Written by: Kim Birch | The review was last updated: 03 July 2024 | Fact-check by: Jasmin Williams
Choosing between online and offline blackjack isn't straightforward. Both options have their pros and cons, and even seasoned punters find it tough to pick a favourite. In our view, it really comes down to personal preference.
The best way to decide is to give both a go and see what suits you. Blackjack in physical casinos offers a unique, social experience that's quite different from online play. That said, online blackjack shouldn't be dismissed too quickly.
While relatively new, online blackjack has gained popularity due to its convenience and variety of game variations. You can enjoy a game from the comfort of your lounge whenever you fancy - something that wasn't an option not too long ago.
Let's break down the differences and advantages of both online and live blackjack to help you figure out which might be the better fit for you.
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Whether you're into online or live blackjack, the core game and rules stay the same. You'll have a good time either way, but there are a few key differences to keep in mind.
The strategies that work in brick-and-mortar casinos can be applied online too, with great results. However, some tactics you'd use in a Live Blackjack casino game aren't possible in the digital version.
In online blackjack, you typically can't see other players' cards as you're often playing solo. This might be a bit dull if you enjoy the social aspect. The biggest gameplay difference is that cards are virtually shuffled after each hand, making card counting impossible. If you're a whiz at counting, this could be a downside. Some punters prefer this setup though, as it keeps things fresh.
The basic blackjack strategy is pretty straightforward. To boost your odds, focus on:
Your decision to hit or stand should be based on your hand's value and the dealer's visible card. It's not guesswork - there are set rules for when to hit or stand. For example, stand on soft 19 or more, and hit on hard 11 or less. Check out our guide on how to improve your blackjack game for more tips.
In live games, other players' cards can help you gauge the likelihood of face or ten cards coming up. You miss out on this in online blackjack, which is a slight disadvantage.
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Blackjack card values and betting options are the same online or at the casino.
When you're playing online Blackjack, you've got heaps more time to make your moves. Sure, if you're in a game with other online players or doing live blackjack, you'll need to keep things ticking along. But generally, there's no rush to make your decisions.
It's a different story at a physical casino though. You'll need to play your hand pretty quickly, as the other punters at the table won't be keen on waiting around. But if you know your Blackjack, you should be sweet.
You're way more likely to be playing with others at a brick-and-mortar casino. That's not to say you won't find other players at reputable online casinos, but it's not as common.
Having other players around can add a bit of pressure and make you more aware of what you're doing. This might throw you off your game. But if you stay cool and focus on your own hand, you'll be fine. Don't stress about what others think - just enjoy the game.
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When it comes to online pokies, the deck count doesn't really factor in. You're dealing with virtual cards that get a digital shuffle each hand, so card counting's off the table.
It's a different story for live blackjack, though, whether you're at the casino or playing online. Fewer decks can give you an edge, making it easier to keep track of what's been played. So if you're keen on card counting, look for games with a smaller shoe.
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Live Blackjack online gaining traction in Kiwi virtual casinos
Live Blackjack online gives you a more authentic casino experience with a real dealer and other players at the table. You'll have your own seat and can see other players' cards, just like in a physical casino.
Live Blackjack online uses multiple decks in a shoe, similar to a real casino. The dealer draws cards until it's time to reshuffle, based on preset conditions like the number of hands played or cards dealt.
This setup makes card counting possible. For those unfamiliar, card counting is a technique to track the ratio of low to high cards, helping predict the likelihood of high-value cards in the next hand. Many punters have used this method to improve their odds at the blackjack table.
Regular online blackjack has an edge over the live version when it comes to preventing card counting. It uses a virtual deck that's reshuffled after each hand, making it impossible to predict or count cards. You're left to focus solely on playing your hand.
If you're skilled at card counting, live online blackjack is your best bet. It lets you play from home while still using your counting skills, without worrying about casino staff catching on. It's definitely worth a go for those who fancy themselves as card counters.
