Omaha Hi-Lo
A split-pot variant of Omaha where the best high hand and the best qualifying low hand (five unpaired cards eight or lower) each win half the pot. Players use exactly two of their four hole cards for each half, and the goal is to 'scoop' both.
Frequently asked questions
How does Omaha Hi-Lo work?
Each player gets four hole cards and must use exactly two with three from the board. The pot is split between the best high hand and the best qualifying low — and a player may use a different pair of hole cards for each half.
What qualifies as a low hand?
Five unpaired cards of eight or lower, which is why the game is also called Omaha Eight-or-Better. Straights and flushes do not count against a low, and the ace plays low — so the best possible low is A-2-3-4-5, the wheel. If no one has a qualifying low, the high hand takes the whole pot.
What makes a good starting hand?
Coordination between the halves — hands that can win high and low at once, led by an ace-deuce with high cards attached. Four random low cards win half pots at best; the game rewards scooping, not splitting.