What Is Three of a Kind in Poker? Ranking, Examples & Rules
Three of a kind is three cards of the same rank plus two unrelated cards. It ranks #7 in poker hand rankings — it beats two pair but loses to a straight. In Texas Hold’em, it’s called “trips” when one card is on the board, or a “set” when you hold a pocket pair.
Example
The two remaining cards (kickers) only matter if two players hold the same three of a kind.
Where Does Three of a Kind Rank?
| # | Hand | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Flush | |
| 2 | Straight Flush | |
| 3 | Four of a Kind | |
| 4 | Full House | |
| 5 | Flush | |
| 6 | Straight | |
| 7 | Three of a Kind | |
| 8 | Two Pair | |
| 9 | One Pair | |
| 10 | High Card |
See the complete hand rankings guide for tiebreakers, kickers, and detailed examples.
How Does Three of a Kind Work?
You need exactly three cards of the same rank. If you also have a pair alongside it, the hand becomes a full house instead — a much stronger hand.
When two players both have three of a kind, the higher trips wins. If both have the same trips (possible with community cards), the kickers break the tie — first the higher kicker, then the lower.
Trip Aces beats trip Kings because Aces outrank Kings.
Sets vs. Trips
In Texas Hold’em, there’s an important distinction:
- Set: You hold a pocket pair and one matching card is on the board. A set is well-disguised because other players can’t easily see it.
- Trips: One card is in your hand and two matching cards are on the board. Trips are more visible to opponents.
Both are three of a kind — the ranking is the same. The difference matters for strategy, not for hand strength.
What Beats Three of a Kind?
A straight beats three of a kind. Three of a kind beats two pair.
What Are the Odds?
In a five-card deal, the probability of being dealt three of a kind is 2.1128% — roughly 1 in 47 hands. In Texas Hold’em (seven cards available), the odds of making three of a kind by the river are about 4.83%.
FAQ
Does three of a kind beat two pair?
Yes. Three of a kind (#7) always beats two pair (#8). This surprises some new players who assume two pairs should beat three matching cards.
What is the difference between a set and trips?
Both are three of a kind. A “set” means you have a pocket pair and the board provides the third card. “Trips” means the board has a pair and you hold the third card. The hand ranking is the same.
Does three of a kind beat a straight?
No. A straight (#6) beats three of a kind (#7). A straight also beats two pair, one pair, and high card.
For the complete guide to all 10 poker hands, see our poker hand rankings. Need a quick reference? Download our poker cheat sheet.
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