Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) is a thrilling and action-packed variant of poker that continues to grow in popularity worldwide. But while the 4-card variant of PLO has long been a fan favorite, 5-card PLO (PLO5) takes the challenge to a whole new level. With more cards and more possibilities this game demands a refined strategy and an understanding of the unique dynamics at play.
To help you level up your PLO skills, KKPoker ambassador Jon Kyte has compiled his top tips!
Jon has vast experience in PLO variants and won a WSOPC Ring in the €1,100 Pot Limit Omaha (4/5 Cards Button Round Each) event, and finished runner-up in the 2024 WSOP $2,500 Mixed Games (Omaha 8 or Better/Stud 8 or Better) event!
So, whether you’re a recreational player looking to improve or an aspiring professional, these tips will help to guide you toward success in this fascinating poker format.
1. Understanding the Key Differences Between 4-Card and 5-Card PLO
The shift from 4-card to 5-card PLO is more than just an extra card—it fundamentally changes the game’s strategy.
In 4-card PLO, great starting hands contain high cards and high pairs. Strong run-down hands like Q-J-T-9-8 also dominate. These hands have excellent playability across a variety of boards, making them a cornerstone of any solid strategy.
In 5-card PLO, however, aces aren’t always king (pun intended). You can hold a hand like A-A-7-3-2, and if the cards are not suited to the ace, if can be quite terrible! You will be at a disadvantage against connected hands or high run-downs such as Q-J-T-9-8.
Even bad aces versus good aces can be really bad, especially if you go all in.
Pro Tip: Focus on connected cards, nut flush potential, and high pairs when building your range. Bad aces—those without a nut suit or strong side cards—can put you in difficult spots.
2. Prioritize Nut Draws and Avoid Second-Best Hands
Drawing to the nuts is a golden rule in 5-card PLO. With more cards in play, the chances of running into stronger hands increase dramatically. A queen-high flush or a small full house might look good at first but can lead to costly mistakes.
Expert Advice:
-Always aim for nut flushes or nut straights.
-Avoid small pairs that can lead to set-over-set situations.
-Play hands with high connectivity and suited cards to maximize your chances of hitting the nuts.
-Double-Suited Hands Aren’t Always Premium
While double-suited hands are exciting, remember that they occur 50% of the time in 5-card PLO. This makes them less special than they seem. Focus on the quality of the suits and the overall structure of the hand.
3. Adapting Your Strategy for Different Formats
Cash Games: Play Tight Due to the Rake
In cash games, the rake can significantly impact your profits, especially in marginal situations. Going all-in with mediocre aces or marginal hands can quickly eat into your bottom line.
Play tighter and wait for premium hands to mitigate the rake’s effect.
MTTs (Multi-Table Tournaments): Go Aggressive in Re-Buy Phases
In re-buy tournaments, aggression pays off. Building a big stack early can give you an edge as the field narrows. Don’t be afraid to take risks here, as you can always re-buy if things go south.
4. Recognize and Capitalize on Equity
Equity realization is critical in PLO. For example, a hand like K-Q-J-T-9 on a Q-9-5 flop gives you a strong wrap, so you’re flipping against top set. Many players don’t realize their equity and end up folding too soon or overvaluing weak hands.
Tips for Equity Mastery:
Use an outs calculator to study post-game scenarios and learn how your hand fares against various ranges.
Remember, even top set can drop to 30% equity in multi-way pots!
Understanding your equity helps you make better decisions about whether to bet, call, or fold.
5. Mastering Fold Discipline
One of the biggest edges in PLO is knowing when to fold. While it’s painful to let go of strong hands, folding second-nuts hands or marginal draws can save your stack in the long run.
The best players excel at recognizing ranges, checking back with very strong hands when others would just bet for protection, or folding when they know they’re beaten.
6. Continuous Improvement is Key
Even the pros constantly review their hands to improve their game. After every session or series, analyze your decisions, discuss them with peers, and look for areas to refine.
Pot-Limit Omaha is one of the most dynamic and rewarding poker formats, and 5-card PLO takes the excitement to another level. By focusing on nut draws, understanding equity, and adapting your strategy, you can gain an edge over your opponents and elevate your game.
Tools to Use:
Equity calculators for post-game reviews.
Take notes while playing.
JOIN JON AT KKPOKER
KKPoker ambassador Jon Kyte loves the thrill of winning, travelling, meeting new people and the challenge of the biggest games!
Jon will be providing expert content from all of his poker travels, so be sure to follow him and KKPoker for exclusive insights. Read Jon's first exclusive post-event diary following his trips to Malta and Las Vegas.
Jon will also be taking his seat at the KKPoker online tables and streaming to give his followers even more high-quality poker tips.
At KKPoker, we’re committed to providing a platform where players can grow, compete, and share their passion for the game. Whether it’s through our online games, live events, or streaming opportunities, KKPoker is here to help you succeed.
Ready to put these PLO tips into action? Download the KKPoker app, join our games, and start dominating the PLO tables today!
