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Blackjack Rules

13 February, 2025

Understand blackjack rules to learn how to play and win at your favourite online casino. Blackjack games offer the highest RTPs and the lowest house edge. Therefore, if you pay attention to the rules and strategies of blackjack in this guide, you will be a better player.

Get to learn how to play blackjack from experts, and understand how you can use the rules to reduce house edge and boost your wins.

How to Play Online Blackjack?

Online blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, known for its mix of strategy and luck. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, learning how to play online is simple and rewarding. With easy-to-understand rules and engaging gameplay, blackjack offers an exciting experience for players at all levels.

1

Objective of the game

The ultimate goal in blackjack is to form a hand with the highest value and beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. Once you hit 21, it will be a ‘Burst’, and you will lose.

2

Know the card values

Classic Blackjack is played with a standard deck of 52 playing cards, where all cards are counted at their face value. Picture cards are valued at 10, and the ace can be counted as either 11 or 1, depending on the variant. Card suits have no value or significance in blackjack.

3

Player actions

After placing the starting bet, you and the other players are dealt two cards face down, while the dealer gets one card face up and one card face down. If you or anyone at the table has a hand that totals 21, that’s a Blackjack and a win. If not, everyone must decide whether to ‘Hit,’ ‘Stand,’ ‘Double Down,’ ‘Split,’ or ‘Surrender.’

Hit: The dealer deals you another card. It’s typically recommended to ‘Hit’ when your hand is between 13 and 16, and the dealer’s hand shows 6 or less.

Stand: You choose not to take another card, and the dealer moves on to the next player.

Double Down: You double your bet in exchange for one extra card.

Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands and play them individually.

Surrender: You forfeit your hand and lose only half of your bet.

4

Winning and Losing

wIn online blackjack, there can be several outcomes aside from simply winning with a 21 or having a higher hand value than the dealer. Here are some additional possibilities:

Tie: A tie occurs when both the player and the dealer have the same hand value. In this case, no one wins or loses. If a tie happens, the dealer reveals their face-down card. If their total is 16 or less, they must draw cards until reaching 17 or more. However, if the dealer already has 17 or more and the hands tie, no more cards are drawn.

Push: A push is a situation where the player’s hand equals the dealer’s hand value. For example, if both the player and dealer have a hand totaling 15, the round results in a push, and no one wins.

Understanding Blackjack Hands

Blackjack is so popular among UK players because, although the basic rules apply to all variants, the hands can be different. What’s better? All the Top Blackjack Sites offer a huge pool of variants, giving you an opportunity to play with different hands and betting limits.

Blackjack Card Value Table


In blackjack, each card has a specific value that determines your total hand. Numbered cards are worth their face value, face cards (J, Q, K) count as 10, and Aces can be either 1 or 11, depending on which benefits your hand the most. Unlike some other card games, suits have no impact on gameplay—only the values matter.

A hand’s total value is calculated by adding the point values of each card in your hand.

For example: Ace (11) + 5 = 15, J + Q = 20, Ace (1) +4 + k = 15


Key Blackjack Rules and Strategies

Blackjack (Natural) Hand: Payout 3:2

A natural hand, or blackjack, occurs when your first two cards total 21. This typically happens with an Ace and a card valued at 10 (10, Jack, Queen, or King).

Examples:

• Ace + 10 = Blackjack (21)

• Jack + Ace = Blackjack (21)

If both you and the dealer have blackjack, the winner is determined by the number of cards used. For instance, if your two-card blackjack (e.g., Ace + King) competes against the dealer’s three-card 21 (e.g., Queen + 9 + 2), your hand wins.

Hard Hands vs. Soft Hands

Soft Hand: Includes an Ace that can count as 1 or 11.

Tip: HIT until your total is 17 or more. Consider doubling down on soft hands worth 13–18.

Hard Hand: Does not include an Ace, or the Ace must count as 1.

Tip: HIT if your hard hand totals 11 or less. Double down on hard 9, 10, or 11 for a strategic advantage.

