Who Wins in Blackjack if Both Have 21?

When it comes to playing blackjack, the ultimate goal is to have a hand that beats the dealer’s hand without going over 21. However, what happens if both the player and dealer have a hand that totals 21? Who wins in this scenario?

Firstly, let’s define what it means to have a hand that totals 21. In blackjack, each card has a value assigned to it. Numbered cards are worth their face value, face cards (kings, queens and jacks) are worth 10 points each and an ace can be worth either 1 or 11 points depending on what is more beneficial for the player.

So, if a player has an ace and a king in their initial two-card hand, they would have a total of 21. Similarly, if the dealer has an ace and a queen in their initial two-card hand they would also have a total of 21.

In this situation where both the player and dealer have the same total in their hands, it is known as a “push” or “tie”. This means that neither the player nor the dealer wins or loses. Instead, the original bet is returned to the player.

It’s important to note that there are certain variations of blackjack where ties can be handled differently. For example, some casinos may offer “no push” games where if both the player and dealer have blackjack (a total of 21), then the win goes to whoever has more cards in their hand. However, this is not necessarily common practice.

In conclusion, when both the player and dealer have hands that total 21 in blackjack it results in a tie or push. The original bet is returned to the player without any winnings or losses being incurred. So next time you find yourself with a strong hand of 21 don’t worry about who will win as you’ll be walking away with your original bet regardless!