What Are the Side Bets of Blackjack?

Blackjack, often hailed as the king of casino card games, has captivated players for centuries with its blend of skill and chance. While the core objective of reaching 21 without busting remains timeless, many Canadian players are discovering an added layer of excitement through blackjack side bets. These optional wagers introduce new dimensions of strategy and potential payouts, transforming a classic game into an even more dynamic experience. But what exactly are these side bets, and are they a smart move for your bankroll?

For those looking to enhance their blackjack sessions, understanding side bets is crucial. They offer a thrilling deviation from the standard game, providing opportunities for bigger wins, albeit often with increased risk. Whether you're playing at a bustling land-based casino or enjoying the convenience of an online platform in Canada, side bets can add a fresh twist to every hand.

Understanding Blackjack Side Bets

At the beginning of a blackjack round, after placing your main wager, you might notice an additional betting area on the table – this is where side bets come into play. These are separate wagers placed on specific outcomes that are independent of whether your main hand beats the dealer. It's important to note that not all blackjack tables, whether online or in brick-and-mortar casinos across Canada, offer side bets, so always check the game rules before you play.

Side bets come with their own unique sets of odds and payout structures, which can vary significantly from the main game. They often focus on specific card combinations, such as pairs in your hand, or a combination of your cards and the dealer's upcard. While they can offer enticingly high payouts, they typically carry a higher house edge compared to the main blackjack game. This means that over the long run, the casino has a greater advantage on side bets.

Popular Blackjack Side Bets for Canadian Players

The world of blackjack side bets is diverse, with various options designed to appeal to different player preferences. Here are some of the most commonly found side bets that Canadian players might encounter:

Royal Match

The Royal Match side bet is a favourite among many online casino enthusiasts. It focuses on the first two cards dealt to you. The goal is to receive two cards of the same suit, or even better, a King and Queen of the same suit.

• How it works: You win if your first two cards are suited.
• Payouts: A pair of suited cards typically pays 5:2. The highest payout, often 25:1, is awarded for a suited King and Queen (a “Royal Match”).
• House Edge: Generally around 3.7%, though this can fluctuate based on the number of decks used and the specific casino rules.

21+3

This popular side bet combines elements of blackjack and three-card poker. It considers your first two cards and the dealer's upcard to form a three-card poker hand.

• How it works: You win if these three cards form a Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, or Straight Flush.
• Payouts: Payouts typically start at 5:1 for a Flush and can go up to 100:1 for a Suited Three of a Kind, depending on the specific paytable. A common payout for any winning 21+3 hand is 9:1.
• House Edge: The house edge for 21+3 can range from 2.78% to over 7%, depending on the paytable. A common 9:1 payout table usually has a house edge around 3.24%.

Over/Under 13

This side bet challenges you to predict the total value of your initial two cards.

• How it works: You bet whether the sum of your first two cards will be “Over 13” or “Under 13.” Aces are always counted as 1 for this bet.
• Important Rule: If your initial two cards total exactly 13, you lose the side bet, regardless of whether you bet Over or Under.
• House Edge: The “Under 13” bet usually has a higher house edge, often around 13%, while the “Over 13” bet typically has a house edge closer to 6.5%.

Other Notable Blackjack Side Bets

Beyond the most common options, several other side bets can be found at various blackjack tables:

Insurance

Insurance is a unique side bet offered when the dealer's upcard is an Ace. It's essentially a bet that the dealer has blackjack.

• How it works: You can place an “insurance” bet equal to half your original wager. If the dealer reveals a 10-value card (10, Jack, Queen, King) for blackjack, your insurance bet pays 2:1.
• Strategy Note: While it seems like a good way to protect your hand, basic blackjack strategy generally advises against taking insurance due to its unfavourable house edge.

Lucky Ladies

The Lucky Ladies side bet focuses on your initial two cards, specifically hoping for a total of 20.

• How it works: You win if your first two cards total exactly 20.
• Payouts: A simple 20 often pays 4:1. The payouts increase significantly for specific combinations, such as two Queens of Hearts, especially if the dealer also has a blackjack, which can sometimes pay out an impressive 1000:1.

Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth It?

Blackjack side bets undeniably add an extra layer of excitement and the potential for larger payouts to the classic game. For Canadian players seeking a thrill beyond the standard gameplay, they can be a fun diversion. However, it's crucial to remember that these bets generally come with a higher house edge than the main blackjack game. This means that while the payouts can be more lucrative, the probability of winning them is typically lower over the long term.

Ultimately, the decision to engage in blackjack side bets rests with you. They offer a blend of increased risk and reward, transforming a familiar game into something new and exhilarating. Always play responsibly, understand the specific rules and payouts of each side bet, and consider them as an optional enhancement to your blackjack experience, rather than a guaranteed path to profit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blackjack Side Bets

1. Are blackjack side bets available at all tables?

   • No, the availability of side bets varies significantly. Always check the specific rules and betting options at your chosen blackjack table, whether online or in a land-based casino.

2. How do side bet payouts compare to the main blackjack game?

   • Side bets often offer much higher payout ratios (e.g., 25:1, 100:1, 1000:1) compared to the main game's typical 1:1 or 3:2 payouts. However, these higher payouts are usually accompanied by a higher house edge and lower probability of winning.

3. Can I play blackjack side bets at online casinos in Canada?

   • Yes, many online casinos catering to Canadian players offer various blackjack games with optional side bets. Look for tables that explicitly advertise side bet options like 21+3, Royal Match, or Perfect Pairs.