Once you have learned how to play the game of blackjack, and taken on board the basic strategy and more, you next need to acquire the knowledge to know which table to play at in an online casino.
In this article, we're going to discuss:
This is important, as casinos will operate different rules, deck numbers and shuffling techniques from blackjack table to table. Thus any player should assess the tables on offer to decide which suits them best. This requires awareness of how to lower the house edge according to the rules of the chosen blackjack table. If a player has a stronger knowledge of certain elements of the basic strategy, then it is sensible to find a table that plays to those strengths.
So what should players be looking out for when they choose a blackjack table? They need to assess the minimum and maximum betting limits for a table, the number of decks being used, the playing rules, how the dealer shuffles the cards, and how many players are on, or are allowed on, the table. Also look out for blackjack pays.
Let us look at each of those factors in more detail, so that you can choose a table that suits you and play now.
WHAT BLACKJACK TABLE TO LOOK FOR
Here are the criteria:
Minimum/Maximum Betting Limits
The importance of being aware of betting limits is not linked to strategy, and we advise against betting systems. Its relevance is more due to the desire to avoid embarrassment at the blackjack table. This happens more than people may realise. Many players have sat at a table, only to realise that their intended stake did not reach the minimum bet value for that particular table.
Playing Rules Variation
This, along with the number of decks will determine the extent of the house edge. Once more, ensure you know the table rules. Determine whether the dealer hits or stands on a soft 17, when doubling down is permitted, whether surrender is an option, along with re-splitting Aces, and perhaps most importantly of all, the payoff is for an untied blackjack – a crucial factor in determining the edge.
Number Of Players
If not utilising strategies to reduce the house edge, it pays to sit at a full table, as the fuller it is, the fewer hands that can be played per hour, thus reducing the theoretical edge the casino has.
Number Of Decks
The number of decks used in casino shoes has an effect on the house edge. A general rule is that the more decks used, the bigger the edge, but any player should also factor in the table rules. Thus it is important to sit at a table where you know how many decks are in play, and develop an instinct as to when shuffling occurs with casino shoes.
Card Shuffling
This, along with the number of decks will determine the extent of the house edge. Once more, ensure you know the table rules. Determine whether the dealer hits or stands on a soft 17, when doubling down is permitted, whether surrender is an option, along with re-splitting Aces, and perhaps most importantly of all, the payoff is for an untied blackjack – a crucial factor in determining the edge.
GOOD AND BAD BLACKJACK RULES
The rules in play at a table determine the extent of the house edge over players. Some rules will decrease it, some will increase it. Thus it is vital you know how to separate the good ones from the bad ones.
The general rule is that a blackjack table that offers players a variety of options, such as doubling down after splitting pairs, or surrender, are favourable to players. More rigid rules with limited player options are not. In a similar vein, rules related to the options available to dealers, such as H17 v S17 and blackjack pays (6 to 5 v 3 to 2 blackjack) can help tip the balance either way.
Here are some of the rules that can favour players at a table:
- Manual or auto shuffle
- Blackjack pays 2/1 (very rare) or 3 to 2 blackjack
- Early surrender option, and/or the option to late surrender
- Doubling down on any first two cards, soft hands or after splitting a pair
- A single or double deck in play
- The option to resplit pairs and/or Aces
- Dealer standing on a soft 17
- Players allowed to enter game mid-shoe
Here are some of the more unfavourable rules for players:
- Use of CSM to shuffle the cards
- Blackjack pays 6/5
- No surrender option
- Doubling down on 10 or 11 only, and not after pair splitting or on soft hands
- Six or eight decks in play
- No resplitting aces allowed
- Dealer hits on a soft 17
- No mid-shoe entry permitted for players
Using the points above, ensure that you check the rules on a blackjack table, especially when you enter an live casino to play blackjack. Find the tables that operate rules that suit your strategy, and style of play. Knocking the smallest of percentages off the house edge can make a huge difference for regular players in the long-term.
BOTTOM LINE
In summary, players should always assess a blackjack table before they sit down and play. Ensure you know the betting limits, seek out tables with low deck numbers, try and play with manually shuffled cards and with a good mix of rules to suit the basic strategy.
A full table is preferential too in order to slow down play, and be aware of how the rules on your table affect your chances positively and negatively. Naturally you should seek a table with the most player-favourable rules in the casino with a minimum stake that suits your bankroll so you can play blackjack.
