Eight or better
What Does Eight or better Mean in Poker?
Eight or better is a qualification rule in high-low split poker games, such as Omaha Hi-Lo, where a low hand must contain cards no higher than an eight to be eligible for winning the low portion of the pot.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Eight or better:
This term is commonly mentioned in conversations and during gameplay when discussing hand qualifications for the low half of the pot in split-pot games like Omaha Hi-Lo.
In-Game Example:
In an Omaha Hi-Lo game, you hold A247. The board reads 569KJ. Your hand qualifies for the low because it has five unpaired cards below eight.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Focus on hands that can scoop both the high and low pots, such as A-2 suited.
- Common Mistake: Overvaluing low-only hands without high potential, which can result in being quartered.
- Pro Tips: In online play, track opponents’ tendencies to overplay low hands and capitalize by prioritizing high potential.
Differences Playing Over the Table vs Online:
In live games, reading physical tells can aid in predicting opponent hand strength, while online play requires keen observation of betting patterns and timing.
Alternative Names:
Eight or Better is also known as “8 or Better” or simply “Omaha Eight.”
FAQs:
Q: Can a pair be part of a low hand?
A: No, a low hand must have five unpaired cards eight or lower.
Q: What happens if no low hand qualifies?
A: The entire pot is awarded to the high hand.
