How to Win at Blackjack

Now that we've covered the rules on how to play blackjack, you're probably looking for a solid strategy to use to strengthen your game and win some real money. Our expert players have designed a Cheat Sheet to make playing blackjack at the best online casinos easier for you!

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Table of Contents

1. The Objective of Blackjack
   1. How to Win
   2. How to Lose
2. Blackjack Terminology for Winning Strategies
   1. Surrender
   2. Split
   3. Double
   4. Hit or Stand
3. Blackjack Cheat Sheet
4. Top Tips for Winning Blackjack
5. Common Mistakes in Blackjack
   1. Choosing the Wrong Table
   2. Choosing the Wrong Strategy
   3. Playing the Insurance Bet
   4. Splitting 4s, 5s, and 10s
   5. Playing 6:5
6. Top Online Casinos for Blackjack

What Is the Objective of Blackjack?

The goal of blackjack is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. Blackjack requires players to use their knowledge of odds, probabilities, and statistics to make informed betting decisions. Those who can effectively manage their bets and budget while also making calculated decisions based on the cards in their hand will likely come out on top in this exciting and challenging game. 

How Do I Win?

In blackjack, you win by having a hand value higher than the dealer's hand value without going over 21. There are countless ways to improve your odds of winning and increase your bankroll; from mastering basic blackjack strategy to taking advantage of promotions and bonuses. By learning the ins and outs of the game, you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful blackjack player. We’ll expand on our top 10 tips for winning later in this article, but here is a list of some common strategies:

• Split aces and 8s
• Play at tables with player-friendly rules
• Always double on 11
• Avoid insurance bets
• Take regular breaks
• Use blackjack strategy
• Never chase your losses 
• Play at busy blackjack tables
• Use a reliable betting system 
• Practice playing blackjack games
• Maximize the use of bonuses & promotions
• Implement stringent bankroll management practices

How Do I Lose?

Beginners often make common, avoidable mistakes that cause them to lose when they have the potential to win. Luckily, our guide is here to help you! Here is a list of some of the most common mistakes: 

• Playing impaired
• Chasing your losses
• Playing blackjack side bets
• Misinterpreting blackjack rules
• Making poor betting decisions
• Ineffective bankroll management
• Blaming everyone for your bad luck
• Being unable to adapt to changing conditions at the table

We’ll expand on the top 5 mistakes to avoid later on in this article.

What Terminology Is Used in Blackjack Winning Strategies?

Most strategies will reference the various actions players can take during the game, including - Hit, Stand, Double, Split, Insurance, Surrender, and Bet. These actions allow players to strategize and make decisions that can affect the game's outcome. It’s important to understand these terms to be successful at the blackjack table:

Hit	To hit means to request another card. Players may hit as often as they like until they decide to stand or bust.
Stand	To stand means to stop receiving cards. A player will usually stand when satisfied with their current hand value.
Double	To double down means to double the original bet in exchange for receiving one more card. Doubling may be restricted on certain hands based on the rules of the casino.
Split	If a player's first two cards have the same value (a pair or ten-value cards such as 10s, Jacks, Queens and Kings), they can split them into two separate hands.
Insurance	Insurance is a side bet offered when the dealer's upcard is an Ace. It pays 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack.
Surrender	Surrender is an option that allows a player to forfeit their hand and receive half their bet back. The option to surrender is offered on the first two cards dealt.
Side Bet	A blackjack side bet is an optional wager that a player can make in addition to their main bet on the hand. However, they usually have higher house edges than the main blackjack bet and are not considered a good long-term betting strategy.
Bet	A bet is a wager that a player places on their hand.

These actions have a definite order in blackjack betting: 

• Can I surrender? And should I surrender?
• Can I split? And should I split my cards?
• Can I double? And should I double my hand?
• Is it better to hit or stand on my hand?

Should I Surrender?

Surrendering may be a good option if you have a weak hand (such as a hard 16) and the dealer is showing a strong upcard (such as an Ace or a 10) because you are likely to lose the hand.

If you have a strong hand (such as a hard 17 or higher) or the dealer is showing a weak upcard (such as a two or a three), you may want to continue with the hand because you have a good chance of winning.

There are two types of surrender: early surrender and late surrender. Early surrender allows you to forfeit your hand before the dealer checks for blackjack. This option is not commonly offered because it gives you a significant advantage. With late surrender, you can forfeit your hand after the dealer checks for blackjack, but only if the dealer does not have blackjack.

Here are a couple of examples of when surrender might be a good option:

• You have a hard 16, and the dealer shows an Ace. In this case, you will likely lose the hand if you continue, so surrendering and receiving half the bet back may be the best option.
• You have a pair of 5s, and the dealer is showing a 10. In this case, you could split the pair and play two hands, but if you don't feel confident in your chances of winning, you might surrender and receive half the bet back instead.

Should I Split?

