Double Bonus (DB) Poker is a widely played video poker game variant. It is popular for its increased payouts on Four-of-a-Kind hands known as “quads.” However, only those who take the time to understand the Double Bonus Poker strategy stand a chance of winning. The playing strategy of Jacks or Better (JoB) does not directly apply in DB poker, given the quad, which increases the game’s volatility.
This complete video poker strategy guide highlights how you can gain an edge over the house using the Double Bonus Poker strategy chart for 10/7/5 (full pay) and common lower paytables (9/7/5, 10/7/4, 9/6/5).
Before we begin, it’s important to clarify that Double Bonus Poker is different from Double Double Bonus Poker. Therefore, the Double Double Bonus Poker strategy differs.
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Double Bonus Poker Strategy and Pay Tables (Know Before You Play)
Knowing how to read video poker pay tables is essential for players of all levels. Double Bonus Poker uses a shorthand notation to distinguish between game versions by their payouts for Full House, Flush, and Straight. For example, a 10/7/5 game pays 10 coins for FH, 7 for F, and 5 for S per coin bet.
Below is a comparison of popular Double Bonus Poker paytables:
As you play, it’s vital to learn how video poker RTP works. Payouts are based on the max bet (5 coins), while the RTP is based on the optimal strategy. Volatility is high for all variants, including the 9/7/5 Double Bonus Poker, due to dependence on quads.
What you must know about the Double Bonus Poker pay tables:
- The closer your table is to 10/7, the stronger the expected return, but the more critical an optimal Double Bonus Poker strategy becomes.
- If Quad Aces pay 160 per coin (800 for five coins), you’re playing full-pay. Use the quad-first 10/7 Double Bonus strategy below.
- If quad pays less (e.g., 120 or 80), you’re on a downgraded pay table. Treat this chart as a baseline, and note that the RTP is lower.
- If the flush hand payout drops to 6 or below, you should consider switching machines before focusing on optimal play.
Double Bonus Poker Strategy Chart (Main Asset)
Double Bonus video poker strategy follows a strict hand hierarchy. Unlike Jacks or Better, the game places greater emphasis on quad potential than on conventional made hands.
A three-of-a-kind (for example) in Double Bonus holds a higher value than in JoB. One more card can get you a massive payout. Therefore, in DB Poker, it’s advised to sometimes shun straights and flushes for higher-value hands.
The Chart (Priority-Based)
To use the Double Bonus Poker strategy chart below, scan it (starting from the top) against your hand and hold the highest that matches your cards.
Always hold (made hands):
Double Bonus Poker – Decision Priority Chart (9/6)
Double Bonus Poker vs Jacks or Better: Key Strategy Differences
If you are looking to take a break from Jacks or Better to play Double Bonus Poker, here are the shifts in strategy principles you should know.
- Low Pair Value Increases: In Double Bonus, low pairs hold more value because they can connect to 80-coin quads (for 2s-4s) or 50-coin quads (5s-Ks). The 10/7 Double Bonus strategy prioritizes these opportunities.
- Straight Draws Depreciate: Four-card straight draws, especially inside straights, drop in value because straights only pay five coins (often less than JoB).
- Quad Focus: Quads carry the double bonus, hence the shift in strategy, but not without a cost: Two Pair payout reduces from 2:1 as seen in the Jacks or Better strategy chart to 1:1.
Summary
Double Bonus Poker strategy vs Jacks or Better strategy
Most Commonly Missed Hands (High-Impact Section)
Below are ten examples of the hands that players often get in Double Bonus Poker but play incorrectly:
These are hands players frequently misplay because they apply Jacks or Better logic instead of Double Bonus quad-driven strategy.
Double Bonus Poker Volatility & Bankroll Strategy
The variance of Double Bonus Poker is high because of its enhanced quad payouts. While short-term swings are common, playing a full-pay version with optimal strategy can reduce the house edge and improve your long-term expected return.
Below is the bankroll strategy for a 5-coin max bet:
Final Tips
Avoid using the JoB strategy for Double Bonus Poker. Also, pay attention to the paytables. Understand their differences before playing. Additionally, If you’re playing for optimal value, use max bet (5 coins) to unlock the full royal payout. and pay them using an optimal strategy.
Video Poker Strategy Charts & Guides
FAQs
What is the best Double Bonus Poker strategy?
A paytable-specific, priority-based strategy focused on quad value.
Is Double Bonus Poker better than Jacks or Better?
On full-pay machines with perfect play, Double Bonus Poker can offer a slightly higher RTP than Jacks or Better, but it also comes with much higher variance and larger swings.
What is a full-pay Double Bonus Poker game?
The full-pay Double Bonus Poker has a 10/7/5 paytable, paying 160 coins for Four Aces, with an RTP of about 100.17%.
How volatile is Double Bonus Poker?
Double Bonus Poker has high volatility due to the increased quad payout.
Is Double Bonus Poker good for beginners?
No, Double Bonus Poker isn’t a recommended choice for new players.
What RTP does Double Bonus Poker have?
Double Bonus Poker RTP is up to 100.17% under perfect play.
Can Double Bonus Poker exceed 100% RTP?
Yes, it can go slightly above, but only on full-pay machines with an optimal strategy.