Mastering the Art of Side Bets in Live Blackjack

For those only getting to explore online casinos, live blackjack may seem like a very basic gambling action. There is a virtual table, a deal, possibly a few other players, and the ultimate goal to hit 21 points without busting.

However, live blackjack can offer so much more to players than this basic action. Did you know that the game often relies on additional gambling action? Enter side bets: the flavor of the game. These side bets offer an additional taste of fun, an immersive experience, and a chance to win more on top of a traditional stake.

Side bets do come with their own risks, however — both financial and emotional. Therefore, we strongly advise you to check out our full guide to this additional instrument of the game before taking a plunge.

Our team breaks down all the basics of the winning action, elaborates on the most popular side bets, explains all the upsides and downsides of this instrument, and suggests bankroll strategies to keep your gaming session immersive and yet in check.

Classic Blackjack Action in a Nutshell

Before we proceed to explore side bets, let’s take a look at the classic action first. Live blackjack is a mix of skill and strategy rather than chance, and the main goal of each session is to beat the dealer by reaching 21 points and not going over the set limit. Live blackjack relies on three classic bets:

1. Win – Your hand beats the dealer’s without busting.
2. Lose – The dealer’s hand is stronger, or you go over 21.
3. Push – Both you and the dealer have the same total, resulting in a tie.

The thrill of blackjack lies in its mix of strategy, probabilities, and luck. But for players seeking an added layer of risk and reward, side bets are an enticing option.

Side Bets in Live Blackjack: The Main Objective

What you need to know about side bets is that they are optional. In addition to any standard bet, you can wager some more cash on any other possible outcome. These side wagers are not influenced by your main strategy but rather rely on the outcome of specific card combinations.

The best way to think about side bets is to see them as mini-games within the larger gambling sessions. These mini-games offer potentially juicier wins but the risks are also greater.

With risks increasing, what is the appeal then? Well, side bets flavor the main game with multiple tastes and nuances of gaming, suggesting a chance to grab payouts that are often higher than those offered within a classic game.

What Are the Main Types of Side Bets?

1. Perfect Pairs Side Bet

This classic side bet is all about pairs. You’re betting that your first two cards will form a pair. Here’s the payout structure:

• Perfect Pair (same rank and suit): 25:1
• Colored Pair (same rank and color): 12:1
• Mixed Pair (same rank, different colors): 6:1

Pros:

• High potential payout.
• Easy to understand.

Cons:

• High house edge, often above 7%.
• Purely luck-based, with no influence from strategy.

2. 21+3 Side Bet

Combining blackjack with a touch of poker, this side bet focuses on your first two cards and the dealer’s upcard. The goal is to form a poker hand:

• Suited Trips (three identical cards): 100:1
• Straight Flush: 40:1
• Three of a Kind: 30:1
• Straight: 10:1
• Flush: 5:1

Pros:

• Brings poker enthusiasts into the fold.
• Multiple opportunities for high payouts.

Cons:

• House edge varies but can climb as high as 10%.
• Relies entirely on luck.

3. Insurance

Often misunderstood, insurance isn’t a typical side bet but deserves a mention. It’s a bet that the dealer has blackjack when showing an Ace. The payout is 2:1 if correct.

Pros:

• A hedge against a strong dealer hand.

Cons:

• Statistically, a poor bet over time.
• House edge exceeds 7% in most cases.

4. Royal Match Side Bet

This side bet focuses on your first two cards forming a suited combination. A Royal Match (King and Queen of the same suit) offers the highest payout.

Pros:

• A simple concept with exciting rewards.
• Suited pairs offer mid-level payouts.

Cons:

• House edge can exceed 10%.
• Limited availability in live blackjack games.

5. Over/Under 13 Side bet

In this bet, you wager whether your first two cards will total over or under 13. Aces count as 1 for this bet.

Pros:

• Quick and easy to grasp.
• Moderate payouts.

Cons:

• House edge hovers around 6%.
• Lacks the thrill of larger payouts.

What Are the Upsides and Downsides of Side Bets?

The Upsides:

• High Payout Potential: If a side bet wins, you will benefit from a payout that’s significantly bigger than any of the standard wins in a game.
• Enhanced Entertainment: The abundance of side bets definitely diversifies the gaming process and makes it more entertaining.
• Minimal Extra Effort: Even newbies can opt-in for side bets because the terms are relatively straightforward and the bets are easy to make.

