Split
Lesson description
Splitting your hand may offer double rewards; do it on the wrong cards though, and you risk losing more. Learn basic strategy on when to split with Mr Blackjack.
What this lesson covers
- The best hands to split
- The worst hands to split
- Tricky hands basic strategy says you should split
- How to apply basic strategy to splitting in blackjack
Episodes
FAQs
What hands should I split in blackjack?
You should always split pairs of Aces and 8s in blackjack. Basic strategy shows you have a higher chance of making two good hands when those cards are separated.
Can you split two different face cards in blackjack?
Yes; in blackjack, you can split a hand that has two cards of the same value.
What if the blackjack game I’m playing doesn’t let me split hands, or limits the number of times I can split my hand?
As season one of Blackjack Academy discusses, casinos apply strict table rules like limits on splitting to keep their advantage. When this happens, players should follow the secondary advice basic strategy offers on strategy charts, or find blackjack games with more lenient rules for players.
Why shouldn’t I split 10s in blackjack?
Basic strategy shows you statistically have a better chance of winning with one strong hand compared to two weaker hands.
How many times can I split in blackjack?
Many casinos will restrict the number of times you can split your hand in blackjack. The most popular limit is three times, giving you four hands. Look for blackjack games with unlimited splits for players. This gives you better blackjack odds of winning more payouts.
Why does basic strategy say you should split Aces? They’re strong cards!
A pair of Aces either gives you a low hand (2) or a bust hand (22). By splitting your Aces, it’s more likely you’ll create stronger hands that give you a better chance of winning at blackjack.
How can the casino still have the edge in blackjack if the dealer can’t split, surrender, or double down?
While players have more moves in blackjack, casinos choose the table rules. The number of decks in play, standing/hitting on soft 17, restrictions on splitting, and more can collectively give the casino a considerable advantage in blackjack.
