Top 25 PLO Starting hands
In Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO), choosing the right starting hands is crucial for success. Unlike Texas Hold’em, where starting hands have clear equity differences, PLO requires players to be strategic about their hand selection. This article explores the top 25 starting hands in PLO, helping players understand which hands can lead to better outcomes in the game. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your skills, knowing these hands can give you an edge at the tables.
Key Takeaways
- Double-suited hands are the strongest starting hands as they can create multiple flushes.
- Hands with high pairs, like Aces or Kings, generally perform better in PLO.
- Connected hands can help form straights, increasing their value.
- Avoid hands with low or disconnected cards, as they often lead to trouble post-flop.
- Understanding hand strength is key to making smart decisions in PLO.
1. A A K K Ds
When it comes to starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha, A A K K double-suited is a powerhouse. This hand gives you a solid chance to hit both high and low, making it incredibly versatile. Here’s why I love it:
- Strong High Potential: With two aces and two kings, you’re set up for top pairs and potential straights.
- Double-Suited Advantage: Being double-suited means you can chase flushes in two different suits, increasing your chances of winning.
- Scoop Potential: This hand can win both the high and low pots, which is a huge advantage in Omaha.
Key Points to Remember:
- Position Matters: Play this hand aggressively, especially from late position.
- Watch for Danglers: Avoid hands with low cards that don’t connect with your high cards.
- Be Cautious Post-Flop: Even with a strong hand, be mindful of the board and your opponents’ actions.
This hand is a great example of how strong starting hands can lead to big wins in Omaha.
In summary, A A K K double-suited is a top-tier starting hand that can set you up for success. Just remember to play it smart and keep an eye on the board!
2. A A J T Ds
When I get dealt A A J T double-suited, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot! This hand is super strong because it gives me a lot of options. I can go for high hands with the aces and tens, or even chase a straight. Here’s why I love this hand:
- High potential: With two aces, I’m already starting strong.
- Straight possibilities: The J and T can help me make a straight.
- Double-suited: This means I can make flushes with two different suits, which is a big plus!
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
A A J T ds | High |
A A K K ds | Very High |
K K Q Q ds | High |
Having a hand like A A J T ds can really change the game for me. It’s all about playing it right and knowing when to push my luck!
3. A A Q Q Ds
When I get dealt A A Q Q double-suited, I feel like I’m holding a golden ticket. This hand is super strong because it gives me a lot of options. Here’s why I love it:
- High Pair Power: The aces are the best starting cards in Omaha, and having two pairs means I can hit some serious hands.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means I can chase flushes in two different suits, which is a huge advantage.
- Straight Possibilities: With the queens, I can also make straights, adding even more ways to win.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what I can do with this hand:
Hand Type | Potential Outcomes |
---|---|
Top Set | 3 Aces |
Two Pair | Aces and Queens |
Flush Draw | 2 Suited Cards |
Straight Draw | 10, J, K possibilities |
This hand is a powerhouse in Pot-Limit Omaha. If you play it right, you can really dominate the table!
So, if you ever find yourself with A A Q Q double-suited, remember to play it aggressively. It’s a hand that can lead to some big pots!
4. A A J J Ds
When I get dealt A A J J double-suited, I feel like I’m holding a winning ticket. This hand is super strong in Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) because it gives me a lot of options. Here’s why I love it:
- High Pair Power: The aces are the best high cards, and having two pairs means I can hit some strong hands.
- Double-Suited Advantage: Being double-suited means I can make flushes in two different suits, which is a big deal in PLO.
- Flexibility: I can play aggressively or conservatively depending on the flop, which keeps my opponents guessing.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
A A J J Ds | High |
A A K K Ds | Very High |
K K Q Q Ds | High |
Having a strong starting hand like A A J J Ds can really set the tone for the rest of the game. It’s all about making the right moves post-flop!
5. A A T T Ds
When I get dealt A A T T double-suited, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot! This hand is super strong because it gives me a chance to make both high and low hands. Here’s why I love it:
- High Pair Power: The Aces are the best high cards, giving me a solid chance to win.
- Two Pair Potential: With the Tens, I can easily make two pairs, which is always a good thing.
- Double-Suited Advantage: Being double-suited means I can chase flushes, which adds more ways to win.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
A A T T Ds | High |
A A K K Ds | Very High |
K K Q Q Ds | High |
Having a hand like A A T T Ds can really change the game. It’s all about making the right moves and knowing when to push your luck!
