How To Win At Casino Video Poker

To the untrained eye, a video poker cabinet looks exactly like a standard, luck-based slot machine.


If played with absolutely perfect strategy, certain video poker variations offer some of the highest payout percentages in the entire casino.

How to Identify a Winning Video Poker Machine

The casino adjusts its house edge entirely by changing the payouts for specific hands, usually the Full House and the Flush.


If the machine only pays 8 for a Full House and 5 for a Flush (an 8/5 machine), the RTP drops significantly, and you should find another game.

Always play 'Max Coins' (usually 5 coins); the payout for a Royal Flush jumps exponentially when playing the maximum betIf you cannot afford to play 5 coins at the $1 level, drop down to the $0.25 level so you can afford the maximum betNever sit down at a '6/5' Jacks or Better machine; the casino has increased its edge dramatically to steal your money
Using a Basic Strategy Card

Playing based on 'gut feeling' or superstition will instantly destroy the incredibly low house edge you worked hard to find.


Casinos legally allow you to hold a printed strategy chart in your hand while playing video poker; they do not consider it cheating.

Video Poker RuleReasoningImpact on BankrollAlways Play Max CreditsUnlocks the massive 4000-coin Royal Flush payoutCritical for long-term mathematical successNever keep a 'Kicker'Keeping an unsuited high card with a pair hurts your oddsPrevents you from drawing three-of-a-kind

If you are willing to study the charts and hunt for the right machines, it is undeniably the smartest bet on the digital floor.