Most Popular Types of Online Blackjack Australia
The best online Blackjack Australia games come in many versions and styles. While all these games follow the same basic rules and have the same goal, the details can be different. Small changes like the number of decks, the option to surrender, or whether the dealer stands or hits on 17 can make a big difference.
Even small rule changes can affect the house edge, which is the casino’s advantage over players. A lower house edge means better chances of winning. But what is ‘classic’ blackjack, and what are the alternatives? Here are some of the most common types of online blackjack in Australia.
The key difference in various Australia online Blackjack types is when the dealer gets the hole card. In American Blackjack, the dealer gets the hole card before the player makes a move. Classic Blackjack also has extra rules about moves like doubling down and splitting. Despite these rules, this version is the most popular among online casinos and players worldwide.
In this version, the dealer gets the hole card only after the player has finished their move. European Blackjack is usually more challenging and has more restrictions, such as no doubling down after splitting and no re-splitting of aces. These rules make it a more strategic game, recommended for experienced players.
This newer type of blackjack 2024, known as Blackjack Switch, requires advanced skills because players get two hands of cards. The unique feature of this game is that you can switch cards between hands, which can have an impact on the result. Since you get two hands, you often have to place two bets instead of one, making it a more expensive option.
In this version, players can ‘surrender’ their hand and lose half their bet instead of playing the whole hand. This option gives players more control in a game that often relies on luck. Strategic players can use this rule to maximise their returns without risking their entire bet. However, it’s important to note that not all casinos offer this option, so it’s worth checking the game rules before playing.
Super 7 Blackjack is for those who like unusual rules. It follows standard gameplay but includes a Super 7 Side bet. Depending on the cards you get, you can win from 3 times to 5,000 times your bet.
How to Play Online Blackjack Australia: Essential Guide to 21
Getting started with online blackjack is straightforward. You will need some time to learn the rules, player actions, and winning conditions. However, you’ll be ready to go once you read our CasinoAus guide on playing online blackjack in Australia.
We suggest testing your understanding of the game in demo mode first. Then, you can consider playing online blackjack for real cash.
Aussies love their pokies, but online blackjack has better payout rates. That’s why this game should be on your radar. Online casinos allow you to enjoy the game in demo mode or for real cash 24/7 when claiming welcome bonuses. Below, we explain each part of the online blackjack gameplay in the order you’ll experience it at gambling sites.
Blackjack Basics
Playing online blackjack real money Australia means playing against the dealer only. Your goal is to get a hand total of 21 or as close to 21 as possible.
Every game starts with you getting two face-up cards and the dealer getting one face-up and one face-down card. Each card has its face value, except for the Ace and face cards. Aces are worth 1 or 11, while face cards are worth 10 points.
You, as the player, play your blackjack hand first. If your hand goes over 21, it’s a bust, and you lose. If you stand below or at 21, it’s the dealer’s turn. Let’s learn more about these aspects of the game next.
Playing Your Hand
Once you’ve been dealt your initial two cards, you can choose from several options:
- Hit: Ask for an additional card to increase your hand’s value. You can hit as long as your count is under 21.
- Stand: Stick with your current hand and end your turn.
- Double Down: Double your starting bet and take one extra card.
- Split: If you have a pair, you can separate them into two different hands by placing another bet equal to your original wager. Depending on the variant, you may be allowed to split only once or a specific pair of cards.
If you play Blackjack Surrender, it’s possible to take the surrender action. In this case, you get half of your bet back.
The Dealer's Move
When playing in person, all players complete their actions before the dealer moves. When you play blackjack online Australia against the computer, you complete your actions, then it’s the dealer’s turn.
Either way, the dealer follows preset rules on how to act. The face-down card is revealed, based on that, the dealer must stand or hit. Usually, they stand on hands totalling 17, but the rule varies by variation.
After all active hands are revealed, the winner takes their payout, and the loser loses their bet. In case of a tie, the full bet goes back to the player.
