If you’ve wondered how Texas Hold’em fits into the wider world of poker, you’re not alone. Picking up a deck for the first time can raise plenty of questions, especially with so many names for games that look similar.
Here, we’ll break down the key differences and similarities between Texas Hold’em and what’s often called “regular” poker, using simple words.
Whether you’re simply curious or considering giving poker a go, knowing how these games compare can help you choose what to play.
How Many Poker Variations Are There?
Poker isn’t one single game. There are more than a dozen well-known types, each with different rules and playing styles. Some are found in UK casinos and online, while others tend to appear more in home or private games.
Most poker games fall into a few main categories. As you’ve already seen, Texas Hold’em is the most recognised, but there’s also Omaha, Seven Card Stud, and Five Card Draw, among others. The way cards are dealt can change a game completely. Some variations use shared cards on the table, while others give all cards straight to the players.
Names like Caribbean Stud, Razz, or Pineapple may also come up. Each one brings its own set of rules and ways to potentially win a hand. The aim is usually the same: try to build the strongest hand, but the approach often feels very different.
Keep in mind that rules can change depending on where you play. If you want to try a new version, you might find it useful to look up the rules first.
What Is Texas Hold’em Poker?
Texas Hold’em stands out as the most played poker game in the UK, and it’s the top choice at most casinos and online rooms.
Each player starts with two private “hole cards” that only they can see. Five more cards, known as “community cards,” are dealt face-up in the centre of the table for everyone to use. You use any mix of your two hole cards and the five community cards to try and make your best five-card hand, such as a pair, straight, or flush.
There are several betting rounds. You can “call” (match the bet), “raise” (increase it), or “fold” (step out of the round).
Because Texas Hold’em uses both private cards and community ones, no two games play out in the same way. You’ll always need to adapt. If you want to join a game, make sure you know the specific rules and table limits before you start.
What Are The Differences Between Texas Hold’em and Regular Poker?
In the UK, when people talk about “regular poker,” they’re usually thinking of games like Five Card Draw or Seven Card Stud. Each version has its own way of dealing cards and running betting rounds.
Texas Hold’em, as covered above, gives you two private cards, plus five shared community cards in the centre. Everyone uses the same set of community cards with their own hole cards to try for the best hand.
Five Card Draw works differently. Here, all players receive five private cards and don’t share any with others. After one round of betting, you can swap some of your cards for new ones from the deck.
Then there’s Seven Card Stud, where each player is dealt a total of seven cards over several rounds—some face up for everyone to see, and some face down. Unlike Texas Hold’em, there are no shared community cards; each player uses their own seven cards to try and make the best five-card hand.
Details like how many cards you get, how many are shared, and how betting works can vary. Smaller home games often add their own “house rules” too, changing the play even further.
No matter which version you choose, each style of poker combines decision-making with an element of chance. If you’re unsure which one might suit you best, take your time to learn the rules and play at a pace that feels comfortable to you.
Texas Hold’em vs Regular Poker: Which Is More Popular?
Texas Hold’em is by far the most common poker game in the UK. You’ll find it in almost every casino, most online rooms, and even on TV tournaments. It’s also the game most people tend to learn first.
Five Card Draw and Seven Card Stud—often grouped as “regular poker”—are more likely to pop up in home games or small groups, rather than at big venues or websites.
UK gambling reports show that most online and live poker games use the Texas Hold’em style. In recent years, the majority of cash games and tournaments here have followed this format.
The shared community cards in Texas Hold’em can make it quick to learn, but also offer chances for deeper tactics, which is part of why it’s become so common. Still, choosing the “best” game is a personal decision, and some prefer the straightforward feel of other types.
Whichever version you enjoy, it’s important to remember that poker always involves risk. To help keep the game enjoyable, take regular breaks and avoid chasing losses.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.