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How To Online Play Blackjack: Complete Guide | LeoVegas

How to Play Online Blackjack:Complete Guide

Thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and strategic depth, Blackjack remains a top choice for casino players. The goal is straightforward: beat the dealer by getting as close to 21 as you can without going over. Online casinos make it easier than ever to enjoy blackjack from anywhere.

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You’ll find plenty of variations, like classic blackjack and Spanish 21, along with options for virtual tables or live dealer games that bring the feel of a real casino to your screen. In this guide, we will cover the rules, strategies, and tips to help you confidently play online blackjack.

PLAY BLACKJACK

Understanding the Basics of Blackjack

Before playing online blackjack, grasp the key rules: aim to beat the dealer without going over 21. You win by having a higher total, the dealer busting, or landing a "Blackjack" with an Ace and a 10-value card as your first two cards.

Here are some essential terms to know:

  • Hit: Requesting another hand to increase the value of your hand
  • Stand: Keeping your current hand
  • Double Down: Doubling your first bet after taking the first two cards and taking only one additional card
  • Split: Splitting a pair of cards into two separate hands and placing an additional bet equal to your first bet
  • Bust: An automatic loss resulting from a hand that exceeds 21
  • Push: A tie between your hand and the dealer’s hand
  • Blackjack: A hand consisting of an Ace and a 10-value card, paying out at higher odds

Additionally, it is just as important to understand how card values work in blackjack. Cards numbered 2 through 10 keep their face value, face cards (Jack, Queen, and King) hold 10 points each, and an Ace can count as either 1 or 11, based on what best supports your hand. Your score is the sum of your cards' values, aiming to stay below 21.

Rules of Online Blackjack

Online blackjack follows the same fundamental rules as traditional blackjack but offers additional modern features. The objective remains to outscore the dealer without going over 21. Both you and the dealer start with two cards. Your cards are face up, while the dealer shows one card and keeps the other face down. You’ll then decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or split based on your hand. As a general rule, you must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 or more.

Variations include Blackjack Switch, which allows you to play two hands and swap cards; Spanish 21, which excludes 10-value cards but includes special bonuses; and Double Exposure Blackjack, where both of the dealer’s cards are visible. While these variations add unique elements, the core rules remain consistent across all formats.

Online gameplay brings added benefits. It’s faster since there’s no waiting for other players or dealers, and RNGs (Random Number Generators) ensure fairness. Online platforms also frequently offer perks like deposit bonuses, free bets, and loyalty rewards, making it an accessible and enjoyable way to play.

Getting Started with Online Blackjack

Starting your online blackjack journey is straightforward, especially on a platform like LeoVegas. Follow these steps to begin:

  1. Create Your Account: Register on LeoVegas by providing accurate details and completing the identity verification process with a government-issued ID and proof of address. This ensures compliance with regulations and protects your account
  2. Deposit Funds: Use one of the many secure payment methods offered by LeoVegas, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal, or bank transfers. Take advantage of welcome bonuses, but review their terms and conditions before opting-in
  3. Choose a Blackjack Table: Browse through LeoVegas’ collection of games ranging from classic blackjack to unique variants like Spanish 21 and Double Exposure. Select a table with betting limits that suit your bankroll and gameplay preferences
  4. Practice with Free Games: LeoVegas offers free-to-play versions of many blackjack games. These are great for understanding the rules and practicing strategies before wagering real money
  5. Explore Live Dealer Games: For a more interactive setting, try LeoVegas’ live dealer blackjack. Play with real dealers via a high-quality stream, but note that live games often have higher minimum bets than virtual tables
  6. Set Limits for Responsible Play: Use LeoVegas’ responsible gambling tools to set deposit, session, and loss limits. Establishing these controls before playing helps you stay within your budget and focus on strategic gameplay

How to Place Bets in Online Blackjack

Placing bets in online blackjack is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step guide that you can follow to place bets in online blackjack:

  1. Select a table with minimum and maximum limits that align with your bankroll
  2. Choose your bet size and place your bet by placing your chips in the designated betting area on the table
  3. Click “Deal” or wait for the dealer to start the hand
  4. Based on the cards dealt, decide on a strategy that you want to adopt
  5. If you win the hand, your bet will be paid out based on the game’s rules

Some blackjack variants offer side bets, which are optional bets that can be placed alongside your main bet. Even though these bets offer higher payouts, they come with greater risk.

Popular side bets include Perfect Pairs (betting that the first two cards will form a pair), Insurance (triggered when the dealer’s visible card is an Ace, paying out 2:1 upon the dealer holding a blackjack), and Bust It (betting that the dealer will bust).