The Downsides:

• High House Edge: The odds are stacked against you, more so than in regular blackjack.
• Risk of Overspending: The thrill can lead to reckless betting.
• Luck-Based: Strategy doesn’t apply, making outcomes unpredictable.

Should You Play Side Bets?

Side bets tap into the universal love for risk and reward. They provide:

• Immediate Gratification: Quick results compared to standard gameplay.
• Enhanced Social Interaction: Some games, like Blackjack Party, encourage camaraderie among players celebrating side bet wins.
• Break from Routine: Side bets keep the gameplay dynamic, reducing monotony.

There is no one answer to this question as the choice really depends on what you are looking for in a game. If you’re in it for the long haul and focused on minimizing losses, side bets aren’t the best choice. However, if you’re looking to inject some fun and variety into your game and are okay with the higher risk, side bets can be a fantastic addition to your blackjack experience.

Should you decide to play with side bets, a good piece of advice would be to account for them in your bankroll strategy.

1. Set a Side Bet Budget: Allocate a portion of your bankroll specifically for side bets. Treat them as a fun bonus, not your main focus.
2. Bet Sparingly: Limit the frequency of side bets. Consider placing them during winning streaks to maximize enjoyment.
3. Know the Odds: Understand the house edge and payout structure of each side bet before committing.
4. Stick to Your Limits: Decide in advance how much you’re willing to lose and walk away when you reach that limit.
5. Mix It Up: Don’t rely solely on side bets. Balance them with a solid blackjack strategy to keep your session engaging and sustainable.

Recommended Games Featuring Side Bets

If you’re ready to try your hand at live blackjack with side bets, here are some standout titles from top providers:

1. Blackjack Party by Evolution Gamingfeatures Perfect Pairs and 21+3 side bets. The game also has a lively, social atmosphere with entertaining dealers. This makes this release a fun and immersive one for beginners.
2. Unlimited Blackjack by Ezugi features side bets like Perfect Pairs and 21+3. In addition to immersive and diverse gaming action, the release also offers a unique unlimited seating option, so you’ll never have to wait for a spot.
3. ONE Blackjack by Pragmatic Play Live features side bets including Bust Bonus and 21+3. Why play the game? It has a sleek interface and a range of betting options that cater to all levels of players.
4. All Bets Blackjack by Playtech features a variety of side bets, including Buster Blackjack and Perfect Pairs. This live dealer release is an excellent choice for players seeking diverse side bet opportunities with a professional presentation.

Final Thoughts on Side Bets in Live Blackjack

Side bets in live blackjack are like the dessert after a satisfying meal. They’re sweet, tempting, and best enjoyed in moderation. Whether you’re chasing Perfect Pairs or testing your luck with 21+3, always remember that the primary goal is to have fun. Also, keep this guide at hand if you need a quick tip or guidance.

As you dive into the world of live blackjack gaming in all of its diversity, we are happy to mention that our team has reviewed 100s of great live blackjack sites to help you make an easier choice as to where to practice all the knowledge that you have just gotten.

To make your search easier, we’ve compiled a comprehensive site search tool that helps to highlight all the trusted live blackjack sites. This tool allows you to filter platforms by features such as available side bets, minimum stakes, and bonus compatibility. Whether you’re a casual player or an experienced bettor, our database ensures you’ll find a site that fits your preferences.

When adding a live blackjack site to our database, we always pay attention to picking the ones that not only offer a variety of side bets but also provide a secure and enjoyable gaming environment. Usually, these are the platforms regulated and authorized by reputable authorities. There are quite a few of those within the global gaming industry, including the Malta Gaming Authority, the jurisdictions of Cyprus and Curacao, and the UK Gambling Commission. All of these licensors ensure fair play and robust player protections.

If you choose to select a platform on your own, keep in mind these vital tips:

• A good live blackjack site will also feature a broad selection of tables with varying stakes, professional dealers, and seamless gameplay.
• For fans of side bets, explore platforms that highlight popular options like 21+3, Perfect Pairs, or Royal Match.
• Sites powered by top providers like Vivo Gaming, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, and Ezugi are excellent starting points.
• Scan the leading gambling websites to make sure that reviews from fellow players are positive.
• Secure banking is crucial and our advice is to pick the locations that collaborate with certified and safe payment methods.

Don’t settle for less when it comes to your live blackjack experience. Take the time to explore your options, and let our database guide you to a platform where side bets elevate the thrill of the game.