Live Dealer Blackjack

What is Live Casino Blackjack

If you’re new to the game, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! This beloved card game has remained popular since its conception, and live online variations are booming right now. Live blackjack online essentially involves a streamed image of a classic physical card table with a live dealer and real cards. Here are 3 things to remember:

• A live blackjack casino is just like a physical one, but players play remotely.
• Players take on the dealer rather than playing against each other.
• The goal is to reach a total value of 21 with two or more cards.

How We Rate the Best Live Blackjack Online Casinos

Knowing how to choose a live blackjack online casino is an important part of being a good player, and not everyone gets it right. Before we recommend any particular website for people to live blackjack play at, our experts put each site through its paces, considering a number of important factors:

1. Bonuses and promotions. These are often a central deciding factor when choosing any casino, as they can make a huge difference to your bankroll.
2. Security is essential. All recommended sites should be licensed and regulated. Moreover, they should take measures to protect their players’ funds and private data.
3. Mobile compatibility is increasingly important as more and more individuals choose to play some online live blackjack on the move.
4. Real money support means that the casino gives players a chance to win actual cash and not just practise or play free demos. We think this is extremely important!
5. Free live options are great to have, though – they offer players a chance to rehearse and get comfortable with the layout and rules of live dealer blackjack.
6. Banking options are important to consider. The best sites support a variety of payment methods and offer quick and easy withdrawals with reasonable limits, low fees and few restrictions.

How to Get Started at a Live Blackjack Casino

Once you’re ready to play live blackjack, the first thing you need to do is choose the right site for you. We’d recommend picking one off our list. Next, register with the site, then add a payment method and make a deposit (keeping promos in mind).

Finally, choose a table from the live casino section of your chosen site, get ready to play live and cross your fingers! Before you do any of this, however, there are a few facts you’ll want to familiarise yourself with.

There are numerous variations of blackjack (see below) with different rules. The house edge tends to be less than 2% and is sometimes much smaller than this. In some variants, players may double down on their bet after receiving a hand or even split their hand into two or more.

How to Play Live Blackjack

Most variations of the game are easy to get the hang of. In classical games, each game round goes like this:

1. The dealer hands out a pair of cards to each player.
2. Players are given the option of whether to have another card (hit) or not (stick).
3. The dealer takes their turn, also aiming for a total of 21.
4. Players whose value goes over 21 are out (bust).
5. Each hand is assessed on its total value and the highest wins.

In the following sections, we’ll elaborate on how to choose the best live online blackjack games.

Registration Process

Registration is easy! First, hit the ‘Sign Up’ button, enter your details, and verify your ID (this may involve submitting a valid photo ID form). Next, attach a payment method so that you can deposit and withdraw your funds. That’s it – you’re good to go!

Variations of Live Blackjack Online

Because some casino games have been around for centuries, there are often many different versions. In this section, we’ll break down the main types you’re likely to encounter.

Live Blackjack

Online blackjack live dealers games are popular among players with a nostalgic yearning for the time when physical casinos dominated the industry. They also appeal to those who enjoy a lifelike, sociable version of their favourite game.

Playing blackjack online involves interacting with a streamed image of a physical table, a real dealer, and real cards. There may be other players at the table who could be situated anywhere in the world, and there may or may not be a chat function.

The real-time broadcast will be hosted on a standard online casino, and it’s important that your internet connection is strong and steady enough to maintain it. There are generally up to six positions at the table, and it’s possible for a player to play multiple hands.

Live dealer casino online blackjack may enable players to play any number of different variations of the game, such as Atlantic City or European blackjack. Keep reading for more information on these specific regional and rule-related variants.

Online Blackjack

Live blackjack games aren’t for everyone! Since 1994, before the advent of blackjack live in UK, online players enjoyed playing a non-live version virtually. This is essentially a digital version of the game with fixed odds underpinned by a random number generator.

The dealer is automated and sometimes animated, and the main advantages are that the RTPs are often quite high because it costs the casinos very little to keep this running. Payouts are automatically handled by banking methods without human involvement, and it’s really quick to place bets and play rounds.

When playing this form of the game, many players find that they spend money much quicker, which makes it a little higher risk for anyone who is susceptible to problem gambling or forming bad habits such as chasing losses. It’s essential that players gamble responsibly, exercise sensible bankroll management, and not spend what they can’t afford to lose.

Live Dealer Suite Blackjack

Some players are distrustful of random number generators or don’t want to play a non-live version of the game because of how quickly they tend to spend their funds when playing it. This is where live suite blackjack comes in!

This essentially involves a broadcast webcam system which delivers an image of the real, live dealer at a card table complete with extra large cards so that players can play from the comfort of their living rooms on big screen TVs. This is particularly popular as a social activity amongst some players, whereas others like the comfort and convenience it affords them.

These suites support a range of different blackjack variations, and players can choose to play at a live table with other players, join single or multiple-hand games, or play on their own private table.

