| Updated: September 25, 2025Blackjack may seem like a simple, straightforward game, and yet many players lose thousands of dollars at the blackjack table because they often do not fully understand it. There are so many variations of the standard rules that tracking them all can be quite overwhelming for the casual player.
However, to play blackjack properly and avoid losing a lot of money, players need to learn the rules and fundamental principles of this classic casino game. In its standard form, the game is easy to play, and mastering it requires just a little practice. This article explains the basics of blackjack – its objective, possible moves, payouts, and side bets. It also lists the most common rule variations found in land-based and online casinos.
Basic Rules of Blackjack
Blackjack is a card game in which 6 or 8 standard decks are typically shuffled together. Some variations use 1, 4, or 5 decks, but in most games, each deck contains 52 cards. No Jokers or wild cards are included, and the four suits have no impact on play. Up to seven players can sit at the table, and each of them is dealt individual cards that are later compared to the dealer’s hand.
The game begins once everyone places their chips in the designated betting boxes on the blackjack table. The dealer deals one card to each player in order – from left to right – draws one for himself, and then deals a second card to everyone at the table. All cards are placed face-up, except for the dealer’s second card, which is dealt face-down in standard blackjack.
Each card carries a point value, and the players’ hand totals are compared with the dealer’s total. Before that happens, players may request additional cards to build the strongest hand possible. Players with winning hands are paid immediately, while those who lose to the dealer forfeit their bets.
Objective of the Game
Evaluating Hands Soft and Hard HandsObjective of the Game
The objective of blackjack is often misunderstood; many believe you must have a hand as close to 21 as possible to win. In reality, players simply need to beat the dealer, which can happen in three ways:
- Players win immediately if they have a natural – that is, if their first two cards form blackjack (an Ace plus a 10-value card). The payout is 3:2.
- Players win when their total is higher than the dealer’s without exceeding 21. In this case, they receive even money (1:1).
- Players also win if their hand totals 21 or less and the dealer busts. Again, the payout is 1:1.
It is equally important to understand how players lose – either when their hand exceeds 21, resulting in a bust, or when the dealer holds a stronger hand. It makes no difference whether the dealer has blackjack or simply a higher total; the outcome for the player is the same.
Evaluating Hands
So, how do we calculate the value of a blackjack hand? This is the easiest part of the game: cards from 2 through 10 are worth their face value, and face cards (Jack, Queen, and King) are worth 10. Aces are more flexible, as they can be counted as 1 or 11, whichever benefits the hand.
Soft and Hard Hands
There are two types of hands in blackjack – soft and hard. Distinguishing between them is straightforward, even though some guides provide overly complex explanations of “softness” and “hardness.” A soft hand, or soft total, contains an Ace that can be counted as either 1 or 11, whereas all other hands are considered hard.
A soft hand would be, for instance, a hand of an Ace and an 8 because the total of the hand can be either 9 or 19. Typically, only two-card hands are classified this way. An 8 and a 7 totaling 15, or a 9 and a 10 totaling 19, would both be hard hands. Applying these terms to hands with three or more cards, consider a total of 14: Ace-5-8 is hard because the Ace must count as 1; counting it as 11 would make the hand 24, which busts.
Although players rarely refer to their own hands as soft or hard, it is crucial to recognize dealer soft and hard hands, especially when using basic strategy.
Player Decisions
Unless players are dealt an immediate blackjack with their first two cards, they must choose how to play their hand. They have several options for proceeding.
Hit Stand Double Split SurrenderHit
Players may request additional cards from the dealer. This action is called “hitting,” and it can be repeated as many times as necessary until the player either stands or busts.
Stand
Players may also choose to “stand,” meaning they do not wish to receive more cards. Once they stand, their turn for that round ends, and their total competes against the dealer’s hand.
Double
Players can also choose to Double, or Double Down – doubling their bet and receiving exactly one additional card. This option is generally available only on the first two cards or directly after splitting a pair. Knowing when to Double Down is essential; in most cases, it is advisable on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11.
Split
This option is available only when the first two cards have the same value. The player places a second bet equal to the original, and the two cards are separated into distinct hands. The dealer then deals an additional card to each hand, after which the player plays them independently.
Some casinos do not allow splitting unlike 10-value cards, such as 10-Queen, although this is permitted in standard blackjack. Additionally, certain casinos allow up to three splits in a single round, while others limit resplitting.
