What Is a Pocket Pair in Poker?

In poker, a pocket pair is a term used to describe a starting hand in which the player has two cards of the same rank. For example, if you are dealt two aces (known as “pocket aces”), this is considered a pocket pair.

Pocket pairs are often considered strong starting hands in poker, as they have the potential to make a very strong hand if you happen to hit “set” (three of a kind) or “quads” (four of a kind) on the flop.

While pocket pairs are generally considered strong starting hands, there are exceptions. For example, if you are playing against a tight player who is unlikely to be bluffing, it may not be worth putting in a large raise with pocket deuces (2 2).

PRO TIP:A pocket pair in poker is a hand where you are dealt two cards of the same rank. For example, if you are dealt two Aces (A♠ A♥), then this is considered a pocket pair. This is an incredibly strong starting hand and should be played aggressively in most situations.

This is because even if you do hit three of a kind or quads on the flop, your opponent is unlikely to pay you off with a big hand.

Pocket pairs can also be dangerous when you flop an overcard. For example, if you are holding pocket kings (K K) and the flop comes A K Q, you have flopped top pair but there is a very real danger that someone holding A Q or A J has you beat.

In this situation, it is often best to check and see what your opponents do before committing too many chips to the pot.

Overall, pocket pairs are strong starting hands in poker but there are some situations where they can be dangerous. If you flop an overcard or are up against a tight player, it may be best to check and see what your opponents do before committing too many chips to the pot.