What Are the Best Hands in 3 Card Poker?

When it comes to the game of 3 card poker, knowing what hands to play is essential. Unlike traditional poker games, 3 card poker only involves three cards per player, making it a fast and exciting game.

In this article, we will explore the best hands in 3 card poker and how to play them effectively.

The Best Hands in 3 Card Poker

The best hand in 3 card poker is a straight flush, which consists of three cards of the same suit in sequence. For example, an ace, king and queen of spades would be a straight flush. This hand pays out at a rate of 5:1.

The next best hand is three-of-a-kind. This means you have three cards of the same rank.

For example, three jacks or three eights. This hand pays out at a rate of 4:1.

A straight is also a strong hand in 3 card poker. A straight consists of three cards in sequence but not necessarily of the same suit.

For example, a six, seven and eight of any suit would be a straight. This hand pays out at a rate of 1:1.

A flush is another good hand to have in 3 card poker. It consists of any three cards of the same suit that are not in sequence.

PRO TIP:In 3 Card Poker, the best possible hand is a ‘Mini Royal’, consisting of an Ace, King and Queen of the same suit. This is followed by a Straight Flush (three cards of the same suit in sequence) and then three-of-a-kind. A Straight (three cards in sequence) and Flush (three cards of the same suit) are next best, followed by a pair and then high card.

For example, a two, six and nine of diamonds would be a flush.

Finally, there is also the possibility to have a pair as your best hand in this game type. A pair means you have two cards that are the same rank with another random card as your third one which doesn’t match them.

For instance two kings and an eight would be considered as pair. This one pays out at even odds (1:1).

How to Play Your Hands

Knowing which hands are strong is only half the battle in 3 card poker. The other half is knowing how to play those hands effectively.

If you are dealt a straight flush, three-of-a-kind or a straight, it is generally best to play these hands aggressively by making a raise bet. This will increase your potential payout and put pressure on other players.

If you are dealt a flush or a pair, it is typically best to play these hands more conservatively. In these situations, you may want to make a smaller raise bet or simply call the current bet.

Conclusion

Understanding which hands are the strongest in 3 card poker and how to play them effectively is crucial for success in this exciting game. Remember that a straight flush is the strongest hand, followed by three-of-a-kind, straight, flush and pair. Play your strong hands aggressively and your weaker ones more conservatively for the best chance of winning big.

So there you have it – an introduction into the world of 3 card poker and what hands you should be aiming for!