Blackjack Hands: Best, Worst and What to Do

Thando Dlamini
Written byThando DlaminiWriter
Fact checked byDylan ThomasFact Checker

Blackjack is a popular card game in online casinos worldwide, it requires players to beat the dealer by having a hand that equals 21 or is closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without exceeding it, and knowing which hands to play can make all the difference in winning or losing. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the best and worst blackjack hands, including strategies, percentages, and charts, to help players make informed decisions at the tables.

Blackjack Hands: Best, Worst and What to Do

Understanding Blackjack Hands

A blackjack hand consists of two or more cards, and each card has a specific point value. Aces are worth either 1 or 11 points, face cards (kings, queens, and jacks) are worth 10 points, and all other cards are worth their face value. The best possible hand is a natural blackjack, which is an ace and any ten-point card, totaling 21 points.

The number of different blackjack hands possible depends on the number of decks used. For example, with one deck of cards, there are 1326 possible combinations of two-card hands. With six decks, there are over 4 million possible combinations.

The Best Blackjack Hands

The best blackjack hands are those that have a high chance of totaling 21 or are close to 21, giving players a higher chance of beating the dealer. The best possible hand in blackjack is a natural blackjack, consisting of an ace and any ten-point card, totaling 21 points. This hand pays out at 3:2 odds.

Other strong blackjack hands include pairs of aces or eights, which can be split into two separate hands. This increases the chances of getting 21 or a higher total. A soft 18, consisting of an ace and a seven, is also a good hand to play as it can be hit without going over 21.

The Worst Blackjack Hands

The worst blackjack hands are those that have a high chance of going over 21, also known as "busting." The worst possible hand is a hard 16, consisting of a ten-point card and a six, which cannot be hit without risking a bust.

Other weak blackjack hands include a hard 12 or 13, which should be hit if the dealer's upcard is 7 or higher. A hard 15 or 16 should also be hit if the dealer's upcard is a 7 or higher.

What Percentage of Hands do you win in Blackjack?

The percentage of hands a player can win in blackjack depends on various factors, including the player's skill level, the casino's rules, and the number of decks used. On average, a skilled player can win around 48-49% of hands played.

Blackjack Hand Strategies

The best blackjack strategy to win at online casinos involves following a set of rules that players can use to make strategic decisions during the game. The basic blackjack strategy can help players maximize their chances of winning by advising them when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on their hand and the dealer's up card.

Hard hands

For hard hands, players should hit if their hand value is 8 or less, while they should double down if their hand value is 9-11, depending on the dealer's up card. If their hand value is 12-16, players should hit if the dealer's up card is 7 or higher; otherwise, they should stand. If their hand value is 17 or higher, players should always stand.

Soft hands

For soft hands, players should double down if their hand value is Ace-2 through Ace-7, depending on the dealer's up card. If their hand value is Ace-8 or Ace-9, players should always stand.

Pairs

For pairs, players should always split Aces and 8s, while never splitting 5s and 10s. Other pairs should be split based on the dealer's up card, with certain pairs being split only if the dealer's up card is within a specific range.

Surrender

Finally, players may surrender their hand in certain situations, forfeiting half of their bet but ending the hand. Surrender is advised in certain scenarios, such as when the player's hand value is 15-17 and the dealer's up card is high.

Multiple Hands in Blackjack

Online casinos offer players the opportunity to play multiple hands of blackjack simultaneously, increasing the number of hands played per hour. Players should be cautious when playing multiple hands, as it can increase their chances of losing. It is recommended that players stick to playing one or two hands at a time to maximize their chances of winning.

Conclusion about Blackjack Hands

Knowing the best and worst blackjack hands and when to hit, stand, split, or double down is essential for any player looking to increase their chances of winning. While luck plays a significant role in the game of blackjack, implementing the strategies outlined in this article can help players make more informed decisions at the tables.

Remember that playing blackjack, like any form of gambling, carries a risk, and players should never bet more than they can afford to lose. Online casinos provide players with a safe and convenient way to play blackjack, but it is essential to choose a good online casino with fair rules and regulations. Following the strategies outlined in this article and playing responsibly, players will be able to enjoy the excitement and thrill of blackjack while minimizing their losses.

About the author
Thando Dlamini
Thando Dlamini
About

Thando Dlamini, a vivacious 22-year-old from South Africa, seamlessly blends her love for the vibrant world of online casinos with her meticulous localization skills, making the digital gaming experience truly South African.

Send mail
More posts by Thando Dlamini

What is a blackjack hand?

A blackjack hand consists of two or more cards dealt by the dealer, with each card assigned a specific point value. The goal of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand that equals 21 or is closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without exceeding it.

What does "soft" mean in blackjack?

In blackjack, a "soft" hand is a hand that contains an ace, which can be counted as 1 or 11 points, depending on the player's preference. For example, an ace and a six can either be counted as a soft 17 or a hard 7, depending on the player's decision.

Is there a hand that should never be split?

Generally, pairs of aces and eights should always be split in blackjack. However, there is one hand that should never be split, and that is a pair of fives. The reasoning behind this is that a pair of fives gives the player a total of 10, which is a strong starting hand. By splitting the fives, the player runs the risk of ending up with two weak hands.

What is the best time to split a hand when playing blackjack?

In blackjack, splitting a hand is a strategy used when dealt a pair of cards of the same rank, such as two 5s or two Queens. The decision to split depends on the dealer's up card and the basic strategy. For example, splitting Aces is always recommended, while it is advised to never split 5s or 10s.

