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Holdem Manager 3: Top Database Tracking Software Review

Holdem Manager 3

Holdem Manager 3 is an updated version of the popular poker tracker.

With it, players get access to a professional tool in which they can analyse the statistics of their game and the actions of opponents. This information makes it possible to eliminate leaks in your own game.

The comprehensive HM3 review on this page discusses the functionality of this tool in detail, uncovering the details of HUD options and the analytical features of reports. It’ll also shed light on differences with the previous version and discuss how the software stands against the competitors. We’ll also explain the download and setup nuances, subscription plans and tell you how to get the trial version for free.

Download

What is Holdem Manager 3?

It’s an up-to-date online poker software for tracking and analysing poker games. Over a million players use HM3 in online cash games and tournaments since the program was first launched in 2007. HM3 is the most powerful and vibrant version ever released.

Holdem Manager 3 allows you to use simple and useful filtering options for daily reports, as well as customisation of stats for more comprehensive analysis.

The information store is constantly updated and shows key statistics on opponents. A classic HUD is available for selection, or you can customize the display using various statistics.

Holdem Manager 3 HUD

Holdem Manager 3 Updates

After a long beta testing, Hold’em Manager 3 creators released a full version of the program in October 2019. Before that, the software underwent closed beta testing, in which 1,000 people from all over the world participated. Now HM3 has finally replaced the previous popular version. If you want to get acquainted with the past release, you can check our Holdem Manager 2 review.

The software receives updates several times a year. This helps improve the software performance with minor changes (custom filters, new analysis reports, etc.). The last modification was in March, 2026.

How to Download & Install HM3

The Holdem Manager 3 download process is quite simple. To install this software and configure its operation with a selected poker room (or rooms), you need to perform a few simple steps:

Get the setup file
Get the setup file

You need to download the installation file from the official resource. If there are any problems related to the link, log in to your HM account and contact the support service.

Start the “Setup Wizard”
Start the “Setup Wizard”

Locate the downloaded file and go through the installation process. Accept the terms, select the destination folder and wait till the setup program notifies you on success. After successful completion, the "Welcome" window will appear. For further work, you will need to log in to your Hold'em Manager profile, enter the license code or start the trial.

Configure databases
Configure databases

In the "Select Database Option" tab, you can pick between 2 options. One variant enables you to create a new database, which is the fastest and most convenient way to start working with the software. Or you can use the existing dataset as well. Afterwards, the installer will ask you to import hands (skip if you don’t want to import anything).

Pick the HUD option
Pick the HUD option

You can choose between the standard and advanced displays, with labels of stat names or without them. Beginners should pick labelled standard version. Users with more experience can select advanced Holdem Manager 3 HUD overlays (it requires importing the hand history)

Decision on anonymous use of data
Decision on anonymous use of data

At the last stage of installation, the "Anonymous Usage Data" window will open, where you can reject the sending of anonymous telemetry and poker data from HM servers, or give them the opportunity to receive anonymous reports on the operation of the program.

Holdem Manager 3 switched from PostgreSQL to SQLite, but still allows importing the HM2 database easily.

Holdem Manager 3 Functionality

This is an ideal option for all those who used previous versions, because all the functionality is the same. Except for the upgraded interface, the new version has the broader range of options.

Real-Time Play Tools in Holdem Manager 3

  • Heads Up Display (HUD). Choose the option that suits you from the pre-configured ones or create your own.
  • ​Live Play View (display of the game in real time). It brings together several key points that make it easy to track your sessions.

Tools For Post-Session Analysis

Explore the features that’ll help you improve your skills:

  • Analysis after the game. Powerful tools and filters make it easy to view all aspects of your results.
  • Analysis of situations. The key spots that you usually analyze appear in the form of sets of several mini-images within the same panel.

Holdem manager 3 spot analysis

  • Powerful filters for hands. Industry-leading hand filter tools that make it quick and easy to find interesting spots.
  • Replayer. Use the visually simple yet incredibly powerful HM3 hand replayer to review your sessions, mark hands or add notes on your rivals.
  • Visual information about the opponent. The graphic HUD gives you an idea of your foes.
  • HM applications. Special add-ons extend the capabilities of the program.

​Difference Between Holdem Manager 3 and HM2

Here is what's new in the program:

  • Nice intuitive interface.
  • Quick and easy setup.
  • ​Hovering over the status displays the number of analyzed situations for which statistics have been collected.
  • The HUD editor now has increased productivity, and a new Graphic HUD functionality (in addition to the standard one).

HM3 graphic HUD

  • New section that shows the performance of your 3-bets, barrels and pushes. It also has information about your position ranges in the form of graphs, the strength of combinations on the flop.
  • Updated "Opponents" section: can compare the statistics of several opponents with each other, more than 2,000 stats.
  • The hand database is now stored in SQLite.
  • Updated "Situations" section. Updated interface and functionality of the replayer: you can see detailed statistics about each player (taking into account the street), you can analyze the player in more detail using the popup.
  • There are various options for importing hands, databases, and HUDs. Players can also import a database from a previous version of the program.

In addition to the fact that the application itself copes with its duties much faster than its predecessor, players now have the opportunity to work in a special mode "HUD Only Mode", in which only 2 main functions work: HUD and autoimport of hands. This mode reduces the load on your PC and further increases the speed of the application.

