The 5 Best Video Poker Strategies

Emily Tremblay
Written byEmily TremblayWriter

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The 5 Best Video Poker Strategies

Video poker is a game that requires skill and strategy, unlike other casino games that rely solely on luck. Your decisions during the game can directly impact the outcome and determine your chances of winning. Therefore, having a solid strategy is crucial if you want to come out on top consistently. The game offers various strategies that can be employed to increase your odds of winning, which can significantly reduce the house edge and improve your long-term profitability. By understanding the importance of strategy in video poker, you can turn it into a profitable venture. In this article, we will explore the top 5 video poker strategies that will help you maximize your chances of success.

Strategy 1: Playing Maximum Coins

When you fire up a video poker title on your phone or tablet, always stake the maximum coins. On most mobile casinos licensed by provincial regulators like the AGCO in Ontario, betting max coins triggers a bonus payout for hitting a Royal Flush. For example, if you’re playing a five-coin max bet at $1 CAD per coin, you’re wagering $5 CAD a hand—but a Royal Flush could pay 4,000 coins or $20,000 CAD. On progressive video poker games from Playtech or NetEnt, that jackpot climbs even higher with every play.

Playing maximum coins not only boosts your shot at the big royal Flush prize but also bumps up the machine’s overall payout percentage. Sure, it means a heftier bankroll up front, but the potential rewards at a mobile casino like those featured on MobileCasinoRank make it well worth your while.

Strategy 2: Understanding Pay Tables

A key part of any strategy is reading the pay tables. Each machine has its own payout schedule—some offer 9/6 Jacks or Better (9 coins for a full house, 6 for a flush), which translates to a low 0.46% house edge. Steer clear of 8/6 or 9/5 pay tables; they push that edge up and eat into your returns.

Even within the same casino app, pay tables can vary by title or provider. Compare games from Microgaming, NetEnt and Playtech to spot the highest payout percentages. A quick glance at the pay table before you play can mean the difference between steady losses and a runner who holds the edge.

Strategy 3: Using the Optimal Strategy Chart

An optimal strategy chart maps out every possible hand scenario—showing you which cards to keep and which to discard. Whether you’re tackling Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild or Double Bonus Poker, a chart lets you play the mathematically best move.

You can find video poker games at regulated mobile casinos from top providers like Microgaming, Playtech and NetEnt. Online video poker often has a lower house edge than most slot titles, but only if you follow the right strategy.

If you want to dive deeper into Microgaming’s video poker lineup, check out their releases—including:

  • Jacks or Better: 0.46% house edge
  • Aces & Eights: 0.91%
  • Deuces & Joker: 0.93%
  • All American: 0.62%
  • Deuces Wild: 3.23%

Before hitting "Deal," make sure you know your hand rankings. In Jacks or Better you need at least two jacks to win; Aces & Eights pays extra for a face-card plus an ace. Practising with an optimal strategy chart might feel like homework at first, but it quickly becomes second nature—and it seriously cuts down the house edge.

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Strategy 4: Managing Your Bankroll Effectively

Solid bankroll management keeps you in the game. Set a budget for your video poker session and stick to it—never gamble more than you can afford to lose. A common pitfall is betting too big on one hand. If your roll is roughly $100 USD (≈ $137 CAD), avoid risking more than $5 CAD per hand (about 3–4% of your total). That way, you’ll weather losing streaks without wiping out your funds.

Also, decide in advance when you’ll walk away. If you’ve played through your limit or hit a preset loss figure—say, down $50 CAD—call it quits. This approach protects your stack and keeps your play sustainable over the long haul.

Strategy 5: Knowing When to Walk Away

Chasing losses is a fast track to an empty wallet. Before you start, set clear win and loss thresholds in CAD. For instance, aim to pocket $200 CAD, or limit losses to $100 CAD. Once you hit either, it’s time to close the app. And don’t forget to take breaks—playing video poker for hours on end can dull your judgment. Stepping away for even 10 minutes helps you return with a clear head and sharper decision-making.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Video Poker

Avoid these blunders and you’ll keep more CAD in your pocket:

  • Playing every hand: Folding weak draws saves money over the long run.
  • Ignoring bankroll management: Without limits, you’ll burn through funds fast.
  • Skipping pay-table checks: Low payout percentages (high house edge) make winning nearly impossible.

