Blackjack stands as a top favorite in both online and traditional casinos. Understanding Blackjack odds can make the game even more thrilling and rewarding. This HunnyPlay guide will walk you through Blackjack odds, probability, the house edge, and effective ways to optimize your bets.
What are Blackjack odds?
Before diving into Blackjack odds, let’s first clarify what odds represent. For a Blackjack player, odds indicate two key aspects: the likelihood of winning a specific bet and the potential payout if that bet succeeds.
In Blackjack, there are two primary types of odds: the player’s odds (that’s you) and the dealer’s odds (or the computer’s, if playing online). Let’s explore each in greater detail.
There are two primary types of Blackjack odds: the player’s odds and the dealer’s odds. (Source: Internet)
Player’s Blackjack odds table
Boosting your Blackjack odds is possible through various strategies, such as card counting—though this technique is limited to in-person play and isn’t feasible online.
However, casinos can tip the scales against you by lowering payouts, increasing the number of decks in play, or enforcing restrictive rules like prohibiting doubling after splitting.
Understanding your Blackjack odds is crucial for spotting any potential advantages.
Below, you’ll find a Blackjack odds chart that outlines the probabilities of hitting after the dealer has dealt your first two cards.
| Hand Value | Probability |
| 11 or below | 0% |
| 12 | 31% |
| 13 | 39% |
| 14 | 56% |
| 15 | 58% |
| 16 | 62% |
| 17 | 69% |
| 18 | 77% |
| 19 | 89% |
| 20 | 92% |
| 21 | 100% |
The Dealer’s Blackjack odds table
Every Blackjack casino operates with a house edge, ensuring that the dealer always holds a significant advantage and better odds of winning than the player.
The dealer’s edge is further enhanced by their ability to play after you, allowing them to make decisions based on your actions.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the dealer’s Blackjack odds are influenced by the house rules. For example, a dealer required to hit on a soft 17 has a higher chance of winning compared to one who must stand on a soft 17.
Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the dealer’s likelihood of going bust, along with how varying house rules can impact these odds.
| Dealer’s Card | Probability – Stand on 17 | Probability – Hit on 17 |
| Ace | 17% | 20% |
| 2 | 35% | 36% |
| 3 | 37% | 38% |
| 4 | 40% | 40% |
| 5 | 42% | 42% |
| 6 | 42% | 44% |
| 7 | 26% | 26% |
| 8 | 24% | 24% |
| 9 | 23% | 23% |
| 10 | 23% | 23% |
What are the odds of winning Blackjack?
Your chances of winning at Blackjack can reach up to 42.22%, but this doesn’t mean the remaining 57.78% automatically favors the house.
There’s also a third outcome where the round ends in a push—a tie between you and the dealer—which happens about 8.48% of the time.
In simpler terms, the probability of losing a Blackjack hand is roughly 49.10%.
- Quick tip: A “push” in Blackjack means both you and the dealer have the same hand value, resulting in a tie. When this happens, you typically get your original wager back.
Your odds of winning in Blackjack are not fixed; they fluctuate based on factors like the game variant, the rules governing both the player and dealer, and your approach to the game.
For example, if you place random bets without following a solid strategy, your chances of winning drop significantly.
To boost your odds, it’s essential to learn the intricacies of Blackjack and apply a consistent strategy. This disciplined approach can significantly enhance your chances of success at the table.
How do the odds vary across different Blackjack games?
Because your odds of winning at Blackjack depend heavily on the variation you’re playing, it’s crucial to review the different game types and their specific odds. Check them out below.
American/Classic Blackjack
Classic or American Blackjack is the most common version found in casinos, played with a standard 52-card deck. In this variation, your win probability is 42.22%, with a 4.75% chance of hitting a perfect 21.
The house edge for classic Blackjack is generally around 0.61%, meaning that for every $100 you wager, the casino expects to earn $0.61. With odds typically set at 3/2, a winning bet returns 1.5 times your original stake.
For example, if you bet $100 and win, you would earn a $150 profit, making your total payout $250 (your original $100 stake plus the $150 profit).
