cash Bonus | Medium |
| Black Chip Poker | Great Variety of MTTs | 100% up to $2,000 | High |
What are Offshore Poker Sites?
Offshore poker sites are online platforms based outside the United States that accept American players. They operate under international gaming licenses from jurisdictions like Curacao, Panama, or Costa Rica, allowing them to offer real-money games in states where access to online poker is restricted.
These sites are part of larger global poker networks, ensuring higher traffic, more tournaments, and bigger prize pools than most regulated US sites. They also provide fewer restrictions on deposits and withdrawals, with many supporting cryptocurrency transactions for faster and more secure payments.
For these reasons, choosing trusted and well-established poker sites with a strong reputation is essential for players.
How do We Select the Best US Poker Sites?
Our team of experts has been playing at the top-rated US poker rooms for over 10 years, so we know in detail how each of these platforms works.
With our long experience, we carefully evaluate each site based on key factors to ensure security, fairness, and a high-quality experience before recommending a site.
All offshore rooms are evaluated through the following criteria:
- Reliability & Reputation – A poker room must have a valid gaming license from a recognized jurisdictio and a long-standing track record of trustworthiness. Features like certified Random Number Generators (RN) and SSL certifications are also considered.
- Game Selection & Player Traffic – The best sites offer Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and other poker variants, along with cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Gos at a range of stakes. High player traffic ensures fast table fills and bigger prize pools.
- Rakeback Deals and Promotions - One thing we're experts on is poker rakeback deals and we make sure to recommend only sites with the best value to our players, along with general and exclusive VIP-Grinders promotions.
- Software & User Experience – A smooth and stable platform is critical, whether playing on desktop or mobile. Features like multi-tabling, anonymous tables, and hand replayers enhance the gameplay experience.
- Payment Options & Withdrawal Speed – A strong offshore poker site supports crypto payment options, e-wallets and traditional banking methods. All our recommended rooms are among the best crypto poker sites with near instant withdrawals.
By applying these strict criteria, we ensure that only the most reliable and player-friendly offshore poker sites make our list for US players.
Best 3 US-Friendly Poker Sites Reviewed
Now that you better understand what offshore poker sites are and how we rate them, it’s time to take a closer look at our top three choices for 2025.
🥇CoinPoker – Best Overall Poker Site for American Players
CoinPoker is a crypto-exclusive poker site that offers a decentralized and anonymous gaming experience. Launched in 2018 and backed by poker pro Tony G, it has gained popularity among players looking for fast, secure, and blockchain-based gameplay.
The platform features USDT-based cash games, high-stakes PLO tables, and innovative “Action Games” that speed up the action.
With a provably fair RNG system and instant crypto withdrawals, CoinPoker is ideal for American players who prefer the privacy and efficiency of cryptocurrency transactions.
Highlights
- Supports USDT, ETH, and BTC transactions.
- No KYC required for deposits or withdrawals.
- Provably fair blockchain-based RNG.
- Action Games & high-stakes PLO available.
🥈ACR Poker – Offshore Poker Site with Largest Guarantees
Americas Cardroom (ACR) is one of the largest US-friendly online poker sites, offering high-stakes action, massive MTTs, and a strong loyalty program.
As part of the Winning Poker Network (WPN), it boasts one of the highest player pools for American grinders, making it a go-to choice for multi-table tournament (MTT) specialists.
ACR is best known for its record-breaking Venom tournament, featuring multi-million dollar prize pools. It also supports cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals, making transactions fast and hassle-free.
Highlights
- Massive $10M Venom MTT & other high-stakes tournaments.
- 27% rakeback or VIP program with up to 65% rewards.
- Accepts over 60 cryptocurrencies for fast cashouts.
- Plenty of soft mid-stakes cash games.
🥉BetOnline – Best US-Friendly Poker Site for Soft Games
BetOnline is a top US-friendly poker site on the Chico Poker Network, known for its soft player pool and high-traffic cash games.
The platform attracts a mix of sports bettors and recreational poker players, creating an ideal environment for grinders looking for profitable games.
It offers a range of formats, including No-Limit Hold’em, Pot-Limit Omaha, and fast-paced Windfall (Spin & Go-style) tournaments.
With fast cryptocurrency payouts, regular promotions, and mobile compatibility, BetOnline is a solid choice for both casual and serious US poker players.
Highlights
- Soft player pool with many recreational players.
- Daily and weekly rake races for extra rewards.
- Accepts Bitcoin & 20+ cryptos for fast transactions.
- Reliable mobile poker app for iOS & Android.
Is Real Money Online Poker Legal in the USA?
The legality of online poker in the US depends on state laws. While no federal law directly prohibits individuals from playing, the Wire Act of 1961 and, more recently, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 restrict how operators can offer services.
As a result, most major poker sites left the US market, but offshore poker rooms continue to accept American players. Since these sites are based and licensed outside the US, they operate in a legal gray area. They are not regulated under American laws but remain accessible to players from the USA in most states.
These platforms operate under international gaming licenses from jurisdictions like Curacao, Panama, and Costa Rica, allowing them to offer real-money poker without US government oversight.
Currently, the states of Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Delaware have legalized and regulated online poker and other states are planning on doing the same. However, the liquidity in these rooms is much smaller when compared to offshore poker sites, meaning smaller pools and fewer guaranteed prizes.
