What online blackjack is and how it works
Online blackjack comes in two common formats: RNG-based games that deal virtual cards, and live-dealer tables streamed from a studio. Fair RNG games use independently tested random number generators certified by labs such as eCOGRA and Gaming Laboratories International (GLI). Those labs validate that outcomes are unpredictable and unbiased.
Many online games reshuffle for every hand (or use a continuous shuffle model), which removes the counting edge and keeps each round independent. Basic strategy does not change under continuous shuffling, and online games commonly shuffle each hand.
The rules in two minutes
Your goal is to beat the dealer by having a higher total than the dealer without busting over 21, or by the dealer busting. Numbered cards count at face value; face cards are 10; aces are 1 or 11. Standard actions are hit, stand, double down, split pairs, and sometimes surrender. Full rules and strategy resources are maintained by Wizard of Odds, a widely cited authority on blackjack math.
Payouts and table rules that matter (and how they change the odds)
Always prefer 3:2 over 6:5
A 3:2 payout on a natural blackjack is the gold standard. A 6:5 payout adds about 1.39% to the house edge compared with 3:2, turning decent games into bad ones. Avoid 6:5 tables.
S17 vs H17
When the dealer stands on soft 17 (S17), the house edge drops by roughly two-tenths of a percent compared with hitting soft 17 (H17), all else equal.
Decks, doubling, splitting, surrender
The number of decks, whether you can double after split (DAS), re-split aces, and surrender all nudge the odds. Wizard of Odds tracks the direction and size of each rule’s effect; more decks and H17 are worse for players, while options like late surrender improve expected return when used correctly.
If you want to see the house edge for the exact rules you’re facing, run them through a rules calculator before you play.
Basic strategy made simple
Basic strategy is a table of optimal decisions for every possible player hand versus dealer upcard given a rule set. Using it consistently trims the house edge to a fraction of a percent on good games. You can view printable charts and rule-specific strategies, or practice with free trainers, on Wizard of Odds.
Common beginner upgrades:
- Double 11 vs dealer 10 on S17 games; check your chart if H17.
- Split 8s and aces; never split 10s.
- Use surrender where offered (for example, 16 vs 10 in many charts).
Crypto deposits and withdrawals: what to check first
Verify licensing and testing before you send coins
Use your country’s regulator tools to confirm a casino’s licence status and domain. In Great Britain, search the Gambling Commission’s Public Register for businesses and domains, and note the regulator classifies crypto-sourced funds as high risk requiring enhanced scrutiny.
Understand finality and speed
Bitcoin base-layer transactions are irreversible and cannot be chargebacked; only the recipient can refund. If you use BTC for fast deposits/withdrawals, the Lightning Network enables near-instant, low-fee transfers when supported by your wallet and the operator.
If the site supports stablecoins or other crypto rails, confirm the exact network and token standard (for example, USDT on TRC-20 vs ERC-20) on the cashier page before sending anything. Mismatched networks often mean permanent loss.
Fairness: RNG certification vs “provably fair”
RNG games should show certification by an accredited test lab (eCOGRA/GLI) that evaluates the random number generator and implementation. Live-dealer games are also tested for procedures and dealing integrity.
Some crypto sites offer “provably fair” mini-games using cryptographic randomness (for example, Chainlink VRF), where a proof is verified on-chain before the result is used. That transparency is helpful, but it does not replace licensing, AML/KYC, complaints processes, or responsible-gambling obligations. Treat “provably fair” as one safety layer, not the only one.
Bankroll and session management
- Decide your session budget and stick to it; many apps let you set deposit and time limits.
- Size your average bet at one-fortieth to one-fiftieth of your session bankroll to ride normal variance.
- Fewer, better games beat more, worse games: prioritize 3:2 payout, S17, DAS, resplit aces, and surrender where available.
Legality, taxes, and safer-play resources
Gambling legality and crypto payment rules vary by country and state. In Great Britain, the regulator rates cryptoassets as high-risk for AML, and licensed operators must scrutinize crypto-origin funds. Always choose locally licensed sites and use regulator tools to verify a domain before playing.
In the United States, all gambling winnings are taxable and must be reported; the IRS also asks a digital-assets question on individual returns. Keep a diary, statements, and transaction hashes. In the UK, players’ gambling winnings are generally not taxed, although crypto disposals can be taxable events under HMRC rules.
If gambling stops being fun, use support services. In the U.S., contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER. In Great Britain, you can register with GAMSTOP to block access to GB-licensed sites for a period you choose.
Quick-start checklist
- Choose a blackjack table with 3:2 payout, S17, DAS, and surrender if possible.
- Practice with a basic-strategy chart for your rule set until decisions are automatic.
- If using crypto, confirm the casino’s licence and the exact deposit network before sending funds; remember BTC transactions are irreversible.
- Start with a small test transaction.
- Set deposit/time limits and keep records for taxes and disputes.
FAQs
Is online blackjack fair?
At licensed sites, RNG games are tested and certified by independent labs like eCOGRA or GLI, and live-dealer tables are regulated procedures. Always verify the licence and testing marks.
Does card counting work online?
RNG blackjack typically reshuffles every hand (or uses continuous shuffling), which removes the counting edge. Counting may apply only in some live-dealer shoes with finite penetration.
What rules should I prioritize?
3:2 blackjack payout is essential; avoid 6:5. Prefer S17 over H17 and look for DAS, resplit aces, and surrender where offered.
Are crypto deposits safer or cheaper?
They can be fast and low-fee, especially with BTC via Lightning or stablecoins on efficient networks, but they’re generally irreversible. Use licensed operators, test with small amounts, and double-check network details.
