Blackjack is one of the world’s most popular casino games. It’s fast, simple – and based on an intriguing combination of luck and strategy. The game began way back in 17th-century France, where it was called Twenty-One. It spread across Europe and reached America in the 1800s.
In recent years, the game is finding new levels of popularity as increasing numbers head online to play, rather than having to visit a land-based venue. Many countries, have only recently started to put regulatory frameworks in place, and at an online casino Canada you’ll even be met with different variations of the game, such as American Blackjack and European Blackjack.
To attract players, early casinos offered a bonus payout for a blackjack and an ace of spades. The name stuck. Today, blackjack is a huge global success story. You’ll find it in every casino from Las Vegas to Macau.
Online platforms have helped it grow even more. In 2024, online blackjack accounted for over 12% of digital table game revenue worldwide. Blackjack has a unique appeal. Unlike slots or roulette, blackjack gives players a real edge.
That’s why the game is a favourite among professionals and casual players alike. There are useful tips that can help players improve their strategy when playing as game of blackjack.
But what are these strategies? Here are the six essential blackjack tactics used by the experts:
Always Split Aces and Eights
A pair of aces gives you two chances at hitting 21. A pair of eights totals 16 – the worst hand. That’s why the pros know these are cards that should always be split.
Splitting aces often leads to 18 or 19, strong totals. Splitting eights lets you escape the weak 16 and play two stronger hands. Never split tens or fives. Two tens (20) is a top-tier hand. Two fives (10) should be doubled, not split.
Basic strategy charts always agree to split aces and eights, no matter what the dealer shows.
Never Take Insurance
Insurance is a side bet offered when the dealer shows an ace. It pays 2:1 if the dealer has blackjack. But it’s a bad bet. The odds of the dealer having a ten as the hole card are roughly 30%. That means over time, you lose money. Even pro players avoid it unless they’re counting cards.
Casual players should ignore it entirely. It sounds like protection, but it’s a trap because the house edge on insurance bets can exceed 7%.
Hit a Soft 17
A ‘soft’ hand includes an ace counted as 11.
A soft 17 (Ace-6) is not strong.
You can’t bust with one more card. Always hit it.
Most casinos make dealers hit soft 17, because it's weak.
Players should do the same. Hitting improves your odds of reaching 18 or 19.
Stand on Hard 17 or Higher
Hard hands don’t include a flexible ace. A hard 17 is risky to hit.
The chance of busting is over 69%. So always stand on 17 or more and that includes 18, 19 and 20 – which are excellent totals.
New players sometimes hit 17, hoping for better. That’s a mistake.
Most likely, you’ll bust and hand the win to the house. On hard 17 or higher, standing gives you the best long-term return.
Double Down on 11
When your hand totals 11, it’s time to attack. Always double down unless the dealer shows an ace.
Eleven is the most powerful total in early play. You can’t bust on the next card and ten-point cards are most common.
That means you have strong odds of landing 21. Doubling down lets you raise your bet after seeing your hand.
This is a core advantage of blackjack. Used correctly, it beats the house.
Just don’t double if the dealer has an ace – it’s too risky.
Use a Basic Strategy Chart
Blackjack is a game of numbers. Every hand has a correct play. A basic strategy chart shows what to do in every situation – hit, stand, split or double. It’s based on millions of simulations. Following the chart cuts the house edge to 0.5% or less. It works the same for all players, beginners or experts.
In most casinos and online games, you’re allowed to use a chart while playing. Print one or use an app. It’s not cheating. It’s smart play.
In Summary
Blackjack stands out in the casino world. It’s fast, fun, and unlike most games like you see on television, it rewards clever players. The rules are simple, but the strategy runs deep. That’s what makes it so popular.
You’re not just spinning a wheel or pulling a lever – you’re using strategy. Tips like splitting eights, avoiding insurance, or doubling down on 11 give players real power.
Follow basic strategy and the house edge drops below 0.5%. No slot or roulette wheel can rival that. Even casual players can improve fast. So use a chart, learn the patterns and trust the maths.
Blackjack isn’t just a game of chance – it’s a battle of wits. That’s the appeal. Every hand gives you a choice so every decision counts.
This article was written in cooperation with Jamie Gilchrist