Here is an example hand:

We are dealt QJT9Q. Should we keep the Queens or go for the straight flush?

Image Output

Holding Queens


Holding OESFD


Text Output


Holding Queens

Jacks or Better - Expected Value (ev) for holding Qc Qh and discarding Jc Tc 9c

Based on inserting 5 coins (max coins)

By Video Poker Trainer | Analyze Jacks or Better Decisions version 0.8 beta.

Jacks or Better: (11559/16215)*5 = 3.56 ev
Two Pair: (2592/16215)*10 = 1.60 ev
3 of a kind: (1854/16215)*15 = 1.72 ev
Full House: (165/16215)*30 = 0.31 ev
4 of a kind: (45/16215)*125 = 0.35 ev
Total: 7.53 ev

We inserted 5 coins and we expect to get back 7.53 so this hand has positive expected value.

For entertainment only. Use your own math for real money.

Holding OESFD

Jacks or Better - Expected Value (ev) for holding Qc Jc Tc 9c and discarding Qh

Based on inserting 5 coins (max coins)

By Video Poker Trainer | Analyze Jacks or Better Decisions version 0.8 beta.

Non-Qualifying: (27/47)*0 = 0.00 ev
Jacks or Better: (5/47)*5 = 0.53 ev
Straight: (6/47)*20 = 2.55 ev
Flush: (7/47)*25 = 3.72 ev
Straight Flush: (2/47)*250 = 10.64 ev
Total: 17.45 ev

We inserted 5 coins and we expect to get back 17.45 so this hand has positive expected value.

For entertainment only. Use your own math for real money.



Therefore we should choose the OESFD since the ev is over twice as high.

Feedback - I'd like to see the tool have the ability to hold 1 card minimum and allow for custom payout tables.

Note - All posts need not be structured this way, it's just here to serve as an example.