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Online blackjack has become a cornerstone of virtual casinos, captivating players with its blend of strategy, skill, and chance. While the core gameplay remains straightforward—aiming to get a hand total closer to 21 than the dealer without going over—it’s the added features that often catch the eye of modern players. Among these features are side bets, an exciting addition designed to enhance the gaming experience.
Side bets offer players the chance to wager on outcomes separate from the main game, introducing an element of unpredictability and the potential for significantly higher payouts. Unlike the standard game, where the focus is on beating the dealer, side bets can involve various combinations of cards, offering creative ways to engage with the game.
For some, side bets are a fun way to spice up the classic blackjack experience; for others, they’re a tempting opportunity to chase big wins. But are they worth the risk?
This article from Casinoz explores side bets in online blackjack, breaking down how they work, their advantages and drawbacks, and tips for using them responsibly.
What Are Side Bets in Blackjack?
Side bets in blackjack are optional wagers that players can make in addition to their main bet. These bets focus on specific outcomes that don’t directly impact the primary objective of beating the dealer. Instead of concentrating solely on getting a hand total closer to 21, side bets allow players to wager on various scenarios, such as specific card combinations, suits, or values.
Side bets are designed to add an extra layer of excitement to the game. They often come with the potential for high payouts, making them particularly attractive to players who enjoy a mix of luck and the thrill of risk-taking. For instance, a winning side bet can sometimes pay out significantly more than the standard blackjack odds of 3:2 for a natural blackjack or 1:1 for a regular win.
One of the reasons side bets have become so popular in online blackjack is the variety they offer. From predicting pairs to betting on poker-style combinations, side bets bring new dimensions to a classic game. However, it’s crucial to understand that these wagers are not designed with player advantage in mind.
The house edge on side bets is typically higher than on the main game, meaning players are less likely to win in the long run.
Despite the inherent risks, side bets remain a favorite feature for many players, particularly those who prioritize entertainment and variety over maximizing their odds of winning.
You can try free blackjack games on Casinoz.
| Name | Soft | Return to player | ||
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99.78% | ||
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99.69% | ||
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99.65% | ||
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99.6% | ||
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99.59% | ||
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99.59% | ||
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99.54% | ||
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99.54% | ||
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99.54% | ||
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99.33% |
Popular Side Bets in Online Blackjack
Online blackjack offers a wide variety of side bets, each with unique rules and potential payouts. Here’s a look at some of the most popular options you’ll find.
Progressive Blackjack
This is the most common type of side bet in blackjack. It works like this:
- A player bets an extra dollar on a special spot.
- He gets paid for the aces that come to his hand, starting with the first card dealt.
The suit of the aces may be taken into account. The maximum combination is usually four aces of the same suit. If the gambler receives such cards in a row from the first, he gets the progressive jackpot.
Varieties of this blackjack are available in the portfolios of many major software manufacturers. The house edge in this bet depends on the payouts and the current jackpot amount, but it is rarely below 15%.
Naturally, we recommend to always avoid such bets.
Perfect Pairs
This side bet allows players to wager on their first two cards, forming a pair. Payouts vary based on the type of pair:
- Perfect Pair: Both cards are the same rank and suit (e.g., two 7♥).
- Colored Pair: Both cards have the same rank and color but different suits (e.g., 7♥ and 7♦).
- Mixed Pair: Both cards have the same rank but different suits and colors (e.g., 7♥ and 7♠).
Perfect Pairs typically offers higher payouts for harder-to-achieve combinations, with a perfect pair often paying 25:1.
21+3
Inspired by poker, this side bet combines your first two cards with the dealer’s face-up card to form a three-card poker hand. Winning hands include:
- Flush: All cards of the same suit.
- Straight: Consecutive card values (e.g., 5, 6, 7).
- Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank.
- Straight Flush: Consecutive card values of the same suit.
- Suited Trips: Three cards of the same rank and suit (e.g., 10♥, 10♥, 10♥).
Payouts vary, with suited trips often offering the highest reward, up to 100:1.
Lucky Ladies
This bet focuses on achieving specific card combinations that total 20. Higher payouts are awarded for premium combinations, such as two Queens of Hearts or a suited pair totaling 20.
Winning combinations can pay up to 100:1.
Hot 3
Hot 3 combines the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s face-up card to make a total of 19, 20, or 21.
