Blackjack has long been a favorite at casinos, captivating players with its blend of skill and chance. While many focus on the main hand, there’s another exciting aspect of the game that can boost your potential payout: blackjack side bets. These additional wagers provide extra opportunities to win by betting on specific outcomes that are separate from the main game. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of blackjack side bets, covering popular options like the 21+3 bet, Perfect Pairs, and Insurance, and explore how they can enhance your experience at the blackjack table.
What Are Blackjack Side Bets?
Blackjack side bets are additional wagers placed alongside your main hand. These bets give players the chance to win money based on outcomes that may or may not relate directly to the primary hand. Side bets are typically placed before cards are dealt, and they add extra excitement to the game. While they offer a smaller risk compared to the main bet, the payout for side bets can often be much higher, making them an attractive option for players looking to maximize their winnings.
The 21+3 Side Bet
One of the most well-known blackjack side bets is the 21+3 bet. This wager focuses on the first two cards dealt to the player and the dealer’s face-up card. Players are betting that these three cards will form a poker hand like a Flush, Straight, Three-of-a-Kind, or even a Straight Flush.
Here are the possible outcomes for a 21+3 bet:
- Flush: All three cards are of the same suit. Example: six of hearts, nine of hearts, ace of hearts. Payout: 5:1
- Straight: Three consecutive cards of any suit. Example: nine of hearts, ten of spades, jack of diamonds. Payout: 10:1
- Three-of-a-Kind: Three cards of the same rank. Example: three sixes. Payout: 30:1
- Straight Flush: A combination of a straight and a flush. Example: ace, two, three of hearts. Payout: 40:1
- Suited Three-of-a-Kind: Three cards of the same rank and suit. Example: three of hearts, all twos. Payout: 100:1
While the payout for a suited three-of-a-kind is an enticing 100:1, this outcome is incredibly rare. The odds of achieving these combinations make the 21+3 side bet thrilling, yet players should be aware that the house edge tends to be higher compared to the standard blackjack hand.
Perfect Pair Side Bet
Another popular side bet in blackjack is the Perfect Pair, which is based solely on the two cards dealt to the player. Players bet on the possibility of being dealt a pair, and there are three types of pairs to choose from:
- Mixed Pair: A pair of cards of different suits and colors. Example: six of clubs and six of diamonds. Payout: 5:1
- Colored Pair: A pair of cards of the same color but different suits. Example: ace of hearts and ace of diamonds. Payout: 10:1
- Perfect Pair: A pair of cards of the same rank and suit. Example: two of hearts and two of hearts. Payout: 30:1
In general, the Perfect Pair side bet offers better odds of happening compared to the 21+3 bet, since it’s based only on the two cards dealt to you, not a combination of your cards and the dealer’s face-up card. Perfect Pair bets are considered more likely to hit, making them a solid choice for players who want to try their luck with a lower risk.
Insurance Side Bet
The Insurance bet is a side bet placed when the dealer’s face-up card is an ace. It serves as a way to protect yourself against the possibility that the dealer has a blackjack, which is when the dealer’s second card is a ten-value card, resulting in a total of 21.
Here’s how it works:
- If the dealer’s upcard is an ace, you can place an Insurance bet up to half the amount of your main bet.
- If the dealer has a blackjack (a ten-value card and an ace), the Insurance bet pays 2:1.
- If the dealer does not have a blackjack, the Insurance bet is lost, and the game continues as normal.
Insurance is often seen as a way to reduce the risk of losing your bet when the dealer has a strong hand. However, it’s not without controversy, as many seasoned blackjack players argue that the bet has a high house edge and is generally not worth it in the long run. Nonetheless, Insurance can be a useful option for players who want to hedge their bets in certain situations.
Are Blackjack Side Bets Worth It?
Whether blackjack side bets are worth it depends on the player’s preferences and risk tolerance. While they can be enticing due to their potential high payouts, side bets typically come with a higher house edge compared to the main blackjack game. This means that while the potential for big wins is there, the odds are generally not in the player’s favor.
Despite the higher house edge, side bets can add an extra layer of excitement to the game. If you’re feeling lucky or want to spice up your gameplay, placing small side bets can be a fun way to enhance your experience. It’s important to approach these bets with caution and ensure that you understand the odds and payouts before diving in.
Why Play Blackjack Side Bets at Pixbet?
For players looking to enjoy blackjack side bets in a reliable and exciting environment, Pixbet is a great choice. Pixbet is an online casino that caters to the Brazilian market, offering a wide range of casino games, including blackjack with various side bet options. Whether you’re a seasoned blackjack player or a newcomer, Pixbetapp provides a user-friendly platform with all the tools you need to enjoy your favorite casino games, including blackjack side bets.
Pixbet offers a safe and secure environment where players can make the most of their blackjack experience. With easy-to-use features, fair gameplay, and a wide selection of betting options, it’s the perfect place for those looking to explore the world of blackjack side bets. Try your luck today and experience the thrill of side bets like never before!
