Both online and land-based US casinos consider video poker games to be an essential component of their offerings.
If your goal is to discover reliable casino sites that offer top-notch online video poker games, you have come to the perfect place. In addition to highlighting the finest casino platforms in the US, this article will elaborate on the mechanics of real-money video poker, key factors to consider when selecting a casino, techniques for playing free video poker, and recommended bonuses to enhance your gameplay.
If you lack ample experience in playing online video poker, it is crucial to give careful consideration to our tips and strategies section. Within this segment, we aim to educate you on how to reduce your risks and enhance your likelihood of achieving significant victories.
Regrettably, your state does not currently offer mobile online casinos. However, you can still enjoy playing at sweepstakes or social casino sites. These platforms provide similar games and the opportunity to win cash prizes through video poker and more. Check out our list of suggested sites below.
Best online casinos with video poker
Gorilla Or Buffalo Ways
Playing real money video poker online
The transition of video poker machines to the online world was smooth due to their single-player electronic nature. The online version of video poker shares similar game variants and rules with the land-based counterpart, making them almost identical.
Playing video poker online has several advantages over traditional land-based casinos. The foremost benefits are the convenience and bonuses offered. Instead of having to travel to a local casino, you can easily access your online casino account and enjoy video poker from the comfort of your own home. Additionally, online gambling sites provide bonuses for both new and existing players, which can be utilized while playing video poker games available on the platform.
Free video poker vs. real money video poker
There are several advantages to playing free video poker at most real money casinos. Although you cannot win money, there are still many reasons why it is worth trying out. Here are the main benefits of playing video poker for free:
Benefits of playing free video poker
- In case you’re a beginner in video poker, playing it for free offers you an opportunity to determine your liking for the game without putting your own money at risk.
- Even without any money at stake, video poker remains an enjoyable game due to its element of skill.
- By playing free video poker, you have the opportunity to enhance your strategy without any risks involved.
Although there are benefits to playing free video poker, it can become repetitive over time. In such cases, it may be worth considering transitioning to playing for real money.
Benefits of playing real money video poker
- The excitement level of real money video poker surpasses that of the free version of the game.
- There is an opportunity for you to earn a profit, with the possibility of winning enormous jackpots.
- Video poker games cater to a diverse audience of both casual players and high-stakes gamblers, offering a wide variety of betting limits.
How online casino bonuses work with video poker
Real cash casinos provide various bonus options that can be utilized in conjunction with the wide selection of video poker games offered.
Let’s say the casino provides a 100% deposit match bonus with a maximum limit of $500. If you deposit $200 into your newly established account, you will receive an extra $200 to use for playing. However, it’s important to note that this bonus cannot be withdrawn immediately. Instead, you must fulfill the wagering requirements, which typically range from 10x to 30x playthroughs.
On the other hand, it is common for video slots to be the main source of fulfilling the requirement. Due to the relatively low house edge in video poker games, the casinos intentionally increase the difficulty of meeting the bonus criteria through these games. Typically, video poker games contribute only 10% to 20% towards the wagering requirement, resulting in a longer withdrawal process.
Suppose the casino you prefer has set a 30x wagering requirement on your $200 bonus, with a 10% wagering contribution. This implies that in order to meet the bonus’ wagering requirements and withdraw your winnings, you would need to wager a total of $60,000 (200x30x10).
Although it may appear overwhelming, this is merely an illustration. Numerous online casinos provide easier-to-meet requirements for bonuses. Therefore, when selecting bonuses for video poker, prioritize those with the lowest wagering requirements and highest contribution towards meeting them. This will increase your chances of converting the bonus into cash that can be withdrawn.
Additionally, it is important to consider other terms and conditions such as the minimum deposit limit, maximum withdrawal limit, potential restrictions on payment methods, and expiration date.
Earning comp points with video poker
VIP programs with loyalty benefits are offered by online casinos. These programs provide rewards such as cash back, free spins, and increased banking limits. Many active casinos also connect their loyalty programs to their physical locations. As an illustration, PlaySugarHouse loyalty points can be utilized at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh.
Do you need a promo code?
To qualify for either bonus, certain online gambling sites may require you to input a promo code or bonus code. Make sure to utilize our codes in order to secure the most favorable offers. It is imperative to enter a promo code during the registration process to be eligible for the casino’s welcome bonus.