Card Counting In Online Blackjack Australia: How It Works
Have you ever heard about card counting and wondered what it’s all about? Let’s explain the basics of card counting and see if it helps when playing blackjack online.
The Magic of Card Counting: What Is It?
Card counting is a technique that some blackjack players use to gain an advantage over the house by keeping track of the cards dealt. Card counters can predict if the remaining cards in the deck are likely to favour the player or the dealer. This information helps them adjust their bets and playing decisions, increasing their chances of winning.
The Science Behind Card Counting
According to the technique, high cards (10s, face cards, and Aces) are better for the player, while low cards (2-6) are better for the dealer. High cards increase the chances of a player getting a blackjack (natural 21) and make it more likely for the dealer to bust (go over 21) when they have to hit. Knowing the ratio of high to low cards left in the deck can give players a big advantage.
However, blackjack online games with RNG (random number generator) outcomes are not suitable for card counting. In most cases, each round is independent, so card counting doesn’t work.
How to Count Cards In Blackjack
Contrary to popular belief, card counting doesn’t mean memorising every card dealt. Instead, it involves assigning point values to each card and keeping a running count as the game progresses. One of the most famous card counting systems is the Hi-Lo method.
In this system, cards are given the following point values:
- Low cards (2-6): +1
- Neutral cards (7-9): 0
- High cards (10-Ace): -1
As each card is dealt, players adjust their running count based on the point values of the cards. A positive count means more low cards have been dealt, making the remaining deck richer in high cards. A negative count means the opposite.
Remember that shuffling the cards affects your calculations, so knowing when and if that happens is important. Live blackjack online is a good way to test this strategy, but do it carefully.
The Risks And Rewards of Card Counting
While card counting is a powerful strategy, it has risks. Casinos know about card counting techniques and use various methods to counteract them, like using multiple decks, shuffling more often, and closely watching players who consistently win.
If you’re caught card counting, you could be banned from the casino or even face legal consequences.
However, if you master card counting and use it discreetly, the rewards can be substantial. Successful card counters have made a lot of money using this technique, proving that with practice, you can beat the house.
Live Dealer Online Blackjack
Online blackjack for real money in Australia has improved with the introduction of live dealer games. In real money live blackjack, everything happens in real-time and is streamed to players through multiple cameras.
When playing live blackjack, you can interact with the dealer and other players from the comfort of your home. You see the dealer draw cards while you make your moves using the player interface on the screen.
Depending on the rules, live casino blackjack is the best chance to count cards and use playing strategies. RNG (random number generator) games are entirely random, with each round using a shuffled deck. This isn’t the case with live blackjack online.
Pragmatic Play Live, Evolution, Ezugi, LuckyStreak, and Authentic are reputable live blackjack providers. There are many variations depending on the provider and casino. You can find table limits for all budgets and VIP tables for Aussies looking for high-risk gameplay.
Online Blackjack Tips
Set Limits
When playing the best online blackjack for real money in Australia, always play within your means and follow Responsible Gambling principles. Set time and spending limits to help you stay in control.
Split a pair of 8s
Having a pair of 8s gives you one of the worst possible blackjack hands with a total of 16. It’s recommended to split them.
Don’t split Two 5s
Splitting 5s is not a good idea because getting an Ace gives you the best score. The best moves here are doubling down or hitting.
Know when to stand
Stand on any hand with a value greater than 17. It’s also smart to stand if your hand totals 12-16 against a dealer’s hand that is between 2-6.
Know When to Hit
If your hand value is between 12 and 16 and the dealer’s hand is greater than 7, it’s recommended to hit.
Know Where to Play
Sign up at Australian online casinos that our experts have tested and approved. You want to ensure your money is in safe hands.
Playing Real Money Blackjack Vs Free Games
Playing real money Blackjack games is exciting, and you can win real money. However, playing blackjack online in demo mode has its benefits too. It’s your choice to decide if you’re ready for real money games or want to keep practicing in demo mode.
Playing real money Blackjack gives you more options and variations than demo games. Any unique side bets are only available in real money mode. There are some other differences, and we want you to know all about them. So, we’ve listed them below.
