HOW TO INCREASE YOUR BLACKJACK ODDS

If you play blackjack, online or at land-based casinos, you’ll know that understanding the odds of winning is the first step to becoming a blackjack player with an eye for long-term success.

The second step is choosing which blackjack bets have better odds of winning and using them in tandem with basic strategy.

To achieve that, you’ll need a comprehensive guide on blackjack house odds, and that’s where we at HotSlots come in!

By the end of this post, you’ll be understanding blackjack odds like the best blackjack players out there. We’ll get you cruising through blackjack variations without going bust, in more ways than one!

WHY ODDS ARE SO IMPORTANT IN BLACKJACK GAMES

To understand why blackjack odds matter, let’s go over the general blackjack rules. The main goal is to have the cards you receive add up to 21, or get as close to 21 as possible without going over.

If you manage to score exactly 21, you’ve got what’s called a blackjack hand. Blackjack payouts (be it through a ten-value card and an ace) are usually 3:2.

At the start of the game, the dealer gives each player two cards and deals two to themselves. However, only one of the dealer’s cards is visible, with the other being a hole card (face-down). Players have to decide their next moves without knowing the value of the dealer’s second card.

In blackjack, when you look at the cards you have, it’s crucial to understand the odds of your hand being in your favour. This means having a blackjack hand or getting a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand. You also need to consider the chances of going bust, which means exceeding 21.

Simply put, odds tell you how likely something is to happen or not happen. They are expressed as a ratio, like 5:1, with the first number representing the likelihood of an event occurring and the second number representing the likelihood of it not happening.

In blackjack, player odds are often shown as a positive or negative expected win rate, indicating the chances players face throughout the game.

In blackjack, probability can be either zero or one. For instance, if there’s one ace of spades in a 52-card deck, the probability of randomly drawing that card is 1/52. If the ace of spades has already been drawn, the probability becomes 0/51.

Odds essentially express the probability of winning. Since we play blackjack with a known number of cards and their values are fixed, we can calculate the odds to help tilt the chances of winning in our favour.

ODDS OF WINNING BLACKJACK – HOW DOES IT WORK?

As we’ve mentioned above, blackjack odds tell you how likely it is for certain things to happen during the game. For instance, the odds of getting a specific card depend on the number of decks in play. Most casinos use multiple decks, typically ranging from one to six decks shuffled together.

When there are more decks, the blackjack odds can change. For example, in single-deck blackjack, your chance of drawing a specific card, like the ace of spades, would be 1 in 52.

However, in multi-deck blackjack, the story changed. The odds are a bit more complex in a multi-deck game, since there is a greater pool of cards, which affects the odds greatly.

The more decks there are, the lower the impact of drawing a specific card, as there are more cards in the total pool. The fewer decks there are, the greater the odds of drawing a specific card.

BLACKJACK ODDS – LUCK OR MATHEMATICS?

When it comes to playing blackjack, inexperienced blackjack players might think it’s all about luck, but there’s a good amount of mathematics involved too. Let’s explore whether it’s more luck or math that influences your chances at the blackjack table.

Firstly, luck plays a role because dealt cards are randomly dealt from the deck. You can’t predict exactly which card will come next.

This randomness is what makes the game exciting and, to some extent, unpredictable. Luck comes into play when the dealer hands out the cards, and you hope to get the ones that will make a winning hand.

However, math also plays a significant role in blackjack. Understanding the blackjack odds and probabilities can help players make better decisions during the game.

For instance, knowing the chances of drawing a certain card based on the number of decks in play allows players to estimate the likelihood of getting the hand they need.

Skilled players often use mathematical strategies to increase their chance of winning, like deciding when to hit, stand, double down, or split (aces, primarily).

ODDS AND PROBABILITY OF WINNING BLACKJACK

When you play blackjack, understanding odds and probability is like having a secret strategy to boost your chances of winning.

This applies not only to all (online) blackjack games but also to any casino game that isn’t entirely luck-based.

First off, blackjack odds tell you how likely something is to happen or not happen during the game. As we’ve explained, drawing a specific card from a single deck is 1 in 52.

Probability? We’ll talk more about that below.

WHAT IS PROBABILITY IN BLACKJACK?

When we talk about probability, it’s like digging deeper into the chance of winning.

Blackjack probability is expressed as a ratio, such as 1:52, where the first number is the chance of success, and the second number is the chance of failure.

The probability decreases the more decks of cards are present. For example, being dealt a particular card when two decks are being used would place the probability at 1:104.

As the game progresses and cards are dealt, these probabilities can change. Skilled players pay attention to these changes to make smarter decisions at blackjack tables.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CHANCES AND PROBABILITY IN BLACKJACK GAMES

In blackjack games, it’s helpful to know the differences between chances and probability because they play a big role in how the game unfolds.

Here’s a breakdown of each concept, starting off with the chances of winning:

• Refers to the likelihood of events happening or not happening during a blackjack game.
• Describes the overall probability of an event occurring.
• Example: If you hope to draw a specific card, like the Ace of Spades, and there are 52 cards, your chance is 1 in 52.

