What Are GTO Preflop Charts?
A preflop open-raise chart (RFI — Raise First In) shows which hands to open from each position when nobody has entered the pot, based on game-theory-optimal (GTO) solver output. These charts assume a 6-max cash game with 100BB stacks. Preflop is the most frequently repeated decision in poker, so simply following accurate charts eliminates a huge number of leaks.
The later your position (the closer to the button), the fewer players are left to act behind you — so your opening range widens. UTG opens a tight range of roughly 15% of hands, while the button profitably opens 40–50%.
How to Use
- Select the position you want to study (UTG, MP, CO, BTN, SB).
- Read the color-coded open-raise range on the 13×13 hand grid.
- Suited hands sit above the diagonal, offsuit hands below it, and pocket pairs run along the diagonal.
- Use the chart as your default in game, then adjust exploitatively based on your opponents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does RFI (open range) mean?
RFI stands for Raise First In — raising as the first player to voluntarily enter the pot. Position-based RFI ranges are the backbone of sound preflop strategy.
Should I always follow GTO charts exactly?
GTO charts are a defensive baseline that assumes perfect opponents. Against weaker fields (low stakes, live games), deviating exploitatively wins more. The right approach is to know the baseline and deviate on purpose, not by accident.
Why do opening ranges differ by position?
In later positions fewer opponents remain behind you, so you face 3-bets less often and play more pots in position after the flop. That's why UTG must open tight while the button can open very wide.