You may be required to enter a code when making a deposit on certain websites. This step enables you to become eligible for reload deposit bonuses.
List of video poker games you can play for free
Game King currently has a complete control over the online video poker market. It provides various video poker versions to all operating casinos. The list below displays the most probable video poker variations that can be found at these casinos.
Free to play video poker games
Video poker casino apps
All the latest mobile devices are compatible with modern versions of video poker games because they have been designed with an ideal layout for mobile screens.
There are two ways to play video poker on your mobile device: logging in to a casino account through your mobile browser or downloading the casino’s official app. Apps offer a superior user experience compared to mobile sites. However, downloading and installing an app requires being in a state where online gambling is regulated or using an app from a sweepstakes casino.
To acquire an app, just access the desired casino site using your mobile device and follow the instructions provided to obtain the app. After successfully downloading and installing the app, launch it and either log in or create a new account to commence playing.
Please be aware that not all newly established US casinos offer mobile apps. In such instances, you will need to rely on their mobile websites instead.
Legal casinos with video poker
States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and a handful of others offer legal online video poker for those who reside in areas where online gambling has been legalized.
If you reside in a state where online gambling is not yet legalized, there is still a possibility for you to enjoy video poker online through a sweepstakes casino. Nonetheless, for those residing in states where online video poker is legal and regulated, here is a compilation of the leading online casinos that operate within those jurisdictions.
NJ video poker sites
Due to New Jersey’s early adoption of legalizing various forms of online gambling, it is not surprising that residents of NJ have access to some of the top US casinos.
DraftKings, a highly favored choice in the state, mainly operates as a platform for daily fantasy sports and sports betting. However, it also offers a selection of online casino games. Among these, the noteworthy video poker games available on DraftKings include Jacks or Better, Double Double Bonus Poker, and Game King Video Poker.
When you join DraftKings, you’ll receive a $35 casino credit and a 100% deposit match bonus up to $2,000 as a welcome offer. Additionally, NJ players can also explore Betfair and BetMGM, which provide excellent video poker games and attractive bonuses for new customers.
PA video poker sites
Pennsylvania is home to numerous reputable online casinos that provide a diverse range of video poker games. In addition to these options, residents of Pennsylvania can also enjoy the offerings of DraftKings Casino, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
New players who sign up with BetMGM are in for a great offer. They can receive a generous match of up to $1,000 on their initial deposit, along with an additional $25 as a joining bonus.
WV video poker sites
Residents of West Virginia have the opportunity to experience a variety of online casinos, offering a similar selection of video poker games as those available to players in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Among the most favored choices are BetMGM and DraftKings, both of which provide enticing incentives such as a 100% deposit bonus and a no deposit bonus.
Michigan video poker sites
Michigan recently joined the list of states that have legalized online gambling. Prior to late 2020, players from Michigan had limited options for playing online video poker games. However, they can now indulge in high-quality games offered by popular sites such as BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Hollywood Casino, and Golden Nugget.
Sweepstakes casinos
If you’re looking to enjoy top-notch video poker games but reside in a state where online gambling is prohibited, sweepstakes casinos are a great alternative. LuckyLand, Chumba, and Funzpoints are our highly recommended sweepstakes casinos.
How to play video poker online
Even if you are new to online gaming, you can easily dive into video poker by following these simple steps. Get started swiftly with the help of the following instructions.
Step 1: Choose a quality video poker casino
To begin with, it is important to conduct thorough research on online casinos in order to select a reputable gaming site. One must ensure that the chosen casino is licensed and regulated by the respective state authority for legal and secure gambling experiences. Examples of such regulatory bodies include the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB).
Our review can help you determine your preferred casinos.
When browsing our review or conducting your research, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Consider the reputation of the brand before depositing your money.
- Choosing a Game: Ensuring a wide range of games, particularly in the video poker section, is crucial for your enjoyment.
- Bonuses Desired: You seek chances to earn additional income via bonuses and VIP rewards.
- Website Navigation: A good US casino will provide user-friendly website navigation.
- Customer Support: Whenever an issue arises, you desire the opportunity to engage with a helpful and amiable support team.
- Deposit and Withdrawal Options: Having a wider range of banking methods will make it simpler for you to deposit funds and withdraw your money.
Step 2: Register for an account
Once you have selected a trustworthy casino, the next step is to complete the registration process by filling out the online casino’s registration form.
