Video poker is a popular game at both land-based and online casinos. It’s an exciting game because it combines the elements of both slots and poker, giving players the opportunity to use their skill to make the best decision possible. In video poker, you’re dealt a hand of five cards, and you must decide which cards you want to keep and which cards you want to discard.
 |
Welcome Bonus: Up to $8,000 Game Software: RealTime Gaming Cashout Time: 1-3 Days Launched in 2019 |
Play Now |
One of the most common hands you can be dealt in video poker is a low pair. A low pair consists of two cards with the same rank, such as two 2s, two 3s, or two 4s. The question is, should you hold a low pair in video poker?
What Is a Low Pair?
A low pair is a pair of cards with the same rank, such as two 2s, two 3s, or two 4s. These are considered low pairs because the rank of the cards is lower than a higher-ranking pair, such as two kings or two queens.
The Pros and Cons of Holding a Low Pair
Pros
- Chance of a Higher Payout: One of the biggest advantages of holding a low pair is that you have a chance of getting a higher payout. A low pair gives you a better chance of getting a three-of-a-kind, four-of-a-kind, or even a full house, which can result in a higher payout than just a single pair.
- Lower Risk: Another advantage of holding a low pair is that it’s a low-risk decision. The chances of improving your hand from a low pair are better than from any other starting hand, and since you’re not risking a lot of money, it’s often a good decision to hold a low pair.
Cons
- Lower Payout: The biggest disadvantage of holding a low pair is that the payout is usually lower than if you were to hold a higher-ranking pair. That’s because the chances of getting a higher-ranking hand, such as a three-of-a-kind or a full house, are lower with a low pair.
- Higher Risk: Another disadvantage of holding a low pair is that it’s a higher-risk decision. You’re risking more money to get the same payout as you would from a higher-ranking pair, so it’s not a decision to take lightly.
When Should You Hold a Low Pair?
When deciding whether or not to hold a low pair, it’s important to consider the potential payout. If the potential payout is higher than the amount you’re risking, then it’s usually a good idea to hold the low pair.
Another factor to consider is the size of the jackpot. If the jackpot is large enough, it may be worth taking the risk and holding the low pair. This is because the potential payout from a large jackpot can more than make up for the lower payout from a low pair.
Tips for Holding a Low Pair
Don’t Chase High Payouts
One of the biggest mistakes players make when holding a low pair is chasing high payouts. It’s important to remember that the chances of getting a higher-ranking hand, such as a three-of-a-kind or a full house, are lower with a low pair. Chasing high payouts can lead to unnecessary losses, so it’s important to keep your expectations realistic.
Know When to Discard
Another tip for holding a low pair is knowing when to discard. If you’re dealt a low pair, it may be tempting to keep the pair and hope for a higher payout. But if the chances of improving your hand are slim, it’s usually better to discard the low pair and try for a higher-ranking hand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not to hold a low pair in video poker is a decision that should be considered carefully. The potential payout from a low pair is usually lower than from a higher-ranking pair, so it’s important to consider the size of the jackpot and the potential payout before making your decision. It’s also important to remember that chasing high payouts can lead to unnecessary losses, so it’s best to keep your expectations realistic. With the right strategy and a bit of luck, you can maximize your chances of winning at video poker.
