What Is Two Pair in Poker? Ranking, Examples & Rules

Two pair is two cards of one rank, two cards of a different rank, and one unrelated kicker. It ranks #8 in poker hand rankings — it beats one pair but loses to three of a kind.

Example

A two pair hand is named by its higher pair first: “Queens and Sevens” or “Aces and Kings.”

Where Does Two Pair Rank?

See the complete hand rankings guide for tiebreakers, kickers, and detailed examples.

How Does Two Pair Work?

You need exactly two distinct pairs. If the three remaining cards include a third matching card, the hand becomes a full house instead.

When two players both have two pair, the higher top pair wins. If the top pairs match, the second pair breaks the tie. If both pairs match, the kicker decides.

Both hands have a pair of Aces, so the second pair decides: Kings beat Queens.

What Beats Two Pair?

Three of a kind beats two pair. Two pair beats one pair.

What Are the Odds?

In a five-card deal, the probability of being dealt two pair is 4.7539% — roughly 1 in 21 hands. In Texas Hold’em (seven cards available), two pair is very common — you’ll make it about 23.5% of the time by the river.

FAQ

Does two pair beat three of a kind?

No. Three of a kind (#7) beats two pair (#8). Even though two pair involves more paired cards, three matching cards outrank two separate pairs.

How do you compare two pair hands?

Compare the highest pair first. If those match, compare the second pair. If both pairs are identical, the kicker (fifth card) decides. If everything matches, the pot is split.

Does two pair beat one pair?

Yes. Two pair (#8) always beats one pair (#9). Having two separate pairs is stronger than having just one pair.

For the complete guide to all 10 poker hands, see our poker hand rankings. Need a quick reference? Download our poker cheat sheet.