Splitting Pairs

Splitting is allowed when dealt two cards of the same value. By splitting, you double your bet and play two separate hands. However, this strategy should be used wisely:

Split: Aces and 8s.

Avoid Splitting: 10s, 5s, or 4s.

Proper use of this rule can improve your chances of winning.

Doubling Down

Doubling down is an option after receiving your first two cards, allowing you to double your bet for one additional card. Use this strategically:

• Double down on hard 10s and 11s.

• Double on a soft hand with an Ace plus a 2–7.

Even Money

If you have blackjack and the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, you can opt for even money. This guarantees a 1:1 payout before the dealer checks their hole card for blackjack.

Insurance

Insurance is a side bet offered when the dealer shows an Ace, protecting against the possibility of a dealer blackjack. While tempting, insurance is often a losing bet long-term and is best avoided in most cases.

Blackjack Variants

Blackjack is one of the most accessible UK casino games with real money rewards, and Brits demand new variants of this game every day. Numerous game variants on every blackjack site ranked in the top UK casinos list. So, if you love to experiment with new tables and strategies, here are some of the best blackjack games to play today.

European Blackjack

European Blackjack, with its origins in Europe centuries ago, is a favorite among UK gamblers and players worldwide. Played with two decks, this variant stands out as the dealer always stands on a soft 17, slightly favoring players. UK casinos offer a 3:2 payout for a natural blackjack, but Aces cannot be re-split, and doubling down is limited to hard 9, 10, or 11. These distinct rules make European Blackjack a strategic and engaging choice.

Atlantic City Blackjack

Atlantic City Blackjack, originating in the US, is celebrated globally for its unique, player-friendly rules. Players can split hands up to three times and Aces only once, with one additional card dealt per split Ace. The dealer stands on all 17s, and doubling down is allowed on any hand, including after splits. Late surrender is permitted after the dealer checks for blackjack, and insurance bets are available, adding strategic depth to the game.

Progressive Blackjack

Progressive Blackjack follows the basic blackjack rules, requiring players to form a 21 or beat the dealer’s hand. Played with two or more decks, it introduces the excitement of progressive jackpots.

Similar to progressive slots, a portion of each wager contributes to the jackpot. Once the jackpot is claimed, the prize pool resets and begins accumulating again, adding an extra thrill to every hand.

Spanish 21

Spanish 21 is a popular blackjack variation with distinct rules that set it apart. Played with a Spanish deck (no 10-value cards), it offers players more flexibility and a lower house edge.

Key features include doubling down on any number of cards, late surrender options, and bonus payouts for specific hand combinations. The average RTP for Spanish 21 is an impressive 99.60%, making it a favorite among strategic players.

Blackjack VariantsHouse Edge
European Blackjack0.39%
Single Deck Blackjack0.58%
Atlantic City Blackjack0.35%
Multi-Hand Blackjack0.63%
Double Exposure Blackjack0.69%
Pontoon0.39%
Spanish 210.34%
Perfect Pairs Blackjack0.42%

Blackjack Glossary

Below are some common terms used in blackjack and their meaning.

  • Bust – A hand with a total point of above 21.
  • Face cards – Picture cards (Jack, Queen and King).
  • Hole Card – The dealer’s face down card.
  • Hit – Take another card.
  • Late Surrender – When a player surrenders their card after the dealer has checked his hole card.
  • Natural hand – Another name for blackjack.
  • Push – The dealer and the player having the same total hand.
  • Stand – Refuse to take an additional hand.
  • Up card – The dealer’s face up card.

House Edge

Blackjack house edge is the mathematical advantage that the casino has over the players. House edge is expressed in percentages. Therefore, in a blackjack game with a 1% house edge, you can expect the casino to keep 1% of the amount you bet.

For example:

If you played with £100 and won, you will receive £99 from the win and the £100 you had staked, which equals £199.

The opposite of house edge is RTP (Return to Player). This is the percentage of a bet that you are allowed to keep. Therefore, if a game has a 1% house edge, the RTP is 99%.

