Key Insights
Quick Answer:
- Best X for Y: Best way to protect RTP: Reduce error rate, not chase wins
- Best time to do X: Best time to fix errors: Before raising stakes
- Biggest mistake: Thinking one wrong hold doesn’t matter
- Pro tip: Error rates compound faster than bad luck
What an Error Rate Actually Is
In video poker, an error rate measures:
- how often you make a suboptimal decision
- how much expected value (EV) that decision costs
An error doesn’t mean:
- you lost the hand
- you broke a rule
It means:
- you chose a lower-EV option
Some errors are tiny. Others are expensive.
Why Error Rates Matter More Than Win Rate
Win rate:
- changes with variance
- fluctuates session to session
Error rate:
- is entirely under your control
- affects long-term RTP
Lowering error rate improves results even when luck doesn’t.
How Small Errors Reduce RTP
A single error might cost:
- 0.05% RTP
- or less
But repeated over thousands of hands:
- RTP drops noticeably
- losses accelerate
This is why “almost perfect” play still loses money.
Common Types of Video Poker Errors
Players often:
- keep a low pair instead of four to a straight
- hold the wrong kicker with a high pair
- chase weak inside straights
- misplay bonus poker four-card draws
Each mistake slightly lowers EV.
Error Rates Differ by Game Variant
Some games:
- punish errors lightly
- offer more forgiveness
Others:
- magnify mistakes
- rely heavily on precise play
High-variance games have thinner margins for error.
Why Multi-Play Amplifies Error Rates
In multi-play formats:
- one wrong decision affects multiple hands
A single error:
- multiplies losses
- increases effective error rate
Accuracy becomes critical.
Error Rates and Strategy Charts
Strategy charts:
- show optimal choices
- minimize error rate
Ignoring charts increases:
- guesswork
- inconsistency
Charts are tools, not crutches.
Using Training Software to Measure Errors
Training tools:
- track every decision
- calculate EV loss
- highlight recurring mistakes
This is the fastest way to lower error rate.
The Emotional Side of Errors
Errors increase when players:
- feel rushed
- tilt after losses
- chase variance
Emotional control protects RTP as much as math.
Online Speed Makes Errors Cost More
Online play:
- increases hands per hour
- compresses mistakes faster
More hands means:
- more errors per session
- faster EV loss
Slow down to protect returns.
Acceptable Error Rates by Skill Level
Approximate benchmarks:
- Beginners: high error rate
- Intermediate players: improving but inconsistent
- Advanced players: very low error rate
Progress matters more than perfection.
Why Casinos Rely on Player Errors
Even high-RTP games:
- remain profitable
- because most players make mistakes
Casinos don’t need bad luck—they need errors.
Reducing Error Rate Without Stress
Best approach:
- master one variant
- use charts consistently
- practice deliberately
- avoid distractions
Focus beats volume.
Error Rate vs Session Results
A clean session can still lose.
A sloppy session can still win.
Only error rate predicts:
- long-term performance
- true RTP
Judge play quality, not outcomes.
FAQs on Video Poker Error Rates
What Is a Good Error Rate?
Lower is better. Aim to reduce it steadily.
Can I Eliminate Errors Completely?
No. Even experts miss sometimes.
Do Errors Matter More Than Variance?
Long-term, yes.
Does Bet Size Change Error Cost?
Yes. Bigger bets amplify mistakes.
Does Error Rate Reset?
No. It reflects ongoing play quality.
Where To Go Next
Now that you understand how error rates affect RTP, the next step is learning how to track your results and decisions over time.
Next Article: How to Track Your Video Poker Performance Over Time (article #30)
Next Steps
If you want skill context, read: How Skill Level Impacts Expected Returns (article #28)
If you want performance tracking next, read: How to Track Your Video Poker Performance Over Time (article #30)
Want the full framework? Use: The Complete Guide to Video Poker (pillar)
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