Safe, Secure, Established: The Largest Tournament Schedule, Welcome Bonus, and Fastest Withdrawals – Since 2001
Online Since 2001

What is a Down Card?

Home » Poker Terms » What is a Down Card?
What is a Down Card?

What Does Down Card Mean in Poker?

A down card is a card dealt face down in poker, hidden from other players, typically used in games like Texas Hold’em and Stud.

When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Down Card

In conversations about pocket cards in Texas Hold’em or discussing hole cards in Stud games.

In-Game Example

In a game of Texas Hold’em, your initial two cards dealt face down are your down cards or hole cards.

Strategy / Tips

  • Best Practice: Use your down cards to your advantage by understanding their strength relative to the community cards.
  • Common Mistake: Ignoring the potential of down cards by focusing too much on community cards.
  • Pro Tips: In online poker, be extra vigilant about protecting the information of your down cards as misclicks can reveal them accidentally. In live play, ensure no one can see your down cards by shielding them with your hands.

Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online

In live play, managing your down cards includes physical manipulation and concealment, while in online play, it’s about avoiding accidental exposure through interface mishaps.

Alternative Names

Hole cards.

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of down cards in poker?
A: They form the basis of your hand and are pivotal in determining your strategy and potential hand strength.

Related Terms

  • Community Cards
  • Fold

Select the software version that is right for your Mac

How to find my chip architecture?