Learn How to Play Blackjack: Tips, Tricks and Betting

As one of the most popular casino games, if not the most popular, Blackjack is simple, fun and can be played for hours. In this guide, not only will you learn what blackjack is, but also how to go about giving yourself an edge against the house. In the game of blackjack, it’ll be you versus the dealer, no matter how many other players are sitting at the table. CasinoTop gives you all the learning tools right here. Read on to find out more…

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How To Go About Playing

The goal of blackjack is super simple, all you need to do is get 21 or the closest to it without ever exceeding it. Should you go over 21, you've lost the game and a new round begins. Remember, you're only trying to beat the dealer and not the other players.

1

Join a table

You will first need to join a table at the online casino you've chosen. There are many different variants of blackjack, so be sure to know the little nuances before deciding which table you're going to play.

Get a seat at the table
2

Get dealt your cards

The dealer will begin handing out 2 cards to each player at the table, beginning from their left. Both cards will be face up while 1 of the dealer’s cards will be left face down.

3

Hit or Stand

Once you have determined the total of your hand, you'll then need to decide whether you would like to receive another card (hit), or remain with the cards you were dealt (stand or stick).

Blackjack Hit CardsBlackjack Stand Card
4

Dealer reveals

Once all players have completed their turns, the dealer will reveal their facedown card. It is at this point that the winner will be revealed, the round ends and the process begins again.

Dealer Reveals Card

Basic Blackjack Rules & Tactics

The rules of blackjack differ depending on the variant you're playing. Even though these next tips may not guarantee you winning a massive pay, they will surely give you a better chance of beating the house. There are a number of tactics and rules that don't vary, no matter what version of the game you're playing.

Blackjack wins will always pay 3:2 unless you're playing blackjack surrender.
A win without blackjack will pay 1:1.
The dealer is always required to hit on any hand which is 16 or lower and must usually stick on 17.
A split refers to when two of the same cards are separated into two hands. When splitting aces, players will only be permitted to take one more card on each hand.
Doubling down is when a player can double their bet should they have a strong hand. In this case, you will only be permitted to take one more card.

Blackjack Betting Options

Soft Total - Refers to when a player’s hand consists of an Ace and another card. This Ace can be both 1 or 11 which gives the player a certain amount of flexibility. In some cases, dealers may be required to hit on a soft 17, but this is a rarity.
Insurance - Dealers will ask players if they would like to take an insurance bet if they are showing an Ace in their hand. This bet should rarely be taken as the odds of the dealer having a 10 are minimal.
Surrender - This play, which is not available at all casinos, allows players to recoup half their bet should they consider their hand has no chance of winning.
Even Money - Should you have blackjack but the dealer also manages to have 21, this is considered a tie. Here you'll be able to take a payout of 1:1 instead of 3:2.

Give Yourself an Edge

Quick thinking and making the right calls are easier said than done. Playing as much as you can will always work in your favor as you will hone your skills and get better at making the right calls. There are certain moves that are considered a no-brainer in blackjack, or should we say common tactics.

Don't split two face cards

Splitting cards in blackjack can increase your chances of winning substantially, however, depending on the cards you're splitting, this may work against you in some cases. For instance, you should never split two face cards, such as J’s, Q’s or K’s. Having a hard total of 20 is far better than having a lower total after splitting. You're not always going to get a high card so refrain from this move.

Don't split two face cards

Split Aces & 8’s

Always split Aces. This is a staple move at every blackjack table. By splitting the Aces, you'll give yourself two chances of getting a high card when you hit.

Split Aces & 8’s

Don’t Forget to Play Responsibly

Always remember that when playing blackjack at online casinos, you're there to have fun, so make sure that you're playing responsibly.

Only play with money that you can afford to lose

There are far too many stories of players losing their rent or utilities money that was never meant to be gambled with.

Implementing strategy

Implementing strategy, this may not always guarantee you a win, but it has been proven that playing with a strategy is far more reliable than flying by the seat of your pants.

Never play while intoxicated

Science has proven that when you are under the influence, you are far less likely to make the right calls. Often, you'll take unnecessary risks and to no avail. Keep a clear head and you'll be able to stay cool under pressure.

FAQs

How do I play blackjack online?

Simple, just choose from our list of online casinos that have been proven safe and reliable.

How do I win Blackjack?

The player who gets 21 or the closest to it without exceeding it is the winner.

What is the payout for blackjack?

Getting blackjack pays 3:2. Winning without blackjack pays 1:1.

When should I split cards?

Never split face cards, but always split Aces but remember you'll only receive 1 more card per hand.

How does counting cards work?

There are two different ways players count cards. Basically, you're trying to work out how many high cards are left in the entire pack of cards being dealt in order to know what will show up next.

Can I play blackjack for free online?

Yes, there are loads of casinos that offer a variety of blackjack variants for free.

Can I play blackjack on my mobile device?

Yes, casinos have been optimized for mobile compatibility. Whether you're using a smartphone, laptop or tablet, you'll be able to enjoy blackjack online?

Mobile Casinos

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