Blackjack side bets offer a thrilling way to add excitement to the classic casino game while providing the potential for substantial payouts. Whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro, understanding these additional bets can elevate your blackjack experience. Below, we’ll explore the most popular side bets, explain their mechanics, and provide tips to improve your strategy and limit risks.
What Are Blackjack Side Bets?
Side bets in blackjack are optional wagers placed alongside the main game. These bets focus on specific outcomes, such as your initial hand or the dealer’s cards, and often come with high payout odds. While they increase the game’s excitement, it’s crucial to understand their rules and odds to make informed decisions.
Top 5 Blackjack Side Bets
1. Perfect Pairs
This side bet predicts whether your first two cards will form a pair. Payouts vary based on the type of pair:
- Perfect Pair: Pays 25:1.
- Coloured Pair: Pays 12:1.
- Mixed Pair: Pays 6:1.
Example: A player bets £10 on Perfect Pairs and is dealt two 7♠, winning £250. This side bet is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of luck and strategy.
2. 21+3
This combines blackjack and poker, betting on a three-card hand formed by your two cards and the dealer’s upcard. Winning combinations include:
- Straight Flush: Pays 40:1.
- Three of a Kind: Pays 30:1.
- Straight: Pays 10:1.
- Flush: Pays 5:1.
Players who enjoy poker-style gameplay often find 21+3 a compelling addition to blackjack.
3. Lucky Ladies
This bet rewards players for a total of 20 from their first two cards. Specific combinations, such as two Queens of Hearts, offer higher payouts, with jackpots reaching up to 100:1. A straight 20 total with different cards offers smaller payouts but remains an exciting option for those aiming for big wins.
4. Insurance
Though not a traditional side bet, insurance protects against the dealer’s blackjack. If the dealer reveals an Ace, players can wager half their original bet to potentially win 2:1. While it offers protection, seasoned players often avoid insurance due to its higher house edge.
5. Progressive Jackpot Side Bets
Linked to a network, this bet allows players to compete for life-changing jackpots, often exceeding £100,000. A hand with four Aces of the same suit, for example, may unlock the jackpot. These bets add excitement for players seeking substantial payouts.
Top 3 UK Casinos for Blackjack Side Bets
The offer is for new players only. In total, £2300 in deposits need to have been made to receive the full bonus. The min. deposit amount is £10 for all deposits. A 200x WR applies on all bonuses.
#1. Luxury Casino
Known for its generous welcome bonuses, Luxury Casino offers an extensive selection of blackjack games with side bets. Its sleek interface ensures smooth gameplay.
#2. 32Red.com
This trusted platform provides a variety of blackjack side bets with competitive RTPs. Players enjoy regular promotions and excellent customer support.
#3. LeoVegas
Award-winning LeoVegas combines mobile-friendly design with a rich selection of blackjack games. Their live casino experience is particularly popular among UK players.
Blackjack side bets can elevate your gaming experience when approached strategically. Explore these exciting wagers today, and always play responsibly.
Which Side Bet Offers the Biggest Jackpots?
Progressive Jackpot Side Bets top the list for their enormous payouts. Some networks boast prizes exceeding £1 million. However, these bets often have lower odds of winning, so consider your bankroll carefully before betting. For instance, in some games, hitting the jackpot may require achieving a perfect combination with near-impossible odds.
Tips for Playing Blackjack Side Bets
- Understand the Odds: Familiarize yourself with the payouts and probabilities of each bet.
- Start Small: Begin with low-stakes bets until you’re comfortable.
- Avoid Over-Betting: Side bets can be fun but are less likely to win than the main game.
- Play at Reputable Casinos: Choose trusted platforms for fair payouts.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Stick to a budget to avoid unnecessary losses.
Comparing RTP: Blackjack vs Side Bets
| Game Type | Average RTP (%) |
| Classic Blackjack | 99% |
| Perfect Pairs | 95-97% |
| 21+3 | 93-96% |
| Lucky Ladies | 93-94% |
| Progressive Jackpot | 85-90% |
Pros and Cons of Blackjack Side Bets
Pros
- Higher Payouts: Win big with specific hands.
- Added Excitement: Diversify your gameplay.
- Social Appeal: Often more engaging in live dealer settings.
Cons
- Higher House Edge: Lower chances of winning compared to the main game.
- Additional Costs: May quickly deplete your bankroll if not managed.