Important!
Important!

HM3 is supported in 14 localisations, making the program a global choice for poker players. The list of languages is as follows: English, French, Slovenian Dutch, Spanish, German, Italian, Polish, Ukrainian, Portuguese, Romanian and Japanese.

Software Price and Free Version

The price of Holdem Manager 3 does not differ from the price of the previous version of the program. A full version license to play Texas Holdem or Omaha at all limits costs $100. If the player is only interested in low limits (up to NL50 and buy-ins up to $22), the price will be $60. To buy HM3 for both Holdem and Omaha poker, you will need to pay $100 for low limits and $160 for all limits.

HM3 pricing

How to Get HM3 for Free?

It is allowed to download and use the trial for 14 days, then you will need to buy a license (after paying, the key will hit your email automatically). Or, you can continue using the free version of Holdem Manager with the following restrictions:

  • Cash games up to $0.10;
  • Tournament stakes up to $5.00;
  • Limit Cash Hands of $0.20 and below;
  • HUD overlay only supports 1 table;
  • The report data only covers the last 500 hands.

You can get the program for free from the official website: all the details of the offer can be found right there (new players in poker rooms will find this option useful).

Hold’em Manager 3 Versus Alternatives

See how HM3 stands against the alternative solutions UK punters can use:

FeatureHM3Hand2NotePoker Tracker 4
HUDGraphical and Advanced HUDs with customisation.Static, dynamic, and positional HUDs.Customisable HUD with drag-and- drop functionality for fast setup.
Reports25+ pre-built reports, options and Situational Views.Covers the standard range of stats in reports with Range Research, Decision Analysis, and EV & Winnings Breakdown.Multiple reports with Smart Analysis displayed as tables and graphs.
PriceOne-time purchase from $60 to $160.Subscription-based, from $15.99 to $39, paid yearly.You pay once, prices range from $64.99 to $99.99.
Ease of setupData-rich interface that needs time to get around.Has a lot of tabs, menus, and options, but it is still easy to configure.Clean layout, perfect for beginners.
Supported OSWindows only.Windows + macOS.Windows + macOS.
Best for A well-balanced set of options for starters and seasoned players, with a one-time purchase.Powerful HUD & tracking software for grinders.Top entry to poker tracking software for beginners.

Our Summary: HM3 is a good tool for post-game analysis. You only pay once and get access to extensive reporting features, graphic and advanced HUDs, and many other features.

Advantages and Disadvantages

  • Purchasing a plan isn’t obligatory. Players can analyse reports, study situational views, and use the HUD overlay, but with some restrictions on stakes and stored data applied.
  • Suitable for Holdem and Omaha. The software offers comprehensive plans covering both the Texas Hold’em and Omaha tables.
  • Multiple HUD options. Users can enable the preconfigured layouts or use customisation to create the overlay that matches their preferences.
  • Perfect for post-game analysis. With over 25 report options available, the software offers multiple opportunities for robust analysis of your performance.
  • No MacOS support. The only way to start this tool on macOS is to use Parallels or Bootcamp software.
  • Dynamic HUDs are absent. The software lacks such an option to change the displayed stats based on specific conditions.
  • Resource-heavy software. Users can still experience crashes and lags even if using the top-notch hardware.

Cardmates Verdict

Functionality and a user-friendly interface make Holdem Manager 3 suitable for newcomers and seasoned grinders.

If a player is determined to play the game seriously, they should definitely try HM3. For beginners, it will be useful to install the free version and start to understand the stats and their importance. For professionals, the purchase of this software will pay off quickly because its functionality is very useful and large-scale.

Importantly, not all poker sites support the use of third-party software. Therefore, it won't be possible to play with HM3 everywhere. Users have to check the compatibility before registering in a new room, so as not to accidentally violate the rules of its use.

FAQ

✅ What is a Holdem Manager?

HM is a tool for improving poker skills that tracks and collects the played hands, has HUD functionality to understand opponents better and allows working with statistics for post-hand analysis. It’s considered one of the most popular programs for poker players.

🌐 What sites does Holdem Manager 3 support?

UK-licensed poker rooms allow you to use HM3 software legally. Among the most popular brands are PokerStars, 888poker, Unibet, William Hill and PartyPoker. A good recommendation before starting a game in a new room is to visit the Site Settings menu under the Tools tab and check the full list of supported sites.

📌 Which database format does HM3 support?

HM3 switched to SQLite format for databases. This functionality allows the software to store hands in a single file in a lightweight format. This shift increased the software setup process and also boosted the overall performance speed when compared to previous versions requiring PostgreSQL.

🍎 Can I use Hold’em Manager 3 on macOS devices?

No, the software doesn’t offer native support for macOS computers and laptops. The auxiliary tools, like Bootcamp or Parallels, are necessary to launch HM3 on a MacBook or iMac. With these utilities, you can install Windows on your Mac and use the native HM version on your Mac.

⚖️ What is better: PokerTracker or Holdem Manager?

The functionality of both options is similar, offering customisable HUD, reports, and analytics features. But beginners will find it easier to start with Poker Tracker. Holdem Manager 3 takes time to get around, but rewards the patience with advanced reporting and customisation features everywhere. We recommend trying a free trial of both programs and then make a choice.

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