Full ring poker tables are a nice place for beginning cash game players to start. The reason why is because the blinds come around less frequently so new players can sit back and learn the intricacies of the game without spending as much.

Eventually though, some players get bored with full ring games because they can’t play as many hands per hour, and so they switch to 6-max cash games. Assuming you do make this switch though, it’s important to keep in mind that the games will be slightly different. This being the case, let’s look at some tips for making the transition.

Opponents’ Ranges will be a Little Wider

The first thing to understand here is that opponents’ hand ranges will be slightly bigger than with full ring games. How wide the ranges are depends largely on the specific table dynamic, and if the 6-max game indeed has 6 players, or less. But as a general rule, you can play a wider range of hands and be more aggressive as a result.

More Stealing Opportunities Exist

Seeing as how there are fewer players on the table, 6-max cash games give you a better opportunity to steal pots and blinds from late position. And it’s important that you take advantage of these opportunities because – as we alluded to before – the blinds come around more often. So you need to make extra money by stealing when possible.

Be Prepared for More Aggressive Postflop Play

One more thing that we’d like to mention about moving from full ring to 6-max games is that postflop play tends to be more aggressive. With the wider hand ranges, many players are willing to bet more with lesser hands. This being the case, you have to be prepared to bet more postflop in many instances. But in the beginning, don’t force the postflop aggression until you’re comfortable doing so.