What are Blackjack Card Values?

Ever wondered what those playing cards are really worth in blackjack? You"re in the right place! In blackjack, each card has a specific value that’s key to your success playing online casino gambling. Ready to stack the deck in your favor? Let’s deal out the details, and don’t worry, no jokers here!

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What are the Values of Each Card in Blackjack?

In blackjack, card values are straightforward but important. Number cards, from 2 to 10, hold their face value. Face cards like Kings, Queens, and Jacks are all worth 10 points. The Ace is the most versatile card, worth either 1 or 11.

Understanding these values is the first step in mastering blackjack on real money casino apps. Every card counts, so it’s important to know what they’re worth.

How to Calculate Hand Values

Calculating your hand value in blackjack when playing in real money casinos is easy. Just add up the values of your cards. If you’ve got a 7 and a 9, your total is 16. Throw in a Queen, and now you’re at 26, which means you’ve busted.

The Ace is the game-changer here. It can be worth 1 or 11, depending on what keeps your hand under 21. If you hold an Ace and a 6, your hand could be 7 or 17. Knowing how to calculate your hand quickly helps you decide whether to hit, stand, or double down.

The Ace in Soft Hands vs Hard Hands

The Ace is the most versatile card in blackjack, playing the most important role in soft and hard hands.

A soft hand includes an Ace valued at 11, giving you flexibility. For example, an Ace and a 6 can be 7 or 17. If you hit and get a 10, the Ace drops to 1, so you don’t bust.

A hard hand has an Ace counted as 1 or no Ace at all. In a hard hand, like a 10 and 7, there’s no flexibility. If you hit and go over 21, you’re out.

Splitting, Doubling Down, and Staying

Knowing when to split, double down, or stand is key to mastering blackjack. These moves can turn an average hand into a winning one if timed right. In the next sections, we’ll break down when and why you should make each of these strategic decisions.

When is it Time to Split?

Splitting is a powerful move in blackjack, but timing is everything. You should always split Aces and 8s. Splitting Aces gives you two chances to hit 21, and splitting 8s avoids the tough 16 total. For pairs like 9s, split them if the dealer shows 2 through 9, except for 7. Don’t split 10s because keeping them together gives you a strong 20. Splitting can double your chances of winning, but only when done strategically. It sounds complicated, but it’s pretty easy to follow after a few games.

When is it Time to Double Down?

Splitting is fun, but doubling down is one of the most exciting moves in blackjack because it can double your winnings with just one extra card. But when should you do it?

You should double down when your hand totals 11, especially if the dealer’s upcard is between 2 and 10. The odds are in your favor to pull a 10-value card, giving you a strong 21. It’s also smart to double down on 10 when the dealer shows 2 through 9. Another good time to double down is with a soft 16 to 18, particularly if the dealer has a weak card like 3 to 6.

When is it Time to Stand?

Knowing when to stand in blackjack is just as important as the actions for keeping your hand strong without risking a bust. You should stand when your hand totals 17 or more, especially if the dealer shows a weak card (2 through 6).

Standing is also wise when you have a hard 12 to 16, and the dealer has a low upcard. In these situations, the dealer is more likely to bust, so it’s better to hold your ground. With a soft 18 (Ace and 7), stand if the dealer shows 2, 7, or 8.

Playing it safe by standing at the right time can help you secure the win, even if you feel compelled to hit it.

Playing Virtual Blackjack in 3 Easy Steps

First, find a licensed online casino that offers blackjack. Next, make a deposit to fund your account. Finally, choose your favorite blackjack game and start playing.

Find Your Perfect Online Casino

Licensed casinos follow strict regulations, ensuring fair play and the security of your funds. Avoid unregulated sites that could put your money at risk. Stick with well-known, trusted platforms to enjoy a safe and enjoyable blackjack experience.

Make a Deposit and Use a Bonus

Most casinos offer a variety of payment options like credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. After depositing, take advantage of available casino bonus offers. For example, a deposit match bonus can double your bankroll, giving you more to play with. Some casinos also offer no deposit bonuses, letting you start playing without spending your own money.

Get into the Blackjack Spirit

Now that your account is funded, it’s time to pick a blackjack game and dive in! Whether you’re a fan of classic blackjack or want to try a new variant, there’s a game for you. Get excited, take your seat at the virtual table, and let the cards decide your fate.

Blackjack Card Value Tips for Beginners

Understanding card values is just the beginning. The following tips will help you make smarter decisions at the table, from when to split to why you should avoid counting cards online. Let’s dive into these strategies to boost your chances of winning, especially if you’re just starting out.

Do Not Count Cards

Counting cards might be a classic strategy in movies, but it isn’t practical for online blackjack. Why? Because online games use automatic shuffling after each hand, making it impossible to track the deck. Instead, focus on mastering basic strategies and understanding card values.

These skills are much more effective in virtual blackjack, where the game is fast-paced and unpredictable.

Avoid getting caught up in the myth of card counting and stick to strategies that actually work.

Split the Aces

When you’re dealt a pair of Aces, always split them. Splitting Aces gives you two strong starting hands with a value of 11 each. The chances of drawing a 10-value card next are pretty good, which could land you a 21 on one or both hands. Even if you don’t get a face card, Aces can still count as 1, giving you flexibility in your next move. Two hands are better than one!

Also…Split the 3’s

Splitting 3’s in blackjack is another smart move. When you’re dealt a pair of 3’s, splitting them gives you two chances to improve what would otherwise be a weak hand. Most of the deck consists of 10-value cards, so splitting 3’s can help you avoid the dreaded total of 16, one of the worst hands in the game. Some casinos even allow you to surrender, which means you can give up half your bet if the hand looks bad.

Use a Blackjack Cheat Sheet

A blackjack cheat sheet is a handy tool that shows you the best moves for every possible hand. It’s like having expert advice right at your fingertips, helping you decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or split. These charts are based on basic strategy and can significantly improve your odds by guiding your decisions according to the dealer’s upcard. It’s legal to use them in most online casinos, so don’t hesitate to keep one nearby.

Where to Legally Play Your Best Blackjack Hands in the USA

If you’re looking to play blackjack online for real money, make sure you’re in one of the states where it’s legal: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or West Virginia. In these states, you can find licensed online casinos offering a safe and regulated environment.

If you’re outside these areas, you can still enjoy blackjack through sweepstakes or social casinos. These platforms let you play for free, but remember, you can’t win real money. It’s still a great way to practice your skills and enjoy the game without any financial risk.

What are the Top Blackjack Online Casinos?

When it comes to playing blackjack online, our favorite online casino sites are BetMGM, Caesars Casino, FanDuel, and DraftKings. These platforms are known for their variety of blackjack games, secure environments, and generous bonuses.

All In: Using Blackjack Card Knowledge to Your Advantage

Now that you’re armed with key strategies and a solid understanding of card values, you’re ready to take on the blackjack table with confidence. Use this knowledge to make smart decisions and increase your chances of winning. The cards are literally in your hands!