There are several ways that online blackjack is different from the live version of the game. This includes the speed of play, difference in house edge, the minimum bets, and more. This article covers many of the ways that the two games are different.
If you are interested in games like baccarat, craps, and roulette, read our comparison between online casino table games and live ones.
The minimum age to play online blackjack is 18 at most sites. Online blackjack options are available in nearly all US states.
Online blackjack house edge is typically lower than at live casinos
For the most part, real-money online blackjack provides players with a better return than the live version of the game. Most online blackjack games at online casinos pay 3:2 and stand on soft 17. This cuts the house edge of a game by about half when compared to a game where the dealer hits soft 17.
Double down before and after splitting is typically permitted at casino sites. Some allow surrender. Most casino sites do not allow aces to be re-split more than one time.
In Las Vegas, every live blackjack game on the casino floor requires the dealer to hit soft 17. About half of the tables only pay 6:5 on blackjack. Some blackjack games in the high-limit salon also hit soft 17. While blackjack pays 3:2 in most other gaming markets, the dealer usually hits soft 17.
Online blackjack betting limits are lower
It takes at least $50, if not $100 or more, to find a Las Vegas blackjack game that stands on soft 17. Atlantic City is much the same way. However, there are still some $25 blackjack games along the Boardwalk that stand on soft 17.
At online casinos, the minimum bet for blackjack that stands on soft 17 is typically $1. It can be as low as $0.10. Combine this with the much lower house edge, and your expected loss per hand at online blackjack can be less than a penny. Bonuses and VIP offers can close that gap more.
Online blackjack is faster than its live counterpart
Live blackjack can be a slow grind. Dealers may not be proficient with the game. Other players may slow it down asking for advice with a hand, while often ignoring it.
Online blackjack is played at your preferred pace. You may play as slowly or as quickly as you would like. Since the cards and chips are virtual, payouts and shuffling is instant. And there are no mistakes.
Online blackjack can be played with bonuses
Live casinos may give you a free drink while seated at the table. You may also receive a small mailer. You will receive little else from lower-limit blackjack action at a casino.
However, online casinos offer players a first deposit bonus. Blackjack may be played with this bonus. An online blackjack game may trigger VIP points and reload bonus offers that are comparable to what you may receive in a mailer from a casino.
Play online blackjack from the comfort of your own home
Online blackjack does not require a trip anywhere. You do not need to deal with traffic or high gas prices. Many casinos permit smoking. You do not need to deal with that when playing online blackjack.
There is no need to stop by the bank or ATM before playing blackjack at home. Funds are transferred seamlessly from your bank to your online casino account.
You can play online blackjack when you want for as long as you would like. However, it is important to set time and money limits before playing.
No tipping at online blackjack
When playing real money blackjack on a computer or mobile device, you will not need to tip anyone. There is no dealer, waitress, or valet attendant. You deposit, typically without fees, and get your cash out usually without fees, too.
Live dealer blackjack
Most online casinos have live dealer blackjack. This means that there is a real deck of cards and a dealer on camera. This blackjack game is dealt out of a shoe. Unlike typical online blackjack games, the deck is not reshuffled after every hand.
This gives the player an experience closer to being in a casino. Note that the minimum bet for live dealer blackjack will be higher than the standard online blackjack games.
Downsides of online blackjack when compared to live games
Online blackjack is not a perfect substitute for live casinos. Some players enjoy the social aspects of a blackjack table. Others like the drink service and the ability to touch chips and cards. Online blackjack may require more responsible gambling practices than live casinos.
Card counters do not like internet or mobile blackjack. That is because the cards are usually reshuffled after every hand. However, this can be a bonus for blackjack players that do not count. That is because the first hand out of a new shuffle has the lowest house edge.
Online blackjack FAQs
Can I play real money blackjack online?
Yes. Online blackjack is available in most states.
When do online blackjack games shuffle?
Most online blackjack games reshuffle after every hand.
Is it possible to count cards when playing online blackjack?
In most cases, no. That is because the deck is reshuffled after every hand.
Can I get an online casino bonus when playing blackjack?
Yes. Most sites include blackjack as a qualifying game in the bonus terms.
How old must I be to play online blackjack?
The minimum age to play at an online casino is usually 18. In some instances, it is 21.
Can I play blackjack variants online?
Yes. Zappit 21 is dealt at online casinos.
Last Updated on September 17, 2023 by John Mehaffey