Blackjack Side Bets Explained

Side bets, also known as prop (proposition) bets or novelty bets, can be described as additional bets regarding the occurrence or no-occurrence of a casino game that doesn’t affect the final outcome. They can be applied to most casino games such as blackjack and are quite popular in sports betting.

Blackjack is probably the most popular casino card game of all times. Players around the world enjoy it all the time and even though it has a low house edge and gives players the option to win, it’s can get a bit stale over time as it’s pretty simple. This is why there are different variations of blackjack that add more excitement to the game and keep it fresh and interesting. If you’d like to practice some of these variations, novibet.co.uk has a whole range you can try for free.

Blackjack Variations and Side Bets

There are many variations of blackjack you can try – Spanish 21, Blackjack Switch, Double Attack, and 21 Duel are just some of the examples. All of them add a unique feature to the game which makes it more exciting so players can spend more time and money on it.

The good thing about blackjack is that you can bet small or big on it and still win some money. Of course, spending big on a blackjack variation with a high house edge is risky, but can bring you more money. If you’re a beginner, however, we suggest going small. Additionally, you can also master the art of side betting on blackjack that can also bring you profit.

Side bets in blackjack are smaller optional bets you can place alongside the main wager and win or lose independently of the ‘big’ bet. They are a more recent addition to the card game and aimed at new generations of blackjack players who want more fast-paced action. If the standard blackjack variations simply don’t excite you anymore, side-bets could be just what you’re looking for.

Blackjack Side Bets Examples

The blackjack side bets usually have a limit that depends on the casino you’re playing at. Most casinos offer two side bets – Perfect Pairs and 21+3.

Perfect Pairs

As the name suggests, this side bet in blackjack can be won if your first two cards are a pair. They can be a mixed pair (King of Clubs, King of Diamonds); colored pair (King of Hearts, King of Diamonds), and perfect pairs (two King of Hearts). These three winning scenarios offer a nice payout and can help you win some extra money alongside winning your main bet.

21+3

The 21+3 side bet has three possible winning scenarios which involve your first two cards and the dealer’s face card. You’ll win if they form a Flush, Straight, Three of a Kind, Straight Flush or Suited Trips (the odds are 5:1, 10:1, 30:1, 40:1, and 100:1 respectively). If you manage to hit Suited Trips, you’ll be looking at quite a nice payout depending on your bet of course.

Besides these two common side bets, some casinos also offer others such as Royal 20s, Royal Match or the rare and highly profitable Over/Under 13 side bet. Pick the side bet you’re most familiar with and try your hand at it – it can bring you even more money than you’re hoped.