How does the variance of Limit HE Compare to No-limit HE?

ianlippert · #1 04-24-2005, 08:35 PM

I play mostly limit, and the main reason I chose that as my game is because I feel that the variance is much lower than NL. Does anyone know how the two compare? What is the difference in bankroll requirements?

Currently I am using a 150BB for each level type system. If I bust out at one level I go down a limit. I'm currently at 1/2 from .25/.50 and it seemss like a pretty safe way to play. I really am not worried about busting out.

However, I have a friend that was playing 2/4 NL and made $3000 in a month, and started thinking about quitting school/work etc. He then went on a $2500 downswing that totally devastated him psychologically. It got me thinking about the difference. Any thoughts?

waffle · #2 04-24-2005, 09:09 PM

for expert players, variance is smaller in no limit (when compared to winrate). this has been discussed in the past, check the archives to find the reasoning.

ianlippert · #3 04-24-2005, 09:48 PM

tried, I cant find anything. Any links?

MooFrog · #4 04-26-2005, 12:42 AM

I know that my variance in NL is huge compared to limit, since I'm definitely not an expert and my poor plays cause much huger losses. I think for limit the general recommendation is 200-300 BB, as many of the expert players have gone on 200BB+ downswings.

From a quick search of the NL small stakes forum, for those who know what they're doing 5-10 buyins looks to be sufficient for playing on the lowest level. To learn NL, 20-30 buyins is recommended.

Link