Available in both land-based and online casinos, poker is one of the most popular card games in the world. To play poker, you must understand the different poker hand rankings. It’s an aspect of the game that cannot be ignored. Memorizing hand rankings allows players to think about applying strategy when deciding on which hands to play. The good news is that learning the various hand rankings is easy.
In addition, all poker variations, including Omaha, Texas Hold’em, 7-card stud, and others, use the same hand rankings. These hand rankings were invented in the 1800s when people started playing five-card poker. In this guide, we take a closer look at the different poker hand rankings and tips to boost your winning chances.
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Poker Hands and Rules
In a game of poker, the objective is to make the best possible card combination, regardless of the version of poker you’re playing. The number of cards may vary, but the hand rankings determine the winner. It’s, therefore, important to understand the combinations. Below, we look at the poker hand rankings.
Royal flush – This is the strongest poker hand. However, it’s rare. It consists of a 10, J, Q, K, A, all of the same suit. Being the highest hand, it beats every other hand.
Straight flush – A straight flush consists of five consecutive cards, all of the same suit. For example, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, all of hearts. This hand is also rare as it is the second strongest hand in poker. A straight flush beats anything except royal flush. If two or more players have the straight flush, the player with the highest hand wins.
Four of a kind – This refers to four cards of the same value. For example, Q, Q, Q, Q, 3. This hand beats any other hand other than a straight and royal flush. If two or more players have the same four of a kind, the higher card wins.
Full house – A full house consists of three cards of the same value and two cards of a different value. For example, A, A, A, 7, 7. This hand does not beat a four of a kind, royal flush or straight flush, but it’s a strong combination. If two or more players have a full house, the highest three of a kind wins. In the event of a tie in that rank, the player with the highest pair wins.
Flush – This hand is made of five cards, all of the same suit but not in order. For example, 3, 5, 7, J, K, or spades. A flush beats a straight. However, it does not beat a full house.
Straight – A straight is made of five consecutive cards, but not of the same suit. For example, A, 2, 3, 4, 5 in different suits. This hand beats a three of a kind, a single pair, or two pairs, but it doesn’t beat a better or flush.
Three of a kind – If you have a three of a kind, you have a hand that contains three cards of the same rank and two cards each of different ranks. For example, Q, Q, Q, 7, 6. This hand beats one pair, two pairs, and a high card. In the event of a tie, the player with the highest kicker wins.
Two pairs – This hand consists of two pairs, each of a different value. For example, J, J, 9, 9, 2. In the event of a tie, the highest pair wins. If the pairs still tie, the higher second pair determines the winner.
Pair – This refers to a hand consisting of two cards of the same rank. For example, Q, Q, 6, 9, 2. If more than one player has a pair, the higher card wins.
High Card – This is the lowest hand in poker. It’s formed when no one makes a hand consisting of no matching cards. For example, A, 7, 8, 4, 2. The higher card wins a game.
Card Rankings in Poker
The rank of Cards in poker is in this order: A, K, Q, J, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, and 2. The highest card is Ace, while the lowest card is 2. Aces can be used as 1 or a low card. This makes them lower than 2s. Understanding card ranking is a fundamental part of playing poker. It would be impossible to understand the rules without mastering card rankings.
Hand Rankings in Poker
Like card rankings, it’s important to understand hand rankings. We’ve already discussed the different hands; however, you must note that they rank from the highest to the lowest. Here’s how they rank.
- Royal Flush;
- Straight Flush;
- Four Of A Kind;
- Full House;
- Flush;
- Straight;
- Three of a kind;
- Two pairs;
- Pairs;
- High card.
How Poker Hand Rankings are used to Determine Who Wins
Hand rankings are used to determine the winner in a game of poker. For example, a full house does not beat a four-of-a-kind, royal flush, or straight flush, but beats a straight. A flush beats a straight, but it does not beat a full house. A three-of-a-kind beats one pair, two pairs, and a high card. If players have the same card combination, the rank of high cards is used to determine the winner. Therefore, a straight line of Jack, 10, 9, 8, 7 is stronger than a straight of 8, 7, 6, 5, 4.
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Quick Tips for Winning Poker
Here are some free tips to consider before you start playing poker on real money.
Play free games – Practice makes perfect. Playing free games allows you to hone your skills and try new strategies before playing real money games. Every online casino poker room has free tournaments which is pretty good for you to practice without losing money.
Manage your bankroll – Responsible gambling is important. Set money aside for gambling and stop when you reach your daily, weekly, or monthly limit.
Know when to fold ’em – If you’re not sure whether to fold or call, just fold. Not only ‘all in’ can win the table, but the correct fold can do it sometimes.
Play a couple of games – When you’ll know that you are ready you can play multiple tables at the same time. It will greatly increase your chances of winning. You can play cash games and tournaments at the same time and have more fun and income than on one table.
Choose your game – There are many types of poker in the industry so it is very important to identify which one fits you the best so you can gamble within your comfort zone and be sure of your decisions.
Conclusion
Poker hands are fundamental to every poker game. You must learn and master the different hands to play the game. Luckily, they’re not difficult to understand. Card rankings are also important and must be learned. Most importantly, choose a reputable online casino. Ensure your preferred casino holds a license from a recognized body and enjoy the game.
FAQ
Because poker hand rankings are used to determine the winner. They are a crucial part of the gameplay.
The player or hand with the highest pair or with high card wins.
First, you should know when to fold. Secondly, play free games to hone your skills.
The most powerful and unbeaten hand in poker is Royal Flush.
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