Online Poker debate: To HUD or not to HUD

One of the most debated parts of online poker is not simply whether third-party software like Holdem Manager and Heads-Up Displays (HUD’s) should be allowed, but whether or not using these applications is good for your poker game. There are plenty of proponents on both sides of this issue, some players’ disdain HUD’s while others swear by them, so in this article I’ll try to explain both sides of the argument and see which online poker players might benefit from using a HUD.

First let me explain precisely what a Poker HUD is:

A HUD is an onscreen display that shows different statistics (of your choosing) on your opponents. These statistics are updated in real time and can span back as far as you want, showing every hand you have ever played with someone or just the current session.

The case for a HUD

• HUD’s make multi-tabling easier

With the basics of all your opponents right there in front of you a HUD increases the number of easy decisions you will have to make (a button raise against a player with a high fold to steal attempt number becomes automatic) as well as reducing the amount of time you have to spend focusing on each player.

• HUD’s allow you to pinpoint your opponents’ flaws

A HUD can show you a fatal flaw in a player’s game, even good players. It would be next to impossible to notice some of the mistakes players make without using a HUD and seeing very precise statistics.

• HUD’s eliminate guesses

By using a HUD you can avoid the difficult decisions when you really have no idea what you’re opponent may have. With a HUD you’ll at least have all of their previous stats right there on your screen, which should help you make an educated decision.

The case against a HUD

• HUD’s can become a crutch

Some players rely too heavily on their HUD’s, causing them to struggle when they have to play without a HUD, or when they don’t have statistics on a particular player.

• HUD’s can create a false sense of an opponent’s play

In addition to being a crutch a HUD can cause you to overlook things you would otherwise use to make your decisions. Many times I’ve heard people say things like, “Well, I was almost certain he had X but my HUD was saying this is an automatic call based on his three-barrel percentage.”

• HUD’s stunt a player’s growth

Perhaps the most worrisome aspect of using a HUD is that it stunts your growth as a player. Instead of working on your reads and focusing on your opponents, many players let their HUD do all the work for them, and can never add this very important part to their game. A HUD may make you a winner at $1/$2 NLHE, but as you progress up the stakes you’ll need to be able to adjust on the fly and not solely rely on your HUD.