Surrender
Players who believe they will lose with their current hand have the option to forfeit half of their bet and abandon the round. They surrender half their wager and retain the remainder. In most games, this move is available only after the dealer checks for blackjack. Some casinos permit surrender only when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace or a 10-value card. Specific surrender rules vary by casino.
Dealer Moves
After the players have completed their actions, it is the dealer’s turn to act. In standard blackjack – often called American blackjack and governed by Las Vegas rules – the dealer receives one face-up card and one face-down card. The face-down card, known as the “hole card,” is revealed only after all players have acted.
The dealer may either Hit or Stand; Doubling Down, Splitting, and Surrendering are not options for the dealer. In practice, the dealer does not make decisions – their actions are dictated by the house rules of the specific game. Typically, the dealer must Hit until the hand totals 17 or more; with any higher total from the initial two cards, the dealer must Stand.
Soft 17 Rule Peek for BlackjackSoft 17 Rule
In most blackjack games, an Ace in the dealer’s hand is initially valued at 11, not 1. As mentioned, house rules instruct the dealer to Hit until reaching 17; upon reaching 17 or more, the dealer must Stand and may not draw additional cards. An important exception involves whether the dealer Hits or Stands on a Soft 17.
A hand of 6-Ace is a soft 17. In some games, the dealer must Stand on Soft 17, meaning no further cards are drawn. Other house rules require the dealer to Hit on Soft 17, in which case a third card is taken, increasing the dealer’s chances of improving the hand. Consequently, the Hit-on-Soft-17 rule is disadvantageous for the player.
Peek for Blackjack
A blackjack – an Ace and a 10-value card – beats any other 21. For this reason, when the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace or a 10-value card, the dealer is allowed to peek at the hole card. This process, called “peeking,” lets the dealer check for blackjack without revealing the hole card. If the dealer has blackjack, the round ends immediately. Generally, a player blackjack beats all 21-point hands and pushes against a dealer blackjack.
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- Blackjack: Introduction to the World’s Most Popular Casino Game
- Blackjack Hands
- Blackjack: The Good and the Bad Rules
- Mathematics of Blackjack
- Blackjack Strategy: The Best Way to Win Consistently
- Blackjack Side Bets
- Blackjack Variations
- Blackjack: Tips for Beginners
- Advantage Play in Blackjack
- How to Count Cards at the Blackjack Table
- Money Management in Blackjack
- Edward Thorpe and the Ten Count System
- The Zen Count System
- The Advanced Omega II Card Counting System
- The Uston SS Card Counting System
- The Ace/5 Card Counting System
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- The Wong Halves System for Card Counting
- Choosing the Best Blackjack Game Online
- How to Play Live Dealer Blackjack
- Microgaming Blackjack
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- Mobile Blackjack Apps
Rule Variations
Blackjack players can succeed over the long term only if they select a 21 variation with favorable odds and apply the appropriate strategy. Both factors hinge on the house rules, which can vary greatly from one casino to another. Although the core game remains the same, these rule variations are critical when deciding how to play each hand.
Number of Decks Hit or Stand on Soft 17 No Hole Card Resplitting Split Aces Double on Hard 9, 10 and 11 Early or Late Surrender Blackjack Pays 6:5 or 1:1 5/7/10 Card CharlieNumber of Decks
The standard game of blackjack uses 6 decks of cards; each deck contains 52 cards from 2s through Aces. Jokers are removed, and there are no wild cards or other special cards. Many blackjack versions also use 8 decks, while others use 1, 4, or 5. Although inexperienced players often overlook it, expert players and card counters always consider the deck count because fewer decks lower the house edge.
Games with a single deck typically offer a house edge of 0.17%, whereas variations with 6 decks have a house advantage of 0.64%. The house edge in 8-deck blackjack versions is slightly higher at 0.65%. It is easier for the player to get a natural when playing single-deck blackjack than when playing a 6-deck game, for instance. If he receives a 10-value card in the beginning, the probability of getting an Ace is 4 to 46 since there are still 50 cards in the deck. Four of them are Aces, while 46 cards are not. In percentage, this could be expressed as 8.70%.
When we compare it with a 6-deck blackjack game, the probability of getting an Ace in the same scenario is lower. If only 2 cards have been dealt (a 10 to the player and a non-Ace to the dealer), there will be 24 Aces left in the shoe against 284 cards, which are not Aces. The probability is then 8.45% (24/284). This may not seem a huge difference (8.45% against 8.70%) but the number of decks affects more aspects of the game.
