This guide is for adults aged 18 or older, or the higher legal age where they live. It explains terminology only; knowing a hand ranking cannot predict or guarantee an outcome. Gambling involves risk, and choosing not to play is always valid.
Standard five-card hand order
In many common poker variants, hands are compared using the following order, from strongest to weakest. A game may use different rules, wild cards or shared community cards, so read its rules first.
- Royal flush: ace, king, queen, jack and ten, all in the same suit.
- Straight flush: five consecutive ranks in the same suit.
- Four of a kind: four cards of the same rank.
- Full house: three cards of one rank plus a pair.
- Flush: five cards of the same suit, not in consecutive rank.
- Straight: five consecutive ranks in more than one suit. In common rules, an ace can be high or low but does not wrap around.
- Three of a kind: three cards of the same rank.
- Two pair: two different pairs.
- One pair: two cards of the same rank.
- High card: when no listed combination is made, compare the highest card under the game's rules.
How ties are compared
If players have the same category of hand, the values within that category determine the comparison. For example, a higher pair outranks a lower pair. If the main combination matches, additional cards—often called kickers—may decide the result. Some games split a pot when hands are equal. The exact procedure depends on the variant and house rules.
Before a game begins
- Confirm the poker variant, hand ranking rules and betting structure.
- Ask how a tie, exposed card or other rules question is handled.
- Do not reveal another player's private cards or pressure anyone to continue.
- Agree to stakes and a time limit before play; never use money needed for essentials.
- Take a break or leave if the game stops feeling comfortable.
Rules do not remove chance
Learning how hands are ranked can make a game easier to follow, but it does not control which cards appear or ensure a win. Short-term outcomes are uncertain. Gambling is not a reliable way to earn money, repay debt or solve financial problems.
For adults only and only where legal. Set limits before play, do not chase losses, and step away if play is affecting your wellbeing.
This article is general education, not an invitation to gamble or financial advice. For practical boundaries and ways to seek help, read our responsible gambling guide.