There is a huge selection of poker chips for you to choose from. On Yahoo Shopping alone you will find 29,000 results when you look for poker chips. However there are really only 3 sorts that you need to concern yourself about. They are; clay plastic and composite. As there are advantages and disadvantages to each type so you will need to do some research before you buy. Here are some pointers for you.

Plastic

Plastic are on the bottom rung of the poker chip ladder. They are just a means to an end and will not win any praise from your poker friends. Added to this you cannot do any fancy tricks with them. They are available at Wal-Mart or any chain store. They are cheap and easily disposable.

Most people who buy plastic chips buy them for one time use. Maybe you’re throwing a party and thought it’d be neat to have a poker game going too. If so, then plastic is the way to go.

Composite

These chips are pretty cheap and will last a long time. They are easy to clean, especially if compared to clay poker chips. Whereas clay chips will only last 5-6 years maximum composite ones will last forever.

So what’s the downside? Composite poker chips just don’t feel “real”. The don’t feel like casino poker chips and they sure as heck don’t sound like them. For a true poker aficionado, composite chips just seem empty.

Clay

Clay chips are the best of the best when it comes to poker chips. These are the ones the casinos use and of course the true poker lovers.

Why are they so wonderful? This is because they have a special feel and a magical click. A true poker lover will not settle for anything less.

The only issue with clay poker chips is that you’ll pay for them both financially and with your time to keep them looking their best. Clay chips need to be gently hand washed and oiled to keep them looking their best. A well cared for set of clay poker chips will last for about five or six years, but a badly neglected clay chip set will turn to dust in about two. If you’re going to spend the money on clay, make sure you have the time to take care of them.

Whatever type of chip you get will be determined by what you are going to use it for. Do you want authentic chips or just a one night stand. Be sure to do your research and make an educated choice.