Master Double Bonus video poker with our complete strategy guide. Learn optimal play, key differences from Jacks or Better, and when to break made hands for bonus quads.
EV = Σ(P(outcome) × Payout)Expected Return
100.17%
Player Edge!
Variance
28.26
High volatility game
Four Aces Bonus
160:1
vs 25:1 in JoB
Two Pair Payout
1:1
vs 2:1 in JoB
Full/Flush payout determines return
| Hand | Action | EV |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Flush | Hold all 5 | 800.00 |
| Straight Flush | Hold all 5 | 50.00 |
| Four of a Kind | Hold all 5 | -110.00 |
| Full House | Hold all 5 | 10.00 |
| Flush | Hold all 5 | 7.00 |
| Straight | Hold all 5 | 5.00 |
Double Bonus has variance of ~28 compared to ~19.5 for Jacks or Better. This means you need approximately 40% more bankroll for the same risk of ruin. The reduced Two Pair payout causes more frequent small losses, while quad bonuses provide occasional big wins. Plan for extended losing streaks.
Double Bonus pays extra for four of a kind: 160 for four Aces, 80 for four 2s-4s, and 50 for four 5s-Ks. However, Two Pair only pays 1-for-1 (not 2-for-1), making the game much more volatile. The strategy emphasizes going for quads when possible.
Yes! This is a key Double Bonus strategy difference. Three Aces with two cards to draw has an EV of 14.71, while a Full House only pays 10. The potential to hit Four Aces (paying 160) makes breaking the Full House correct.
Two Pair pays only 1-for-1 (vs 2-for-1 in JoB), which occurs about 13% of the time. This lost equity is made up by rare quad bonuses. You need a larger bankroll - expect bigger swings in both directions.
10/7 Double Bonus (100.17% return) is the best, giving players a small edge with perfect play. 9/7 (99.11%) is more common and still good. Avoid 9/5 or lower - the reduced flush payout costs too much.
Quick-start with common scenarios
Expected Return
100.17%
Player Edge!
Variance
28.26
High volatility game
Four Aces Bonus
160:1
vs 25:1 in JoB
Two Pair Payout
1:1
vs 2:1 in JoB