Everything You Need to Know About Side Bets in Blackjack: What Are They and Are They Worth It?

Eddie Griffin

Written by: Eddie Griffin

Last Updated: Mon Dec 16, 2024, 00:09 AM

Read Time: 9 minutes

At casinos far and wide, blackjack is one of the most popular games for new players and experienced players alike. It is celebrated for its combination of skill, strategy, and luck. And while the main game is simple yet thrilling, side bets add an extra layer of excitement and variety to the game of blackjack.

In this guide, we delve into what blackjack side bets are, the types of side bets available, their odds and payouts, strategies for using them, their prevalence in online blackjack games, and if they are worth your investment whether you are playing at a casino or using one of the best online casinos, such as Lucky Red Casino or OnlineCasinoGames.

What Are Blackjack Side Bets?

Side bets in blackjack are optional wagers placed alongside the main game bet.

Side bets are not limited to a specific blackjack variant, and they can be present in blackjack games at both land-based casinos and real money online casinos. They can be found in American blackjack, European blackjack, and other variants of this popular game.

They typically focus on predicting specific card combinations or outcomes, offering payouts independent of the main game’s result.

While the primary objective of blackjack remains to beat the dealer by having a hand closer to 21, side bets provide extra opportunities to add to or subtract from your bankroll based on secondary conditions.

The appeal of blackjack side bets lies in their potential for high payouts. These bets may often come with higher house edges than the main game, but their promise of big wins with small stakes makes them an attractive option for many players.

Types of Blackjack Side Bets

There are numerous side bets available in blackjack games. Each of these side bets comes with unique rules and payouts.

Here are some of the most popular blackjack side bets that online blackjack players may see at sites such as Wild Casino and DuckyLuck Casino:

Perfect Pairs

This blackjack side bet focuses on the first two cards dealt to the player forming a pair.

There are three types of pairs. Each of them comes with different payouts.

  • Perfect Pair: Two cards of the same rank and suit (e.g., two 7 of hearts).
  • Colored Pair: Two cards of the same rank and color but different suits (e.g., 7 of hearts and 7 of diamonds).
  • Mixed Pair: Two cards of the same rank but different colors and suits (e.g., 7 of hearts and 7 of spades).

Perfect Pair Payouts

  • Perfect Pair: 25:1
  • Colored Pair: 12:1
  • Mixed Pair: 5:1

21+3 Bets

This side bet combines elements of blackjack and three-card poker. It considers the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s face-up card.

Winning 21+3 combinations include:

  • Flush
  • Straight
  • Three of a Kind
  • Straight Flush
  • Suited Trips

21+3 Bet Payouts

Payouts for 21+3 bets may vary, but they can often range from 5:1 for a flush to 100:1 for suited trips.

Insurance

When the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, players can take an insurance bet against the dealer having blackjack.

This side bet pays 2:1 but comes with a high house edge. Therefore, it is considered a controversial choice among experienced players.

Lucky Ladies

This bet rewards players for achieving a total of 20 with their first two cards. Specific combinations, such as two queens of hearts, offer the highest payouts.

Payouts for Lucky Ladies Bets

  • Two Queens of Hearts: This bet pays out 200:1.
  • Matched 20 (same rank and suit): This bet pays out 25:1.
  • Unmatched 20: This bet pays out 4:1.

Royal Match

Royal Match bets pay out if the player’s first two cards are of the same suit. Players receive higher payouts for a suited king and queen.

Payouts for Blackjack Royal Match Bets

  • Suited King and Queen: This bet pays out 25:1.
  • Any Suited Pair: This bet pays out 5:1.

Hot 3

This bet focuses on the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s upcard forming a total of 19, 20, or 21.

Specific combinations, such as three sevens, offer significant payouts.

Hot 3 Payouts

  • Three 7s of the same suit: This bet pays out 100:1.
  • 21 (three cards, same suit): This bet pays out 20:1
  • Total of 20: This bet pays out 2:1.

Over/Under 13

This simple bet involves predicting whether the player’s first two cards will total over or under 13. Aces usually count as one.

House Edge of Blackjack Side Bets

Side bets generally come with higher payouts than standard blackjack. However, that also translates into higher house edges than the usual blackjack house edge.

How does that shake out with popular blackjack side bets?

  • Perfect Pairs: House edge of 2-11%, depending on the specific rules.
  • 21+3: House edge typically ranges from 2.7% to 10%, depending on the payouts and deck number.
  • Lucky Ladies: House edge can be as high as 17%.

Understandably, some players may be put off by these odds. But they will not deter players who are enticed by the potential for the significant payouts that may come with winning side bets.

Strategy for Blackjack Side Bets

Unlike the main blackjack game, where optimal strategy can minimize the house edge, side bets are largely based on chance.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when making blackjack side bets.

Know the Rules and Odds

Before making any side bets in real money games, you must understand the specific rules and payouts of the side bets offered in your game.

Additionally, any variations in house rules can significantly impact your potential winnings and the house edge. So, be sure to make sure you are clear on all important details ahead of time.

