Stack-Sensei

🏆 ICM & Chip Chop Calculator

Calculate tournament equity using the Independent Chip Model (ICM) or simple chip chop method. Essential for final table deals and understanding your tournament equity.

ICM accounts for the diminishing value of chips as stacks grow

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Enter stacks and payouts to calculate tournament equity

What is ICM (Independent Chip Model)?

The Independent Chip Model (ICM) is a mathematical model used to calculate a player's equity in a poker tournament based on their chip stack and the payout structure. Unlike cash games where chips have direct monetary value, tournament chips have diminishing value as your stack grows.

ICM is essential for making optimal decisions at final tables, during deal negotiations, and in bubble situations. It helps you understand the real dollar value of your chip stack and make more profitable decisions in tournament play.

ICM vs Chip Chop: What's the Difference?

ICM (Independent Chip Model)

  • Accounts for the diminishing value of chips
  • More accurate for tournament equity calculations
  • Considers future finishing positions and payouts
  • Better for deals with significant pay jumps

Chip Chop

  • Simple proportional division based on chip counts
  • Easier to calculate and understand
  • Treats all chips as having equal value
  • Better for quick deals in less complex situations

When to Use ICM Calculator

Final Table Deals

Calculate fair prize splits when making deals at the final table

Bubble Play

Understand your equity when approaching the money bubble

Satellite Tournaments

Make optimal decisions in winner-take-all or multiple seat satellites

Short-Handed Play

Adjust your strategy based on ICM pressure in short-handed situations

How to Use the ICM Calculator

  1. Choose Calculation Method: Select ICM for accurate equity or Chip Chop for simple proportional division
  2. Enter Stack Sizes: Input the chip count for each remaining player
  3. Enter Prize Structure: Add the payout amounts in descending order (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.)
  4. Calculate: Click the button to see each player's tournament equity
  5. Analyze Results: Review the equity percentages and dollar values for each player