Definition
A 4-bet is a re-raise of a 3-bet. The escalation:
- Open raise (2-bet)
- 3-bet (re-raise)
- 4-bet (re-re-raise)
- 5-bet (typically all-in)
4-bet = Re-raising a 3-bet preflop
When to 4-Bet
For Value
Hands strong enough to play for stacks:
| Hand | 4-Bet Confidence |
|---|---|
| AA | Always |
| KK | Always |
| Usually | |
| AKs | Usually |
| AKo | Often |
| JJ | Sometimes (position-dependent) |
As a Bluff
Balancing your value range:
| Bluff 4-Bet Hands | Why |
|---|---|
| A5s, A4s | Ace blocker + playability |
| AKo (as semi-bluff) | Strong blockers |
| Small suited aces | Blocker + nut potential |
4-Bet Sizing
| Scenario | Sizing |
|---|---|
| In position | 2.2-2.5x the 3-bet |
| Out of position | 2.5-3x the 3-bet |
| Short stacks | Often just all-in |
Example
Your open: 2.5BB Villain 3-bets to: 8BB Your 4-bet: 18-20BB
4-Bet Pot SPR
After a 4-bet is called:
| Pot | Stacks | SPR | Implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| ~45BB | ~80BB | <2 | Easy to commit |
| ~45BB | ~150BB | ~3 | One-pair plays well |
Low SPR in 4-bet pots means top pair is often good enough to stack off.
4-Bet Frequencies
Typical 4-bet frequencies:
| Position | vs Weak 3-bettor | vs Strong 3-bettor |
|---|---|---|
| IP | 15-20% | 8-12% |
| OOP | 12-15% | 6-10% |
Responding to 4-Bets
When you 3-bet and face a 4-bet:
| Your Hand | Action |
|---|---|
| AA, KK | 5-bet all-in (or call if deep) |
| QQ, AKs | Call (or shove if short) |
| JJ, TT | Usually fold (or call if deep) |
| Bluff 3-bets | Fold (you got caught) |
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Problem |
|---|---|
| 4-betting too tight | Only AA/KK becomes obvious |
| 4-betting too wide | Get called by stronger |
| Not 4-bet bluffing | Unbalanced, exploitable |
| Wrong sizing | Too small = no fold equity |
4-Bet or Call?
| Consider Calling | Consider 4-Betting |
|---|---|
| Deep stacks | Shallow stacks |
| In position | Out of position |
| Want to see flop | Want to win preflop |
| Trapping (AA sometimes) | Defining opponent's range |
Key Takeaway
4-betting is for premium hands and strategic bluffs. 4-bet pots commit significant stacks, so choose hands that play well all-in or that have fold equity. Balance value with occasional bluffs using ace blockers.