Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth It?

The beautiful game of Blackjack has stood the test of time. Known to have originated in French casinos in the early 17th century, Blackjack continues to grow in popularity even today. However, one question remains… are Blackjack side bets worth it? 

Being one of the simplest casino games at the time of its origin, Blackjack has evolved over centuries to attract more players. Today, it’s a game both new and experienced casino lovers can play and is found in both land-based and online casinos. Side bets have added complexity to the simple game of Blackjack, but new players have no reason to fear them. You’ll know why very soon! 

King Casino is the place to visit if you’re looking for an incredible online Blackjack experience! We’ve got many exciting online casino games, including Blackjack, Roulette, and various new slots. However, if you want to know the answer to ‘Are Blackjack side bets worth it?’, then keep reading.

What are Blackjack Side Bets? 

Blackjack side bets are extra wagers you can make in Blackjack. The gameplay of Blackjack revolves around trying to beat the dealer’s card total by getting as close as possible to a total value of 21 without going over or bust. You can use simple commands (Hit, Bust, etc.) in Blackjack to let the dealer know what you want to do. 

If you want to try something new, Blackjack side bets could be the way to go. These focus on predicting what cards you or the dealer will get. These side bets are placed before any cards are dealt, and anyone can win them. Typically, more experienced players utilise these side bets to try and add an extra layer of excitement.  

Why Play Side Bets in Blackjack? 

Are you still wondering if Blackjack side bets are worth it? Let’s look at why people play side bets in Blackjack to help you understand better. Mentioned below are the 2 main reasons players may decide to place side bets:

• The payouts

Many believe that the major appeal of playing Blackjack side bets lies in its potentially high payouts. Since Blackjack side bets have low odds of winning, their payouts can be pretty nice! For example, the ‘Perfect Pairs’ side bet offers odds of 30:1.

• To have fun

Many players have been playing Blackjack for quite some time now and may want to spice up the real money casino game. One way of doing this is by placing Blackjack side bets. These side bets can add a special touch to the game that keeps it fun and interesting for new and experienced Blackjack enthusiasts. 

Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth it? 

So, are Blackjack side bets worth the trouble, or should you just avoid them? This really comes down to personal preference. These side bets can add an extra layer of complexity to this simple live casino game, and those who place side bets could possibly be awarded higher payouts. However, they can also increase the house edge.

That being said, let’s remember that knowledge can be power. So, even if you don’t plan to utilise Blackjack side bets, you can still learn about them, or other Blackjack terms and bets as they might come in handy sometime. 

List of Blackjack Side Bets 

Interested in trying out some Blackjack side bets? Let’s discuss some of the most famous ones below! 

21+3 Blackjack Side Bet 

The 21+3 Blackjack side bet is one that almost every seasoned Blackjack player has heard of. It’s also incredibly common in online Blackjack versions today. This side bet mixes Blackjack with 3-card poker. 

In the 21+3 side bet, you bet on the possibility of your first 2 cards and the dealer’s face-up card combining to make one of the popular 3-card poker hands. These hands include flush, straight, 3 of a kind, straight flush, and the suited 3 of a kind. The maximum possible payout you can achieve from this bet is by getting a suited 3-of-a-kind (100:1).

Royal Match Blackjack Side Bet 

Another popular Blackjack side bet is the Royal Match side bet. It’s also available in various live online Blackjack versions, and the goal in this side bet is to get 2 suited cards (a K-Q pair is usually best). 

Like the 21+3 side bet, this side bet has to be placed before the round begins. The highest possible payout from this side bet is 25:1. 

Over/Under 13 Blackjack Side Bet 

Generally, a favourite side bet among many Blackjack players is the Over/Under 13. As the name states, you must place a wager on the total of your 2 cards exceeding 13 or staying under it. If you get a solid 13, you’ll lose this side bet. The maximum possible payout the Over/Under 13 side bet can offer you is 1:1

Super Sevens Blackjack Side Bet 

The Super Sevens Blackjack side bet is a wager in which you aim to get 1-2 sevens of the same colour or suit. To place this type of side bet while playing Blackjack, you will find certain spots on the Blackjack table. With 1 seven, the payout rate is 3:1. With another seven, it increases to 50:1, and if both the sevens are of the same suit, the payout potential rises to 100:1.

Lucky Ladies Blackjack Side Bet 

The Lucky Ladies side bet can offer the house a higher edge than the other side bets. This bet is placed assuming that the sum of your 2 cards will be 20. If it’s not exactly 20, you will lose the bet.

• If your cards equal a total of 20 but are unsuited, you may receive a payout of 20:1.
• If your cards equal 20 and are of the same suit, the payout is 25:1.
• If you get 2 Queens of hearts with the blackjack dealer, it pays 100:1.

Pair Square Blackjack Side Bet 

If your first 2 cards are of the same rank or suit, congratulations, you have won your pair square side bet! In this bet, you bet on your first 2 cards being of the same rank/suit. This bet is often known as ‘Any Pair’ or ‘Bet the Set’.