Are Offshore Poker Sites Safe for US Players?
Offshore poker sites have been a reliable option for US players for years, with many well-established platforms offering secure and fair gameplay. While they operate outside US regulations, top sites follow strict security measures, use encrypted transactions, and ensure fair play through audited gaming software.
Choosing a reputable site with a proven track record is key. Many offshore poker rooms provide fast withdrawals, active player traffic, and strong customer support, making them a safe and viable choice for Americans looking to play real-money poker online.
Pros and Cons of Offshore Poker Sites
Poker gambling’s popularity is growing among US poker enthusiasts with many of these choosing offshore sites to play at. But as with any other US-friendly poker site, the best offshore rooms also have advantages and disadvantages that you should know of.
- Available in Most US States – Accepts players nationwide, unlike state-regulated sites.
- Larger Player Pools – More active tables, bigger tournaments, and higher prize pools.
- More Game Variety – Offers Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, and unique poker formats.
- Flexible Payments – Supports crypto, e-wallets, and traditional banking with faster withdrawals.
- Fewer Restrictions – Lower rake, fewer verification requirements, and better promotions.
- Not US-Regulated – No local consumer protections in case of disputes.
- Risk of Untrustworthy Sites – Some platforms have slow payouts or unfair practices.
- Payment Limitations – Traditional banking may have higher fees or slower processing times.
How to Sign Up at an Offshore Poker Site?
Joining an offshore poker site is fast and easy, with fewer restrictions than US-regulated platforms. Most poker rooms accepting American players have a quick registration process that takes just a few minutes.
Follow these 5 steps to get started:
- 1Choose a Reputable US Poker Site – Select a trusted offshore poker room from our list, ensuring it offers secure transactions, reliable payouts, and active player traffic.
- 2Create an Account – Register with a username, email, and password, and check if a promo code is available for extra benefits. Be sure to check our list of the best poker bonus codes to get started.
- 3Make a Deposit – Fund your account using Bitcoin, USDT, Ethereum, e-wallets, or credit/debit cards. Most US-friendly poker sites offer instant deposits.
- 4Claim a Bonus – Take advantage of poker welcome bonuses, which often include deposit matches, rakeback, or free tournament tickets.
- 5Start Playing – Once funded, you can join cash games, tournaments, or Sit & Gos and start playing real-money poker online.
After these steps, you might need to download a poker client to your device, although some sites allow you to play directly on your browser.
While offshore poker sites rarely require ID verification for sign-ups, some may request documents for large withdrawals.
Payment Methods at US-Friendly Poker Sites
Offshore poker sites offer a wide range of deposit and withdrawal options to accomodate US players. Since these platforms operate outside the US banking system, they often support crypto transactions and are among the best Bitcoin poker sites worldwide.
Let’s take a closer look at the available payment options:
- Cryptocurrency – Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USDT (Tether), Litecoin (LTC), and other altcoins are widely accepted for near-instant transactions with increased privacy.
- E-Wallets – Options like Skrill, Neteller, and LuxonPay are available on some sites without the need to link directly to a bank account.
- Credit & Debit Cards – Many US poker sites accept Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express, though withdrawals via card are usually not supported.
- Bank Transfers & Checks – Some offshore poker rooms allow wire transfers or mailed checks, but these methods have higher fees and longer processing times.
If you’re planning on playing at offshore poker sites from the United States, we recommend crypto transactions due to faster processing, lower costs, and fewer restrictions when compared to traditional banking methods.
Tax on Offshore Poker Sites Winnings
One question we get a lot from players looking for US-friendly poker sites is whether winnings from offshore poker rooms are taxable. The answer is yes. All gambling winnings, including from offshore sites, must be reported to the IRS.
Unlike regulated US poker sites, offshore rooms do not automatically report winnings or issue tax forms. However, this does not exempt players from their tax obligations.
Many players set aside a portion of their winnings or consult a tax professional to ensure compliance with US tax laws.
Future of Online Poker in the United States
Offshore poker sites have been the primary option for US players over the past two decades and will likely remain so. With limited state-regulated platforms, these sites continue to offer larger player pools, more tournaments, and greater flexibility.
The rise of cryptocurrency has further strengthened their appeal, providing faster transactions, lower fees, and enhanced privacy.
While some states, like New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware, have formed interstate agreements to boost liquidity, the overall regulated market remains small. Until more states legalize and expand online poker, offshore sites will continue to be the best choice for most American players.
Best US Poker Sites – Our Expert’s Opinion
There are many offshore poker sites available, but only a few stand out as the best options for US players. These platforms offer high-traffic games, competitive tournaments, and fast withdrawals, making them a top choice for American poker enthusiasts in 2025.
Here’s what to keep in mind about offshore poker sites:
- They operate in a legal grey area - playing on these sites is not illegal for US players.
- Bigger prize pools and tournaments – Offshore sites host high-stakes cash games and multi-million-dollar MTTs.
- Crypto-friendly banking – Many US poker rooms accept Bitcoin, USDT, and other cryptocurrencies, allowing for faster deposits and withdrawals.
For 2025, the best US-friendly poker sites are CoinPoker, ACR Poker, and BetOnline, each offering strong security, fast payouts, and top-tier poker action.