The Layout of a Blackjack Table

When joining an online blackjack table, you’ll notice the ‘SIT HERE’ button(s) on your screen and these refer to the available seat(s) at the table. When betting time is open, a ‘PLACE YOUR BETS’ screen will appear in front of you displaying the chips and that’s when you start making your moves. Your selected chips will move to the semi-transparent patch at your seat, and on either side of this there will be a space to place two additional blackjack side bets: Perfect Pairs and 21+3.

Blackjack Table Layout

What’s more, you’ll notice that at the centre of the table, there will be a few basic online blackjack rules. These are:

  • Blackjack pays 3 to 2
  • Dealer must stand on 17 and must draw to 16
  • Insurance pays 2 to 1

The standard online blackjack table can seat up to seven players at a time. The great thing about our live blackjack tables is that they offer the Bet Behind feature. Even though the table may be occupied, with this feature you can still participate in the game and that is by betting on a hand dealt to another player instead! This is great for novices as players betting behind do not make any decisions about the hand they’re betting on - the player who occupies the seat is the decision maker! It’s true that this feature is most commonly used by those waiting for a seat at the table but it can also be used when playing your own hand.

In addition, the minimum bet on Bet Behind normally starts from as low as $1, unlike the typical $5 on most tables. Therefore, this is the perfect place to kick off your blackjack adventure if you’re still learning the ropes. Not only will you be betting smaller amounts of money on the game but you’ll also be seeing our most experienced blackjack players in action. You’ll sometimes even find dealers who will inform you on the correct strategy, even though this is, by no means, a guarantee that it will result in a winning bet.

However, Bet Behind isn’t just a beginners’ feature. Rather, it is cherished by professional players alike as by giving them the opportunity to bet on all seven seats at the same time, they are able to occupy a wider spread of the table. Not keen that other players will be able to bet on your hand? Fret not! You can also choose to opt out of this feature before the beginning of each round.

How Many Decks of Cards Is Blackjack Played With?

It is believed that in the early days of blackjack, back in the 17th century, the game was played with a single deck i.e. 52 cards. But blackjack has come a long way since then and nowadays plenty of variants have entered the scene, with most using as many as 8 decks of cards. A neater game is naturally to be expected in a single-deck variant but in multiple-deck variants, the possibilities to split your hand will be greater.

At the majority of our live blackjack tables, human shufflers rotate the tables and shuffle the cards, while a small number of tables use a shuffling machine at the start of each game. The cards are then placed in what is known as the shoe. This is where the cards are stored before the next reshuffling is needed.

Did you know? To get to know how many decks of cards a particular blackjack table uses, consult the information menu located in-game. Typically 8 decks are used.

What Are the Blackjack Card Values?

As with many other card games, live blackjack is played with:

  • 13 Clubs
  • 13 Diamonds
  • 13 Hearts
  • 13 Spades

An Ace, a King, a Queen and a Jack are available for each suit, along with cards numbered 2 to 10. How it usually goes is that at the beginning of each round, the dealer deals two cards to every player at the table. Likewise, the dealer also deals two cards to themself. While both your cards are dealt face-up, the dealer keeps one of their cards face down (that is also known as the "hole card") until all the players at the table have played their initial move. Some providers only deal one initial card to the dealer, drawing a second card only after all players at the table have made their decisions. The cards you get are your hand. To calculate the value of a hand, follow the guide below:

  • Ace - 1 or 11 (depending on the other cards in your hand)
  • King, Queen, and Jack - 10
  • 2 - 10 - Face value

For example, if your hand consists of a Ten of Diamonds (10) and an Ace (which in this case would be counted as an 11), you get a natural! But it isn’t always a walk in the park. So in many cases, you’ll need to throw some more moves before you can become the round’s winner.

Did you know? A deck of cards is very similar to a calendar. While a deck of cards has 52 cards, a calendar has 52 weeks in a year. Additionally, the deck’s 4 suits can be seen as representing the year’s 4 seasons!

Basic Strategy for Online Blackjack

The Basic Strategy for online blackjack is a set of predetermined rules that tell you the best action to take in different situations. It suggests one of four actions: Hit, Stand, Double Down, or Split. Even though it does not guarantee wins, it can reduce the house edge to as low as 0.5 when applied correctly.

Blackjack Basic Strategy Chart

The Basic Strategy Chart visualizes the best moves for every hand combination. It displays your hand vertically and the dealer’s upcard horizontally across the top. To use the chart, find your hand value on the left side of the chart and look across the column representing the dealer’s face-up card. The chart will suggest the best move: H means Hit, S means Stand, D means Double Down, and SP means Split.

Advanced Blackjack Strategies

Once you have the basic strategy figured out, you can explore advanced techniques to refine your gameplay.

Card Counting

Card counting involves tracking the ratio of high to low cards left in the deck. More high cards increase the odds of landing a blackjack, which works in the player’s favour. This method is effective in live dealer games without automatic shuffling but isn’t useful in virtual blackjack, where cards are reshuffled after each hand. Since casinos usually discourage card counting, it’s best to exercise it with caution to avoid potential consequences.

