Short version. Ignition and Bovada are the softest because nobody can track anybody. BetOnline is next because its players come from the sportsbook. ACR and Black Chip are the toughest.
What makes a site soft
Three things: where the players come from, whether regulars can track them, and whether regulars can choose who they sit with. A room fed by a sportsbook or casino has more people playing for fun. A room that hides names and seats you at random stops strong players from hunting weak ones.
| Room | Tracking | Table choice | How soft |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ignition Poker | Not possible; anonymous tables | Seated automatically | Softest |
| Bovada Poker | Not possible; same network as Ignition | Seated automatically | Softest |
| BetOnline Poker | Basic built-in HUD for everyone | You choose | Soft |
| ACR Poker | Full HUDs allowed | You choose | Toughest |
| Black Chip Poker | Full HUDs allowed | You choose | Toughest; same pool as ACR |
What you give up
The soft rooms pay little or no rakeback, cap how many tables you can play, and have smaller tournaments than ACR. For a casual player that is a good trade. For someone playing full time it is not.
Check your state
Not every room takes every state. Ignition and Bovada exclude more states than the others. Your state page lists who accepts you.
Common questions
What is the softest poker site for US players?
Ignition and Bovada, because of their anonymous tables, followed by BetOnline.
Why is ACR Poker harder?
HUDs are allowed and it attracts serious tournament and cash players.
Are soft sites worth it without rakeback?
For casual players, yes. Weaker opponents matter more than rakeback at low volume.