It might be a good idea to split if you have a pair of low cards (such as 2s or 3s) and the dealer is showing a weak upcard (such as a two or a three), because it gives you a chance to improve your hand. 

If you have a pair of high cards (such as 10s or Aces) and the dealer is showing a strong upcard (such as a nine or higher), you may want to consider standing on the hand instead of splitting.

There are a few rules to consider when deciding whether to split:

1. You can only split if you have two cards of the same value. For example, if you are dealt a pair of 8s, you can split, but if you are dealt a seven and an 8, you cannot.
2. Some casinos have restrictions on which pairs can be split. For example, some casinos may only allow you to split Aces once, while others may not allow players to split 10-value cards.
3. When you split, you must place an additional bet on the new hand, equal to your original bet.
4. After a split, you will play each hand separately, receiving additional cards as needed. Some casinos allow players to double down after a split, while others do not.

Here are a couple of examples of when splitting might be a good option:

• You have a pair of 4s, and the dealer shows a 5. In this case, you have a good chance of improving your hand by hitting, and splitting allows you to play two separate hands and potentially win twice as much.
• You have a pair of Aces, and the dealer has a 6. In this case, you have a strong starting hand, and splitting allows you to play two separate hands and potentially win twice as much.

Should I Double?

Doubling down allows you to capitalize on your advantage if you have a strong hand (such as a hard 9, 10, or 11) and the dealer is showing a weak upcard (such as a five or a six),.

However, if you have a weak hand (such as a hard 12 or higher) or the dealer is showing a strong upcard (such as a nine or higher), you may want to consider standing on your hand instead of doubling down.

There are a few rules to consider when deciding whether to double down:

1. Some casinos have restrictions on which hands can be doubled down. For example, some casinos may only allow doubling down on hands with a value of 9, 10, or 11, while others may allow it on any two-card total.
2. Doubling down is typically only available on your first two cards.
3. After doubling down, you will receive one more card and then play your hand as normal. You are not allowed to take any additional cards after doubling down.

Here are several examples of when doubling down might be a good option:

• You have a hard 11, and the dealer shows a 5. In this case, you can improve your hand by hitting, and doubling down allows them to win twice as much potential.
• You have a hard ten, and the dealer shows a three. In this case, you have a strong starting hand and doubling down allows them to win twice as much potential.

Should I Hit or Stand?

There are no hard and fast rules for deciding when to hit or stand, and the best decision will depend on your hand value and the dealer's upcard. You should generally hit when you have a low hand and the dealer is showing a weak upcard. This gives you a good chance of improving your hand. You should stand when you have a high hand or the dealer shows a strong upcard because this gives you a good chance of winning.

Here are a couple of examples of when hitting and standing might be a good option:

• You have a hard 12, and the dealer shows a 3. In this case, you can improve your hand by hitting, and they should take another card.
• You have a hard 17, and the dealer shows a 10. In this case, you have a good chance of winning the hand if they stand, and they should not take any more cards.

It's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for deciding when to hit or stand, and you should consider your preferences and betting style when making these decisions. However, it can also be helpful to familiarise yourself with basic blackjack strategies, which can guide the best actions to take in various situations.

Blackjack Downloadable Cheat Chart

A Blackjack Cheat Sheet is a reference tool that provides basic strategy recommendations for playing blackjack. It is based on statistical game analysis and can help players decide when to hit, stand, double, split, and surrender.

For example:

• Always stand on hard 17 or higher.
• Stand on a hard 13-16 if the dealer shows a six or lower.
• Hit a hard 13-16 if the dealer shows a seven or higher.
• Always stand on a soft 17 or higher.
• Hit on a soft 13-16 if the dealer shows a 4, 5, or 6.
• Always split Aces and 8s.
• Split 2s and 3s if the dealer shows a 4, 5, 6, or 7.
• Split 6s if the dealer shows a 3, 4, 5, or 6.

It's important to note that these strategies may only provide optimal play in some situations. Players should also consider their preferences and betting style when making decisions at the table.

The table below represents the player's hand total in the left column (from 8 - 17) and the dealer's upcard on the top row (from 2 - Ace). The associated actions are determined by matching the player's hand total with the dealer's upcard. (S = Stand; H = Hit; D = Double).

The table above indicates the player's hand totals with Ace and any combination of cards from 2- 9. The associated actions (Hit, Stand, or Double are suggested based on the dealer's upcard. 

Top 10 Tips for Winning at Blackjack

• Split Aces and 8s

When you have a pair of eights, the total value of your hand is 16, which is considered one of the weakest hands in blackjack. If you split and play each eight as a separate hand, you have a higher chance of hitting a strong total on at least one of the hands. Similarly, when you have a pair of aces, you can split them and have a chance of hitting a natural blackjack (21 points with just two cards) on one or both hands, giving you a higher chance of winning. 

