If you play online poker using a HUD (Heads-Up Display), you’ve likely encountered a key statistic called the Aggression Factor (AF). This figure measures how actively a player bets and raises versus how often they simply call. By analyzing AF, you can deduce a player’s tendencies and hand range.
In this article, we’ll break down the definition, formula, benchmarks, and real-world applications of AF, offering valuable tips for intermediate players.
Definition of Aggression Factor (AF)
In online poker and HUD-based environments, the Aggression Factor is a frequently used metric to quantify a player’s betting aggressiveness. It shows how often a player bets or raises compared to how often they just call, making it an excellent tool for player profiling.
AF Formula
AF = (Number of Bets + Number of Raises) ÷ Number of Calls
Example:
- Bets: 10 times
- Raises: 5 times
- Calls: 5 times
→ AF = (10 + 5) ÷ 5 = 3.0
A higher AF indicates a more aggressive player who frequently bets and raises. A lower AF suggests a passive player who tends to call more often.
Interpreting AF: Benchmarks and Player Profiles
You can use the following AF benchmarks to roughly categorize a player’s style:
| AF Value | Player Style | Characteristics |
| ≤ 0.5 | Very Passive | Mostly calls, rarely bets or raises |
| 0.5–1.5 | Passive-Leaning | More calls than bets |
| 1.5–3.0 | Balanced | Healthy mix of bluffs and value bets |
| 3.0–4.5 | Aggressive | Frequent c-bets and re-steals |
| ≥ 4.5 | Ultra-Aggressive | High bluff rate, raises dominate actions |
Important Notes:
- Checks are not counted in AF, so players who often check-raise may have artificially high AF scores.
- Players with few calls will naturally have higher AF, so you should never rely solely on AF. Always evaluate it alongside other stats like VPIP (Voluntarily Put Money In Pot) and PFR (Pre-Flop Raise percentage).
How to Use AF in Real Games
1. Detecting Bluffs Through AF
- High AF Players (AF 3.5 and above):
→ Turn and river bets are often bluffs.
→ Consider calling with weaker hands or folding instantly to minimize losses. - Low AF Players (AF 1.0 or less):
→ Bets usually represent strong hands.
→ Consider folding even marginal top pairs or middle pairs.
2. Adjusting Your Own AF
Monitoring your own AF is also critical for refining your play style.
- AF too high (4.5+):
→ You may get re-stolen against or hero-called frequently.
→ Balance your bluffing frequency with more value bets. - AF too low (1.0 or less):
→ You might be labeled a “calling station” and targeted by aggressive bets.
→ Review your hand ranges and take more betting initiative.
Ideal AF Range: 2.0–3.0
This range usually indicates a balanced style with a solid mix of bluffs and value plays.
Summary
Aggression Factor (AF) isn’t just a stat you get read by — it’s also a weapon for reading others. AF helps you profile opponents, adjust your strategies, and even fine-tune your own style.
Key Takeaways:
- High AF → Watch out for bluffs, especially on the river.
- Low AF → Bets typically indicate genuine strength.
- Review your own AF regularly to maintain balanced aggression.
- Always analyze AF in combination with other stats like VPIP, PFR, and WTSD (Went to Showdown percentage).
If you can use AF not just as a number but as a lens to understand opponents’ psychology and tendencies, you’ll step up your game as a poker player.
