AA, KK & QQ. these 3 are equal for me. Generally I don't like pairs. Pairs are like a coin flip (win/lose). Zero playability.
Pairs are one of the strongest starting hands in poker, and they give you a built-in advantage before the flop. While it's true that lower pairs can sometimes feel like a coin flip against overcards, the key is knowing how to play them in different situations rather than fearing variance.
Why You Should Love Pairs:
* Always Ahead of Unpaired Hands – Even pocket 2s have an edge over unpaired hands like AK.
* Set-Mining Potential – Flopping a set can lead to massive pots.
* Strong Preflop Shove Hands – Mid-to-high pairs are great for applying pressure.
* Control Over Hand Strength – Unlike drawing hands, you already know your strength from the start.
How to Play Pairs Differently:
Premium Pairs (AA, KK, QQ): Raise big, isolate weaker hands, and often commit post-flop.
Mid Pairs (99, TT, JJ): Aggressive in late position, cautious early, and strong for shoving with short stacks.
Small Pairs (22-88): Play for set value, especially deep-stacked, but be ready to fold if you miss.
Pairs aren’t just about flipping coins—they're powerful weapons when played correctly!