Video Poker Strategy Chart
Use this mobile-friendly 2026 video poker strategy chart for Jacks or Better. Learn what to hold and discard for every hand, optimize your odds in both online and in-person play, and always play at the top casinos for full paytables.
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How To Use The Video Poker Strategy Chart
- After the deal: Look for the highest hand you can make from the chart below.
- No rush: Take your time. On mobile, double-check your taps/holds.
- Hold those cards: Discard the rest, draw new ones.
- Follow list from top: Match your hand to the first rule - use the highest one listed.
- This 2026 chart: Designed for Jacks or Better (9/6 or 8/5). Use other charts for Bonus Poker or Deuces Wild.
Jacks or Better Video Poker Strategy Chart
| Hand Ranking | What To Do |
|---|---|
| Royal Flush (A♠ K♠ Q♠ J♠ 10♠) | Hold all 5 cards |
| Straight Flush | Hold all 5 cards |
| Four of a Kind | Hold all 5 cards |
| Four to a Royal Flush | Hold the 4 cards to the Royal, discard the 5th |
| Full House | Hold all 5 cards |
| Flush | Hold all 5 cards |
| Straight | Hold all 5 cards |
| Three of a Kind | Hold all 3, discard the other 2 |
| Four to a Straight Flush | Hold 4 to the straight flush, discard the other |
| Two Pair | Hold both pairs, discard the 5th card |
| High Pair (Jacks, Queens, Kings, Aces) | Hold the pair, discard the other 3 |
| Three to a Royal Flush | Hold 3 to the Royal, discard the other 2 |
| Four to a Flush | Hold 4 to the flush, discard the 5th |
| Low Pair (10s and lower) | Hold the pair, discard other 3 |
| Four to an Outside Straight (open-ended) | Hold 4 to the straight, discard the other |
| Two Suited High Cards (JQ, JK, QK, etc.) | Hold both, discard other 3 |
| Three to a Straight Flush | Hold 3 suited in sequence, discard 2 |
| Two Unsuited High Cards (J, Q, K, A) | Hold both, discard other 3 |
| Suited J-10, Q-10, K-10 | Hold both, discard other 3 |
| One High Card (J, Q, K, A) | Hold, discard other 4 |
| None of the above | Draw 5 new cards |
Ready to try your strategy? Play at the Best Video Poker Online Casinos.
Video Poker Strategy Chart FAQ
What is a video poker strategy chart?
A strategy chart is a cheat sheet that tells you which cards to hold for every possible hand in Jacks or Better. Following it lowers the house edge and maximizes your return.
How do I use the chart on my phone?
Scroll, reference, or screenshot the chart for instant comparison. Always match your hand as close to the top as possible for the best result.
Is there a strategy chart for other video poker games?
Yes! We publish charts for Deuces Wild, Bonus Poker, and more. Strategy changes with the game and paytable, so be sure to match your variant.
Does the chart work for multi-hand and mobile play?
Yes. The same best-play rules apply no matter how many hands you're playing or whether you're on desktop, phone, or tablet. Just take extra care with multiple tap/hold actions on mobile screens.
Is there any legit 'auto solver' or AI that beats Jacks or Better?
No. All regulated video poker uses certified RNGs and cannot be "hacked". Use published strategy charts only - avoid download "solvers" or suspicious browser extensions.
What if the paytable is not 9/6?
The 9/6 chart applies for 8/5 and similar paytables too. For short-pay tables (like 6/5), some hands are played differently - see our paytables page or check for a specific strategy chart.
Why is max bet recommended?
Only the max-coin bet unlocks the full Royal Flush payout, pushing RTP over 99.5% on a full paytable. If needed, lower your denomination so you can always bet max.
Can I use this chart with bonuses?
Yes, but always check bonus terms. Video poker often counts less towards wagering and some variants may be excluded from promotions in 2026.