So, if you ever find yourself with this hand, remember to play it smart and keep an eye on the board. You might just scoop the pot!
6. A A 9 9 Ds
When it comes to Pot-Limit Omaha, having Aces is a big deal. The hand A A 9 9 double-suited is a solid choice for several reasons:
- Strong High Potential: With two Aces, you’re already in a great position to make the best high hand.
- Flush Possibilities: Being double-suited means you have two chances to hit a flush, which can really boost your hand’s value.
- Set Potential: If you hit another Ace or a 9 on the flop, you can make a set, which is a powerful hand in PLO.
Here’s a quick breakdown of why this hand rocks:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
High Card Strength | Two Aces |
Flush Draws | Two suits available |
Set Potential | Can hit sets with Aces or Nines |
This hand can lead to some serious action at the table, especially if you play it right!
So, if you find yourself with A A 9 9 double-suited, don’t hesitate to raise and put pressure on your opponents. It’s a hand that can really pay off if you play it smart!
7. A A X X Ds
When it comes to Pot-Limit Omaha, having a hand like A A X X can be a game-changer. This hand is often referred to as a "double-suited" hand, which means it has the potential to make both flushes and straights. Here’s why I think it’s a solid choice:
- Flexibility: You can play for both high and low pots, giving you more chances to win.
- Scoop Potential: With the right flop, you can scoop both the high and low pots, which is always a sweet spot in PLO.
- Strong Starting Point: Aces are the best starting cards, and having two of them gives you a strong edge.
Key Points to Remember:
- Position Matters: Always consider your position at the table. Being in late position can give you an advantage with this hand.
- Watch for Danglers: If your X cards are low and don’t connect well, they might be considered "danglers" and could weaken your hand.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adjust your strategy based on the flop. If it doesn’t help your hand, don’t be afraid to fold.
In PLO, the strength of your hand can change dramatically after the flop. Always stay alert and be ready to adapt your strategy!
8. J T 9 8 Ds
When it comes to starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha, J T 9 8 double-suited is a solid choice. This hand offers a lot of potential for straights and flushes, making it quite versatile. Here’s why I think it’s a great hand to play:
- Straight Potential: With J T 9 8, you can hit a straight with just a few cards on the board.
- Flush Possibilities: Being double-suited means you have two chances to make a flush, which can be a game-changer.
- Connected Cards: The cards are all connected, which increases your chances of hitting something good on the flop.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
High Card | Low |
One Pair | Medium |
Two Pair | High |
Straight | Very High |
Flush | Very High |
Full House | Extremely High |
Playing J T 9 8 Ds can lead to some exciting hands, but remember to stay aware of the board and your opponents’ actions!
9. K K Q Q Ds
Alright, let’s dive into one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K Q Q double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pairs: You’ve got two pairs right off the bat, which gives you a solid foundation.
- Flush Potential: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes. That’s a big deal!
- Straight Draws: With the right flop, you can also hit some straight draws, adding to your options.
Things to Watch Out For
- Dangers of Danglers: If you have a low card that doesn’t connect, it can weaken your hand. Keep an eye out for those danglers!
- Position Matters: Playing this hand from a good position can maximize your chances of winning.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adapt your strategy based on the flop. This hand can be very versatile!
Remember, having a strong starting hand is just the beginning. How you play it post-flop is what really counts!
10. K K J J Ds
Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K J J double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why K K J J Ds Rocks
- Strong Pairs: You’ve got two pairs right off the bat, which gives you a solid foundation.
- Flush Potential: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, increasing your chances of winning.
- Straight Possibilities: With the Jacks in the mix, you can also aim for straights, making this hand versatile.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when you’re in a late position.
- Watch for Danglers: If you have a low card that doesn’t connect, it might weaken your hand.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adjust your strategy based on the flop. If it doesn’t help your hand, consider folding.
Remember, having a strong starting hand is just the beginning. How you play it post-flop is what really counts!
11. K Q J T Ds
When it comes to Pot-Limit Omaha, K Q J T double-suited is a hand that can really pack a punch. This hand is all about potential, giving you chances for both straights and flushes. Here’s why I think it’s a solid choice:
- Versatile Playability: You can hit a straight with just one card, and having two suits means you can chase flushes too.
- Strong Post-Flop Potential: If the flop is favorable, you can create some serious action.