Hit or Stand on Soft 17
Every blackjack variant includes a rule that dictates what the dealer must do with a soft 17. As noted, the house usually requires the dealer to Hit on Soft 17, increasing the dealer’s chances of improving the hand. This Soft 17 rule is typically printed on the table felt for players to see.
In some games, the felt reads Dealer Stands on Soft 17 or Stands on All 17. This version favors the player because the dealer must keep an Ace-6 hand without drawing further cards – even though such a hand would usually benefit from a hit.
No Hole Card
Many casinos outside the United States offer “no hole card” variations of blackjack, sometimes called European blackjack. In these games, the dealer draws only one face-up card at the start and receives the second card only after the players have completed their turns.
Resplitting
Certain blackjack variations allow split hands to be resplit multiple times, provided the new card matches the original value. Each time players split, they must place an additional wager equal to the original, and the dealer separates the cards and deals another card to each new hand. Usually, only one split is permitted, though some games allow up to three resplits.
Split Aces
The standard rules state that split Aces receive only one additional card and may be split only once. Players typically cannot Hit or Double on these hands. Some variations, however, allow resplitting Aces, and in rare cases, even permit hitting after the split. Note that a split hand comprising a 10-value card and an Ace counts as 21, not blackjack.
Double on Hard 9, 10 and 11
In certain blackjack variations, players may Double only on hard totals of 9, 10, or 11 – hands valued at 9/10/11 without an Ace counted as 11. This restriction is common in European-style blackjack and favors the casino. The Reno rule, named after Reno, Nevada, limits Doubling even further to hard 10 or 11.
Early or Late Surrender
Surrender is available only in select blackjack versions and, most commonly, after the dealer checks for blackjack. This option, known as “Late Surrender,” is found in many American games. In some variations, players may surrender even before the dealer peeks at the hole card; this is called Early Surrender. Early Surrender is more favorable to the player but is seldom offered.
Blackjack Pays 6:5 or 1:1
The standard payout for a player blackjack is 3:2, or 1.5 times the bet. Some casinos reduce this payout to increase their house edge, offering 6:5 or even 1:1 (even money). Players should avoid such games when possible. For example, a $1.00 blackjack would pay $1.50 in a 3:2 game but only $1.20 in a 6:5 game. At even money, the profit would be just $1.00.
5/7/10 Card Charlie
The “Charlie” rule grants an automatic win to players who draw a specified number of cards without busting. The original 5-Card Charlie began as a home-game novelty but has since been adopted by some online casinos to attract players. Variations now extend to 7, 8, or even 10 cards, although drawing 10 cards without exceeding 21 is extremely unlikely.
A 5-Card Charlie benefits the player and reduces the house edge, but the odds of drawing five cards without busting are roughly 50 to 1. Achieving a 6-, 7-, 8-, 9-, or 10-Card Charlie is even less likely.
Common Side Bets
Many blackjack variants feature side wagers that are separate from the main bet, with chips placed in designated areas on the layout. Side bets pay off only on specific outcomes, such as when the dealt cards form a poker hand. Players should remember that most side wagers carry a high house edge.
Perfect Pairs 21+3 Bet Over/Under 13Perfect Pairs
This popular side bet lets players wager that their first two cards will form a pair. Payouts vary based on how closely the cards match. A perfect pair – two cards of identical rank and suit, such as two Queens of hearts – typically pays 30:1 or 25:1.
A colored pair consists of two cards of the same rank and color but different suits, for example, a Queen of hearts and a Queen of diamonds. This hand usually pays 10:1 or 12:1. A mixed pair contains cards of the same rank but different colors, such as a Queen of hearts and a Queen of clubs, and generally pays 5:1 or 6:1.
21+3 Bet
This side bet pays 9:1 when the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s upcard form certain poker hands, although some casinos adjust the payout based on hand strength. The four winning hands for the 21+3 bet are:
- Flush – Three cards of the same suit, such as three hearts or three spades
- Straight – Three consecutive cards of any suits, for example, 2 of hearts, 3 of diamonds, and 4 of clubs
- Three of a Kind – Three cards of the same rank, such as three 5s
- Straight Flush – Three consecutive cards of the same suit, such as 2, 3, and 4 of hearts
Over/Under 13
This is one of the earliest side bets introduced on Las Vegas blackjack tables more than 20 years ago. Still available in both online and land-based casinos, it actually consists of two separate wagers. With the Under 13 wager, players bet that their first two cards will total less than 13; the Over 13 wager predicts a total greater than 13.
These bets usually pay even money (1:1), and if the total is exactly 13, the casino wins. Like most blackjack side wagers, Over/Under 13 carries a high house edge, so players should treat it purely as a form of entertainment.
How to Play Blackjack like a Pro
Most casino patrons who try their hand at blackjack quickly learn that mastering this classic game requires practice and a solid strategy. It is also important to recognize the difference between playing in a land-based casino and playing online. Online blackjack has one notable disadvantage: card counting is impossible. Live blackjack, however, can feel intimidating to beginners because of its fast pace and the pressure of facing a real dealer.
Whether players visit a local casino or play online, there are several principles they should follow to improve their odds. Employing a reliable blackjack strategy is just one factor that contributes to consistent success over time.
Choosing a Blackjack Variation Using Optimal Strategy Bankroll Management Things to AvoidChoosing a Blackjack Variation
The first factor influencing the outcome of any session is the blackjack variation the player chooses. Some games come with more favorable rules, and certain casinos provide comp programs and bonuses that can be advantageous. Before accepting any bonus, players should carefully review its terms and conditions.
Single- and double-deck games are generally the best options because they feature a lower house edge. Among the rules, the most favorable is requiring the dealer to stand on soft 17. Players should also seek tables that pay 3:2 for a natural rather than 6:5 or even money. While many interesting variations exist, games like Classic Blackjack and Double Exposure typically offer the best odds.
Using Optimal Strategy
Basic strategy is mathematically proven to cut the house edge to about 0.5%, and every variation of the game has its own optimal chart. Strategy is expressed through in-game decisions – when to Hit, Stand, Double, Split, or Surrender. For example, players should always Hit on totals of 5 through 8 regardless of the dealer’s upcard, and they should Stand on 12 through 16 when the dealer shows 4, 5, or 6. Standing on all hard totals of 17 or higher and Hitting soft totals of 17 or less is also advisable.
Regarding splits, the general rule is never to split 10s or face cards because a total of 20 is already strong. Conversely, players should always split Aces and 8s; an Ace pair would otherwise bust, and 16 is the weakest hand. Many players shy away from Doubling Down, but it is optimal with a hard 11 regardless of the dealer’s upcard. Surrender can also be wise – in particular, when holding a hard 16 or 15 against a dealer 9, 10, or Ace. Finally, avoid Insurance at all times; it raises the house edge and is widely considered a sucker bet.
Bankroll Management
Many casino patrons overlook bankroll management, yet it is crucial to long-term success – whether on slots, roulette, or the blackjack table. The first step is to establish a bankroll: money set aside exclusively for gambling, not for drinks, food, or other entertainment.
Players should wager only what they can afford to lose and set limits on daily wins and losses. Some prefer sticking to the table minimum, while others save a portion of each win. Numerous approaches exist to optimize a bankroll; the best choice depends on personal preference.
Things to Avoid
There are many pitfalls blackjack players should avoid, and the first is to steer clear of bad advice, whether it comes from an “expert,” a fellow player, or even a dealer. Any guidance rooted in superstition or the “gambler’s fallacy” – such as relying on winning streaks or hot and cold tables – is misguided. Progressive betting systems should also be shunned; they do not alter the game’s odds and can be risky and costly.
Card counters should not play online blackjack; the technique is ineffective in virtual games. Bragging about card counting skills in the casino lobby is equally unwise, as the staff will not appreciate it. Live-game players should avoid the bar, stick to non-alcoholic drinks, and follow table etiquette.
Certain rules are unfriendly to players and the tables that employ them should be avoided whenever possible. These include tables that pay only even money or 6:5 for blackjack and games that permit Doubling Down only on 10 or 11. Likewise, rules requiring the dealer to Hit on soft 17 and games using 8 decks are disadvantageous.
In summary, players should follow sound strategy – using color-coded strategy charts, reputable guides, and practice tools – while avoiding betting progressions like the Martingale, unproven theories, and superstitions. Imitating the dealer’s play is also ill-advised; the dealer is constrained to Hit or Stand and always acts after the players, giving the house an edge of more than 5%.