Understanding poker hand rankings is fundamental to playing poker effectively. Whether you’re playing Texas Hold’em, Omaha, or any other variant, knowing the hierarchy of hands will help you make informed decisions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the basic poker hand rankings:
- Royal Flush
Description: The highest-ranking hand in poker, consisting of A-K-Q-J-10 all in the same suit.
Ranking: This is the rarest and most powerful hand in poker.
- Straight Flush
Description: Five consecutive cards of the same suit (e.g., 5-6-7-8-9 of hearts).
Ranking: Second highest, just below a royal flush.
- Four of a Kind
Description: Four cards of the same rank (e.g., four 8s).
Ranking: Third highest, a very strong hand.
- Full House
Description: A combination of three of a kind and a pair (e.g., three 7s and two 4s).
Ranking: Fourth highest, a strong hand.
- Flush
Description: Five cards of the same suit, not in sequence (e.g., 2-4-7-J-K of clubs).
Ranking: Fifth highest, a powerful hand.
- Straight
Description: Five consecutive cards, not all in the same suit (e.g., 3-4-5-6-7).
Ranking: Sixth highest, a strong hand.
- Three of a Kind
Description: Three cards of the same rank (e.g., three 9s).
Ranking: Seventh highest, a good hand.
- Two Pair
Description: Two different pairs (e.g., two 6s and two 10s).
Ranking: Eighth highest, a solid hand.
- One Pair
Description: Two cards of the same rank (e.g., two queens).
Ranking: Ninth highest, a common hand.
- High Card
Description: No pairs, three of a kind, straights, or flushes. The highest card in your hand determines the winner (e.g., A-K-Q-J-10).
Ranking: Tenth highest, the weakest hand.
