Last updated: October 10, 2023
It’s a beloved game worldwide because of the attractive nature of its gameplay, also because of the simple rules and easy-to-practice strategies. However, to keep players keen during longer stints and test their mastery, the game offers added optional create a sense of complexity. Unfortunately, they can be detrimental to your bankroll, which is why we’ve decided to help with blackjack side bets explained simply.
First and foremost, what are they? Well, in the most straightforward context, a side bet is an additional wager made while playing blackjack games. Bear in mind that not all game variations will allow these extra plays to be made.
The side bet is based on predicting which cards the player or dealer will receive. Although many will brag that they can control these plays by counting cards – the reality is that it is based entirely on chance and not skill.
It’s great if you win and score an extra payday, but there’s a chance to lose twice as bad – gambling in a nutshell!
The house edge is increased when playing optional side bets. So why do people bother to make them? It’s all about enjoying your gaming experience. While many players are focused on the money, we’ve found that most players focus solely on the enjoyment of the game.
This makes sense when you think about how social casino games and the metaverse have become incredibly popular!
There are many options to choose from, and traditionally it will depend on the variations of blackjack that you enjoy playing. The common side bets which are available at most casinos are:
This is one of our favorites; the perfect pairs bet revolves around the cards dealt with the player only. There are more than just one combination, though, with winning payouts being rewarded as follows:
Mixed Pair
Two cards of the same value but featuring a different suit and color. This wager has a payout of 5:1.
Perfect Pair
Two of the same card, no bs, just an exact pair, pays 25:1 because of the difficulty.
Colored Pair
Harder than the mixed, the colored pair is two cards of the same value and color. The payout is 12:1 for the colored pair side bet.
House edge will depend on certain factors like payout and the number of decks in the shoe. Expect the house edge to be anywhere from as low as 3% right through to as high as 12% or more when more cards are involved.
Blackjack 21+3 side bets revolve around the two cards dealt with the player and the dealer’s face-up card.
Again, the house edge will depend on how many decks are used in the game (between 6-8%), with fewer decks in the shoe creating a higher advantage for the house.
House Edge and Number of Decks in the Shoe
Winning side bets for 21+3 are akin to a poker hand, and payouts vary:
Not everyone would consider insurance a side bet in blackjack, but it is. It’s the most commonly played side wager, allowing players to cover if the dealer has a blackjack when dealt an ace initially.
There is nothing fancy to playing the insurance bet – it costs half the initial stake and pays 2:1.
Software developers behind the most enjoyable games constantly design exciting new bonus games for blackjack. Below are some of the less common blackjack side bets to check out.
An enjoyable bonus bet to play, similar to picking the over/under in sportsbook markets. The over/under is set at 13 and pays out even if the overall sum of cards is less than or greater than 13.
Make sure to check out the specific game’s stance on 13, most will lose on a 13, but some games will allow winning bets.
Is seven your lucky number? If so, then you’ll love getting payouts on whether there are one or more sevens dealt in your cards:
Check whether the game/casino will deal a third card if the dealer has a blackjack, as this is not always the case.
Straightforward gameplay, paying 5:2 for any suited cards that match or 25:1 for a suited King and Queen.
Should you play side bets in blackjack?
If you want to add an extra level of excitement to your gameplay – playing side bets is a good choice.
Are blackjack side bets worth it?
The answer will depend on how you look at it. If your focus is on reducing the house edge, you should avoid side bets. On the other hand, if you like to play riskier with a chance at a big payday, they’re certainly worth it!
Having come in the top five of the final for Poker Stars and the WSOP 3 years running, Thomas Orozco is a force to be reckoned with on the felt tables. While he’s yet to win himself a bracelet, he’s come out with the top hand on dozens of games in the past, which has only pushed him further up the ranks. Tom’s unrelenting passion for poker and other casino games bleeds through into his fantastic content writing skills, and we thank him every day for the expert insider tips and the contributions he makes to the site.