Now, here’s a breakdown of the key points regarding probability of winning:

• Represents the deeper details of chances, expressed as a ratio.
• Involves calculating the likelihood of success (drawing the desired card) and the chance of failure.
• Changes as the game progresses based on the dealt cards.
• For example, if you have a 1 in 52 chance of drawing the ace of spades, the probability is 1:52.

BLACKJACK STRATEGIES TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS OF WINNING BLACKJACK

Should you be looking for a basic strategy in blackjack, feel free to check out our dedicated post about blackjack basic strategy.

Here’s a quick rundown of the basic strategy most players employ to get the best blackjack odds possible:

• Know the house rules: Understand the fundamental house rules of blackjack, including card values and the goal of getting a hand close to 21 without exceeding it.
• Learn basic strategy: Familiarise yourself with basic blackjack strategy charts that suggest optimal moves based on your hand and the dealer’s upcard.
• Card counting: In some situations, card counting can be a strategy to track high and low-value cards, helping you adjust your bets and decisions. Make sure to verify if card counters are allowed in your casino before doing so.
• Manage your bankroll: Before you play blackjack casino games, be it at a land-based or online casino, set a budget for your blackjack session and stick to it, avoiding the temptation to bet more than you can afford to lose.
• Understand the player’s odds: Be aware of the blackjack odds of drawing certain cards based on the number of decks in play. After all, your winning odds will mostly depend on that.
• Avoid Insurance bets: Insurance bets often have very bad game odds, so it’s generally advised to avoid them to increase your overall winning potential.
• Choose blackjack casino games with favourable rules: Select blackjack casino games with rules that give players better winning odds, such as those that allow doubling down after splitting.
• Be patient: Be patient and avoid impulsive decisions; waiting for favourable hands and opportunities can improve your overall success.
• Stay calm: Keep a clear head and remain focused, especially in challenging situations. This gives you the best odds of making the right decision, which in turn gives you the best blackjack odds possible.

TABLE OF ODDS OF WINNING IN THE BLACKJACK GAME

Here’s a blackjack odds table specifying the exact probability of winning a hand with all possible outcomes of hand totals, ranging from 11 to a blackjack.

 

Hand Value	Probability
Blackjack (21)	3:2
20	High
19	High
18	Moderate
17	Moderate
16	Low
15	Low
14	Low

 

BLACKJACK DEALER ODDS TABLE

What about the dealer? Here’s what the dealer’s blackjack odds look like in the standard game.

 

Dealer’s Hand Value	Probability
Blackjack (21)	3:2
20	High
19	High
18	Moderate
17	Moderate
16	Varies depending on rules
15	Varies depending on rules
14	Varies depending on rules

 

The probability of winning for hand value totals of 16 and under depends on the specific rules of the blackjack casino game being played.

Specifically, this probability depends on the dealer hitting or standing on those particular totals.

CARD COUNTING WITH A LICENSE TO WIN AT BLACKJACK

Card counting in blackjack is a strategy where players keep track of the dealt cards to gain an advantage over the casino. It involves assigning a value to each card and adjusting your bets and playing decisions based on the composition of the remaining deck.

The basic idea behind card counting is to track the ratio of high-value to low-value cards remaining in the deck.

A deck rich in high-value cards is advantageous for the player, as it increases the likelihood of getting strong hands like blackjack. On the other hand, a deck with more low-value cards favours the dealer.

Card counters adjust their bets accordingly, betting more when the deck is favorable and less when it is not.

However, it’s important to note that card counts require skill, practice, and a good understanding of the game.

Casinos are aware of this strategy and take measures to prevent or discourage card counting, such as using multiple decks, shuffling more frequently, or implementing rules that make it harder for counters to gain an edge.

Moreover, it’s impossible to card count at online casinos since the decks are automatically shuffled after every round. This goes for online blackjack and any other online casino game.

THE EFFECT OF THE HOUSE EDGE ON BLACKJACK ODDS

The concept of the house edge in blackjack plays a pivotal role in determining the blackjack odds of winning for both players and the casino.

While blackjack is renowned for having one of the lowest house edges in casino games, the blackjack house edge still ensures that the casino makes a profit in the long run.

After all, if there were no long-term advantages, casinos would face financial challenges.

WHAT IS THE HOUSE EDGE IN BLACKJACK?

To discover the ins and outs of the blackjack house edge, check out our dedicated article about the house edge in blackjack.

The house edge (or house advantage) represents the slight statistical advantage held by the casino over the player, reflecting the small percentage of wagers the casino anticipates winning. This house advantage is what ensures fairness in blackjack.

For players with limited knowledge relying on luck, the player’s edge hovers around an expected value of approximately 2%. However, basic strategy can see the blackjack house advantage decrease to 0.5%, making it one of the lowest house edge values in the casino world.

Despite these strategies, maintaining a perfect approach throughout a lengthy blackjack session is challenging.

