In the exciting world of blackjack, players often face important choices that can affect the outcome of their game. One such decision is whether to take even money when the dealer shows an Ace, and you happen to have a blackjack (2-card hand totalling 21) from the initial deal.
This decision might seem straightforward, but there is more to it than meets the eye.
Understanding the strategy behind your options can make a big difference to your overall game. But how do you know if you should take even money, and what does it mean for your blackjack strategy?
In this blog post, we'll explore the ins and outs of this decision, providing you with the tools you need to make an informed choice. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, join us as we delve into this interesting aspect of blackjack.
What Is Even Money Blackjack?
Even money in blackjack is an option available to players if they have a natural blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card as the first two cards - i.e. 2 cards that add up to 21) and the dealer's upcard is an Ace. In this scenario, there is a chance for the dealer to also hit a blackjack if their hole card is a 10-value card.
By choosing to place the even money side bet, you are placing a bet that is half the size of the original bet you made and is contingent on the dealer paying you a guaranteed 1:1 payout on your bet if they end up having a blackjack as well.
It is a little safety net offered to keep players from potentially walking away with nothing if both them and the dealer reveal blackjack hands, which typically results in a push, or tie, meaning you neither win nor lose your bet.
Is Even Money & Insurance The Same?
While even money and insurance may sound similar, they serve different purposes in blackjack and have their own rules. It is important to understand these differences to make the most of your gameplay.
Even money is an option that is only available if you have a natural blackjack and the dealer has an Ace showing.
On the other hand, insurance is a side bet that players can take if the dealer's upcard is an Ace, regardless of whether the player has a natural blackjack or not. Players wager up to half of their original bet as insurance against the possibility of the dealer having a blackjack. If the dealer then hits blackjack, the insurance bet pays out at 2:1, allowing the player to break even on the round.
Despite their differences, both choices relate to placing a side bet covering the possibility of the dealer having a natural blackjack if they are showing an Ace as their upcard. However, the scenarios for using them are not the same, and understanding the distinction can help develop your knowledge of the game.
Should You Ever Take Even Money In Blackjack?
Deciding whether to take even money in blackjack involves weighing the pros and cons to see what fits best with your playing style and risk tolerance.
One benefit of taking even money is the safety net it provides. If you choose even money when you have a blackjack and the dealer shows an Ace, you protect yourself in the case of a dealer’s hole card being a 10-value card. For players who prefer less risk, this option can offer peace of mind, eliminating the chance of a push if the dealer also ends up with a blackjack.
On the flip side, taking even money is not always the best mathematical decision. Opting for the chance to receive the standard 3:2 payout for a natural blackjack is thought to have a lower house edge than taking the even money side bet. Statistically, the dealer is not as likely to hit blackjack as often as you might think, which means you might miss out on a larger potential payout by taking even money.
In the end, whether or not to take even money depends on your personal preferences and your bankroll because it involves placing an additional side bet. Learning how this side bet works and the different aspects of it can help with your wider understanding of the game.
Just remember to always gamble responsibly and only place bets you are comfortable with losing.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.