Specific combinations, such as suited 21, offer larger payouts, with odds reaching up to 100:1 in some variations.
Royal Match
Betting on the player’s first two cards being suited or forming a royal match (King and Queen of the same suit).
- If the player's first two cards are of the same suit, the payout is 3:1.
- If they are Queen and King of the same suit, the payout is 10:1.
This bet is usually offered in single-deck blackjack, and the casino's advantage is about 4%. If the game is played with multiple decks or the payout changes, this figure will also be different, but it is always too high to recommend this bet to Casinoz readers.
Bust It
Wagering on whether the dealer will go bust, with payouts based on the number of cards it takes.
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Bonus Blackjack
In this blackjack game, you can place a side bet that wins if the player, the dealer, or both get a blackjack. If the dealer and player both get an ace of spades and a jack of spades simultaneously, the customer wins the progressive jackpot.
The casino's advantage in this bet when playing with six decks exceeds 3.5%, which is too much for blackjack.
Pair Square
This side bet wins if the first two cards of the player are of the same rank. Payout odds may vary, but the house edge is usually at least 6%. Needless to say, this option is not for you.
Three Way Action
This version combines three gambling games: regular blackjack, seven-card stud poker, and high/low. The gambler can bet on any or all of them at once.
- With blackjack, everything is as clear as it is (some nuances of the rules may vary).
- In Stud poker, additional cards are dealt to form the best poker combination. If the player wins, they payout is 1:1. If the dealer does not have at least an ace, the player gets only half of the bet. The casino advantage in this game is about 3.2%.
- In the high card game, the player's and the dealer's first cards are compared. The payout is 1:1. In case of a draw, the client loses half of the bet.
The house advantage is almost 3%. We recommend playing only blackjack. The other two bets are very unprofitable.
5 Card 21
Here, the bet is accepted on the player's five cards with twenty-one points. There is a separate optimal strategy for this blackjack game, developed by Stanford Wong. If you find this variation in some casinos and learn how to play it correctly, you can reduce the casino's advantage to 0.2%.
Suited 6-7-8
This side bet wins if the player's first three cards are sixes, sevens, and eights of the same suit. In this case, the customer must win this hand.
Play blackjack according to the basic strategy with minor modifications. You can achieve a tiny advantage over the house, but only if the casino offers standard payouts.
Red/Black
Here, everything is very simple. You make a side bet on the color of the dealer's open card. The payout is 1:1. A draw is declared if the dealer has a deuce of the color you bet on. The casino advantage is 3.8%.
Streak
You can bet on how many hands you will win in a row. The possible options are from two to five. The house edge ranges from 8% to almost 15%. So forget about this bet.
Super 7s
In this blackjack, extra bet payouts are due for sevens that come in a row, starting with the first player's card. The suit of cards is also taken into account. Three sevens of the same suit are paid at a ratio of 5000:1. The bet size is usually fixed.
The house edge is approximately 11%.
Super 7 Blackjack is offered by Betsoft and other providers.
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Insurance
Although technically not a side bet in the traditional sense, insurance is a standard additional wager. Players can place this bet if the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, protecting against the possibility of a blackjack. Insurance pays out 2:1 but is generally not recommended due to its high house edge.
Pros and Cons of Side Bets
Side bets in online blackjack can significantly enhance the gaming experience, but they also come with inherent risks. Here’s a closer look at their advantages and disadvantages:
Blackjack Side Bet Pros
- Opportunity for Higher Payouts: Side bets often feature much larger payouts than standard blackjack. For example, hitting a “Perfect Pair” or a “Suited Trips” can reward players with odds as high as 25:1 or even 100:1, offering a chance for substantial wins.
- Added Excitement and Variety: For players who enjoy more dynamic gameplay, side bets introduce new opportunities and challenges. They add a layer of unpredictability and keep the game engaging, especially for those seeking more than the standard blackjack objectives.
- Beginner-Friendly Options: Many side bets are straightforward and require no advanced strategy. This simplicity makes them appealing to casual players who are looking for quick and entertaining gameplay.
- Perfect for Risk-Takers: Side bets cater to players who enjoy taking calculated risks in exchange for the possibility of bigger rewards.
