Jacks or Better Video Poker: Free Demo, Paytable and Strategy

Jacks or Better is the game every other video poker variant is built on. Five cards, one draw, and a paytable that starts at a pair of jacks: that’s the whole thing. It’s also one of the best-value games in any casino, because with the right paytable and correct play it returns over 99% of what you stake. This version is Playtech’s, and you can play it free below.

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How Jacks or Better plays

You’re dealt five cards. Choose which ones to hold, then draw replacements for the rest. Your final hand is paid according to the paytable, starting with a pair of jacks or better, which is where the name comes from. There’s no dealer to beat and no other players, just you and the paytable.

The standard paytable

That’s the “9/6” paytable, named after the full house and flush payouts, and with perfect strategy it returns about 99.54%. Many games use weaker tables, such as 8/5, which drops the return to about 97.3%, so check the paytable in the game before you play. This Playtech version shows its own paytable on screen.

Basic strategy

A few rules cover most decisions. Always keep a paying hand of jacks or better, except when you hold four cards to a royal flush. Hold a low pair over two unsuited high cards. Don’t keep a kicker alongside a pair. With nothing, hold your high cards and draw. Our video poker guide explains more, and the demo is the ideal way to practise.

FAQ

18+ only. Free demos use play money. If you play for real money, set a limit first. Responsible gambling.