Tracking Shuffle Patterns

Tracking shuffle patterns is another advanced technique that focuses on observing how cards are shuffled to predict clusters of high or low cards that may remain grouped together. Unlike card counting, this method doesn’t rely on memorizing specific cards but instead identifies patterns created by incomplete or predictable shuffling.

It’s most effective in games without automatic shuffling, like some live dealer games, but it requires sharp observation and quick thinking. Since inaccurate predictions can lead to poor decisions, it’s important to practice this technique extensively. Additionally, because casinos discourage methods that provide players with an edge, discreetly using shuffle tracking is essential.

Betting Systems

Betting systems provide structured approaches to managing your wagers in blackjack. Here are two popular methods:

Martingale System

The Martingale System is one of the most widely known betting strategies in blackjack. It involves doubling your bet after each loss to recover previous losses and earn a small profit when you win. For example, if you lose a $10 bet, your next wager would be $20, followed by $40 if you lose again, and so on. Once you win, the system resets to the original bet size.

This strategy is straightforward and provides a structured approach to managing losses, but its main drawback is the rapid escalation of bets during losing streaks. Consider this: after five consecutive losses starting with $10, the sixth bet would need to be $320. The Martingale System requires careful bankroll management to handle the potential for extended losses.

Paroli System

The Paroli System is a positive progression betting strategy, meaning you increase your bets after a win rather than a loss. After a win, you double your wager on the next hand, and if you lose, you return to your original bet. For instance, starting with a $10 bet, a win would prompt a $20 bet on the next hand, followed by $40 for another win.

This strategy minimizes risk by increasing bets only after a win, making it less prone to rapid bankroll depletion during losing streaks. However, it relies on the unpredictability of winning streaks, as a loss after several wins can diminish profits.

Flat Betting System

The Flat Betting System is one of the most straightforward approaches to managing wagers in blackjack. This method involves wagering the same amount on every hand, regardless of wins or losses. For example, if you decide to bet $10, that amount remains consistent throughout your session.

Flat betting minimizes risk because it avoids rapid increases in bet size, making it easier to manage your bankroll over extended play. While this system doesn’t capitalize on winning streaks like the Paroli System or recover losses as aggressively as the Martingale System, it provides a stable and low-risk approach.

Adapting to Specific Rules

Advanced strategies can be helpful for games with unique rules. For instance:

  • If the dealer hits on Soft 17, doubling down more aggressively with hands like Soft 18 can be effective, especially against weaker dealer upcards
  • While basic strategy advises against splitting 10s, it may be advantageous when counting cards or playing in a high-card deck

Understanding Blackjack Odds and Probability

As discussed earlier, blackjack combines skill and chance, making a clear understanding of the odds essential for informed decision-making at the table.

The Math Behind Blackjack Odds

Unlike many casino games, blackjack lets you reduce the house edge by using strategy. The odds in blackjack are constantly shifting, influenced by the cards already dealt. For instance, the chances of getting a natural blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card) are 1.2% in a single-deck game. In games with multiple decks, this probability is slightly lower. You can make more informed choices during the game by staying aware of these probabilities.

How Probability Affects Your Decisions

Decisions in blackjack are grounded in a mathematical understanding of the game’s probabilities. The game is typically played with six or more decks shuffled together, which complicates calculating exact probabilities for each hand. However, certain patterns still hold. For example, the dealer is most likely to bust (28.1%) when showing low cards like 4, 5, or 6. This informs players to stand rather than risk busting their own hand. Similarly, assessing the likelihood of achieving specific hands helps players decide when to hit, double, or split.

Common Misconceptions About Odds

Here are some of the most common misconceptions about odds in blackjack:

  1. Many players believe that blackjack odds are static, but they change with each hand depending on the composition of the deck and the cards that have been dealt
  2. Some think a win is "due" after a losing streak, a misconception known as the gambler’s fallacy. In reality, each hand is independent of the last
  3. Some players assume they can predict the next card, but the randomness of shuffling makes this impossible

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Avoiding common blackjack mistakes can significantly improve your gameplay and help minimize losses. Here are a few key pitfalls to watch out for when playing online blackjack:

Misunderstanding the Rules

Not knowing the rules can lead to confusion and costly errors. Learn when the dealer must hit or stand when to split or double down, and what happens in a push to make informed decisions with every hand.

Ignoring Basic Strategy

Skipping basic strategy often results in emotional decisions rather than logical ones. Use this proven guide to reduce guesswork and improve your chances of making the right moves.

Chasing Losses and Overspending

Trying to recover losses by increasing bets can drain your bankroll fast. Stick to a budget, set win/loss limits, and avoid betting more than you can afford. A disciplined approach keeps your gameplay focused and controlled.

