Blackjack: Best and Worst Cards to Split for Players

If you’re new to blackjack, you might have spotted players at a table dividing their cards into two hands- this move is called splitting. 

Knowing when to split, or when to leave your cards as they are, can potentially shape how you approach each round. The choice depends on the cards you’re dealt and the stage of the hand, and understanding this could help you make clearer decisions.

Whether you’re playing at a local casino or online, it might be worth checking the game rules first. Tables can vary, and those small differences often matter when pairs appear. Read on to learn more. 

What Does Splitting Mean in Blackjack?

Splitting is a choice players get in blackjack when they’re dealt two cards with the same value, like a pair of 8s or two Kings. Instead of playing the pair as one hand, you can split them into two separate hands. Each hand is then played on its own, starting with one of the original cards.

If you split, you match your original bet, so your total stake for that round doubles. Each split hand receives an additional card from the dealer, and you then make decisions for each hand just as you would in any normal round.

You will not be able to split in every round, because it depends on being dealt a pair. Some tables also cap how many times you can split or restrict certain pairs. A quick look at the rules before you begin may save guesswork later.

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.

Best Cards to Split for Maximum Payouts

Splitting pairs can potentially improve your position in specific spots, and two pairs stand out for many players.

Aces are widely considered the top pair to split. An Ace paired with a new card can create a very strong total, and splitting gives you two separate chances to build high-value hands. Most tables only allow one extra card per split Ace, and some treat a 10-value card on a split Ace as 21 rather than a natural blackjack. Even with those rules, splitting Aces is usually a sound move.

Eights are another pair often split. A total of 16 is one of the more awkward starting totals to play. By splitting, you trade a difficult 16 for two hands starting at 8, which generally puts you in a better position over time.

Some games allow re-splitting or doubling after a split. These options can affect how much value you gain from splitting strong pairs.

Worst Cards to Split in Blackjack

Not every pair helps your position when split. Some pairs tend to weaken a strong start or make the round harder to manage.

Why Splitting Tens Is a Common Mistake

A pair of tens, or any two cards valued at ten such as face cards, gives you 20. That is a strong total before the dealer finishes their hand. Splitting turns one strong hand into two weaker starting hands, and the chance of improving on 20 with both is low. In most situations, keeping 20 is the safer approach.

Why You Should Never Split Fives or Face Cards

Two 5s total 10, which is a solid platform for taking one more card. Splitting leaves you with two hands of 5 that both need a lot of help. Most players prefer to keep the 10-value total together rather than break it up.

Face cards such as Jacks, Queens and Kings each count as ten. Splitting them has the same drawback as splitting tens: you give up a strong position for two uncertain ones. Unless table rules offer a very specific reason to try something different, keeping the original hand is usually the better call.

How Table Rules Can Affect Splitting Decisions

Each blackjack game may have slightly different rules, and these can influence how splitting works in practice. There are a few common variations that players should be aware of:

Some games restrict the number of times a player can split. Depending on the table, you might be permitted to split only once or up to three times, allowing a single pair to become several hands if another pair appears after the initial split.

The rules for splitting Aces are often more limited. Many blackjack tables allow only one split with Aces and only one additional card to be drawn for each split Ace. In some versions, a total of 21 achieved with a split Ace and a 10-value card is counted as a regular 21 rather than a blackjack, which changes the payout structure.

Details about these rules are usually available in the game information or help section before play begins. Taking a moment to review them could help to ensure you understand how the game operates and apply consistent decisions across different tables.

Play Blackjack Online

If you’re curious about blackjack, King Casino offers a range of online tables to explore the game at your own pace. You will see the key rules for each table before you start, with different bet sizes and formats available on mobile, tablet or desktop.

King Casino is licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), with clear standards for fairness and player protection. You can use account tools such as deposit limits if you would like support managing your play in line with your budget and preferences. 

Whether you prefer a classic setup or want to try a fresh variant, we aim to make it straightforward to find a table that suits you. Feel free to sign up, verify your account, and you can browse the full selection of blackjack games. Read on to learn more.

_{**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.}