Do You Use Multiple Decks in Blackjack?

If you are a blackjack player, you must have heard about the use of multiple decks in the game. In fact, many casinos nowadays use multiple decks instead of a single deck for blackjack.

But is it really beneficial to use multiple decks in blackjack Let’s dive deeper into this question.

Single Deck vs Multiple Decks

In the past, blackjack was typically played with a single deck of cards. However, as time passed, casinos started using multiple decks to make it harder for players to count cards and gain an edge over the house.

While using multiple decks does make it more difficult for players to count cards and determine which cards are left in the deck, it also changes the odds of winning in favor of the house.

Using a single deck means that there are only 52 cards available, whereas using six decks means that there are 312 cards available. This makes it more difficult for players to predict which card will be dealt next and makes it harder for them to get a natural blackjack.

The Effect on House Edge

The use of multiple decks has a significant impact on the house edge. The house edge is the percentage of each bet that goes towards the casino’s profits over time. In blackjack, the house edge is affected by several factors including:

• The number of decks used
• Whether or not the dealer stands or hits on soft 17
• The payout ratio for blackjack (3:2 or 6:5)

Using more decks increases the house edge because it makes it harder for players to get high-value hands like natural blackjacks and increases their chances of busting.

The Advantage of Using Multiple Decks

Despite the increased house edge, using multiple decks has some advantages for players as well. One of the main advantages is that it makes card counting much more difficult for casinos. Card counting is a strategy used by some players to gain an edge over the house by keeping track of which cards have been dealt and adjusting their bets accordingly.

Using multiple decks makes it harder for players to count cards because they have to keep track of more cards. Additionally, casinos can also use shuffling machines to randomize the order of the cards and make it even harder for players to count cards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using multiple decks in blackjack has both advantages and disadvantages. While it does make it harder for players to count cards and increases the house edge, it also makes it more difficult for them to predict which card will be dealt next. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to play with multiple decks depends on your personal preference and playing style.