Blackjack Side Bets 101
Lesson description
Discover the unusual origins of side bets and what makes these wagers so popular among players with Mr Blackjack.
What this lesson covers
- What side bets are in blackjack
- The pros/cons to side bets
- Why casinos offer them
- How they affect your gameplay
Episodes
FAQs
What are side bets in blackjack?
Side bets are additional wagers you can make in a regular blackjack game. Unlike regular blackjack betting where you wager on beating the dealer, with side bets you’re wagering on predicting what cards you and the dealer will receive.
Is it worth playing side bets in blackjack?
Side bets have a high house edge and lower chances of landing. Only players experienced in card counting and basic strategy will find side bets are worth their time. Our blackjack odds guide gives more information about how casinos adjust the house edge for these wagers.
What do side bets pay?
Each side bet has it’s own payouts, but overall they vary between 2.5:1 and 5,000:1. Some side bets have a progressive jackpot too.
How do you place a side bet in blackjack?
To make a side bet, you must place your wager in the allocated space on the blackjack table. In online blackjack games, the casino will give you a prompt and highlight where to add your chips on the screen.
When can I make a side bet?
You must make a side bet before any cards are dealt. The dealer will say when it’s time to add your bets to the table. Lesson four in season one of Blackjack Academy covers the basic etiquette of betting in blackjack.
Can I make side bets in online blackjack for free?
You have to make a wager on a side bet in online blackjack to win any payouts from them. Some casinos will offer a free side bet in their real money blackjack games as a weekly promotion. We recommend checking their promotions pages for more details.
Can I play blackjack games with side bets for free?
Our free blackjack arcade has dozens of free titles containing popular side bets. Enjoy some blackjack side bet action right away, with no time limits or sign-up requirements.
Do Vegas casinos accept side bets in blackjack?
Yes, all casinos in Vegas will accept side bets. Some tables may accept or reject some of these wagers though, so check with the dealer if there’s a specific side bet you want to make.