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The main perk of online or RNG blackjack is the speed. You can smash out heaps of hands quickly without the faff of shuffling or waiting for other players, as it's all run by random number generators.
Another plus for online blackjack is the lower minimum bets compared to live casino games. Most online casinos even let you play for free. Here at BETO, we've got a demo version of RNG blackjack so you can have a crack without risking any dosh.
And let's not forget the convenience factor. Being able to play blackjack from your couch in your trackies? Can't beat that.
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Live Blackjack takes the cake
When you play blackjack at top online casinos, you'll find heaps of bonuses and perks to boost your experience. The best sites are always trying to outdo each other and attract more punters like you. These rewards might seem small, but they add up and can help you take home more than you'd expect.
Brick-and-mortar casinos aren't slacking off when it comes to player rewards either. You can sign up for loyalty cards at your local casino. Just use the card while you're playing, and you'll rack up points for rewards like free games, meals, or discounts.
If you don't sign up for the reward programme, you won't earn any points. So if you're a regular at a particular casino, we reckon it's worth getting on board with their rewards scheme.
Online casinos often offer deals that give you free money to play with. If you're decent at blackjack, you can usually clear the wagering requirements and win some extra cash. You've got the upper hand because all these online casinos are keen to keep punters like you coming back to their site.
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When it comes to blackjack, you've got two main options: online or live at a casino. Each has its own perks. Online blackjack lets you focus on your game and potentially improve your results. On the flip side, live blackjack at a casino offers a more social and lively experience.
Some punters love the buzz of a crowd when they're playing. The atmosphere in a casino can be electric, making even a losing streak feel like a good time. Hitting blackjack surrounded by other players is a real buzz. Plus, casinos offer plenty of other amenities to enjoy.
Choosing between online and live blackjack isn't always straightforward. But after reading this article, you should have a better idea of what suits you.
Still on the fence? Why not give both a go and see how you fare? Once you've found your preferred style, you can focus on honing your strategy and gameplay.
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Let's dive into some common queries about online and live Blackjack games.
Yeah, live dealer pokies are gaining traction, with more online casinos jumping on board. You can play Blackjack with a real dealer, giving you that authentic casino vibe right from your lounge. The screen shows all your options, so you can have a crack at Blackjack in a setting that feels like the real deal.
Counting cards in online live dealer blackjack is doable, though the dealer shuffles frequently. The upside? Unlike in a physical casino, you won't get turfed out for card counting online. You can give it a go as often as you fancy without any hassle. Just remember, it takes some serious skill to pull off effectively.
If you're keen on finding a dealer who doesn't shuffle too often and steers clear of card shuffling machines, you'll need to do a bit of digging. The sweet spot is a dealer who only reshuffles when they're nearly out of cards. It might take some time to suss out different online Blackjack casinos, but it could pay off in the long run.
Yep, you can score some sweet rewards like a welcome bonus when you make your first deposit. These perks usually come with playthrough requirements and other fine print, but they're definitely doable. Use these bonuses to boost your winnings and make the most of your gaming session.
Expected value (EV) is essentially how much you'd win or lose if you made the same bet repeatedly. It takes into account your chances of winning and gives you a solid idea of potential earnings. Naturally, you'd want a high EV, and a positive expected value (EV+) suggests you'll come out ahead in the long run.
The legal age for playing pokies usually varies depending on your location and the casino you're keen on. That said, if you're 18 or over, you should be sweet to play Blackjack in most places. So, if you've hit that milestone, feel free to give it a go at your local casino.
You'll find bonuses for blackjack at both brick-and-mortar and online casinos in New Zealand. Keep in mind, blackjack already has a low house edge, so the rewards mightn't be as generous as for other games. It's worth checking out the different bonuses from independent live casinos before you commit. Here at BETO.com, we've got heaps of reviews and special deals to help you get the most value for your money.
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