In cash games, $1 in chips equals $1 in cash. In tournaments, this logic breaks down. At a final table, doubling your chip stack does not double your prize money.
The Independent Chip Model (ICM) is the mathematical standard for converting chip stacks into real monetary value ($ Equity). Using this calculator is essential for making mathematically correct Push/Fold decisions near the bubble or at a final table.
How to Use the ICM Calculator
This tool estimates your equity share of the remaining prize pool.
- Payouts: Enter the prize money for the top 4 spots (e.g., 1st: $1000, 2nd: $600…).
- Player Stacks: Enter the chip counts for the remaining players.
- Analyze Equity: The calculator displays the dollar value of each stack.
- Note: You will notice that the chip leader’s equity is less than their percentage of chips would suggest. This is because you cannot win more than 1st place money, no matter how many chips you have.
Example: The “Chip Suicide” Mistake
You are 2nd in chips. The Chip Leader goes All-in. You have Ace-King.
In a cash game, this is an easy call. In a tournament final table, ICM says you might have to fold. Why? Because if you call and lose, you get $0. If you fold, you are almost guaranteed 2nd place money because the short stacks will likely bust soon. This calculator helps you visualize that “Risk Premium.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between Chip Chop and ICM?
Chip Chop assigns money strictly based on % of total chips. It heavily favors big stacks (sometimes awarding more than 1st place money!). ICM is complex math that accounts for the probability of finishing 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc. ICM is the fairer and standard method for tournament deals.