Welcome to Slots Baby. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of blackjack to explore an intriguing side bet known as "Match the Dealer." This addition to traditional blackjack offers players a unique twist and the chance to win extra payouts.
In this post, we’ll break down what Match the Dealer entails, the rules for participating, and how the odds and payouts vary depending on the size of the deck used in the game. Whether you're new to blackjack or looking to understand more about the different betting options, this guide will help you decide if Match the Dealer is a worthwhile bet for you.
What Is Match The Dealer In Blackjack?
Match the Dealer is a popular side bet in blackjack that allows players to wager on the possibility that one or both of their initial two cards will match the dealer's up card in rank or suit. This side bet is placed at the beginning of a round alongside the main blackjack bet before any cards are dealt.
If either of your cards matches the dealer's up card in rank (e.g., both are Queens), you win a payout. A stronger match, like matching both rank and suit (e.g., both are the Queen of Hearts), results in a higher payout. The specifics of these payouts can vary depending on the casino, so be sure to read the rules of the specific blackjack game before playing. This side bet adds an extra layer of excitement and offers players additional opportunities to win beyond the standard outcomes of blackjack.
What Are The Rules In Blackjack Match The Dealer?
In the "Match the Dealer" side bet in blackjack, the rules are straightforward:
- Placement of Bets: Before the main blackjack round begins, you can place your Match the Dealer side bet. This is independent of your main bet on the blackjack hand.
- Matching Criteria: You win the side bet if one or both of your initial two cards match the dealer's up card. A match can be either in rank (e.g., both are 8s) or both rank and suit (e.g., both are the 8 of clubs).
- Payouts: Payouts vary based on the type of match, with higher payouts for matches of both rank and suit. These payouts can differ from casino to casino.
Match The Dealer In Blackjack Odds & Payout
In this section, we'll explore the odds and payouts for the "Match the Dealer" side bet in blackjack, focusing on how these can vary with different deck sizes used in the game. Understanding these differences can help you make more informed betting decisions. Let’s dive in.
6 Deck Games
In blackjack games using 6 decks, the "Match the Dealer" side bet offers specific odds and payouts. The probability of your initial two cards matching the dealer's up card in rank increases slightly due to the multiple decks. Here's how it generally breaks down:
- Rank Match Only: The odds are about 1 in 13 that one of your cards will match the dealer's up card in rank.
- Exact Match (Rank and Suit): The odds are less likely, approximately 1 in 105
Typical payouts for these matches can be:
- Rank Match: Pays 4:1
- Exact Match: Pays 12:1
These payouts can vary by casino, so it's always good to check the specific rules where you play.
8 Deck Games
In blackjack games utilising 8 decks, the "Match the Dealer" side bet has adjusted odds and payouts due to the increased number of cards. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Rank Match Only: With more cards in play, the odds of matching the dealer's up card in rank are slightly better, around 1 in 12
- Exact Match (Rank and Suit): The likelihood of an exact match is about 1 in 128
Payouts for these matches in 8-deck games typically are:
- Rank Match: Pays around 4:1
- Exact Match: Offers a higher payout, usually about 11:1
As with any casino game, check the house rules for exact payouts, as these can vary from one place to another.
Is Match The Dealer a Good Bet In Blackjack?
Deciding whether "Match the Dealer" is a good bet in blackjack largely depends on personal preference and individual gaming style. This side bet tends to have a higher house edge compared to the main game of blackjack. This means, over time, the casino is more likely to gain more from your bets on this option than you are to win.
However, if you enjoy the excitement and the potential for higher payouts that side bets can offer, "Match the Dealer" might appeal to you. It also depends on whether your budget can account for this side bet. Sticking to your budget is more important than stretching to place additional bets.
Ultimately, if you prefer a game with potentially high rewards and are comfortable with the corresponding stakes, this side bet could be an enjoyable addition to your blackjack play. However, it’s important to gamble responsibly above all else.
Real Money Online Blackjack
At Slots Baby, you can dive into the thrilling world of real money online blackjack. Our site features a diverse array of online and live blackjack games, offering a range of different table limits to suit various budgets. Some games even include unique extras to spice up this casino classic, making for exciting and unique gameplay.
Beyond blackjack, we also host a variety of other online table games and a wide selection of slot games, ensuring there's something for every type of player.
Getting started is simple: create an account with us and deposit funds into said account. Once your account is set up, you can immediately begin playing any game of your choice. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to online gaming, Slots Baby offers a fun and secure platform to enjoy your favourite casino games online.
Please gamble responsibly. Stick to a budget and remember that winning is never guaranteed.
*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.