If you play blackjack at an online casino, you might notice that, over time, the casino tends to win more often than it loses. This is because of something called the "house edge".
The house edge is an advantage in the casino's favour built into the game's rules. One main reason for the casino's advantage is the unseen dealer card. While you can see one of the dealer's cards, the other remains hidden, making it harder to judge what the dealer might have.
Another reason the house has an edge is that the dealer always goes last. This means players take their turns first and may lose by going bust (exceeding 21) before the dealer even plays. If you bust, you lose your bet immediately, regardless of what cards the dealer has.
In essence, the house edge in blackjack comes from these specific rules that give the dealer a better position. Understanding these basics can help you enjoy the game more and gamble responsibly.
What Does Casino Edge Mean?
The "casino edge" or "house edge" is a small advantage that the casino has over players in games like blackjack. This edge ensures that, over a long period, the casino makes a profit.
In blackjack, for example, the dealer's hidden second card and the order of play create this edge. Players must act first and may lose by going bust before the dealer even takes their turn. However, the casino edge isn't limited to blackjack.
In roulette, the house edge comes from the presence of the extra numbers on the wheel, specifically the green 0 pocket (and 00 in American roulette). These numbers aren't red or black, odd or even, high or low, and provide a win for the house whenever they are landed on unless specifically bet on.
In slot machines, the house edge is built into the game through the payout percentages. The machine is programmed to average out as paying out less than the total amount wagered over a long time, ensuring the casino profits.
Understanding these points helps to see why the house edge exists in different games and contributes to making better-informed decisions while playing.
How Does the Casino Have an Edge in Blackjack?
In blackjack, the casino, or "house", has an edge due to the specific rules of the game.
First, let's talk about the dealer's hidden card. When you start a hand of blackjack, you see one of the dealer's cards, but the other remains face down. This means you can't fully know what the dealer's hand might be, making it tougher to decide whether to hit, stand, or take another action.
Secondly, the order of play heavily favours the dealer. Players must act first in each round. If a player goes bust (exceeds 21), they lose their bet instantly, regardless of what the dealer's final hand ends up being.
Once all players have taken their turns, the dealer finally plays. At this point, the dealer only has to compete with players still in the game, not the ones who have already busted. This sequence puts the players at a disadvantage because they can lose before the dealer even makes a move.
These rules - the hidden dealer card and the order of play - combine to give the casino a consistent edge in blackjack games.
Can You Statistically Win At Blackjack?
Winning at blackjack is possible, but it's essential to understand that the house edge means the casino has a small advantage over time.
One way to improve your chances is to use basic strategy. This involves making statistically sound decisions based on your hand and the dealer's visible card. Using basic strategy can lower the house edge, but it won't eliminate it entirely.
The house edge of blackjack sits around 2-4% if playing without any strategy, but effectively using basic blackjack strategy can lower this to around 0.5-1%.
It can't fully remove the house edge because an element of chance remains; you never know what the dealer's hole card is, and you don't know what card is going to be dealt next.
Additionally, some variations of blackjack offer different rules that may affect the house edge. Always check the specific rules of the game you're playing, as these can influence your chances of winning.
Remember, while strategies can help to improve your odds, they can't fully remove the house edge, as there is always a degree of chance in each game. Play responsibly, manage your bankroll wisely, and focus on the entertaining gameplay rather than trying to use it as a way to make money because winning is never a sure thing.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.