• Table Rules Matter

Always pick a blackjack table that pays 3:2 for blackjack as opposed to 6:5. For every $100 bet, a 3:2 blackjack table pays $150 vs just $120 for a 6:5 blackjack table. Also, look for player-friendly rules such as doubling on any two cards, late surrender, and the dealer standing on soft 17.

• Always Double on 11

Doubling down on an 11 gives you a strong chance of hitting a 21 (a winning hand, except against a dealer blackjack), so take advantage of this option when the opportunity arises. When you double down, you can double your original bet in exchange for receiving just one additional card. This can be a good option when you have an 11 because there is a high probability that you will be dealt a 10-value card, giving you a total of 21. 

• Avoid Insurance Bets

Insurance bets may seem like a good idea, but they have a high house edge and should generally be avoided. This is because the probability of the dealer having a natural blackjack is relatively low, and the 2:1 payout usually offered is insufficient to compensate for the high house edge of the insurance bet. 

• Take Regular Breaks

Blackjack can be a mentally demanding game that requires concentration and decision-making skills. Regular breaks can help you avoid fatigue, maintain focus, and avoid tilt; a state of emotional frustration or anger that can lead to reckless betting and poor decision-making. By stepping away from the table, you also give yourself a chance to reassess your budget and ensure that you are only betting what you can afford to lose. 

• Use Blackjack Strategy

A basic blackjack strategy can help you play more effectively and avoid making costly mistakes. By understanding the optimal way to play each hand, you can significantly reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning.

• Never Chase your Losses 

It can be tempting to try and make up for losses by betting more, but chasing your losses often leads to reckless betting. Set limits for yourself and stick to them, and don't be afraid to take breaks or walk away from the table if things are not going well. 

• Play at Busy Blackjack Tables

Full tables translate into more hands per hour compared to playing at a half-empty table or a table with just one or two other players. You will have more opportunities to win and potentially increase your bankroll. Many casinos also have lower minimum bets for full blackjack tables than half-empty or single-player tables. The ability to interact with other players can make the game more enjoyable and expose you to a greater variety of play styles and strategies, which can help you improve your own game.

• Use a Reliable Betting System 

Betting systems like the Martingale or Fibonacci can help you manage your bankroll and potentially increase your winnings in the short term. Note that these betting systems do not guarantee winnings – they provide a framework of rules for coming ahead on the proviso that your budget, skills, and casino rules permit.

•  Practice Playing Blackjack Games

There is no substitute for time spent playing blackjack online or in person. Play Live Dealer Blackjack in demo mode while you learn the tricks of the trade with zero risk of loss. When you become proficient at your craft, you can start playing low-stakes games and gradually up the ante. 

It is important to remember that any individual strategy may not always be the best option and should be combined with other strategies and a solid understanding of the game.

5 Common Blackjack Mistakes

We've listed down the most common mistakes blackjack players make. 

Picking the Wrong Blackjack Table

It’s important to pay attention to the table’s rules as they can significantly affect the player's odds of winning, and some are much more favorable than others. Players should also choose a table with minimum and maximum bets that match their bankroll. 

Choosing the Incorrect Basic Blackjack Strategy

Basic strategy is based on the mathematical analysis of the game and provides recommendations for the best actions to take in various situations. By not following basic strategy, players may make decisions that decrease their chances of winning and increase the house's edge. 

Playing the Insurance Bet

While the insurance bet may seem like a good idea initially, it's not the best bet for the player. This is because the probability of the dealer having blackjack is only about 30%, so the player will lose the insurance bet more often than they will win it. In addition, the insurance bet only pays out 2:1, so even when the player does win, they do not receive much in return.

Splitting 4s, 5s, and 10s

Splitting 4s, 5s, and 10s in blackjack is generally considered a poor decision because these hands have a low chance of improving after being split. A pair of 4s split is a starting hand of 4 on each new hand – a weak hand. A pair of 5s split is best left as ten and then hit. A pair of 10s is a hard 20, which is a great starting hand. It's tough to beat a 20 in blackjack, so it's best to stand. 

Playing 6:5 Blackjack

Playing 6:5 blackjack, rather than 3:2 blackjack, is generally considered a poor decision because it increases the house edge. In a standard blackjack game, a player who is dealt a blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) is paid 3:2 on their bet. If the player bets $10, they will win $15. In a game of 6:5 blackjack, they will only win $12 on a $10 wager.

The Best Blackjack Casinos

These are some of the best casinos to play blackjack. Not only do they offer many blackjack titles, but the majority of them also have blackjack variants with different bet ranges suitable for both players with low bankroll as well as high roller blackjack players.

References

• Basics of Winning Blackjack, Edward Allen
• Blackbelt in Blackjack: Playing Blackjack as a Martial Art, Arnold Snyder
• Real World Blackjack: How to Win at Blackjack Without Counting Cards, John Lucas