How to Win at Blackjack Without Counting Cards
I usually hear people saying that card counting is the best way to win at blackjack. Okay, this could be one of the strategies. However, from my experience, many other alternatives can guarantee higher odds.
In this article, I will not even mention counting cards to win at blackjack. Instead, I am ready to reveal all the strategies I have used for years while playing this table game. Each one has certain advantages and disadvantages, so I will let you decide which suits you best.
Mastering Basic Strategy
The most common tactic I use to raise my chances of winning is the blackjack basic strategy. If this option seems legit, there are three things you need to pay attention to.
The Power of Basic Strategy
The basic strategy is a blackjack method of playing supported by math calculations and probabilities. Four guys have discovered it by testing different outcomes of the game. Since 1956, many people have been using it, including me.
The easiest way to apply this tactic is to understand the chart. There, you can see which actions you should take in different scenarios that could happen during the gameplay. Remember that you won’t win in 100% of the games.
Instead, the purpose of the basic strategy is to tell you what you should do to reduce the house edge. So, apply this strategy with patience.
Adapting to Different Game Rules
I am pretty sure that, eventually, you will want to test different blackjack variants. Although the goal of each one is the same, there are those tiny differences that can sometimes ruin your plans.
If a basic strategy seems like a great alternative, you must adapt it to the rules of specific blackjack variants. First and foremost, the RTP of the games is not always the same. Some variants have more or less decks involved in the game. Furthermore, in American variants, the dealer must stand on all 17s, which is not the case with the European version.
Get familiar with the rules before everything and ensure that my recommendations really pay off.
Avoiding Common Misplays
I want to highlight the common mistakes I made in the past. As stated, a basic strategy does not guarantee consecutive wins. That’s why you have to be extremely patient like a frogfish and wait for better results to come.
At the beginning of my blackjack career, I did quite the opposite things. After three losses in a row, I gave up on the basic strategy. Thereafter, I started to make unreasonable moves and ended up with 0 balance.
Stick to the strategy and define the maximum profit when you will stop gambling.
Utilizing Betting Strategies
Betting strategy also matters in blackjack! You need to organize the wagering method and ensure that you don’t spend more than you can afford. Here are three ways to manage your bankroll.
Flat Betting Advantages
Beginners should apply this betting method. Whether you lose or win, don’t raise or decrease your bet. Instead, stick to the same amount of money. It is a great way to boost your self-control this way.
Before you do that, properly calculate how valuable each bet should be. If there is enough space to risk more, why wouldn’t you do that?
Positive Progression Systems
A good example of this is the Paroli betting system. That strategy suggests that a player should double his bet whenever he hits the win.
Let’s imagine that you started the game with $10:
- If you win the next round, you invest $20.
- If you win again, you wager $40.
What happens when you lose? You get back to the initial bet. This way, you are actually gambling with the casino’s money.
Negative Progression Cautions
Negative progression blackjack strategies recommend that players raise their bets when they experience a loss. An excellent example is the Martingale strategy, which functions in quite the opposite way compared to the Paroli system.
Let’s imagine that you started with $10, and you lost. Next round, you invest $20:
- If you lose again, boost your wager to $40.
- If you win, get back to the initial bet.
Keep in mind that longer losing strikes require higher investments. But, the tactic can pay a lot in the long run.
Game Selection for Better Odds
Selecting the best possible blackjack variant is also one of the strategies that you MUST apply. Many of them are available in offline and online casinos, so pay more attention to this part of the process.
Finding Player-Friendly Tables
In my opinion, beginners should start with single-deck variants. These blackjack tables come with higher odds of winning. Besides that, in most cases, the rules of these types of blackjack are simpler, which is ideal for people who have not played this game too much.
Moreover, you should focus on those variants that allow low-cost playtime. Some of them allows you to play with only a few dollars. Even if you fail to apply any of the mentioned strategies, that mistake will not be costly.
Single Deck vs Multi-Deck Games
It is clear why the single deck option comes with higher odds. This variant comes only with four cards with the same card sign. If your gambling sessions last longer, you can predict whether specific cards could potentially appear on the table or not. Using a basic strategy for that variant is ideal.
On the other hand, I have to admit that the multi-hand blackjack variant brings larger profit. That should not surprise you, since the fluctuation in the game will be on a much higher level. I recommend this option for more experienced players.
Avoiding 6:5 Payouts
Read this piece of advice multiple times! Blackjack variants with a 6:5 payout don’t let you make a profit, even when you ideally apply any of the mentioned strategies.
For example, if your bet is $7.50, and you win, you will only get paid $8.50. Why would you even risk this creepy game? I would remove it from the gambling platforms!
The 3:2 variant is much better. You get paid $3 for every $2 that you bet. The odds for winning are 1.5:1. Yes, I know that this difference seems small, but you can’t even imagine how huge the difference they make in the long run and with higher bets.
Psychological and Behavioral Strategies
Many years ago, I learned that the best strategies can’t help if your mind isn’t clear. You must work on your self-control and emotions before starting the blackjack journey.
Managing Emotions
If you become nervous, leave the table! There is a big chance you won’t respect the principles of any strategy if you become greedy and stressed. Investing your entire casino balance for a single game to get back the money will not help!
I recommend you play this game with someone you know. Use every opportunity to speak with other players and dealers. You won’t only chase money; you will enjoy every moment and clear your mind when necessary.
Reading the Dealer and Table Dynamics
It is important to find a game variant with adequate dynamics for your preferences.
- Some people lose patience when the delays are longer. They want to enjoy a more dynamic environment, and their focus is on the highest level at that moment.
- Some people just want to relax, which is why less dynamic conditions suit their playing style. These tips can help you find the best possible game type.
Discipline and Patience
There are two ways to remain patient and disciplined.
Patience will remain at the highest level if you expect nothing from your gambling session. Before I even sit at the table or log in to my casino account, I tell myself, “You probably won’t win anything.” With that approach, I don’t ever get disappointed while playing real money.
Discipline can be supported by good bankroll management. Calculate how much money you can spend for each blackjack session. Furthermore, define the maximal profit that will satisfy you. Stick to those numbers regularly!
And Now?
As you see, winning blackjack without counting cards is possible. Hence, I invite everyone to apply all the strategies I recommend here. Be sure to adjust them to the game variant you picked. If you are willing, share your experience with different strategies in the comments below!
For more tips and insights on blackjack, I invite you to read my detailed guide on how to win at blackjack.