Surrender Blackjack

Some versions of the game allow players to ‘surrender’. Surrendering involves sacrificing your hand after seeing it in return for half of the value of your bet. This way, if you find that you are dealt 2 cards which are unlikely to grow into a strong hand, you can surrender and retain some of your cash to play again next time.

Games which incorporate a surrender rule are popular amongst new and risk-averse players who want to minimise their losses. The surrender rule ultimately allows players to reduce losses by lowering the house edge. In the case of ‘early surrender’, this difference can be as much as 0.6%. However, early surrender is now nearly obsolete because of how much of an advantage it gives.

‘Late surrender’, which players are more likely to encounter these days, allows players to throw away a hand after the dealer has peeked to see if they have scored a blackjack (value of 21) in their hand. Late surrenders lower the house edge by just 0.08% approximately.

Other versions have more specific rules, such as allowing players to surrender only after doubling, splitting or insuring their hands. The surrender rule can be seriously beneficial to players who are savvy enough to know how and when to use it.

Switch Blackjack

Switch is another variation which gives the player a substantial advantage, and for this reason, it’s hugely popular both at online casinos and in their brick-and-mortar counterparts.

Switch blackjack was invented by the card game developer, casino owner and professional gambler Geoff Hall in the 1990s. After his loss, he conceived the idea of him switching the top cards.

In Switch, most of the rules are the same as when playing a classical variant of the game, but players are dealt two hands and offered the option of switching the two top cards. An equal bet will need to be placed for each of the two hands.

By doing so, players may be able to improve one or even both of their hands, drastically reducing the house edge. Quick-thinking players can use this advantage to substantially improve their chances.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City blackjack, which is one of the most commonly found versions both online and in physical casinos, incorporates an early surrender rule, allowing players to forfeit their hands if they choose.

This version came about in the 1970s as a way for casinos on the East Coast of America to attract players, offering them liberal rules and great odds to generate return custom. Players who follow a strict strategy (see below for more on hints, tips and strategies) can get some pretty good returns if they’re clever about it.

Other Atlantic City rules include the requirement that the dealer must stand on all 17s, the game is played with 8 standard decks, players can split their hands up to a maximum of three times (although a pair of aces can only be split once), and they are given the option to surrender late or early. The rules of the Atlantic City variant are extremely liberal compared to others.

European Blackjack

This is another commonly found variant which is typically played with 2 decks. For this reason, it attracts card counters, who are able to give themselves an even better edge than the game already offers (the house edge is just 0.39%).

In the case of European blackjack, in particular, the rules can vary from one casino to the next, so it’s important that players look at them carefully before taking a place at the table (whether it’s virtual or otherwise). European blackjack generally does not offer players the option to split hands or surrender, but some online versions offer exceptions to this.

In European blackjack, the dealer is forced to stand on a soft 17, meaning that their hand has reached a total value of 17 with an ace counting as either 1 or 11. The European variant has many digital versions and is one of the most commonly played types of game anywhere, mainly because of its favourable odds.

Perfect Pairs Blackjack

Perfect Pairs is a version of classical blackjack which uses the regular rules but with an additional side bet placed at the start of each hand. The bet is placed on the first two cards dealt with being of the same value.

If the pair is perfect (the rank and suit are the same), then the payout is around 25:1 because of the unlikelihood and rarity of this hand. Pairs of the same rank but whose suits do not match tend to pay around 5:1.

In Perfect Pairs, players have the option of doubling down and splitting. Also, they can play up to 5 hands per round. The dealer is forced to hit if their hand reaches a soft 17. Perfect Pairs appeals especially to those players who like to have a little extra flutter whilst playing.

Double Exposure Blackjack

Double exposure means that the dealer’s cards are both dealt face-up so that all players at the table can see exactly what they are competing with, thus gaining an advantage.

The payouts are substantially lower with this variant because of the significantly reduced house edge (blackjack pays only 1:1). Also, ties always go in favour of the dealer, who will usually hit on a soft 17. Other rules which attempt to rebalance the odds in favour of the house include an absence of insurance and surrender rules.

This is a great option for those who are playing on a budget or who want to minimise risk wherever possible, but there are multiple variants within this one, so it’s vital that players familiarise themselves with all the rules of a specific table before playing.

Additional Variations of Blackjack Games

The above are just the most common variations. Here are some of the others which players may encounter:

• Spanish 21 is quick and easy to learn, making it highly popular all over the world.
• 21st-Century uses continuous shuffling of multiple decks with jokers, and hands over 21 can still pay out.
• Double Attack is similar to Spanish 21, including 4 cards from each deck worth 10, with a total of 8 decks in play.
• Super Fun 21 is a very famous version, incorporating a round of betting before dealing.
• Lucky 13s uses additional 11s, 12s, and 13s, allowing doubling, and splitting, but without surrender.
• Never Bust is a fairly modern variant, and it’s very simple – both player and dealer hit until 17 or higher is reached.
• Multiple Action gives the players three rounds of bets altogether, increasing the potential winnings substantially. This should not be confused with multi-hand.
• Multi-Hand is extra exciting, owing to the fact that players can play multiple hands at the same time!

Pros and Cons of Playing Blackjack

As with all games – both physical and online – there are advantages and disadvantages to blackjack. Let’s take a closer look at what these are:

• Blackjack offers a great balance of luck and skill

• The odds of many variants of the game are quite competitive

• Most variants are generally quite straightforward and easy to learn for most players

• Live casino blackjack offers a social experience as well as a fun way to have a flutter

• Some players become overwhelmed by the number of variants and side bets in the game

• Rounds can pass very quickly when playing non-live dealer blackjack

• Promotions often have strict wagering requirements

• Players who can’t count cards may be at a disadvantage

Tips for Winning at Online Live Blackjack

Despite the luck involved, there are a few blackjack live tips players can use to improve their chances. When learning how to play live blackjack, consider the following:

1. Know the rules: This means not only being able to play basic and traditional blackjack but ensuring that you’re also familiar with the relevant terminology and the different variations.
2. Consider other players: Look at all cards face-up on the table, including the dealer’s, and allow this to inform your decisions of whether to hit or stay.
3. Polish your mathematics: This is, in many ways, a game of statistics, and having good mathematical skills can give you an edge.
4. Consider pro strategies: You might want to consider some of the strategies which have been developed by professional players. We’ll explore some of these in the following sections.

Basic Live Dealer Blackjack Online Strategies

Certain strategies can give players the edge, as this is not simply a game of luck. For instance, it’s highly advisable to use the split and surrender options when appropriate. Ensure that you know when to split and when not to, and don’t be afraid to surrender if your hand is weak. Tailor your strategy to the variant you are playing. This means knowing when to hit on a 16 or 17 and when it might be advantageous to play multiple hands.

Take a look at some strategy charts, which can help you to understand the odds, and the best moves to make in various different scenarios, but don’t expect to be able to memorise all of them! One of the most famous strategies is counting cards, which we’ll look at in more depth next.

Card Counting Techniques for a Live Blackjack Online Casino

Card counting is based on the premise that players can keep track of the number of high or low cards left in the deck, and counters have to monitor which cards have been and gone.

By knowing which cards have already been dealt, the player can make assumptions about which cards are most likely to be coming up and can place their bets accordingly. Some casinos try to dissuade card counting, but it’s harder for them to detect when playing online.

In the case that a game uses a continuous shuffle system (which some online versions do), card counting will not work. If they don’t use a continuous shuffle, it is possible to count cards whilst playing online, and this is probably the single most effective strategy in a player’s arsenal when it comes to getting an edge over the house.

Top 5 Blackjack Games Online

In the world of blackjack live in an online setting, some games are more popular than others, so here we’ll look at the 5 most beloved variants of live blackjack.

Play Live Blackjack Online With Friends for Free

Many of us love the social element of gambling, and there are online casinos which can facilitate this. If you want to join a game with your friends, ensure that the website is compatible, and find the same table. Once the dealer approves, you’ll be virtually seated at a table with friends, and you’ll have access to the same chat room.

By combining these elements, the casinos manage to create an immersive experience which feels as much like a brick-and-mortar casino as possible!

Blackjack Tournaments Online

Many people get competitive when it comes to gambling, and tournaments are a great way for top players to flex their muscles.

Through online tournaments, it’s possible to make friends, as well as cash, and most casinos, with a good selection of blackjack tables, offer tournaments. There are generally multiple rounds in which the player who wins the most proceeds to the next for the chance to ultimately win a valuable grand prize!

Live Dealer Casino Online Promotions & Bonuses

When choosing the right site to join, it’s important that you give consideration to promotions. These can have a huge impact on a player’s bankroll, so don’t overlook them!

Playing Live Online Blackjack on Your Smartphone

The meteoric rise in popularity of mobile gaming has meant that now virtually all online gambling can be done via a portable device! The convenience of having a game streamed straight to your phone’s live blackjack app means that you can squeeze in a few hands on your lunch break or play a quick game on the bus.

When choosing sites to recommend, our experts always factor in live blackjack mobile compatibility, so you’ll get a great experience at any of the sites on our list.

Our Expert Verdict

In summary, playing a broadcast/streamed version of live dealer blackjack online, whether it’s on your laptop, phone or even a big-screen TV, is great fun! Blackjack’s a fantastic game because it requires more skill than some online games, but it’s still straightforward enough that practically anyone can get the hang of it.

When choosing a site, players should consider such factors as the range of games and variations on offer, as well as available promotions and bonuses, banking methods and portable device compatibility.

Understanding the rules is key to success, and players must be aware that these rules can change from one variant to the next, as well as from one casino to another. To get started, take a look at the list above, pick a site, and place your bets!