Both land-based and online casinos are aware that even the most skilled players may struggle, resulting in an anticipated loss for players in the long run.

Responsible gaming involves acknowledging this reality, setting win and loss limits, and enjoying blackjack as a form of entertainment rather than relying on it as a consistent source of income.

HOW DO SIDE BETS AFFECT THE HOUSE EDGE IN BLACKJACK?

Side bets in blackjack make the game a bit riskier for players because they usually increase the house edge. In regular blackjack, this percentage is often low, around 0.5%.

That said, side bets can have a higher house edge, sometimes ranging from 2% to 10% or even more. This means that a bigger part of the money you bet on side bets is likely to stay with the casino.

When you play side bets, the potential for a bigger blackjack payout might seem tempting, but that blackjack payout comes with a cost: a higher risk of losing. Because of the higher house edge, winning side bets consistently can be more challenging.

It’s important for players to be aware of this and understand that while side bets can add excitement, they also increase the chances of losing money faster compared to the standard blackjack game.

TIPS ON HOW TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS OF WINNING AT BLACKJACK

Although there’s no way to beat the house advantage in the long run, there is a way to make the most of your original bet in each round.

Here are a few tips and tricks to achieve that in any game you play:

• Know when to hit or stand: Understand the basic strategy for when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on your hand and the dealer’s up-card.
• Understand blackjack odds: Studying a blackjack odds table will help you understand the odds of drawing specific cards and the probabilities associated with different hands.
• Observe other players: One of the best ways to see how players deal with different scenarios in the game is by watching them play, be it online or in real life.
• Avoid emotional betting: Keep emotions in check and avoid making impulsive bets based on frustration or excitement.
• Take advantage of promotions: Utilise casino promotions, bonuses, and loyalty programs to enhance your overall gaming experience. We at HotSlots have some very attractive bonuses to consider, so make sure to check out our ‘Promotions’ page to see what goodies you can get your hands on before you play a blackjack game!
• Know when to walk away: Establish win and loss limits; if you reach them, consider walking away to prevent significant losses or capitalise on gains.
• Take breaks: Maintain focus by staying hydrated and taking short breaks to refresh your mind during extended gaming sessions.
• Split aces and eights: This is a simple strategy that can significantly improve your chances of winning.
• Don’t double down on 11 or 10: This is a common mistake made by many players. Double down is a risky strategy that is only profitable in certain situations
• Surrender when you are dealt a hand of 16 or 15 against the dealer’s upcard of 10: This is a way to reduce your losses in certain situations, since there’s very little chance that the dealer busts if they’re dealt a ten-value card as an up-card.

CASINO GAMES WITH THE BEST ODDS OF WINNING BLACKJACK

The best blackjack odds can be found in games with the lowest edge.

To that end, here’s a blackjack variation or two that has one of the lowest house edge in land-based and online casinos:

• European blackjack: European Blackjack is a classic variant of the popular casino card game, known for its straightforward rules and strategic gameplay. Typically played with two decks, European Blackjack involves players competing against the dealer to achieve a hand value close to 21 without exceeding it. The dealer receives one face-up card, allowing players to make informed decisions based on the visible information, contributing to the game’s engaging dynamics. This game has a house edge of 0.21%.
• Blackjack Switch: Blackjack Switch is an innovative and exciting variation of traditional blackjack that adds a unique twist to the gameplay. In this variant, players are dealt two hands simultaneously and have the option to switch the second cards between the two hands, enhancing strategic decision-making. The game introduces an element of skilful play as players aim to create stronger hands, making Blackjack Switch a dynamic and strategic choice for those seeking a different blackjack experience. This game has a house edge of 0.22%.
• Double Exposure Blackjack: Double Exposure Blackjack is a distinctive variant where both of the dealer’s cards are revealed face-up from the start, providing players with valuable information for strategic decision-making. While this transparency benefits players, the game balances the odds by making the dealer win all ties except for natural blackjacks. Although this means lowering payouts in general, this variant remains a very entertaining and feasible game to play, granted that strategy is used. This game has a house edge of 0.25%.
• Vegas Strip Blackjack: Vegas Strip Blackjack is a popular variation characterised by its widespread availability in Las Vegas casinos and many other casinos. Typically played with four decks, this variant features a dealer who stands on all 17s, providing players with strategic opportunities. With favorable rules for splitting and doubling down, Vegas Strip Blackjack offers an engaging and dynamic experience for both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts. This game has a house edge of 0.36%.

When playing blackjack, it’s essential to do so responsibly by setting win and loss limits. Even though blackjack is a game of chance, the blackjack odds tend to favour the casino over time.

To ensure a balanced and enjoyable experience, decide in advance how much you’re willing to win and, importantly, how much you’re comfortable losing.

By setting these limits, you can stay within your budget and avoid the temptation to keep playing when the odds might be against you.

Responsible gaming ensures that the thrill of playing (online) blackjack remains enjoyable without risking more than you can afford.