To access gambling sites, you will need to provide essential details like your name, email address, phone number, username, and password. Additionally, the submission of your Social Security number will be required.
In order to verify your identity, casinos necessitate the latter. Additionally, regulated casinos are obligated to confirm that you are not included in the list of banned gamblers.
Step 3: Play free online video poker
After successfully registering for an online casino, you now have the ability to enjoy playing video poker for free. This not only offers entertainment but also allows you to enhance your skills. Additionally, you can experiment with different variations of video poker to determine your preferences. It’s an ideal choice for exploring the world of video poker without the need to risk your own funds.
Can you please provide a rewrite prompt?
Step 4: Make a deposit (optional)
If you have a preference for a specific online casino, it is advisable to contemplate depositing and engaging in real money gameplay. Every online gaming platform provides a wide variety of deposit options.
Below are a few deposit options available in Pennsylvania and New Jersey:
- Choose between Visa and Mastercard, the two largest credit card brands, to fund your account.
- ACH: Transfer funds electronically from your bank account to an online casino by sending an e-check.
- Pennsylvania casinos readily welcome e-wallet payments through Neteller, PayPal, or Skrill.
- With PayNearMe, you have the option to deposit cash by visiting any nearby 7-Eleven convenience store.
What should I look for in an online casino?
Every state with legalized online gambling offers numerous choices for video poker playing locations. However, selecting the most suitable one is subjective and dependent on individual preferences. While certain casinos may be deemed superior, they may not necessarily be the ideal option for you personally. Ultimately, the decision revolves around personal preferences.
To ensure you make the optimal decision, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The availability of video poker games sets the best casino sites apart from the others, as it’s the wide range of variations that truly matters. While popular games like Jacks or Better can be found on any site, exploring more unique variations requires a bit more effort.
- When selecting a casino site, it is crucial to consider bonuses and promotions. It is advisable to thoroughly examine the bonuses by not just focusing on their apparent values, but also by assessing minimum deposit limits, wagering requirements, and video poker wagering contributions.
- If you enjoy playing video poker on your mobile device, it is advisable to seek out websites with mobile-friendly video poker games. It would be even more preferable to find a casino that offers a dedicated app.
- If you have expertise in video poker and employ the best strategy, it is advisable to seek out casino websites that provide full-pay games boasting the highest theoretical return-to-player rate.
- It is crucial to choose a website that is legal and regulated within your state to ensure compliance. To prioritize your safety, it is advisable to steer clear of offshore sites.
- When starting out, it is advisable for novice players to seek out a casino that offers customer support that is both prompt and amiable. This is essential as you might require assistance in obtaining the correct information, such as unlocking bonuses or locating the desired games for your enjoyment.
Casinos with full-pay video poker games
Full-pay video poker games are characterized as games that provide the most favorable odds and theoretical returns, while short-pay games stand in contrast as the least advantageous options.
When playing full-pay games, you have the opportunity to win a higher amount for the best hand (royal flush), but only if you bet the maximum number of coins. By using the optimal strategy, the return to player on these games is often close to or even exceeds 100%. Additionally, full-pay video poker games provide a generous 9/6 pay table for a full house or flush, which is better than the 8/6 or 8/5 pay tables found in other games.
Certain casinos choose to conceal their Return to Player (RTP) figures, leaving players unaware of the amount they will ultimately receive. However, there are more considerate casinos that willingly present a comprehensive pay table. Among the well-liked video poker games with favorable pay tables available in online casinos in the United States are Double Double Bonus Poker and Game King.
Standard video poker payouts
The online market presents a diverse range of pay tables offered by online casinos, with each game having its own unique variations.
When selecting games, it is important to consider your desired level of risk and volatility. For instance, if you are looking for a less volatile option, Jacks or Better can be a suitable choice among video poker variations.
The Jacks or Better pay table below displays a standard pay table without any bonus tables.
Hand | 1 Coin | 2 Coins | 3 Coins | 4 Coins | 5 Coins |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Royal Flush | 250 | 500 | 750 | 1,000 | 4,000 |
Straight Flush | 50 | 100 | 300 | 400 | 500 |
Four-of-a-Kind | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 125 |
Full House | 9 | 18 | 27 | 36 | 45 |
Flush | 6 | 12 | 18 | 24 | 30 |
Three-of-a-Kind | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 |
Two Pairs | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
Jacks or Better | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
If you’re looking for a video poker game with higher volatility and additional payouts, Bonus Poker would be a suitable choice.
