Definition of middle stakes
Middle stakes means "middle limits". Everyone has their own view of what is meant by "middle stakes". In cash games, if you play NL400??? up to NL600??? you are probably considered a middle stakes player. From NL1000??? you become a high stakes player and below NL400??? (the lower limit is often NL200???) you are considered a small limit player. As for tournaments, a player who plays tournaments between 100??? and 500??? would probably be considered a middle stakes player.
The middle stakes, an important step
The middle stakes are known to be difficult. Moving from micro-limits to small limits is done well. But moving from the small limits to the middle stakes is more difficult since most players have a solid poker foundation. In this ecosystem, you will also find many high limit players who are downswinging and looking to regain their confidence. Before you make the jump to the middle stakes, enough of being a very big winner at the lower limits; it's a tall order!