Top Ten Hands in Texas Hold’em

Phil Hellmuth’s Play Poker Like the Pros is a controversial book because, in part, he advocates a strategy that is what most experienced players consider weak-tight; that is, he doesn’t think beginners ought to be playing many hands, and when they play they should be looking for reasons to lay down the hand.

At least, that’s how I read it.

However, if you ARE a beginner and you’re looking for a guide to playing conservative poker, here’s the top ten hands in Texas Hold’em, as considered by Hellmuth and the rest of the world:

  1. AA
  2. KK
  3. QQ
  4. AK
  5. JJ
  6. 10-10
  7. 9-9
  8. 8-8
  9. AQ
  10. 7-7

While there is debate with regard to the exact ranking of the top ten hands (a pair has a slight mathematical edge pre-flop to any Ace-high, and suited AK and AQ are better than unsuited), most can agree this is a very conservative range of hands to play in any position.play poker by the pros by phil hellmuth

For more about how to play Texas Hold’em from 11-time world champion Phil Hellmuth, read Play Poker Like the Pros.

What do you think? Join the discussion...