Blackjack 8s and 10s: Should You Split or Stand?

Blackjack looks straightforward at first glance, but a pair of 8s or a pair of 10s can make things feel more complicated. Those two starting hands sit at the heart of many table debates, and the best choice often depends on the context.

Rules vary between games, especially online, so it might help to know what your table allows before you consider playing. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) expects operators to present game rules clearly, and taking a moment to read them could make your decisions more informed.

With that in mind, let’s explore how 8s and 10s typically play out, why the dealer’s upcard matters, and when house rules can nudge the numbers. Read on to learn more.

Should You Split 8s Against 10 In Blackjack?

A pair of 8s totals 16, which is one of the least comfortable positions in blackjack. Against a dealer 10, that 16 is in a weak spot, as it often loses whether you stand or hit. Splitting the 8s reshapes the situation. You move from one difficult 16 to two hands starting at 8, each with room to grow into 18, 19 or 20 if a face card lands.

In most commonly used strategies, splitting 8s against a 10 is preferred because it reduces the chance of ending up stuck on a poor total. Even though the dealer’s 10 is strong, two fresh hands usually perform better over time than a single 16. If the table allows resplitting, that can help too when another 8 appears.

There are a few rule-based wrinkles to be aware of. If a game offers surrender, some players weigh that option with a hard 16 against a 10, but many strategies still favour splitting 8s. If doubling after a split is restricted, the split is slightly less powerful, yet it generally remains the stronger choice than keeping 16. The key idea is simple: splitting turns a difficult total into two hands that have realistic ways to reach safer numbers.

If you do decide to try your hand at blackjack, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose. 

How Does Dealer Upcard Strength Influence The Decision?

The dealer’s upcard sets the tone. Cards from 2 to 6 are generally weaker because the dealer is more likely to finish on an awkward total. Against those upcards, splitting 8s aims to create two competitive hands while the dealer is under pressure.

By contrast, when the upcard is 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace, the dealer is likelier to reach a stronger total, which is why holding 16 is so uncomfortable. Even then, splitting can still help you escape that starting disadvantage.

For pairs of 10s, the picture is different. A total of 20 is already strong against any upcard. Whether the dealer shows a 6 or a 10, standing on 20 typically outperforms trying to turn two 10s into something better. The dealer’s upcard might change how tense the hand feels, but it usually does not change the fact that 20 is a high bar to beat.

Standing On 10s Explained

Two 10s give you 20, which is only beaten by 21. Keeping the pair together maintains that strong position. Splitting 10s creates two hands that both need help to reach 18, 19 or 20, and there is a real chance one or both end up with mid-range totals that lose to the dealer’s finish.

This is why most strategy charts recommend standing on 20 against any upcard. It is not about playing it safe for the sake of it, it is about protecting a hand that already wins frequently. While occasional exceptions appear in specialised conditions, for standard blackjack the wisest choice might be to keep 20 together and let the dealer try to catch up. 

Do Blackjack Rules Variations Change The Best Move?

Blackjack rules are not identical across all tables. A few details can shift expected results slightly, especially over many hands:

• Dealer on soft 17: If the dealer must hit on soft 17, outcomes tilt a little towards the house, as the dealer improves more often. That makes 16 feel even weaker, which reinforces why splitting 8s is commonly preferred.
• Doubling after split and resplitting: Being allowed to double down after splitting, and to split again if another 8 appears, strengthens the case for splitting 8s. If these options are limited, splitting is slightly less powerful, but still usually better than standing on 16.

Deck numbers and whether the dealer peeks for blackjack also influence the fine details. In no hole card games, for instance, extra bets placed after a split can be at risk if the dealer later reveals a natural, so checking the table rules matters. If surrender is available, it introduces another decision point with 16 against a 10, though many approaches still treat a pair of 8s as a split.

Play Blackjack Online

If you want to explore blackjack online, King Casino offers live dealer and digital tables with clear rules and varying bet ranges. Each game explains its house rules up front, including whether doubling after a split is allowed, how many decks are used, and whether the dealer stands on soft 17. That way, you can pick a table that fits how you like to approach hands such as 8s and 10s.

Our digital games use independently tested Random Number Generators (RNGs) and our live tables stream directly from professional studios, so outcomes are produced fairly and transparently in line with UK standards. You can view the paytable and rule set before you join, and choose the version that suits you.

Create your King Casino account, set deposit limits that work for you, and browse the blackjack lobby to find a table you feel comfortable with. Play at your own pace, make informed choices, and enjoy the game with a clear plan in mind. Always keep responsible gambling practices in mind. 

_{**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.}

_{*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.}