Poker Plain-English guide
Texas Hold'em Starting Hands Chart
Learn how starting-hand strength changes by position and why a useful preflop chart is a range, not one universal list.
Practice preflop decisions →Start tighter in early position
With more players left to act, early-position opens face a greater chance of running into a strong hand. A sound chart therefore uses a narrower range up front and widens toward the button.
Groups matter more than exact rankings
Premium pairs and strong Broadway hands lead most ranges. Medium pairs, suited connectors, suited Aces, and weaker broadways become more position-dependent as the chart widens.
Prior action changes everything
A raise-first-in chart applies only when everyone before you folds. Facing a raise, a three-bet, a short stack, or tournament payout pressure requires a different range.
FAQ Quick answers
Common questions.
What are the best starting hands in Texas Hold'em?
Pocket Aces is the strongest starting hand. Other premium holdings include pocket Kings, pocket Queens, Ace-King, and pocket Jacks, though exact decisions still depend on context.
Should beginners play suited connectors?
They can be playable from later position or in favorable situations, but beginners should avoid treating every suited connector as automatically strong.
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.