- Good for Stealing Blinds: If you’re in late position, this hand can help you steal pots without much resistance.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
Premium Rundown | High |
Double-Suited | Yes |
Straight Potential | Strong |
In PLO, having a hand like K Q J T double-suited can lead to exciting plays and big pots. Just remember, it’s all about how you play it post-flop!
12. K K T T Ds
When it comes to Pot-Limit Omaha, having a strong starting hand is key, and K K T T Ds is definitely one of those hands that can make you feel pretty confident. This hand is a double pair, which means you have a good chance of making strong sets and even full houses as the game progresses.
Why K K T T Ds is Strong
- Double Pairs: You start with two pairs, which gives you a solid foundation.
- Flush Potential: Being double-suited means you can also chase flushes, adding to your options.
- Post-Flop Playability: This hand can lead to strong combinations on the flop, making it easier to play aggressively.
Things to Watch Out For
- Danglers: Make sure your other cards work well with your pairs. A low card that doesn’t connect can weaken your hand.
- Position: Playing from a good position can help you control the pot and make better decisions.
- Aggression: Don’t be afraid to bet big with this hand, especially if the flop is favorable.
In PLO, it’s all about how well your cards work together. K K T T Ds can be a powerhouse if played right!
13. K K A Q Ds
Alright, let’s dive into one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K A Q double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays. Here’s why I think it’s a solid choice:
- Strong Pair: You’ve got a pair of Kings, which is a great start. Kings can dominate many hands, especially if you hit the flop right.
- High Card Potential: The Ace and Queen give you options for straights and can help you out if the board gets tricky.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, which is a huge advantage in Omaha.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against some common scenarios:
Scenario | Win Rate (%) |
---|---|
Against A A | 30% |
Against Q Q | 60% |
Against J T 9 8 | 55% |
This hand can be a game-changer if played right. Just remember, it’s all about how you play it post-flop!
So, if you find yourself with K K A Q double-suited, don’t hesitate to raise and see where the action takes you!
14. K K A J Ds
Alright, let’s dive into one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K A J double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pairs: You’ve got two Kings, which is a solid start.
- High Card Potential: The Ace can help you make top pairs or even straights.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you have a chance to hit flushes in two different suits, which is always a plus!
Possible Scenarios
Here’s a quick look at what you might face with this hand:
Scenario | Outcome |
---|---|
Flop hits A, K, 2 | Top pair with a strong kicker |
Flop hits 10, J, Q | Straight potential |
Flop hits 2, 3, 4 | Flush draw opportunity |
Tips for Playing K K A J
- Be Aggressive Pre-Flop: Don’t be shy to raise! This hand deserves some action.
- Watch the Flop: Pay attention to what comes out. If you hit a King or an Ace, you’re in a great position.
- Evaluate Your Opponents: If they’re playing tight, you might want to push your advantage.
Remember, in Omaha, it’s all about the post-flop playability. K K A J can lead to some great hands, but you need to be smart about how you play it!
15. K K A T Ds
When I get dealt K K A T Ds, I feel like I’m holding a solid hand that can lead to some exciting plays. This hand is a great mix of high pairs and potential straights, making it versatile in many situations. Here’s why I think it’s a top choice:
- Strong Pair: The two Kings give me a solid starting point.
- Straight Potential: The Ace and Ten can help me form a straight if the right cards come on the flop.
- Double Suited: Being suited means I have a chance to hit a flush, which can be a game-changer.
Key Points to Remember:
- Play Aggressively: With this hand, I usually raise pre-flop to build the pot.
- Watch the Flop: I keep an eye on the flop for potential straights or flushes.
- Be Cautious: If the board gets too dangerous, I might need to reevaluate my position.
Having a hand like K K A T Ds can be thrilling, but it’s important to stay aware of the board and my opponents’ actions.
In summary, K K A T Ds is a hand that can lead to some great opportunities if played right. Just remember to stay sharp and adjust your strategy based on how the game unfolds!
16. K K Q J Ds
When it comes to Pot Limit Omaha, K K Q J double suited is a hand that can really pack a punch. This hand is strong because it has the potential to make both high pairs and flushes. Here’s why I think it’s one of the Best Starting Hands Pot Limit Omaha:
- High Pair Potential: With two kings, you’re starting off strong.
- Flush Possibilities: Being double suited means you can make two different flushes, which is a huge advantage.
- Straight Draws: The queen and jack can help you hit straights, giving you more ways to win.