Blackjack Side Bet Cons
- Higher House Edge: The house edge for side bets is significantly higher than that of the main blackjack game. For instance, the house edge on “Perfect Pairs” or “21+3” can range from 3% to 10% or more, compared to the 0.5%-1% edge in standard blackjack with optimal strategy.
- Increased Risk of Losses: While side bets offer higher payouts, they are also harder to win. Regularly placing side bets without considering the odds can lead to faster bankroll depletion.
- Distraction from Core Strategy: Focusing too much on side bets may cause players to lose sight of the primary goal: beating the dealer. Overindulging in side bets can disrupt a solid blackjack strategy.
- Potential Misconceptions About Payouts: The allure of high payouts can sometimes give players false confidence, leading them to believe that side bets are a reliable path to profit. In reality, the odds are heavily skewed in favor of the house.
Balancing the Pros and Cons Side bets can be a fun addition to your blackjack session, but they should be approached with caution. They are best enjoyed as a form of entertainment rather than a consistent strategy for winning.
Strategies for Using Side Bets Wisely
Although side bets are primarily designed for entertainment and often come with higher risks, employing the right strategies can help you enjoy them without compromising your bankroll. Here are some tips for making the most of side bets in online blackjack:
1. Treat Side Bets as Entertainment
The primary purpose of side bets is to add excitement to the game. Approach them as a fun way to enhance your blackjack experience rather than a strategy to maximize winnings. Consider allocating a small portion of your bankroll specifically for side bets, separate from your main game wagers.
2. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend on side bets during a session. This prevents overindulging and helps maintain control over your finances. Treat these wagers as optional extras rather than essential components of your gameplay.
3. Focus on Side Bets with Lower House Edge
Not all side bets are created equal. If you’re determined to try them, opt for bets with a relatively lower house edge. For example, some versions of the “21+3” bet offer better odds than others, depending on the casino’s payout structure. Researching and comparing options can help you make smarter choices.
4. Play for High Volatility, Not Consistent Wins
Side bets are high-risk, high-reward wagers. Embrace their volatility and understand that they are unlikely to deliver consistent returns. If you do win, treat it as a bonus rather than a guaranteed payout.
5. Take Advantage of Free Bet Promotions
Some online casinos offer promotions or bonuses that include free side bets. These promotions can be a risk-free way to explore side bets without dipping into your bankroll. Check your chosen casino’s offers for any opportunities to try side bets without added cost.
6. Know When to Avoid Side Bets
If your primary goal is to play blackjack with optimal strategy and maintain a low house edge, it’s best to avoid side bets altogether. The long-term odds are not in your favor, and consistent participation can erode your profits.
7. Combine Side Bets with Game Strategy
If you decide to include side bets in your play, don’t let them distract you from making solid decisions in the main game. The primary objective of blackjack remains beating the dealer, so ensure side bets complement rather than compromise your core strategy.
Final Thoughts on Strategy
Using side bets wisely involves balancing entertainment with responsibility. While they can provide a fun and exciting twist, they should never take precedence over the core principles of bankroll management and smart decision-making. In the next section, we’ll wrap up with key takeaways and answer some frequently asked questions about side bets in online blackjack.
The following online casinos offer numerous blackjack games, including ones with side bets.
| Casino | Games | Bonuses | Editors rating | |||
| 5648 | 100% to 2000 ₽ x40 |
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| 5260 | 100% to 1000 $ x35 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 5193 | 100% to 200 $ x35 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 5065 | 100% to 500 $ x45 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4708 | 100% to 1000 $ x35 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4505 | 200% to 100 $ x20 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4420 | 200% to 25 $ x25 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4355 | 200% to 25 $ x25 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4153 | 150% to 20000 ₽ x40 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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| 4117 | 100% to 500 $ x40 |
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T&C applies, 18+
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Conclusion
Side bets in online blackjack add a thrilling layer of excitement to the classic game, offering players the chance to win big with creative wagers. However, they come with higher house edges and lower odds of success, making them a risky choice for those focused on long-term profitability.
To enjoy side bets responsibly:
- Treat them as entertainment rather than a strategy for winning.
- Allocate a small portion of your bankroll for side bets.
- Focus on side bets with favorable odds and lower house edges.
Remember that the core game of blackjack offers the best chance of consistent returns when played with optimal strategy.
Side bets can elevate your online blackjack experience, but it’s essential to approach them with a clear understanding of their risks and rewards.
