Master Every Hand in Video Poker: Your Complete Winning Guide
Video Poker is one of the few casino games where skill meets luck.
Unlike slots, where outcomes rely purely on chance, Video Poker rewards strategy, smart decision-making, and a solid understanding of hand rankings.
If you want a casino game where your choices matter, this guide will help you master every hand in Video Poker and play like a true pro.
Whether you’re playing on legit casino apps in the Philippines or at a real machine, this detailed breakdown will sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and improve your winning potential.
Table of Contents
What Is Video Poker?
Video Poker is a digital version of classic 5-card draw poker.
You get five cards, choose which ones to hold, and draw new cards to form the best possible hand.
The machine (or app) pays based on a paytable, and different variants come with unique rules and payouts.
How Video Poker Works
- Place your bet
- Receive your initial 5 cards
- Choose which cards to hold
- Draw new cards
- Receive payout if your final hand matches the paytable
Unlike slot machines, Video Poker gives you decision power, making it ideal for players who enjoy strategy.
Popular Video Poker Variants
| Variant | Key Feature | Why Players Love It |
|---|---|---|
| Jacks or Better | Payout starts at a pair of Jacks | Easiest and most beginner-friendly |
| Deuces Wild | All 2s act as wild cards | Higher chances of big wins |
| Joker Poker | Joker serves as a wild card | Fun and unpredictable |
| Bonus Poker | Bigger rewards for four-of-a-kind | High payout potential |
| Double Bonus | Enhanced four-of-a-kind payouts | Favorite of advanced players |
Hand Rankings in Video Poker
| Hand | Description |
|---|---|
| Royal Flush | A, K, Q, J, 10 same suit |
| Straight Flush | Five consecutive cards same suit |
| Four of a Kind | Four matching cards |
| Full House | Three of a kind + one pair |
| Flush | Five cards same suit |
| Straight | Five consecutive cards |
| Three of a Kind | Three matching cards |
| Two Pair | Two different pairs |
| Jacks or Better | Pair of Jacks or higher |
Knowing these rankings is the foundation of all Video Poker strategy.
Winning Strategies to Master Every Hand
1. Always Play Maximum Coins
Max bets unlock top payouts, especially for Royal Flush wins.
2. Keep High Pairs
If you’re dealt a high pair (Jacks or higher), always hold them.
3. Hold Four to a Flush or Straight
These combinations offer strong improvement potential.
4. Never Break a Made Hand for a Low Chance
Don’t break a flush or straight just to chase a draw.
5. Keep Your Royals Together
If you get 3 or 4 cards to a Royal Flush — hold them.
6. Learn Each Game’s Paytable
Different variants have different optimal strategies.
7. Use Strategy Charts
Advanced players use pre-made charts for best decisions every hand.
Common Video Poker Mistakes to Avoid
- Holding the wrong pairs
- Breaking a winning hand unnecessarily
- Playing without reading the paytable
- Avoiding max bets
- Playing too fast without strategy
Correcting these beginner mistakes dramatically boosts long-term results.
Why Players Love VideoPoker
- Skill-based gameplay
- High payout percentages
- Chance to influence outcomes
- Perfect mix of poker and slots
- Low house edge for strategic players
Video Poker offers one of the best returns-to-player (RTP) in the casino world.
Bankroll Management Tips
- Set a fixed budget
- Play slow and steady
- Use winnings to extend gameplay
- Switch machines if paytable is poor
Smart bankroll play ensures long, enjoyable sessions.
For more information: Bankroll management strategies for long term play
Pro VideoPoker Techniques
| Situation | Best Move |
|---|---|
| You have a high pair | Hold the pair |
| You have 4 cards to a straight flush | Hold all four |
| You have 2 pairs | Keep both pairs |
| You have low cards | Discard all, draw new 5 |
| You have 3 to a royal | Hold all three |
Final Thoughts on VideoPoker
Video Poker is one of the few casino games where your decisions can genuinely affect your winnings.
Once you understand hand rankings, learn strategic holds, and recognize good paytables, you’ll gain a real edge over the house.
With discipline, smart betting, and consistent practice, you can truly master every hand in VideoPoker — whether for fun, challenge, or serious gameplay.
Video Poker Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is VideoPoker skill-based?
Yes! Strategy plays a major role in long-term success.
2. What’s the best variant for beginners?
Jacks or Better — simplest rules and fair payouts.
3. Should I always bet max coins?
Yes, especially to unlock the full Royal Flush jackpot.
4. Can I play VideoPoker for free?
Many apps offer free practice versions.
5. Are VideoPoker machines random?
Legit apps and casinos use certified RNG systems.
6. What’s the highest hand?
Royal Flush — the rarest and most rewarding.
7. Can I use charts while playing?
Yes, strategy charts help make optimal decisions.
8. How do I know if a machine has a good paytable?
Look for 9/6 Jacks or Better — a common strong paytable.
9. Can I win long-term in VideoPoker?
With perfect strategy, some variants have positive expected value.
10. Is VideoPoker better than slots?
Yes — it offers higher RTP and allows skillful play.