Here’s a quick look at how this hand stacks up against others:
Hand Type | Strength Level |
---|---|
High Pair | Strong |
Flush Potential | Very Strong |
Straight Draws | Moderate |
In Pot Limit Omaha, the right starting hands can make all the difference. K K Q J Ds is definitely a hand to consider when you’re looking for a solid start!
So, if you find yourself with this hand, don’t hesitate to play it aggressively. It’s one of the Best Pot Limit Omaha Starting Hands you can get!
17. K K Q T Ds
Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K Q T double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pairs: You’ve got two Kings, which is a solid start.
- Straight Potential: The Queen and Ten can help you make some sneaky straights.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, which is always a plus.
Things to Watch Out For
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when you’re in a late position.
- Avoid Danglers: Make sure your other cards work well together. A low card that doesn’t connect can weaken your hand.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adjust your strategy based on the flop. If it doesn’t help your hand, don’t be afraid to fold.
This hand can be a game-changer if played right, but always stay aware of the board and your opponents’ actions!
18. K K J T Ds
Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: K K J T double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why K K J T Ds is Great
- Strong Pairs: You’ve got a pair of Kings, which is always a solid start.
- Straight Potential: The J and T can help you form a straight, giving you more ways to win.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, which is a big advantage.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when you’re in a late position.
- Watch the Flop: If the flop doesn’t connect with your hand, be cautious about betting too much.
- Know Your Opponents: Pay attention to how your opponents are playing; it can help you decide whether to stay in the hand or fold.
This hand can be a game-changer if played right, but don’t get too attached if the board doesn’t cooperate!
In summary, K K J T Ds is a strong starting hand that can lead to some thrilling moments at the table. Just remember to play smart and keep an eye on the action!
19. Q Q J J Ds
When I get dealt Q Q J J double-suited, I feel like I’m holding a solid hand that can lead to some exciting plays. This hand is all about potential, and here’s why:
- Strong Pairing: With two pairs, I have a good chance of hitting a set on the flop.
- Flush Possibilities: Being double-suited means I can chase two different flush draws, which adds to my options.
- Straight Draws: The connected cards can help me form straights, especially if the board is favorable.
Key Points to Remember:
- Position Matters: Playing this hand from a late position can give me an edge, allowing me to see how others act before I make my move.
- Avoid Danglers: If I have a low card that doesn’t connect with my hand, it’s often better to fold.
- Aggressive Play: I should consider raising pre-flop to build the pot and assert my strength.
This hand can be a powerhouse if played right, but I need to stay aware of the board and my opponents’ actions.
In summary, Q Q J J Ds is a hand that can lead to some thrilling moments at the table, but it requires careful play and awareness of the game dynamics.
20. Q Q T T Ds
When it comes to Pot-Limit Omaha, Q Q T T double-suited is a solid hand that can lead to some exciting plays. This hand gives you a great chance to hit both sets and straights, making it versatile in various situations.
Why This Hand Rocks:
- Strong Pair: You start with a pair of Queens, which is always a good foundation.
- Straight Potential: The Ten can help you form straights, especially if the board is favorable.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, increasing your chances of winning.
Things to Watch Out For:
- Overcards: If the flop brings high cards like Aces or Kings, be cautious.
- Coordination: Make sure your other cards work well together to avoid having a "dangler" that doesn’t help your hand.
- Position: Playing this hand from a good position can maximize your potential.
In PLO, starting hands are crucial. A hand like Q Q T T can be a game-changer if played right!
21. Q Q A K Ds
When I get dealt Q Q A K double-suited, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot! This hand is super strong because it gives me a chance to make both high pairs and flushes. Here’s why I love it:
- High Pair Potential: With two Queens, I can easily make a strong pair.
- Straight Possibilities: The Ace and King can help me form a straight.
- Flush Draws: Being double-suited means I have two chances to hit a flush.
Key Points to Remember:
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when I’m in a late position.
- Watch the Flop: If the flop doesn’t connect well, I might need to reconsider my strategy.
- Avoid Danglers: Make sure my other cards support the Queens and high cards.
This hand can be a game-changer, but I need to stay aware of the board and my opponents’ actions.
Overall, Q Q A K Ds is a fantastic starting hand that can lead to some exciting plays!
22. Q Q A J Ds
When I get dealt Q Q A J double-suited, I feel like I’ve got a solid chance to make something great happen. This hand is pretty versatile and can lead to some exciting plays. Here’s why I think it’s one of the top starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha:
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pair: The pocket queens give me a solid starting point.
