Poker remains one of the most popular card games on casino sites, attracting everyone from casual players to high-stakes tournament participants. While it may seem complex to beginners, the game is simpler than it appears, especially once you understand hand rankings. This guide covers all poker hands from strongest to weakest, including tie-breaking rules and probabilities, focusing on variants like Texas Hold'em.
Poker Hand Rankings Chart
Below is a chart of the best poker hands, with examples and probabilities. Hands are ranked from highest to lowest.
- Royal flush: 10-J-Q-K-A of the same suit (probability 30,939/1)
- Straight flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit (3,437.8/1)
- Four of a kind: Four cards of the same rank (594/1)
- Full house: Three of a kind plus a pair (37.5/1)
- Flush: Five cards of the same suit, not consecutive (32.1/1)
- Straight: Five consecutive cards, mixed suits (20.6/1)
- Three of a kind: Three cards of the same rank (19.7/1)
- Two pairs: Two different pairs (3.26/1)
- One pair: One pair of matching cards (1.28/1)
- High card: No matching cards, highest card wins (4.74/1)
Detailed Hand Explanations
1. Royal Flush
A royal flush consists of Ace, King, Queen, Jack, and 10, all in the same suit. It is the strongest and rarest hand, with no possibility of a tie since it is the highest possible ranking.
2. Straight Flush
Five consecutive cards of the same suit, such as 5-6-7-8-9 of spades. It can only be beaten by a royal flush. In case of a tie, the player with the higher top card wins (e.g., a 10-high straight flush beats a 9-high).
3. Four of a Kind
Four cards of the same rank, plus an unrelated fifth card. For example, four Kings. If two players both have four of a kind, the higher set wins. If the sets are identical (in community card games), the fifth card (kicker) decides.
4. Full House
Three cards of one rank and a pair of another, such as three 8s and two Queens. When comparing, the higher three of a kind wins first; if those are equal, the higher pair wins.
5. Flush
Five cards of the same suit not in sequence, like Ace, 8, 6, 4, and 2 of clubs. Ties are broken by comparing the highest card, then the second, third, fourth, and fifth if needed.
6. Straight
Five consecutive cards of mixed suits, e.g., 10-9-8-7-6. The highest card determines the winner; a King-high straight beats a Queen-high straight.
7. Three of a Kind
Three cards of the same rank, plus two unmatched cards. For example, three Jacks with a 6 and King. If tied, the higher three of a kind wins; if identical, the highest kicker decides.
8. Two Pair
Two different pairs, such as two Aces and two 9s. Compare the highest pair first, then the second pair, then the kicker.
9. One Pair
A single pair, like two Kings. The higher pair wins; if equal, the highest kicker determines the winner.
10. High Card
No matching cards. The highest card is compared; if tied, proceed to the second, third, fourth, and fifth cards.
What Happens in a Tie in Poker?
Ties are rare but occur, especially in community card games. They are resolved by comparing the next highest cards (kickers) or, in some cases, splitting the pot. The kicker is the highest card not part of any combination. For example, with a pair of Jacks and a 9 kicker, you beat an opponent with a pair of Jacks and an 8 kicker.
Responsible Gambling
Always gamble responsibly. Set a budget, never chase losses, and use tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion. Gambling is entertainment, not a way to make money. If you need help, contact organisations like BeGambleAware or GamCare.
Best Poker Hands Summary
Memorise hand rankings before playing real-money games. Practice on free tables first, and focus on learning lower-ranking hands as they occur more often. All recommended poker sites are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.
Poker Hands FAQ
What is the best hand in poker? A royal flush (A-K-Q-J-10 of the same suit). It cannot be beaten.
What happens if two players have the same hand? Ties are broken by comparing kickers or splitting the pot.
Do you shuffle between hands? Yes, cards are shuffled after every hand to randomise draws.
What are kicker cards? Kickers are the next highest card not part of a combination, used to break ties.