European Blackjack
European Blackjack offers a few key differences from the classic version.
This variant uses two 52-card decks, and unlike in classic Blackjack, the dealer doesn’t hit after a soft 17. However, because the dealer doesn’t peek at their cards, you could be risking your bet against a hidden winning hand.
These factors generally offset each other, so the Blackjack odds in European remain close to those in the classic game, hovering around 42%.
Although the odds payout is also set at 3/2, European Blackjack is slightly more lucrative due to its lower house edge of 0.39%. This means that with each win, your profits are potentially greater.
- Handy hint: In Blackjack, a “hit” means adding another card to your hand to try to get closer to 21. If you believe an additional card might push you over 21, you can choose to “stand” instead and keep your current hand.
European Blackjack table layout (Source: Internet)
Blackjack Switch
Blackjack Switch introduces an intriguing twist to the classic game by allowing you to play with two hands simultaneously. While following the rules of American or classic Blackjack, this variation gives you the option to ‘switch’ cards between your hands.
For example, if one hand has a 3 and 11 and the other has a 9 and 10, you can swap the 3 and 10 to create a winning 21 (Blackjack) in one hand and 12 in the other.
Despite these unique rules, the win probability for Blackjack Switch remains consistent with other versions, around 42%. However, the game includes distinctive rules, such as all bets resulting in a push if the dealer hits 22.
The house edge for Blackjack Switch is notably low at 0.58%, making it one of the most favorable for players.
However, the payout Blackjack odds of Switch are set at 1/1, meaning it pays less than American Blackjack—where for every $100 wagered, you earn $100 in profit.
Blackjack Switch adds excitement by letting you play two hands at once. (Source: Internet)
Face Up 21
In this popular version of Blackjack, all cards are dealt face up, allowing you to see the dealer’s hand. The win probability hovers around 42%, but it’s important to note that in Face Up Blackjack, a tie results in a loss, not a push.
This version has the highest house edge of all variations at 0.85%, with Blackjack odds of just 1/1. Because of these factors, it’s not the go-to choice for players aiming to make a profit.
However, Face Up Blackjack is ideal for beginners looking to practice their strategy or for those who simply want to enjoy the game without high stakes.
Online Blackjack – Live dealer games
For a more authentic online Blackjack experience, live dealer games are an excellent choice. These games allow you to enjoy the thrill of a real casino from the comfort of your home.
Live dealer Blackjack generally adheres to the rules and format of classic Blackjack. The house edge in these games ranges from 0.49% to 0.72%, depending on the casino.
Additionally, the Blackjack odds are favorable, typically set at 3/2, making it a popular option for players seeking a genuine Blackjack experience with solid returns.
Free bet Blackjack
Free bet Blackjack offers a unique twist, allowing you to make specific moves without risking additional money.
For instance, you can split a pair or double your bet mid-hand for free if you have a hard 9, 10, or 11. This flexibility adds excitement and strategy to the game.
However, this variation comes with a higher house edge of 1%, the highest among popular Blackjack versions.
Despite this, the 3/2 payout Blackjack odds help balance the increased risk, making it an intriguing option for players looking to spice up their game.
Comparing the odds variations in Blackjack
Instead of relying on a Blackjack odds calculator for each variation, we’ve simplified things by creating a comparison table for you:
| Blackjack Variation | Odds | House Edge |
| American/Classic Blackjack | 3:2 | 0.61% |
| European Blackjack | 3:2 | 0.39% |
| Switch Blackjack | 1:1 | 0.58% |
| Face Up 21 | 1:1 | 0.85% |
| Free bet | 3:2 | 1% |
| Online – Live Dealer Blackjack | 3:2 | 0.49% and 0.72% |
Blackjack Hands and their odds
Beyond standard Blackjack, various side bets can enhance your gameplay, each impacting your Blackjack odds and potential payouts. Understanding these options is crucial to maximizing your strategy and making informed decisions at the table.
Insurance
Insurance is one of the most common side bets in Blackjack. Available in all game variations, this bet lets you protect half of your stake.
