Let's face it. There are a lot of different kinds of poker chips out there. The kind you buy will largely be a matter of personal preference, but there are certain features you need to be familiar with when you're looking to purchase poker chips. These major features are material, weight, and pattern.

Probably the most significant feature of poker chips is the material. This feature will also have the most influence on a poker chip's price. If you're not a big poker player and you're just looking for something cheap that will take you through the one game you have set up for the once-a-year party you throw, then you'll probably go with plastic chips.

These cheap mediocre poker chips can be picked up anywhere, and will cost around $1.50 for 100 chips. They come in 3 colors blue red and white, which will limit your bets.

If you want to upgrade your poker chips composite is the way to go. Of course you will be paying more, but these composite poker chips will last for ever, when you look after them well. Composite chips are usually weighted so that they resemble "the real deal."

The most elite poker chips are the clay ones. Of course you will be paying much more for these poker chips. With meticulous care they will only last 5-6 years. But for the true blue poker player there is no other way, clay chips are a must have. The subtle clink and smooth feel brings the casino right into your home. To the poker game lover the cost is absolutely worth it.

Pattern and weight are of course an individual choice. 11.5 grams, 13 grams, plain, bordered or embossed, the choices are limitless.

To an extent, poker chips can be a status symbol among poker players. They type of chip a person buys can say as much about them as the type of car they choose to drive. What are your poker chips saying about you?

Poker chips are a luxury; something on which to splurge. So find a set you can really be proud of and go for it!