Texas Holdem Calculator: Medium Pairs Analysis

We use our Texas Holdem calculator to analyze Holdem hands. This time we have used our Texas Holdem odds calculator on medium pairs.
The best Texas Holdem starting hands are high pairs and high cards. However, medium pairs have their place in Texas Holdem too. Pocket jacks, tens, nines and eights are definitely hands that should be played in Texas holdem poker; the question is when and how?

Texas Holdem Odds Calculator: Medium Pairs

We will start with examples with some example on how medium pairs match up against other hands (pre-flop). Of course, we have used a Texas Holdem odds calculator to get the numbers as precise as possible:

Ts-Th vs. Ac-Ad - Win 19.77%, Tie 0.3%, Lose 79.93%
9h-9d vs. 5h5s - Win 80.49%, Tie 0.69%, Lose 18.82%
Js-Jd vs. Ac-Kc - Win 53.68%, Tie 0.38%, Lose 45.94%
8h-8c vs. JsTs - Win 49.99%, Tie 0.41%, Lose 49.59%

Thanks to the Texas Holdem calculator we can get an idea about how strong medium pairs really are. It's a good idea to test different scenarios like these to learn more about the game.

Playing Medium Pairs in Texas Hold'em Poker

Pre-Flop Raise

No matter what the Texas Holdem calculator says, you have to decide how you should play your medium pairs. There are two schools of thought on how to handle medium pairs pre-flop. Some players like to stick in a big raise, hoping to take the pot down immediately or at least reduce the field. The problem with this method is that if all opponents fold, you usually win a small pot and if they raise, it is often correct to lay the hand down. Furthermore, if overcards come on the board and someone else bets, it will be hard to stay in the hand. This strategy is best used in late position where even if you are called you can use position to your advantage throughout the hand.

Pre-Flop Limp

Other players like to flat call and try to flop three of a kind. The rule here is "no set, no bet." That is to say, if you miss, fold your hand right away for minimum cost. The idea here is that if you flop your set it will be well disguised and you can win big, but if not, you shouldn't lose too much.

Medium Pairs Post Flop

There are some situations where your medium pair may seem to be good on the flop. If the flop comes all undercards to your pair or if there is only one overcard and no betting, your hand is often the best. If this is true, you should usually bet aggressively and try to end the hand before more cards come that could beat you.