If the dealer shows an Ace and ends up with Blackjack, insurance ensures you still receive a payout, allowing you to break even.
These side bets add layers of strategy and excitement to the game, making it essential to know how they function and affect your overall odds.
Surrender
If you believe your chances of winning a hand are slim, the casino may offer you the option to surrender. There are two types of surrender:
- Early Surrender: This option allows you to forfeit half of your bet before the dealer checks for Blackjack. However, this choice is rarely available in most casinos.
- Late Surrender: More commonly offered, this option lets you surrender half of your wager after the dealer has checked their cards for Blackjack. This is typically the standard surrender option in casinos.
Should you believe your chances of winning a hand are slim, the option to surrender may be offered by the casino. (Source: Internet)
The Number of Decks Used
The number of decks a casino offers in a Blackjack game ranges between one and eight. While the Blackjack odds here remain the same, the probability is where things change slightly.
While the probability of winning Blackjack remains unaffected, the probability of getting Blackjack (21) differs.
Additionally, the number of decks used will also affect the house edge, with the value shifting by 0.56% from a single-deck game to an 8-deck game.
21+3
The 21+3 side bet gives you the chance to wager on the combination of the dealer’s face-up card and your first two cards. You can bet on five specific hand values, each with its own set of Blackjack odds, detailed in the table below:
| Wager type | Bet description | Odds |
| Flush | Three cards sharing the same category or suit (e.g., all diamonds or all clubs). | 5:1 |
| Straight | Three consecutive cards in sequence (e.g., 3, 4, 5). | 10:1 |
| Three of a Kind | Three cards with identical face value or rank (e.g., a king of diamonds, a king of spades, and a king of hearts). | 30:1 |
| Straight Flush | Three cards of the same suit in consecutive order (e.g., three of clubs, four of clubs, and five of clubs). | 40:1 |
| Suited Three of a Kind | In a game with multiple decks, all three cards must share the same face value and suit (e.g., three kings of hearts). | 100:1 |
While the odds for 21+3 are enticing, the probability of landing one of these winning hands is quite low.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the house edge for this bet is significantly higher, ranging from 6.29% to 8.78%, depending on the number of decks in play.
Interestingly, the more decks involved, the lower the house edge becomes, making it a slightly more favorable option in games with multiple decks.
Perfect Pairs
This side bet resembles the 21+3 wager, but it exclusively focuses on the combination of your own cards. There are three types of perfect pairs bets you can place:
| Wager type | Bet description | Odds | Probability |
| Perfect pair | Two matching cards (e.g., 2 x two of clubs). | 25:1 | 1.69% |
| Colored pair | Two cards with the same rank and color (e.g., queen of hearts and queen of diamonds—both red). | 12:1 | 1.93% |
| Mixed pair | Two cards with the same rank (e.g., a two of spades and a two of hearts). | 5:1 | 3.86% |
Although the payout odds for these bets are enticing, the chances of hitting a perfect pair are quite slim. Moreover, the house edge ranges from 2% to 11%, making it higher than most other Blackjack bets.
Doubling
Doubling down gives you the option to double your bet midway through a hand. Although the payout odds remain the same at 3:2, this move allows you to potentially double your winnings by effectively betting on the outcome twice.
Splitting
Many casinos offer the option to split your first two cards into two separate hands. However, this requires placing an additional bet on the newly created hand. Splitting can be advantageous, especially if the dealer’s hand is weak.
The Blackjack odds stay at 3:2 when you choose to split.
6 to 5 odds
While the traditional Blackjack payout is 3:2, the 6:5 odds are becoming increasingly common, particularly in Vegas. It’s crucial to understand the difference:
- 3:2 odds payout 1.5 times your original stake.
- 6:5 odds payout 1.2 times your initial bet.
In simpler terms, 6:5 odds result in a smaller payout, potentially reducing your overall earnings. Therefore, if you have the option, always opt for the 3:2 Blackjack odds to maximize your winnings.
