Choosing the right blackjack table can be the difference between a winning and a losing session. This post covers 7 factors to consider when scouting blackjack tables.
From looking for tables with good rules and favorable odds, to observing the table’s minimum and maximum betting limits, to understanding the game variations offered, these tips will help you choose a table that’s perfect for your skill level and budget.
This post is aimed mostly at blackjack beginners, but even seasoned players might have a better blackjack experience after reading this.
Look for Tables with Good rules and Favorable Odds
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a blackjack table is the rules and odds offered. Different casinos and different tables within the same casino have variations in rules and payouts that greatly affect the game and your chances of winning. Find tables that have rules favorable to the player, such as allowing you to surrender, re-split aces, or double down on any two cards.
A big example is the table’s payout for a blackjack. The standard payout for a blackjack is 3:2, but some tables may offer a lower payout, usually 6:5. The lower payout means that the house edge increases, making it harder for the player to win in the long run. Look for tables that offer a standard 3:2 payout for a blackjack.
What’s a blackjack? It’s another word for a “natural”, which is a 2-card hand with a total of 21. It always consists of a card worth 10 and another card worth 11 (the ace). You can find more blackjack definitions here.
What’s the difference? A 3 to 2 payout means that you win 3 units for every 2 units you bet. For example, if you bet $100, a 3 to 2 payout is $150 instead of even money ($100). A 6 to 5 payout only pays out 6 units for every 5 units you bet, so the payout for a blackjack is only $120.
Also consider the house edge when scouting tables. The house edge is the percentage of each bet that the casino expects to keep over the long run. A lower house edge means better odds for the player, so it’s a good idea to look for tables with a low house edge such as 0.5%.
Casinos don’t post the house edge for their blackjack games, though, so you’ll want to look up the rules variations on a site that calculates the house edge and compare tables accordingly. I don’t go into that much detail here, but the Wizard of Odds has an almost comprehensive list of rules variations and their effects on the house edge.
A List of Rules Variations That Favor the Player
Here’s a quick list of rules variations that favor the player. Look for these when scouting a blackjack table:
- Allowing surrender: This allows you to forfeit half your bet if you don’t like your hand. This can be used as a strategic tool to minimize your losses.
- Early Surrender: This allows you to surrender before the dealer has checked for a blackjack. Most casinos offer late surrender, which is the opposite.
- Re-splitting Aces: This allows you to split again if you get another ace. This gives you another opportunity to get a blackjack.
- Double down on any two cards: This allows the player to double your bet after getting your first two cards regardless of their total value. Most casinos limit the totals you can double down on to 9, 10, or 11. Some have even more restrictive limits.
- Dealer stands on soft 17: This means the dealer must stand (not take any more cards) when your hand is a soft 17.
- No hole card: This means the dealer doesn’t check for a blackjack before you play your hand.
- 5 Card Charlie: This means that if you have five cards without busting, you automatically win, and you usually get an increased payout.
Not all casinos and not all tables offer all these rule variations. Some of them aren’t apparent, either.
You might also be interested in reading more about when you should stand, hit, split, and double down in my post on that subject.
Observe the Table’s Minimum and Maximum Betting Limits
Another factor to consider when choosing a blackjack table is the betting limits. These limits vary by table. Your bankroll determines what betting limits are comfortable for you.
The minimum betting limit is the smallest amount of money you can bet per hand. This can range from $5 to hundreds of dollars or more. Beginners or gamblers with small bankrolls should look for tables with low minimum betting limits. This allows you to stretch your bankroll and play longer.
The maximum betting limit is the largest amount of money that you can bet per hand. This can also range from a relatively low amount like $20 or $50 to hundreds (or thousands) of dollars. High-stakes players and gamblers with large bankrolls should look for tables with high maximum betting limits. This makes the game more interesting. If you have bankroll of $25,000, playing for $5 a hand isn’t very exciting.
Watch for Table Crowd and Noise Level
Consider the crowd and noise level, too. A crowded table can affect the game’s pace and your concentration. A noisy table can distract you and make it hard for you to focus on the game. Basic strategy mistakes soon follow. (And the biggest blackjack mistakes are almost always basic strategy mistakes.) Find a table where you feel comfortable and have a clear mind to make the best decisions.
A crowded table means that there might be a wait to play and the game might be slowed down by players taking their time to make decisions. This can frustrate you if want to play at a fast pace. Additionally, a crowded table can be distracting and make it harder for the player to focus on the game. On the other hand, an empty table can also be a disadvantage, as the player might feel lonely and lack the excitement of playing in a group. And, if you’re the only player at the table, you’ll play more hands per hour.
Find a table with a moderate number of players. Also, look for tables in quieter areas of the casino, away from the main floor.
Check the Table’s Condition and Cleanliness
Also think about the table’s condition and cleanliness. A dirty or poorly-maintained table can affect your comfort and enjoyment of the game. Find a table that is in good condition and well-maintained.
A dirty table should make you uncomfortable. It can also be a sign of poor maintenance and can indicate a lack of attention to detail by the casino. It’s also a health concern; it can harbor germs and bacteria.
A poorly-maintained table can also be a problem. If the table is wobbly or the cards and chips are worn out, it can affect your experience and make it harder to play. A poorly-maintained table indicates a lack of attention to detail by the casino. You might want to find a different casino.
Look for tables that are clean and well-maintained. Check for any damages or wear and tear that could affect your game experience.
Blackjack tables should be regularly cleaned and disinfected, especially during the pandemic. This is a good sign of the casino’s commitment to safety and hygiene.
Observe the Dealer’s Attitude and Behavior
The dealer’s attitude and behavior matter, too. You’ll have more fun with a friendly and professional dealer.
A dealer with a poor attitude makes the game a drag. A rude or unapproachable dealer creates a negative atmosphere at the table. That can affect your ability to concentrate. I know it does mine. It’s also no fun. On the other hand, a friendly and personable dealer creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
A dealer’s behavior can also affect the game. A slow dealer or one who makes mistakes can slow down the game and create confusion. An efficient, quick dealer makes the game run smoothly and keep players engaged.
Observe the dealer’s attitude and behavior before sitting down at a table. Look for a dealer who is friendly and approachable.
Understand the Game Variations Available
Not all blackjack game variations are the same. There’s a big difference between Spanish 21 and regular blackjack, for example. When the rules change, the basic strategy changes, too. If you’re not familiar with the changes, you increase the house’s edge.
Besides Spanish 21, other blackjack variations include Blackjack Switch, progressive jackpot blackjack, and free bet blackjack (where you get to split or double down for free).
If you don’t understand the rules and the basic strategy adjustments for the variation, skip that table and find a game you are familiar with.
Observe the Other Blackjack Players at the Table
Watch the behavior and playstyle of the other players already at the table. Players who are respectful and considerate are more fun to play with. See my post about blackjack etiquette for most about this.
Some gamblers are loud, obnoxious, and talk on the phone while playing. Many might be drunk, too. Talk about distractions. You don’t need that.
You should also be respectful and considerate of other players. Be the change you want to see in the world. Follow the game’s rules and etiquette, and avoid any behavior that might be disruptive or distracting to other players.
Conclusion
Choosing the right blackjack table is crucial to having a successful and enjoyable gaming experience. By considering factors such as the table’s rules and odds, betting limits, crowd and noise level, condition and cleanliness, dealer’s attitude and behavior, game variations offered, and the behavior and playstyle of other players, you can make an informed decision and select a table that is perfect for your skill level and budget.
Always gamble responsibly.