The following is the pay table for Bonus Poker:
Hand | 1 Coin | 2 Coins | 3 Coins | 4 Coins | 5 Coins |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Royal Flush | 250 | 500 | 750 | 1,000 | 4,000 |
Straight Flush | 50 | 100 | 300 | 400 | 500 |
Four Aces | 80 | 160 | 240 | 320 | 400 |
Four 2s-4s | 40 | 80 | 120 | 160 | 200 |
Four 5s-Ks | 25 | 50 | 75 | 100 | 125 |
Full House | 8 | 16 | 24 | 32 | 40 |
Flush | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 |
Straight | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 24 |
Three-of-a-Kind | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 |
Two Pairs | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 |
Jacks or Better | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
At present, the casino markets in PA and New Jersey do not offer any progressive video poker jackpots. The maximum prize one can win is 4,000 coins, which can be obtained by achieving a royal flush on a five-credit wager.
It is possible that progressive jackpots might be introduced by these internet casinos in the future. Nonetheless, the largest payouts currently offered are associated with a royal flush and bonus rewards.
How to win at video poker
When playing video poker online, it is important to remember that it is a strategic game offering higher winning chances when the appropriate strategy is utilized. Hence, when formulating your winning strategy, it is advisable to consider the following tips.
Choose games with a high RTP
Playing video poker games with high RTP increases your likelihood of winning in the long run. Opting for variations with higher payout percentages will result in greater winnings over time.
Some of the most lucrative online video poker games are:
- The Return to Player (RTP) for Jacks or Better is 99.54%.
- The game Double Double Bonus Poker offers a payout rate of 99.51%.
- Bonus Poker: 99.17%
There is no guarantee of winning more money with these games since anything can happen in the short run. However, higher payout percentages increase your chances of making profits.
Always bet five coins
In order to obtain the highest payback, it is necessary to bet all five coins per hand. This is because betting five coins allows you to fully unlock the value of the royal flush payout.
The payout for a royal flush is shown below, based on the amount of coins you bet:
- A one-credit bet is equivalent to 250 coins.
- A wager of two credits is equivalent to 500 coins.
- A bet of three credits is equivalent to 750 coins.
- A wager of four credits is equivalent to 1,000 coins.
- The amount of 4,000 coins is equivalent to a five-credit bet.
As you bet more coins, the payout for a royal flush steadily increases. However, once you wager five coins, the value of a royal flush receives a substantial boost.
Use a video poker trainer, strategy chart
The perfect strategy for achieving optimal payback in video poker games varies depending on the specific game being played, necessitating expert knowledge and strategy.
When playing different games like Jacks or Better or bonus poker, it is important to note that each game demands a distinct strategy. Therefore, it is crucial to locate the appropriate resources or materials pertaining to the specific game you are playing.
These are the top two resources to enhance your video poker skills:
- The Strategy Chart illustrates the hierarchy of hand importance.
- Trainer: With this feature, you can enhance your video poker skills by playing hands and learning from your mistakes.
Utilizing either of these tools can greatly enhance your understanding of video poker. It is important to ensure that you utilize strategy materials that correspond to the specific variation you are playing.
Practice with free video poker
Once you have completed the registration process at an online casino, you will unlock the option to play video poker for free. This free version of video poker is highly beneficial for practicing and refining your skills in the game. It allows you to apply the strategies you acquire from charts and trainers. Once you feel confident and proficient, you can transition to playing real-money video poker with an enhanced strategy.
Tips and strategies for playing video poker
When you start playing video poker, remember that it can be a highly rewarding game that requires both skill and tactics, not just luck. Here are some tips to bear in mind:
Be responsible
It is crucial to establish and stick to your bankroll limit when playing video poker. However, this can be challenging since the allure of casino games, including video poker, can be highly addictive and tempt you to surpass your initial spending intentions.
Look for progressive payouts
Numerous video poker games offer jackpots that have the potential to completely transform a player’s life, provided they employ the correct strategy and a sprinkle of good fortune. It is advisable to search for games that offer progressive jackpots, as they not only yield substantial payouts but also diminish the house’s advantage.