Beyond standard Blackjack, various side bets can enhance your gameplay. (Source: Internet)
Understanding a Blackjack payout
Your Blackjack payout is largely determined by the casino you choose to play at. Most casinos offer payout odds of 3:2, with a house edge around 0.5%. However, some casinos provide lower payout odds, such as 6:5 or even 1:1 (even money). The payout odds directly impact the house edge, influencing your overall chances of winning.
- Blackjack payout chart: While Blackjack payouts are generally straightforward—typically set at 3:2, 6:5, or 1:1—their effect on the house edge can be more complex.
To simplify this for you, we’ve created the following Blackjack payout chart to illustrate how different payouts affect the house advantage.
Your Blackjack payout is largely determined by the casino you choose to play at. (Source: Internet)
Blackjack Odd vs. Probability: What is the difference?
Although “odds” and “probability” are often used interchangeably, they are distinct concepts with important differences. Here’s a breakdown:
Odds
Blackjack odds express the likelihood of a specific outcome and indicate the potential payout for a particular bet.
For example, if you have five cards and can only pick one, the odds are 4:1—meaning you have four chances of losing and one chance of winning.
However, in many cases, the second value doesn’t directly represent your chances of winning but rather the payout ratio for that bet.
Probability
Probability measures how likely you are to win a Blackjack bet. It’s calculated by dividing the number of favorable outcomes by the total number of possible outcomes.
For instance, if you have five cards and need to pick one, the probability calculation would be:
1 (favorable outcome) / 5 (total outcomes) = 0.2 or 20%.
The probability of winning Blackjack
When playing single-deck, your Blackjack odds of being dealt a natural Blackjack (21) stand at 32/663, or roughly 4.83%. In simpler terms, this means you can expect to hit Blackjack about once every 20 hands.
If you’re playing at top online casinos using RNG software, the probability of getting a Blackjack remains consistent at 4.83%, as long as you’re playing with a single deck.
However, switching to multi-deck Blackjack slightly decreases your chances. For example, with six decks in play, the probability drops marginally to 4.75%.
To save you the trouble of calculating probabilities for various deck numbers using a Blackjack odds calculator, we’ve compiled the following chart for easy reference:
| Number of decks | Probability |
| 1 | 4.827% |
| 2 | 4.78% |
| 3 | 4.764% |
| 4 | 4.757% |
| 5 | 4.752% |
| 100 | 4.735% |
The “odds” and “probability” are often used interchangeably (Source: Internet)
Blackjack odds vs other table games
Blackjack provides some of the most favorable odds in the casino. But you might be curious about how these odds stack up against other popular casino games. To help, we’ve put together a table comparing the odds of top casino games.
| Game | House Edge |
| Blackjack | 0.43% – 2% |
| Bingo | 2.5% – 11% |
| Baccarat | 1.06% – 1.24% |
| Roulette (Single Zero) | 2.7% |
| Roulette (Double Zero) | 5.3% |
| Craps | 1.36% – 1.41% |
| Ultimate Texas Hold’em | 2.20% |
| Pai Gow Poker | 2.84% |
| Video Poker | 0.05 – 2% |
| Video Keno | 8% – 15% |
| Slots | 5% – 15% |
Blackjack provides some of the most favorable odds in the casino. (Source: internet)
Blackjack odds FAQs
Q: What are the odds of winning at Blackjack?
A: Generally, yes, Blackjack offers some of the best odds in a casino. This is because there are three possible outcomes: a win, a loss, or a tie (push). With a push occurring 8.48% of the time and losses at 49.10%, your chances of winning are relatively high at 42.22%.
Q: What are the best odds at a Blackjack table?
A: To maximize your chances at a Blackjack table, seek out 3:2 payout tables. These are rare on the strip, often tucked away in high-limit rooms where a minimum bet of $100 per hand is required.
Q: Why does the house have better odds in Blackjack?
A: In any casino game, the house always has a built-in advantage, ensuring the Blackjack odds are tilted in their favor. This edge reduces both the likelihood and the size of player payouts, giving the casino a consistent advantage over time.
Conclusion
Understanding Blackjack odds is essential for any player aiming to enhance their game and boost their winnings. They help you make smarter decisions at the table. Ready to elevate your strategy? Join HunnyPlay today.