Stick with mobile casinos that let you pay via Interac or InstaDebit, use an optimal strategy chart, and set strict loss/win limits—then you’ll dodge the usual traps and stay ahead of the house edge.

Final Thoughts

Mobile video poker blends skill, strategy and a dash of luck. By playing max coins, mastering pay tables, using an optimal strategy chart, managing your bankroll and knowing when to quit, you’ll boost your odds at Canadian-friendly apps from Microgaming, NetEnt and Playtech.

Know When to Take a Break If gambling stops being fun or you need support, call 1-866-531-2600 or visit the Centre for Problem Gambling.

About the author
Emily Tremblay
Emily Tremblay
About

Emily, a dynamic blend of tech-savvy and casino enthusiast, hails from the snowy landscapes of Canada. With her innate grasp of cultural nuances, she ensures online casino guides resonate deeply with Canadians. Emily's spirited and engaging nature makes her a favourite among peers.

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More posts by Emily Tremblay

Why is betting the max important in online Video Poker, eh?

Betting the maximum number of coins in video poker gives you a better shot at hitting that Royal Flush and snagging the biggest payout. Lots of machines offer a bonus payout for a Royal Flush when you bet the max. It's especially crucial on progressive machines, where the jackpot keeps climbing. It might mean a bigger bankroll, but the potential payoff can be worth it, buddy.

How can understanding pay tables help a Canuck playing Video Poker?

Knowing your pay tables is key in video poker. It helps you find the machines with the best odds and highest payouts. Each machine shows what it pays for each hand. Peeking at these tables before you play lets you choose machines that are more generous. Plus, pay tables give you the lowdown on the house edge and the machine’s expected return, helping you make smarter choices.

What's a Video Poker Strategy Chart, and how do I use it to win some Loonies?

A video poker strategy chart is your cheat sheet, telling you which cards to hold and which to ditch in every situation. These charts are based on math and can seriously boost your chances of winning by making sure you make the best play. They're different for each game and take some getting used to, but they can really cut down the house edge.

Why is Bankroll Management important when playing Video Poker online?

Managing your bankroll is super important in video poker to avoid losing your shirt. Set a budget for your playing sessions and stick to it. Only gamble with what you can afford to lose, eh? Betting too much on one hand can wipe you out fast. Good bankroll management helps you ride out the losing streaks and gives you a better shot at long-term success.

When should a Video Poker player call it quits and head to Tim Hortons?

Knowing when to walk away is crucial in video poker. Set win and loss limits before you start playing, and once you hit those limits, stop. This keeps you from chasing losses and makes sure you don't spend more than you can afford. Taking breaks is also a good idea to stay sharp and avoid making bad decisions.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when playing Video Poker?

Common mistakes in video poker include playing too many hands and not managing your bankroll. Be picky about your hands; playing every hand can lead to quick losses. Stick to your budget and don't chase losses. Also, avoid machines with low payout percentages because they have a higher house edge, making it harder to win in the long run.

How is Video Poker different from other casino games in Canada?

Video poker is different from most casino games because it takes skill and strategy, not just luck. Your choices matter, and a good strategy can really improve your odds. Unlike games that are pure chance, video poker lets you influence your outcome through smart decisions.

Can Video Poker actually be profitable in the Canadian online gambling scene?

Yep, video poker can be a profitable gig if you play it smart. Understanding pay tables, using strategy charts, and managing your bankroll can lower the house edge and boost your long-term profits. But it takes discipline, practice, and making informed decisions, eh?

Is it worth playing Progressive Video Poker machines for big bucks?

Playing progressive video poker machines can be worth it, especially if you're betting the max. These machines have jackpots that grow with each play, giving you a shot at a huge win. Just be aware of the odds and manage your bankroll carefully, since progressive machines might need bigger bets.

What role does strategy play when playing Video Poker online for real money?

Strategy is super important in video poker because it directly affects your chances of winning. Using strategies like understanding pay tables, using strategy charts, and managing your bankroll can really lower the house edge. Unlike games of pure chance, your actions and decisions in video poker can lead to better outcomes.

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