Always bet the maximum amount
In addition to our previous statement, it is advisable to place the maximum bet as long as your bankroll permits. Although this approach carries some risks, betting the highest amount is the sole means to win the jackpot.
Jacks or Better is the best alternative
In case full-pay games are unavailable, it is recommended to opt for Jacks or Better as it is among the most rewarding video poker games. Furthermore, Jacks or Better is known for its simplicity, making it a perfect choice for novice players.
Video poker – History and development
During the 1970s, the emergence of technology enabled the fusion of basic computer technology and a television monitor, giving birth to video poker in the gaming industry.
If you remember how TVs looked in the mid-1970s, you’ll know that the VP monitor was far from being an LED flatscreen. To play, users had to utilize a line of buttons located beneath the monitor to keep the cards displayed on the screen until deciding on the final poker hand.
IGT successfully catapulted video poker to new heights of popularity in Las Vegas and Atlantic City during the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s. Their groundbreaking game, Draw Poker, played a pivotal role in this accomplishment. Building on this success, IGT later introduced Jacks or Better, which remains a beloved variant of video poker even to this day. As a result of their triumphs, IGT experienced exponential growth and eventually became a thriving publicly traded company.
As technology advanced over the years, the design of VP machines remained relatively unchanged. However, the introduction of touch-screen capability eliminated the need for players to physically press buttons.
IGT’s Game King is renowned as one of the most widely-used VP terminals globally. This machine has consistently represented the forefront of digital casino technology for numerous years. Even today, it continues to be highly favored by avid video poker players. The Game King revolutionized the casino industry by enabling establishments to provide a wide range of VP variations and betting options all within a single terminal.
In the end, be prepared to encounter multiple versions of video poker on a single machine. Among the most well-liked options are Deuces Wild, Double Bonus, Double Double Bonus, and Ultimate X. Keep in mind that not all video poker games are the same, therefore, make sure to review the pay tables and brush up on the ideal strategy for each variation.
Video Poker FAQ
What is the best video poker game to play for real money?
One of the top video poker variations that is widely regarded is Jacks or Better. It provides a great balance between a high RTP of 99.54% and low volatility. Another exceptional real money game is Game King’s Double Double Bonus Poker, which offers a high payback rate of 99.51% and additional bonus payouts. Additionally, Bonus Poker presents a solid opportunity to win with its 99.17% RTP and moderate volatility.
Can I play video poker online for real money?
Certainly! You have the opportunity to discover and enjoy nearly every conceivable variant of video poker on the internet, available for round-the-clock play. The stakes for real money video poker games can vary, starting from just a few cents and soaring to over a hundred dollars, depending on the specific game you choose.
Which casino has the best video poker games?
If you are searching for a regulated online casino that offers a wide range of video poker games with real money, DraftKings is your top choice. However, if online video poker is not legally permitted in your state and you are exploring sweepstakes casinos, Chumba is likely the most suitable alternative available.
Which video poker game has the lowest house edge?
One of the reasons why video poker games are highly favored is due to their negative house edge. For instance, Deuces Wild boasts an impressive RTP of 100.71%, closely followed by Joker Poker (100.64%), Double Bonus Poker (100.17%), and Double Double Bonus Poker (100.07%). It is important to note that these exceptional returns can only be achieved with flawless strategy. Nevertheless, even if you deviate from perfect play, these games still offer greater rewards compared to others.
Are video poker games the same thing as slots?
These two are not the same. Video poker games adhere to the fundamental rules of poker, whereas online slot machines involve spinning reels with the objective of aligning matching symbols on a payline. Furthermore, video slots rely solely on a random number generator, eliminating any player control over their outcome. Conversely, video poker empowers players to decide which cards to retain or discard, enabling strategic gameplay.
What are the best odds on video poker?
In video poker, the highest chances of winning can be found in the full-pay games, which offer a payout of 9 to 1 for full houses and 6 to 1 for flushes. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the payouts for royal flushes, as they are typically higher when betting the maximum number of coins. However, it is crucial to note that these payouts may vary between different games.
What is the best strategy for video poker?
To optimize your video poker gameplay, it is recommended to implement certain strategies. Firstly, consider placing the maximum bet to increase your chances of obtaining a higher payout for a royal flush. Additionally, seek out games with favorable house edges, as these offer better odds. Another strategy involves exploring progressive jackpot games. However, it is crucial to emphasize responsible gambling as an essential aspect of your gameplay.