Live dealer blackjack is one of the most innovative casino technologies. It addresses the two significant factors that distinguish land-based and online blackjack: interactivity and card dealing openness. This success has attracted more players to the tables, so that’s why we sought to include a how to play live blackjack guide.
To access casino floors with real cards and human interaction, without leaving your comfort zone, all you need to do is learn how to play live blackjack. And this casino guide will walk you through its rules, odds-improving strategies, and tips that can help you play confidently.
How To Play Live Blackjack | Objective and Rules
There isn’t a steep learning curve on how to play live dealer blackjack. If you understand how the traditional game works, you are halfway ready to play live blackjack and experience real dealer action online.
The live blackjack objective, like the classic tables, is to beat the dealer by having a hand value of 21 or as close as possible without exceeding this set number. The live gameplay is video-streamed, and while playing, you can interact with the selected dealer and other players.
The house edge in live dealer blackjack is 2% but it can vary. Check how live blackjack rules affect the house edge.
Live Blackjack Rules
The rules that guide live blackjack are as follows:
- Players get two cards (both face up), and the dealer also gets two (one face up, one face down)
- Dealers stand on 17 or more and hit on less.
- A regular wins pay 1:1
- Natural blackjack (an Ace + a 10-value card) pays 3:2
- Aces can be valued as 1 or 11, depending on which benefits your hand
- Tie is allowed
Please note that the operation of live tables differs. Therefore, it is vital to review the rules before joining a live blackjack table.
Steps For Playing Live Blackjack
How to play live blackjack online is pretty straightforward. The first step is to choose a licensed and trusted online casino that offers this service. Slots Paradise Casino is a great example. Next, you sign up if you are a new player.
Once you’ve registered, take the following steps:
- Deposit your funds
- Navigate to the live blackjack game
- Pick a table with a budget-friendly betting limit
- Start playing
With the gameplay objective in mind, you are allowed to:
- Hit (taking another card)
- Stand (keep your hand)
- Doubling down (doubling your bet for one more card)
- Split pairs (turning identical cards into two bet hands)
- Place Insurance bets (available if the dealer’s up card is an Ace)
- Surrender: Some games let you forfeit only half your bet due to poor odds. For more details, see how live dealer odds compare to standard blackjack.
How To Play Live Blackjack: Basic Strategy
The basic strategy for classic blackjack tables also applies to live blackjack. You can use a quick chart to decide when to hit, stand, or double in live games. Suggested optimal moves include:
Hard Totals: Stand on hard 12-16 against a dealer’s weak upcard (2-6), but hit on the same if the dealer shows 7-Ace.
Soft Hands: According to the chart, you should double down with a soft 18 against a dealer’s 2-6 but stand against 7 or 8.
Pairs: Split your Aces and 8s all the time, but not 10s or 5s. You can also split 2-3, 6-7, and 9s depending on the dealer’s upcard.
7 Practical Tips for Smart Play
You can improve your win rate with proven live blackjack strategies and tips. They include:
- While learning how to play live blackjack online for real money, only practice with low-stakes games.
- Use the basic strategy chart.
- Be cautious of the side bets available.
- Avoid the insurance bet due to its high house edge.
- Manage your bankroll by wagering 1-2% of your set aside amount per hand.
- Never ignore the dealer’s upcard in your decisions.
- Know when to walk away.
Master the Live Ones!
Mastering how to play live blackjack is crucial, as it defines your experience. Take note of the rules, tips, and strategies we have highlighted. They will come in handy during your gameplay.
FAQs
Where to play live blackjack online?
You can play live blackjack online at https://slotsparadise.com/live-dealer/. It is a licensed casino offering live dealer games.
Is online live blackjack legit?
Yes, but at regulated casinos with certified live dealer platforms.
How much does $100 blackjack pay?
A natural $100 blackjack often pays $150 based on the 3:2 payout.
Can you make money playing blackjack online?
Yes, but consistent wins depend on your skill and luck.