Checking the game’s blackjack house edge is important when choosing online casinos to join. To make it easier for you, we have highlighted the average payout rate of blackjack in our casino reviews. So, if you want to know if a UK casino site has high RTP, click on the brands, open the reviews and scroll through the guides to see how much you can win.

Blackjack Odds and Bust Probability

Online blackjack odds highlight two important things: the chances of winning that particular bet and how much real money you can win from the respective bet. You can calculate your odds or use the game’s average odds on casino sites or in-game reviews.

Bust probability indicates the chance that your hand will go above 21, expressed as a percentage.

Odds of significant blackjack variants

Blackjack VariantOdds House Edge
European Blackjack3:20.39%
American/Classic Blackjack3:20.61%
Switch Blackjack1:10.58%
Free Bet3:21%
Live Dealer Blackjack3:20.49% to 0.72%
Other online video blackjack1:1 to 3:20.5% to 2%

Bust probability for players

Player’s hand valueOdds of getting a bust
11 and Under0%
1231%
1339%
1456%
1558%
1662%
1769%
1877%
1985%
2092%
21100%

Avoid These Rookie Mistakes

These are the most common blunders that beginners make when playing blackjack online. Update your strategy with the tips below and you will know how to play blackjack.

  • Not hitting on a soft 18 (An Ace + 7).
  • Doubling down on a soft 17 or a soft 18.
  • Standing on a 12 or a 16 when the dealer has an Ace or a card value of 7 to 10.
  • Don’t take insurance bets, especially if you have a low bankroll or are a beginner.
  • Splitting 10s is not intelligent because it weakens your already strong hand.
  • Avoid overbetting and using a huge percentage of your bankroll when just starting with blackjack.
  • If the blackjack variant you are playing allows Surrender bets, you can surrender on a hard 15 or 16 if the dealer has a 10.

Land-Based Blackjack vs Online Blackjack Rules and Etiquette

While land-based blackjack casino rooms have a lot of rules and laws, some restrictions don’t apply to online blackjack. This is because, in online blackjack, you are playing alone. However, a live dealer hosts live casino blackjack, and there might be a few more limitations.

Land-based blackjack Etiquette

Wait for a natural break to join the table. E.g. during shuffling or when the shoe is complete.

Have basic strategy and knowledge of blackjack terms and hand signals.

Use respectful language.

Read the room and the vibe at the table. For example, some tables have chatty players, and others have quiet players.

Don’t touch your cards.

If you want to tip the dealer, confirm the casino’s rules before you do.

Online blackjack etiquette

If you are playing a live blackjack game online, here are some etiquette that are expected of you:

When you join the table, acknowledge the dealer’s presence by typing a greeting or waving emojis using Live Chat.

Avoid necessarily delaying the game or rushing through your actions.

If you have any questions or concerns, communicate effectively and respectfully.

React to your wins and losses gracefully. Whether on a winning streak or losing, avoid gloating or spewing negativity unto others.

Avoid flirting with the dealer.

References

Frequently asked questions

What is Blackjack?

Blackjack is a casino card game that requires players to beat the dealer's hand to win. A hand with a value of 21 is called a Blackjack.

How many decks in Blackjack?

The number of decks depends on the variant. While classic blackjack is played with 1 deck, others accommodate more decks.

What does 21+3 Blackjack mean?

A 21+3 is one of the most popular blackjack side bets. In this, you'll be betting that the 2 initial cards you were dealt will combine with the dealer's to form a flush, three of a kind or straight flush.

What is Ace worth in Blackjack?

An Ace is worth 1 or 11.

How to win at Blackjack?

To win on blackjack, a player must have hand stronger than the dealer's. The value of the winning hand must be 21 or less.

What is insurance in Blackjack?

Insurance is a side bet in which the player wagers that the dealer's face-down card will be a blackjack. It is only allowed if the dealer's face-up card is an Ace.

When to double down in Blackjack?

After doubling down, you only get dealt 1 additional card and won't be allowed to hit. Therefore, double down if your hand totals 9, 10 or 11.

What does split mean in Blackjack?

A split is allowed when a player has a hand with two cards of similar value. A player will split the hand to have two hands.