Blinds Timer & Structure

Professional poker tournament blind timer with customizable structures. Track blind levels, antes, and time remaining.

Formula:Tournament time ≈ Levels × Level Duration × 1.5

Select a preset structure

Level 1 of 12
20:00
25 / 50
Next Level: 50 / 100

Setting Up Tournament Blinds

A poker blinds timer tracks blind levels during tournament play. Standard structure: 15-20 minute levels, blinds double every 2-3 levels. For a 3-hour home game with 6 players, use 15-minute levels starting at 25/50, increasing to 50/100, 75/150, 100/200, etc. Add antes when blinds reach 4x starting level.

Key Facts About Blind Structures

  • Standard levels: 15-20 minutes
  • Blinds typically double every 2-3 levels
  • Add antes at level 4-5 (usually 10% of BB)
  • Faster structure = more variance
  • Home games: 12-15 levels total
  • Tournament clock should be visible to all
  • Announce 1 minute warning before level change
  • Color up chips when smallest denomination obsolete

Structure Types Explained

Deep Stack (30 min)

Maximum skill. Slow progression allows post-flop play. Best for experienced players who want to minimize variance.

Standard (20 min)

Balanced structure. Good mix of play and progression. Suitable for most home games and casinos.

Turbo (10 min)

Fast action. Higher variance, quicker finish. Good for casual games or when time is limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should blind levels be?

For home games, 15-20 minutes per level is standard. Shorter levels (10-12 min) create faster, higher-variance games. Longer levels (25-30 min) allow more play and skill. Tournament length ≈ levels × level duration × 1.5.

When should I increase the blinds?

Blinds should roughly double every 2-3 levels. A common pattern: 25/50 → 50/100 → 75/150 → 100/200 → 150/300 → 200/400. This creates consistent pressure while allowing strategic play.

When should antes be added?

Add antes around level 4-5, typically at 10-20% of the big blind. Antes increase action by adding more to the pot preflop, making it more profitable to steal blinds.

How many levels for a home tournament?

Plan for 12-15 levels total. A 6-player tournament with 20-minute levels typically finishes in 3-4 hours. Add 1-2 levels if allowing rebuys during the first few levels.

What happens at level changes?

At level change: (1) Announce new blinds, (2) New blinds apply to the next hand dealt, (3) Color up small chips if needed, (4) If break scheduled, pause play. Give 1-minute warning before changes.