Video Poker FAQ

Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about Jacks or Better video poker.

What is Jacks or Better?

Jacks or Better is a popular video poker game where you must have a pair of Jacks or higher to win. It's based on Five Card Draw poker and offers some of the best odds in the casino when played with optimal strategy.

How do you calculate odds in Jacks or Better?

Odds are calculated based on the number of winning combinations possible from the remaining deck after holding certain cards. Expected value is determined by multiplying each possible outcome's probability by its payout and summing the results.

What is the best strategy for Jacks or Better?

The best strategy is to always hold made hands (four of a kind, full house, three of a kind, two pair), four to a royal flush, high pairs (Jacks or better), and profitable drawing hands. Use our strategy guide for complete details.

What does the calculator show me?

The calculator shows your current hand rank, expected values for different hold strategies, winning probabilities, and compares your decisions to optimal play recommendations.

What is 9/6 Jacks or Better?

9/6 refers to the paytable where a Full House pays 9 coins and a Flush pays 6 coins (per coin bet). This is the "full pay" version offering 99.54% return with optimal play.

Should I always bet maximum coins?

Yes! Betting 5 coins increases the Royal Flush payout from 800 to 4000 credits. This significantly improves your expected return and is essential for proper play.

What is expected value in video poker?

Expected value (EV) is the average amount you expect to win or lose per hand over the long term. It's calculated by weighting each possible outcome by its probability and payout.

How does Jacks or Better compare to other casino games?

Jacks or Better offers some of the best odds in casino gaming. 9/6 Jacks or Better has a 99.54% return with optimal play, compared to around 97% for most slot machines.

Can I really win at Jacks or Better?

With optimal strategy, Jacks or Better has very favorable odds. However, variance means you'll experience both winning and losing streaks. The house edge of 0.46% on full-pay machines is among the lowest in casino gaming.

What is the difference between 9/6 and 8/5 Jacks or Better?

The 9/6 version pays 9 coins for a Full House and 6 for a Flush. 8/5 pays less (8 and 5 respectively). This changes the return from 99.54% to 97.30%, significantly increasing the house edge.

How often will I get a winning hand?

With optimal play, you'll win approximately 45.5% of hands. Jacks or Better pairs occur about 21.5% of the time, and you'll achieve higher-ranked hands on the remaining 24% of hands.

What hands should I never break up?

Never break up four of a kind, full house, three of a kind, two pair, or any made flush or straight. These hands guarantee a payout and should always be held.

How do I practice Jacks or Better strategy?

Use our free calculator to analyze different hands, see expected values, and compare your decisions to optimal strategy. Practice regularly to memorize the key strategy rules.

What does RTP mean?

RTP stands for Return to Player. It represents the percentage of all money wagered that a game returns to players over the long term. A 99.54% RTP means the game returns $99.54 for every $100 wagered.

Is Jacks or Better a game of skill or luck?

Jacks or Better combines skill and luck. While cards are dealt randomly, your decisions about which cards to hold significantly impact your expected return. Optimal play can improve your return from around 97% to 99.54%.

Still Have Questions?

Practice makes perfect! Use our calculator to see how different strategies affect your expected value.

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