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Side Bets in Blackjack: What Are They and How Do They Work?

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Blackjack is a popular casino game enjoyed by players all over the world. While the core gameplay involves getting as close to 21 as possible without going over, many players like to spice things up with side bets.

Side bets are additional wagers placed alongside the main bet, and they can offer players the chance to win big payouts.

What Is a Side Bet in Blackjack?

A side bet in Blackjack is a separate wager that players can make alongside their main bet. They can place a side bet before the hand is dealt, and it is based on various outcomes, such as the player's hand, the dealer's hand, or a combination of both. Side bets are often optional and can vary from casino to casino, but they can add an extra element of excitement to the game.

How Do Side Bets Work in Blackjack?

The rules for side bets in blackjack can vary depending on the casino, but some of the most common options include:

1. Any Pairs
This side bet is based on the player's first two cards. If they are a pair, the player wins.

2. 21+3
This side bet combines the player's two cards with the dealer's upcard to make a three-card poker hand. If the hand is a flush, straight, three of a kind, or straight flush, the player wins:

Straight Flush - in numerical sequence and same suit, e.g. 10, Jack and Queen of Diamonds
Suited Trips - an identical triplet, e.g. 3x Queens of Hearts
Three of a Kind - same value but different suits, e.g. any three non-matching Kings
Straight - in numerical sequence but different suits, e.g. 2 of spades + 3 of Clubs + 4 of hearts
Flush - non-sequential cards in the same suit, e.g. 2,6 and 10 of Clubs

3. Bust it
It’s a type of side bet where players can bet that the dealer will bust (i.e., exceed 21) with a specific number of cards. The payout for the "Bust It" side bet varies depending on the number of cards the dealer uses to bust. For example, if the dealer busts with 4 cards, the payout may be 4:1.

4. Hot 3
This side bet is based on the total value of the player's first two cards and the dealer's up-card. The goal of the Hot 3 side bet is to make a total of 19, 20, or 21 points from the first two cards dealt to the player and the dealer's up-card:

If the total value of these three cards is 19, the player wins a 1:1 payout, for a total bet of 2:1.
If the total value of the three cards is 20, the payout is 3:1.
If the total is 21, the payout 100:1.
If 7-7-7, the payout 100:1.

Payouts

Blackjack Games with Side bets enabled

How to Win Side Bets in Blackjack?

While side bets in blackjack can offer big payouts, they also come with higher house edges. This means that the odds of winning a side bet are generally lower than the odds of winning the main bet. To increase your chances of winning, it's important to understand the rules of the side bet and how they work. Simply speaking, get practice in playing blackjack to win.

Advantages of Side Bets

The main advantage is to win big payouts. This can add an extra layer of excitement to the game, and it also allows players to customize their betting strategy to suit their preferences. Side bets can also be a way to keep the game interesting when the main gameplay becomes repetitive.

Conclusion

Side bets in blackjack are an optional wager that can offer players the chance to win big payouts. At the same time, it's important for players to understand the rules of the side bet and limit their wagers accordingly to maximize their chances of winning. Good Luck!