What Is the Best Blackjack Side Bet?

Are you a blackjack enthusiast looking to spice up your game? Side bets might just be what you need.

While the classic game of blackjack has enough excitement on its own, side bets offer additional opportunities for players to win big. But with so many options available, which one is the best? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular blackjack side bets and determine which one is worth your time and money.

1. Perfect Pairs

Perfect Pairs is a popular side bet that allows players to bet on whether their first two cards will be a pair. The payout for this bet varies depending on the type of pair that is dealt.

A perfect pair, which consists of two identical cards (e.g., two kings of hearts), pays out at 25:1. A mixed pair, which consists of two cards of the same rank but different suits (e., a king of hearts and a king of spades), pays out at 6:1. Finally, a colored pair, which consists of two cards of the same rank and color but different suits (e., a king of hearts and a king of diamonds), pays out at 12:1.

While Perfect Pairs can be an exciting bet to make, it’s important to note that it has a relatively high house edge compared to other side bets. This means that over time, players are likely to lose more money than they win.

2. 21+3

21+3 is another popular blackjack side bet that combines the player’s first two cards with the dealer’s up card to make a three-card poker hand. If the player’s hand makes any poker hand ranking from three-of-a-kind or better, they win.

The payout for 21+3 varies depending on the strength of the poker hand created by the player’s three cards. For example, if the player has a flush (three cards in sequence with the same suit), they will win at 5:1 odds. A straight flush (three cards in sequence with the same suit) pays out at 40:1.

While 21+3 can be a fun bet to make, it’s important to note that it has a high house edge compared to other side bets.

3. Insurance

Insurance is a side bet that can be made when the dealer’s up card is an ace. The player can choose to bet up to half of their original bet on whether the dealer has blackjack (a hand worth 21 points). If the dealer does have blackjack, the player wins their insurance bet at 2:1 odds.

While insurance can seem like a smart bet, it’s important to note that it has a very high house edge compared to other side bets.

4. Bet Behind

Bet Behind is a side bet that allows players who are not seated at the table to place bets on the outcome of hands being played by other players. This can be an exciting way for spectators to get in on the action and potentially win big.

The payout for Bet Behind varies depending on how well the player being bet on performs. For example, if the player wins with a natural blackjack (a hand worth 21 points with only two cards), the Bet Behind payout will be at 3:2 odds.

While Bet Behind can be exciting and potentially lucrative, it’s important for players to remember that they have no control over how well the player being bet on performs.

So which side bet is the best? It ultimately comes down to personal preference and risk tolerance.

While some players may prefer Perfect Pairs or 21+3 for their potential payouts, others may prefer Insurance or Bet Behind for their ease of use. It’s important for players to carefully consider the house edge of each side bet and make informed decisions about which ones to play.

In conclusion, blackjack side bets can add an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling game. While some side bets may be riskier than others, they all offer the potential for big payouts. By carefully considering the options and understanding the house edge, players can find the perfect side bet for their playing style.