Bankroll Management

Blackjack side bets can be volatile, so only allocate a small portion of your bankroll to them. Instead of treating them as a primary strategy while trying to turn a profit, treat them as a fun addition.

Avoid Blackjack Side Bets with High House Edges

Focus on side bets with lower house edges, such as 21+3, if they are available with favorable payouts.

Limit Frequency of Blackjack Side Bets

Because side bets rely on luck, we recommend placing them sparingly to maximize entertainment value without significantly affecting your bankroll.

Side Bets in Online Blackjack

Online blackjack games at sites like HighRoller Casino and Roaring 21 frequently offer a wide range of side bets. This makes it easy for players to explore and get the hang of these additional wagers.

The digital format allows for clear presentation of odds and payouts, which helps players make informed decisions.

Some online platforms also introduce unique side bets exclusive to their games, such as progressive jackpots linked to rare card combinations.

These bets can offer life-changing payouts, but they often come with extremely high house edges. Therefore, tread carefully when making these types of bets.

Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth It?

The value of blackjack side bets depends on your goals and preferences as a player. Here are some factors to consider:

Pros of Blackjack Side Bets

  • High Payouts: Side bets give players the chance to win big with a small bet.
  • Added Excitement: Blackjack side bets bring add variety and extra layers of suspense to this straightforward but exciting game.
  • Simple to Play: No additional strategy is needed for blackjack side bets. As such, they are accessible to players of all experience levels.

Cons of Blackjack Side Bets

  • High House Edge: Side bets generally favor the casino more than the main game.
  • Volatility: Frequent losses can quickly diminish your bankroll.
  • Distraction: Focusing too much on side bets can take away from the strategic aspects of blackjack.

Who Should and Should Not Play Blackjack Side Bets?

  • Casual Players: If your primary goal is entertainment and you are comfortable with the increased risk, side bets can be a fun addition.
  • High-Rollers: For players with larger bankrolls, side bets offer high-risk, high-reward opportunities.

If you aim to minimize losses and maximize long-term profitability, we recommend sticking to the main game.

Conclusion

Blackjack side bets are an exciting way to spice up your gaming experience. For players of all levels, they offer the potential for significant payouts alongside the main game.

While they are not suited for players focused on minimizing house edge, blackjack side bets can provide a thrilling addition for those seeking variety and high-stakes fun, whether they are playing at a casino or at one of the best blackjack sites.

If you take the time to understand the rules, odds, and payouts of side bets and practicing prudent bankroll management, you can enjoy these wagers responsibly, enhance your overall blackjack experience, and potentially give your bankroll a big boost.

Learn About the Best Online Casinos

Other Casino Content

In addition to our catalog of sports betting guides, we now have a collection of casino content that covers the basics of casino gambling, including this guide to blackjack side bets.

If you would like to learn more about everything from online casino terminology, to how to play popular table games such as baccarat, to tips for responsible gambling, we have you covered.

Also, if you are looking for a new site to play casino games, check out our reviews of the best online casinos for U.S. players and the best real money online casinos., as well as our rundown of the best crypto casinos.

Blackjack Side Bets FAQ

What are blackjack side bets?
Blackjack side bets are optional wagers that players can make in addition to their main bet. These bets focus on predicting specific card combinations or outcomes and offer separate payouts from the main game. They can be found in various blackjack variants and are available at both land-based and online casinos.
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How is the house edge calculated in blackjack?
Some of the most common side bets in blackjack include:

  • Perfect Pairs: Bets on whether the first two cards form a pair.
  • 21+3: Combines blackjack with three-card poker, considering the player’s first two cards and the dealer’s upcard.
  • Insurance: A bet placed when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, offering protection against the dealer having blackjack.
  • Lucky Ladies: A bet on achieving a total of 20 with the first two cards, with higher payouts for specific combinations like two Queens of Hearts.
  • Royal Match: A bet on the first two cards being of the same suit, with higher payouts for a suited King and Queen.
What are the odds and payouts for blackjack side bets?
The payouts for side bets vary depending on the bet type. For example:

  • Perfect Pairs: Payouts range from 5:1 to 25:1 depending on the pair.
  • 21+3: Payouts range from 5:1 for a flush to 100:1 for suited trips.
  • Lucky Ladies: Payouts can go up to 200:1 for two Queens of Hearts.
  • Insurance: Pays 2:1 but comes with a high house edge.
    These odds generally reflect the higher house edge and volatility of side bets.
Are blackjack side bets worth it?
The worth of blackjack side bets depends on your goals. While they offer the potential for large payouts, they also come with a higher house edge and increased volatility. If your focus is entertainment and you’re comfortable with the risks, side bets can be a fun addition. However, if your goal is to minimize losses and maximize long-term profitability, it’s better to focus on the main game.
How should I approach blackjack side bets?
To enjoy side bets responsibly, it’s important to:

  • Understand the rules and odds of each side bet before placing them.
  • Manage your bankroll by allocating only a small portion to side bets, as they are high-risk.
  • Limit the frequency of side bets to avoid excessive losses and to keep the game fun.
  • Avoid side bets with high house edges unless you’re looking for big payouts and willing to take on the risk.