Poker Plain-English guide
Poker Hand Rankings in Order
Review the standard poker hand rankings from high card through royal flush, including the tie-breakers that decide equal hand types.
Open the Poker Trainer →The ranking order
From strongest to weakest: royal flush, straight flush, four of a kind, full house, flush, straight, three of a kind, two pair, one pair, and high card.
- Royal flush: A-K-Q-J-10 of one suit
- Straight flush: five consecutive cards of one suit
- Four of a kind: four cards of one rank
- Full house: three of one rank plus a pair
- Flush, straight, three of a kind, two pair, one pair, then high card
Compare the made hand first
A lower-ranked hand cannot beat a higher-ranked category. When both players have the same category, compare the relevant ranks—for example, the higher pair, then side cards if needed.
Use the best five cards
In Texas Hold'em, each player makes the best five-card hand from any combination of the two hole cards and five community cards. You may use both, one, or neither hole card.
FAQ Quick answers
Common questions.
Does a flush beat a straight?
Yes. In standard poker rankings, a flush beats a straight.
Can an Ace be low in a straight?
Yes. Ace can be low in A-2-3-4-5 or high in 10-J-Q-K-A, but it does not wrap around.
Educational use only: This guide provides general strategy education, not gambling, financial, or legal advice. It does not guarantee winnings. Play only if you are of legal age and where permitted, set firm limits, and never risk money you cannot afford to lose.