- Straight Potential: With an Ace and a Jack, I can hit some nice straights.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means I can chase two different flushes, which is always a plus.
Possible Outcomes
Outcome | Description |
---|---|
High Pair | If I hit a set, I’m in a great position. |
Straight Draw | I can connect with the board for a straight. |
Flush Draw | Chasing two flushes gives me more options. |
Having a hand like Q Q A J double-suited can really open up my game. It’s all about playing it smart and knowing when to push the action.
So, if you find yourself with this hand, remember to play it wisely and keep an eye on the board!
23. Q Q A T Ds
Alright, let’s talk about the hand Q Q A T Ds. This hand is pretty solid in Pot-Limit Omaha, especially if you’re looking to make some moves. Here’s why I think it’s a great choice:
- Strong Pair: You’ve got a pair of Queens, which is a great start. It gives you a solid foundation to build on.
- Straight Potential: The Ace and Ten can help you form a straight, which is always a plus in Omaha.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you have the chance to make two different flushes, increasing your chances of winning.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect with this hand:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Pair | Queens (Q Q) |
High Card | Ace (A) |
Straight Draw | Yes (A to T) |
Flush Potential | Yes (double-suited) |
This hand can lead to some exciting plays, but remember to stay aware of the board and your opponents’ actions.
In summary, Q Q A T Ds is a hand that can really shine if played right. Just keep an eye on the community cards and adjust your strategy accordingly!
24. Q Q K J Ds
When I get dealt Q Q K J double-suited, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot! This hand has some serious potential. It’s not just about having a pair of queens; it’s about the possibilities that come with it.
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pair: Starting with a pair of queens gives you a solid foundation.
- Straight Potential: The K and J can help you form straights, which is always a plus.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, increasing your chances of winning.
Things to Watch Out For
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when you’re in a late position.
- Avoid Danglers: If you have a low card that doesn’t connect, it might weaken your hand.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adapt your strategy based on the flop.
This hand can be a game-changer if played right. Just remember, it’s all about how you handle it post-flop!
25. Q Q K T Ds
Alright, let’s talk about one of my favorite hands in Pot-Limit Omaha: Q Q K T double-suited. This hand packs a punch and can lead to some exciting plays!
Why This Hand Rocks
- Strong Pair: You’ve got a solid pair of Queens, which is always a good start.
- Straight Potential: The King and Ten can help you make some nice straights.
- Double-Suited: Being double-suited means you can chase two different flushes, which is a huge advantage.
Things to Watch Out For
- Position Matters: Play this hand more aggressively when you’re in a late position.
- Avoid Danglers: Make sure your other cards work well together. A dangler can ruin your chances.
- Post-Flop Play: Be ready to adjust your strategy based on the flop. This hand can be very versatile!
Remember, in PLO, it’s all about how you play your cards. A good hand can turn into a great one with the right moves!
If you’re curious about the exciting world of poker hands like Q Q K T Ds, check out our website for more tips and tricks! Don’t miss out on improving your game!
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it! Knowing the top 25 starting hands in Pot-Limit Omaha can really boost your game. Remember, the best hands are usually double-suited and have high cards. This means they can help you make strong flushes and straights. If you’re just starting out, stick to the stronger hands we talked about to avoid tricky situations later on. With practice and the right strategy, you’ll be ready to take on the tables with confidence. Good luck, and may the cards be in your favor!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the top starting hand in Pot-Limit Omaha?
The best starting hand in Pot-Limit Omaha is A A K K double-suited. This means you have two Aces and two Kings, both of the same suits.
How many starting hand combinations are there in Omaha?
In Omaha, there are 16,432 different starting hand combinations. If you also count the suits, that number goes up to 270,725.
How can I tell if my starting hand is good?
To figure out if your starting hand is good, look for high cards, if they connect well, and if the hand is suited or double-suited.
What makes Omaha different from Hold’em regarding starting hands?
In Omaha, you have four hole cards instead of two, which means you have more combinations and possibilities for strong hands.
Why are double-suited hands better?
Double-suited hands are better because they give you more chances to make flushes, which can help you win bigger pots.
What is a dangler in Omaha?
A dangler is a low card in your hand that doesn’t help your overall hand. It can weaken your chances of winning.
What should I do if I have a weak starting hand?
If you have a weak starting hand, it’s usually best to fold it before the flop, especially if the betting gets intense.
Can I play any starting hand in Omaha?
It’s not wise to play just any starting hand in Omaha. Focus on stronger hands to increase your chances of winning.