ClubGG vs PokerStars — Which Is Better for Israeli Players?

Why compare at all?

PokerStars was the global leader for two decades. GGPoker (with ClubGG as its social arm) overtook it in active table volume starting in 2020. For an Israeli player, the decision between the two isn't about "brand" but revolves around 6 measurable criteria.

Hebrew support and localization

ClubGG via PokerGG.co.il offers an Israeli agent on WhatsApp 24/7, tables with Israeli players, and Telegram groups. PokerStars offers English-only support with no official Israeli hosting. For a player who wants help in Hebrew with a deposit issue or a technical question, the difference is dramatic.

Player fields and opponent softness

PokerStars is concentrated with veteran European pros and regulars — the field is tough. Thanks to its club structure, ClubGG serves local fields of varying difficulty — there are tables with regulars but also especially soft "recreational" tables. A new or amateur player will survive longer on ClubGG.

Rakeback and VIP programs

PokerStars Rewards uses a locked chest model with variable effective value (typically 15-30%). ClubGG, through the Israeli club, offers transparent and fixed rakeback that is significantly higher, with no hidden conditions. Weekly freerolls are closed to club members.

Unique formats

GGPoker/ClubGG offer formats that don't exist on PokerStars: Spin & Gold (GG's version of Spin & Go), Rush & Cash (faster fast-fold than Zoom), Battle Royale, Flip & Go, All-in or Fold, and Short Deck in bulk. PokerStars relies on Zoom plus the classic formats.

• Spin & Gold — hyper-turbo three-player format with a jackpot multiplier
• Rush & Cash — fast-fold with auto-topup
• Short Deck 6+ Hold'em — 36 cards, crazy action
• Battle Royale — hyper-MTT with a progressive bounty

Flagship tournaments

PokerStars — SCOOP, WCOOP, Sunday Million (hundreds of thousands of dollars guaranteed). GGPoker/ClubGG — GG Masters ($1.25M weekly guarantee), Bounty Hunters, WSOP Online Bracelets (13-15 events in the summer). For an Israeli player, satellites on ClubGG offer a cheap way in.

Deposits and withdrawals in Israel

PokerStars — credit cards are usually blocked by Israeli banks, requiring PayPal or Skrill. ClubGG via the Israeli agent — direct bank transfer, PayBox, Bit, cash, crypto. A far simpler process for the average Israeli.

Bottom line — who fits which?

PokerStars is preferable if: you're fluent in English, a veteran pro, seeking the largest guarantee in the world and don't mind tough fields. ClubGG (via PokerGG.co.il) is preferable if: you're a Hebrew speaker, want local support, softer fields, transparent and high rakeback, innovative formats and a simple deposit process. For 90% of Israeli players — ClubGG.