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Rebuy

Purchasing additional chips after losing your stack.

James Carter
James CarterVerified

iGaming Journalist & Crypto Casino Analyst

What Is Rebuy?

Rebuys are common in certain tournament formats, known as rebuy tournaments, which typically allow players to rebuy during an initial period, often whenever their stack falls below the starting amount or busts completely. After the rebuy period ends, players usually have the option for one final "add-on" before the tournament moves to a standard freezeout structure. Cash games also allow rebuys, letting players top up their stack at any time within table maximum limits.

Examples

1

He busted out early in the rebuy period and immediately rebought to get back in the tournament.

2

The rebuy tournament saw most players rebuy at least once during the first hour.

Strategy Tips

Play more aggressively during a rebuy period, since busting out simply means rebuying rather than being eliminated entirely. Factor the total potential cost of rebuys into your bankroll planning before entering a rebuy tournament. Consider taking the add-on at the end of the rebuy period if it offers good chip value relative to its cost. In cash games, top up your stack promptly after a big loss to maintain full strategic flexibility and stack depth relative to opponents.

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