PokerStove Review — Features, Pricing & Verdict | PokerJudge
PokerStove (Open-Source Equity Calculator) review, rated 3.8/5: Classic open-source equity calculator supporting 14 poker variants. PokerStove is a classic in poker
PokerStove is an open-source free poker equity calculation tool built in C++, supporting 14 poker variants including Hold'em, Omaha, Razz, and Stud. Lightweight, fast, and accurate — one of the most influential free tools in poker history.
Key Features
Precise Equity Calculation
Precisely calculates hand winning odds using combinatorics
14 Game Variants
Supports Hold'em, Omaha, Razz, Stud, and 11 more poker variants
Open-Source C++ Library
Complete hand evaluation library that developers can integrate into their own projects
Lightweight & Fast
Tiny installation size with fast calculations
Cross-Platform
Supports Windows, Linux, and macOS
Command-Line Tools
ps-eval and other CLI tools for batch calculations and automation
Pricing and Best Use Cases
Free / Open Source
Price: $0
Best for: All players and developers
- Completely free and open-source
- 14 poker variants
- BSD 3-Clause license
Advantages
- Completely free and open-source
- Supports 14 variants, broadest coverage
- Lightweight and fast, minimal resource usage
- Cross-platform (Windows/Linux/macOS)
- Developers can freely integrate
Limitations
- Very basic interface
- No longer actively maintained
- Lacks range analysis and training features
- Higher usage barrier for regular users
vs. Competitors
PokerStove vs Equilab
Equilab has a friendlier interface and more features (trainer, scenario analysis); PokerStove is lighter, supports more variants, and is open-source customizable. Beginners choose Equilab, technical users choose PokerStove.
PokerStove vs PokerJudge
PokerStove is a minimal equity calculator; PokerJudge is a comprehensive training platform. Completely different positioning.
Verdict
PokerStove is a classic in poker software history, still uniquely valuable as an open-source free tool — supporting 14 game variants is unmatched by other free tools. Equilab is friendlier for regular players, but PokerStove remains a valuable resource for technical users and developers.