Casinos - Blackjack Side Bets
Blackjack Side Bet Odds
Blackjack side bets offer the chance for extra payouts, but they come with higher risks and a larger house edge compared to the main game. Here’s a breakdown of common side bet odds:
1. Perfect Pairs
This side bet pays out if your first two cards form a pair. The odds vary based on the type of pair:
- Mixed pair (e.g., a red 8 and a black 8): 5:1
- Coloured pair (e.g., two red 8s): 12:1
- Perfect pair (e.g., two identical 8s): 25:1
The house edge for this bet can range from 2% to 11%, depending on the payout structure.
2. 21+3
This bet combines your first two cards with the dealer’s upcard, creating a three-card poker hand. The payouts are:
- Flush: 5:1
- Straight: 10:1
- Three of a kind: 30:1
- Straight flush: 40:1
- Suited trips: 100:1
The house edge for 21+3 is typically around 3%–7%.
3. Insurance
If the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, you can take insurance, betting that they have Blackjack. The odds are 2:1, but the house edge for this bet is around 7%, making it a less favourable option for players in the long run.
4. Bet the Set
This side bet pays if your first two cards form a pair, and payouts vary:
- Pair: 10:1
- Suited pair: 20:1
The house edge on Bet the Set can be 8% or higher, depending on the rules.