Blackjack Odds & Payout Rules Explained

Thinking of trying your hand at blackjack but feeling a bit lost with all the different rules and possible payouts? Don’t worry; you’re not alone!

Blackjack is a game of both chance and skill, but did you know that rules and odds can change depending on the variation and casino? 

Whether you’re playing online or in-person, it’s always a good idea to check these details before you start.

In this King Casino blog post, we’ll break down the basic rules, odds, and potential payout structures, so you can play with confidence and have a great time.

How Do Payouts Work In Blackjack?

In blackjack, the aim is to try and beat the dealer by having a hand value that’s closest to 21 without going over. Payouts are typically straightforward, but can vary depending on your hand and the casino’s rules.

Standard Payouts

For a regular winning hand, the payout ratio is usually 1:1. This means if you bet £10 and win, you get your original £10 back, plus an additional £10.

Blackjack Payout

A “blackjack” is when you are dealt an Ace and a 10-value card (10, Jack, Queen, King) right off the bat. This is the best hand and generally pays out at 3:2. So if you bet £10, you’d win £15 plus your original £10 back.

Insurance Payout

If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, you might be offered “insurance“. This is a side bet that the dealer has blackjack. The insurance payout is usually 2:1. Note, it’s often not a good idea as it increases the house edge.

Push

A “push” happens when both you and the dealer have hands of the same value. In this case, you get your original bet back, but without any additional winnings.

Remember, rules and payouts can differ between casinos and game variations, so always double-check before you play.

Blackjack Side Bet Payouts

Side bets can add an extra layer of excitement to blackjack, offering various ways to potentially win beyond the main game. However, it’s important to know that not all games or casinos will offer the same side bets, and some may not offer any at all.

Popular Side Bets

Perfect Pairs: This side bet pays out if your first two cards form a pair. The payout can vary, with typical rates being:

• Mixed Pair: 5:1
• Coloured Pair: 10:1
• Perfect Pair (same suit): 30:1

21+3: Combines blackjack with a bit of poker. You win if your first two cards and the dealer’s upcard form a flush, straight, three-of-a-kind, or straight flush. Payouts usually range from 5:1 to 40:1, depending on the combination.

Checking the Rules

Since side bets and their potential payouts can differ, it may be a smart move to check the specific game’s rules and paytable. Most online casinos will have this information easily accessible, so you can know what to expect before placing any bets.

By understanding the side bets available, you can choose which ones to play and potentially boost your bankroll while enjoying a more entertaining blackjack experience.

Blackjack Payment Rules

When playing blackjack, understanding how payments and bets work may help you manage your bankroll better and can potentially enhance your experience.

Placing Bets

Before any cards are dealt, you need to place your bet. This can usually be done by selecting a chip value and clicking on the betting area on the table. The minimum and maximum bet limits should be clearly displayed.

Splitting Pairs

If you receive two cards of the same value, you may have the option to split them into two separate hands. You’ll need to place an additional bet equal to your original bet. The payout for any winning hand will be calculated separately.

Doubling Down

Doubling down allows you to double your original bet in exchange for only one more card. This is usually done when you believe one additional card will give you a strong hand, often when you have a total of 9, 10, or 11.

Insurance

When the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, you might opt for “insurance“, which is a side bet that pays 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack. Keep in mind, taking insurance is often not recommended as it benefits the casino in the long run.

Surrender

Some blackjack variations offer a “surrender” option, allowing you to forfeit half your bet and leave the round. This is typically available only as the initial decision before any other action is taken.

By knowing these basic payment rules, you may be better prepared to make strategic decisions during your game.

Blackjack Odds of Winning Explained

The likelihood of winning varies based on the strategy you use, so let’s break down the options: perfect strategy (often referred to as basic strategy), and card counting.

Blackjack Odds With Perfect Strategy

Perfect strategy, commonly known as basic strategy, involves making the mathematically best decision for every possible hand situation. By following this strategy, you can potentially reduce the house edge to as low as 0.5%. This means you’re giving yourself the best possible chance to win over the long term by minimising the casino’s advantage.

Blackjack Odds With Basic Strategy

Basic strategy is a simplified version of perfect strategy. While it offers a significant advantage, it may not reduce the house edge as much as the perfect strategy, but is easier to learn and apply. By following basic strategy charts, you might reduce the house edge to around 1%. It can be a highly effective way to play blackjack and improve your chances of potentially winning.

Blackjack Odds With Card Counting

Card counting involves keeping track of high and low cards dealt to try and estimate the likelihood of favourable cards coming up. While this can give players an edge, potentially reducing the house advantage even further, it is frowned upon by casinos. If caught, you can face penalties such as being banned from playing. It’s important to note that card counting is not illegal, but it is not welcomed by casinos and can lead to exclusion from the premises.

Understanding these strategies and their associated odds can help you make informed decisions that may enhance your blackjack experience. Always remember to play responsibly and enjoy the game.

Is Blackjack Worth Playing?

Whether blackjack is worth playing can be quite subjective and depends on what you’re looking for in a game.

If you enjoy games that require skill and strategy, blackjack is a great choice. Using techniques like basic or perfect strategy can significantly influence your odds, potentially making the game intellectually rewarding.

Blackjack can also be a very social game. Whether you’re playing at a live table in a casino, or enjoying an online live dealer game, it offers a great way to interact with other players and the dealer, bringing a social element to your experience.

If you’re in it purely for fun, blackjack can provide plenty of excitement and tension. The combination of skill and chance can make every hand thrilling, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player.

Ultimately, whether blackjack is worth playing comes down to your personal preferences and what you seek in an experience.

Play Blackjack For Real Money Online

Ready to try and turn your blackjack skills into real cash? 

Join King Casino and experience the fun of playing blackjack for real money. With our wide variety of game options and secure platform, you can enjoy the excitement of live dealer games, or classic blackjack from the comfort of your home. 

Sign up to King Casino to play blackjack online.

Please play responsibly. 

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*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.