Overlooking Table Limits

Selecting a table with limits that don’t align with your bankroll can put you at a disadvantage. High-stakes tables can drain your funds quickly if you're not prepared, while tables with extremely low limits might not offer the potential for meaningful gains. Choose a table with limits that fit your financial plan and playing style.

Placing Side Bets Without Understanding the Risks

Side bets like Perfect Pairs or Insurance can seem appealing due to their higher payouts, but they often come with a higher house edge. Without a clear understanding of the odds, placing side bets can lead to unnecessary losses. Consider these wagers only if you fully understand their mechanics and probabilities.

Failing to Manage Emotions During Play

Letting emotions dictate your gameplay often leads to poor decisions, like betting impulsively after a loss or deviating from basic strategy. Practice staying calm and detached, even during losing streaks. Taking breaks when frustrated or excited can help maintain focus and prevent costly mistakes.

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about online blackjack:

Can I Win Consistently at Online Blackjack?

No, consistent wins at online blackjack aren’t possible, as it’s a game of chance. However, using effective strategies, practicing, and staying disciplined can improve your odds in individual sessions.

Is Card Counting Possible Online?

Yes, card counting is possible online but challenging, as most casinos shuffle cards after each hand. Using card-counting software is also typically prohibited.

What’s the Difference Between Virtual and Live Dealer Blackjack?

Virtual blackjack relies on RNGs for fast, automated play, while live dealer blackjack uses real dealers and cards streamed in real time to replicate a casino setting.

Is it better to play virtual blackjack or live dealer games?

It depends on your preferences. Virtual blackjack offers faster gameplay and lower minimum bets, making it ideal for practice or quick sessions. Live dealer games replicate the feel of a real casino, with slower pacing and higher minimum bets.

Can I use the same strategy for all online blackjack variants?

No, each variant may have unique rules that require adjustments to your strategy. For example, in Spanish 21, where 10-value cards are removed, you’ll need to be more aggressive with doubling and hitting. Always review the rules of the variant before applying a standard strategy.

What should I do if I’m dealt two Aces?

Splitting Aces is almost always the best move. It increases your chances of building two strong hands instead of being stuck with a total of 12. Many casinos allow only one additional card per Ace after splitting, so plan accordingly.

What are the basic rules of blackjack?

The basic rule of blackjack is, in fact, very basic. It’s you versus the dealer in a game of cards where you’re both attempting to reach 21 but not exceed it. If both the player and the dealer have a blackjack, the result is a tie (also known as push)

Play begins with two cards. Add those up for a card value that you can decide to increase by taking a hit, or stay with. If you choose to hit, you can continue to hit until you’re comfortable you’ve peaked and may go bust (over 21) with any additional draws.

There are a few exceptions to these options depending on your first two cards. If you’re dealt cards of matching value, you may wish to split them into two hands. But these additional plays are best discussed in a quick strategy session.

What is the house edge in blackjack?

The house has around a 2% advantage of winning in blackjack. Want comparables? The house edge for slot machines falls around 5-10%. Even better is that the 2% is based on the house vs an inexperienced player. So, learning more about blackjack and its many strategies can reduce that edge.

Good news, we’ve got all the tips and strategies you’re looking for in our blackjack basic strategy guide.

The number of decks also influences this percentage. In this regard, the house edge increases as more decks of cards are used. For instance, compared to blackjack games with eight decks, single deck blackjack games only boost the house edge by 0.4%.

What are the different ways to improve your blackjack game?

Learning a basic blackjack strategy or card counting system can improve your blackjack skills.

What are the biggest mistakes people make when playing blackjack?

Some typical mistakes are doubling down when close to bust, using insurance and surrender options at the wrong timing and not managing your bankroll.

21+3 is by far the most popular blackjack side bet.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of blackjack?

The biggest advantage of the game of blackjack is the low house edge. On the other hand, blackjack rules are more complicated than roulette or baccarat, and it takes some time and practice to learn how to play the game.

What are the minimum and maximum bets at the blackjack table?

You can play online blackjack games with just a $2 bet - that is the minimum stake in ONE Blackjack Live. The maximum bet can go up to $10000.

What is the strongest blackjack hand?

An ace and a ten value card is the best combination that you can have in blackjack.

What are the variations of blackjack?

Some of the most popular blackjack variations are American Blackjack, Spanish 21 and Atlantic City.

What are the rules for doubling down in blackjack?

You can double your initial bet (and the payout if you win) and receive one new card. Note that you can not draw any additional cards after doubling down.

What are the dealer rules for blackjack?

Dealer must continue to hit (take extra cards) until the total is 17 or more. Then the dealer must stand.

Learn more about blackjack and other casino games in our guides: