In Video Poker, the Paytable dictates your odds. Two machines sitting next to each other might look identical, but one could pay 99.54% RTP while the other pays only 95%.
This calculator analyzes the payouts for key hands (Full House, Flush) to determine if you are playing a “Full Pay” machine or a “Short Pay” trap.
Video Poker
How to Spot a Good Machine
Look at the “Jacks or Better” game screen. Check the column for betting 5 Coins.
- Input Payouts: Enter the number of coins paid for a Full House and a Flush.
- Analyze:
- 9/6 (Full Pay): 9 for Full House, 6 for Flush. RTP: ~99.54%. Play this!
- 8/5 (Short Pay): 8 for Full House, 5 for Flush. RTP: ~97.3%. Avoid.
- 6/5 (Trap): 6 for Full House, 5 for Flush. RTP: ~95%. Never play.
Example: The Cost of a Bad Table
Playing $1000 through a machine:
- 9/6 Machine: Expected Loss = $4.60.
- 6/5 Machine: Expected Loss = $50.00.
You lose 10 times more money simply by choosing the wrong machine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need perfect strategy to get this RTP?
Yes. The calculated RTP assumes you make the mathematically correct decision for every hand. Mistakes cost money. We recommend using a Strategy Chart alongside this calculator.