Here are some examples of when to split pairs based on the dealer's up card:

  • Split a pair of 2s or 3s if the dealer's up card is 4 through 7.
  • Split a pair of 4s if the dealer's up card is 5 or 6.
  • Split a pair of 6s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 6.
  • Split a pair of 7s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 7.
  • Split a pair of 9s if the dealer's up card is 2 through 6 or 8 or 9.

Which is the most misplayed hand in blackjack?

According to experts, the most misplayed hand in blackjack is a soft 18. Many players make the mistake of standing on a soft 18, which can be a costly error. In reality, players should always hit a soft 18 if the dealer's upcard is 9, 10, or an ace. By hitting a soft 18, players increase their chances of improving their hand and beating the dealer.

Blackjack Bankroll Management 2024

Blackjack Bankroll Management 2024

Playing blackjack at an online casino can be an exhilarating and potentially lucrative experience. However, it is essential for players to manage their blackjack bankrolls effectively to maximize their chances of success. This article discusses the importance of blackjack bankroll management, various blackjack bankroll strategies, and how to determine the right amount to bet in each round.

Blackjack Payouts: The Ins and Outs You Need to Know

Blackjack Payouts: The Ins and Outs You Need to Know

Online blackjack is a highly popular casino game that offers the chance to win real money without leaving the comfort of one's home. To increase their chances of winning, players must have a good understanding of the payouts and odds of the game. This article will provide an overview of how payouts and odds work in online blackjack, and explain why basic strategy and careful consideration of side bets are essential to improve one's odds of winning.

Blackjack Strategy

Blackjack Strategy

Blackjack is a popular casino game that requires both luck and strategy. While luck can be unpredictable, blackjack strategy can significantly improve a player's odds of winning. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to blackjack strategy, including basic and advanced tactics, tips for playing online, and the best strategies to win at top online casinos

Blackjack Tips 2024

Blackjack Tips 2024

Blackjack is a popular casino game that has been played for centuries. It is a game of skill that involves a combination of strategy and luck. The objective of the game is to have a hand with a total value of 21 or as close to it as possible without going over.
For fans of online blackjack, the game can be both entertaining and challenging. Regardless of experience level, there are various strategies to improve one's odds of winning. This article will outline tips for playing blackjack at online casinos and ways to increase the likelihood of winning.

Blackjack Variations: A Guide to the Most Popular Types of Blackjack

Blackjack Variations: A Guide to the Most Popular Types of Blackjack

Blackjack has long been a staple of casino gaming, attracting players with its unique blend of skill, strategy, and luck. With the advent of online casinos, the popularity of blackjack has only continued to grow. It is essential for players to understand the different variations of blackjack available, as each variation has distinct rules and strategies. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the most popular blackjack variations and help players navigate the world of online blackjack.

How to Count Cards in Blackjack 2024

How to Count Cards in Blackjack 2024

Blackjack is a popular casino game that requires both skill and luck. The game is played with one or more decks of cards, depending on the casino's rules. Card counting is a strategy used by some players to keep track of the cards that have been dealt and estimate the probability of getting a favorable hand. This gives the player an edge over the dealer and increases their chances of winning. In this article, we will discuss how to count cards in online Blackjack and give tips for successful card counting practice.

How to Play Blackjack

How to Play Blackjack

Blackjack, also known as 21, is an exhilarating casino game that has garnered immense popularity worldwide. If you're a newcomer to the game, the prospect of joining a blackjack table may seem daunting. Fear not, for this comprehensive guide is designed to help you learn everything you need to know about playing blackjack, whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to polish your skills.

How to Win at Blackjack Online?

How to Win at Blackjack Online?

Blackjack is a popular online casino game enjoyed by players all over the world. It's a game of both luck and skill, and while players can't control the cards that are dealt, they can control how they play them. Winning at blackjack online requires understanding probability and following some basic strategy rules. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how to win at blackjack online.

Mastering the Double Down in Blackjack: A Strategic Guide

Mastering the Double Down in Blackjack: A Strategic Guide

Blackjack, renowned as a classic in the realm of card games, stands as a staple in casinos worldwide, captivating players both on physical tables and online platforms. This game, unique in its combination of skill and luck, invites players to strategically aim for the magic number of 21 without exceeding it, a challenge that sets it apart from games of pure chance. Among the skill-based casino games, blackjack, alongside poker, stands out for its depth and strategic intricacies. For enthusiasts and aspiring professionals, mastering techniques like doubling down is not just a skill—it's an essential part of the game's fabric. To guide you through this journey, we delve deep into the art of doubling down, offering insights and strategies to turn the odds in your favor. And for those ready to put theory into practice, we invite you to explore our top picks at CasinoRank, where the best gaming experiences await. So, take this opportunity to step into the world of blackjack, refine your skills, and discover the exhilarating world of strategic casino gaming!

The Ace/Five Count Betting System for Online Casino Blackjack

The Ace/Five Count Betting System for Online Casino Blackjack

Welcome to the exhilarating world of online blackjack, where strategy and luck intertwine to create unforgettable gaming experiences. As a beginner, you might feel overwhelmed by the different strategies and terms used in blackjack. Fear not, as this guide is tailored specifically for you. We're going to delve deep into the five count betting strategy, a simple yet effective method to increase your chances of success in online blackjack. If you're eager to put this strategy to the test, we highly recommend visiting the top-rated online casinos listed on CasinoRank. Each of these casinos offers a fantastic platform to practice and apply your newfound knowledge. So, let’s embark on this journey to master the Ace/Five count betting strategy and turn the odds in your favor!