Real Money vs Free Blackjack Games
Real Money
- More immersive experience
- Bonuses and promotions available
- You get real cash winnings
- You feel the actual thrill
- All side bets and features are available
Free Games
- Allows beginners to gain experience to play for real money
- Same rules and gameplay as real money online blackjack
Blackjack Online Casino Bonuses
We know that Aussies enjoy playing online blackjack for real money and like getting bonus cash with a min deposit. This is where casino bonuses tailored to card game fans come in.
Special Bonuses for Table and Card Games. Special bonuses for table and card games aren’t common. They exist, but they are rare and not available at all casinos. It’s also hard to keep track of them. Your best chance is to find a site that offers a live dealer bonus, which you can use on blackjack.
Low Wagering Contribution Rate. Another thing to note about bonuses and online blackjack is the game’s low or no wagering contribution rate. At most casinos, it’s either not allowed to play with bonus funds or clear bonuses on blackjack. The game’s contribution rate is much lower, around 10% or even 5% if allowed. This means you must wager significantly higher amounts to clear your bonus funds.
Why Play Online Blackjack In Australia at An Online Casino?
Safe and Fair. Online blackjack is safe and fair. Trusted online casinos offer games by reputable suppliers who use the latest RNG technology. This ensures every outcome is random and fair. You don’t have to worry about cheating when playing online blackjack for real money at trusted sites.
Opportunity to Improve Your Game. Playing online blackjack for real money is exciting but involves risking cash. Online blackjack lets you practice in demo mode and improve your skills before betting real money. When you are ready to make a payment, you can play real money games and withdraw your winnings in no time.
Helpful Tips and Guidance. Both blackjack casinos and game providers want customers to be happy and informed. They offer in-depth game details, tips, and strategies. You won’t find such helpful content in land-based casinos.
Bonuses and Rewards. The best payout online blackjack casinos provide many bonuses to keep players coming back. Some of these bonuses can be used on card games, giving Aussies better value for their money.
Mobile Blackjack Online
Please note that mobile blackjack and online blackjack are essentially the same thing, just the playing device differs. Australian players enjoy playing the card game on the move on smartphones and tablets. In that case, they’re playing mobile blackjack online.
Most providers we’ll list next have HTML5 games that fit any display size. In that sense, you can open any recommended gambling site (if it’s mobile-friendly) and play online blackjack for real money on your mobile.
What we described above is playing through browsers, i.e., instant play. Another alternative for mobile blackjack action is native mobile apps developed for Android or iOS devices. You must first download these before you can participate in blackjack online action.
Top Online Blackjack Providers
If you’re an Aussie player looking to play blackjack online, you might want to know which providers offer these games. Here, we’ll discuss some of the best-known online Blackjack developers.
We can’t talk about online casino card games without mentioning the top-class products of Microgaming. They have many online blackjack games, ranging from traditional to very creative ones. Although Microgaming (now Games Global) is not available in Australia, you can still enjoy a wide range of games by other prominent developers.
Playtech offers some of the best live dealer blackjack experiences on the market. Smaller game studios also have great online blackjack options for Australian customers. BGaming, Betsoft, Wazdan, Platipus, and Mascot are some providers to watch out for.
Here are some popular online blackjack variations that guarantee excellent gameplay:
- Double Exposure Blackjack
- Pontoon Blackjack
- VIP Blackjack
- American Blackjack
- Pirate 21 Blackjack
- Super 7 Blackjack
How We Review Online Blackjack Australia Casinos
The CasinoAus team uses its expertise to actively review real money casinos for Australians to play online Blackjack:
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Our team of experts puts safety and security first. We investigate each casino’s licensing, certifications, and reputation to decide if it is a safe place for players to trust with their money.
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We also speak with specialist blackjack players with experience playing at the casino we are reviewing. This gives us a better idea of what actual players think about the service they receive from each casino.
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Finally, we gather insights from our extensive first-hand experience when playing at each casino. That’s how we make sure we only recommend sites with an excellent online blackjack selection.