Beating the Dealer: Top 5 Blackjack Side Bets

Blackjack is a popular casino game known for its simple rules and exciting gameplay. While the goal is to beat the dealer by getting a hand closer to 21 without going over, there are additional ways to enhance the thrill and increase your chances of winning. One way to do this is by placing side bets.

1. Perfect Pairs

The Perfect Pairs side bet allows you to wager on whether your first two cards will be a pair. The payout depends on the type of pair you receive, such as a perfect pair made up of the same suit and rank, a colored pair with the same rank but different suits, or a mixed pair with different suits and ranks.

While this side bet can add excitement to your game, it’s important to keep in mind that the house edge on Perfect Pairs can be higher than the main blackjack game. Therefore, it’s advisable to only place small bets on this side bet to avoid significant losses.

2. 21+3

The 21+3 side bet combines elements of blackjack and poker, allowing you to bet on the strength of your two cards and the dealer’s upcard. If your three cards form a flush, straight, three-of-a-kind, straight flush, or a suited three-of-a-kind, you win the side bet.

While this side bet can offer the potential for big wins, it’s important to note that the house edge is higher compared to the main blackjack game. It’s recommended to approach this side bet with caution and not let it distract you from employing sound blackjack strategies.

3. Lucky Ladies

Lucky Ladies is a side bet that focuses on the first two cards in your hand. The goal is to achieve a hand value of 20, with a higher payout for achieving it with two queens of hearts. Other winning combinations include a suited 20, an unsuited 20, or a pair of queens.

While the Lucky Ladies side bet can be enticing, it’s crucial to remember that the house edge is higher than that of the main blackjack game. It’s recommended to treat this side bet as a fun addition to your game, rather than relying on it as a primary source of winnings.

4. Insurance

The Insurance side bet allows you to protect yourself in case the dealer has blackjack. If the dealer’s upcard is an ace, you have the option to place an insurance bet, which is half the amount of your initial bet. If the dealer has blackjack, the insurance bet pays out at 2:1, effectively covering the loss of your initial bet.

While the Insurance bet can offer a hedge against potential losses, it’s important to note that it has a high house edge and is generally not recommended as a long-term strategy. In most cases, it’s more advantageous to focus on employing basic blackjack strategies to improve your overall odds.

5. Pair Square

The Pair Square side bet focuses on your first two cards and allows you to bet on whether they will form a pair. The payout depends on the type of pair you receive, such as a perfect pair, a colored pair, or a mixed pair.

Similar to other side bets, it’s essential to consider the higher house edge associated with Pair Square. It’s advisable to approach this side bet with moderation and not heavily rely on it for consistent wins.

When engaging in side bets, it’s vital to manage your bankroll wisely and not let the excitement of these additional wagers overshadow the fundamentals of blackjack. Side bets should be seen as entertainment enhancements to your gameplay and not as a guaranteed strategy for winning. Remember to approach them responsibly and enjoy the thrill they add to the game.