If you want to get ahead in blackjack, you must understand blackjack card values. There are lots of casino games that rely just on luck; blackjack is a game that gives players decisions to make based on the cards they hold. Whether you play in a land-based establishment or through an online site, knowing how each card is valued will give you a better chance of being successful in blackjack.
Every card has a specific value in blackjack and can contribute to a winning hand. The goal of the game is pretty simple: get as close to 21 without going over. The majority of cards are worth their face value and picture cards and aces follow special rules. Understanding the value of the cards, you will be able to calculate your hand faster.
| Card Type | Value |
| Cards 2-10 | Face value |
| Jack | 10 |
| Queen | 10 |
| King | 10 |
| Ace | 1 or 11 |
An example of how card value in blackjack work is:
It is easy to remember the value of these cards as they are worth the same number that is printed on them.
All the picture or face cards in blackjack are worth the same amount.
In blackjack, there are more cards worth 10 than any other number. Because of this fact, players must be aware that when they draw a card from the dealer, there is a good chance it can be worth 10.
For example:
The Ace is the most special card in blackjack because it can be valued at either 1 or 11 depending on the other cards. The game automatically counts the Ace in the most beneficial way to your hand. This flexibility makes the Ace the most useful card in the game.
Examples:
| Hand | Total |
| Ace, 7 | 18 |
| Ace, 9 | 20 |
| Ace, 8, 9 | 18 Ace counts as 1 |
| Ace, King | 21 |
Beginners to blackjack often underestimate the Ace and how powerful it can be. Understanding how it operates is vital if you want to learn good blackjack strategy. To get a deeper look at how the Ace has a unique role in the game, check out this helpful guide on how the Ace works in blackjack.
Blackjack hands are divided into two categories because the Ace has two values.
A soft hand will contain an Ace that is being counted as 11.
Example:
With a soft hand players have flexibility as the Ace can switch to the value of 1 if required.
A hard hand will either have no Ace or has an Ace but it can only be used as a 1.
Example:
A hard hand has more risk attached to it, as drawing another card can make you bust.
Every decision you make in blackjack revolves around the value of the cards you hold and what the dealer holds. A player can win by:
A player can lose at blackjack when:
When a player and dealer both hold the same total, it will result in a push and a draw. All bets will be returned.
This is the best hand in the game and it consists of:
A natural blackjack will usually pay more than a standard winning hand. This will usually be at 3:2 depending on the rules of the table.
All decisions made in the game of blackjack depend on understanding your hand value.
An example:
By having good knowledge of the blackjack card values, it will become easier to implement basic blackjack strategy and reduce the advantage of the house. This is great when you are playing at top blackjack sites operating in NZ, where you have a choice of different blackjack variants, rules, side bets and payouts.
Players who start playing casino card games often compare blackjack and baccarat, wondering if they can apply the same card-counting strategies or card-value rules to both. The short answer is no.
In blackjack:
In baccarat:
An example: A baccarat hand worth 15 is counted as 5. If you would like to compare the two games, check out our guide to playing baccarat.
Understanding the value of cards in blackjack is important, but it is also important to choose a reliable online casino. A positive casino rating system should help you find platforms that are secure, efficient and fair. Reading through other players’ reviews before registering will ensure you play at a quality site.
Learning blackjack card values is the first thing a player interested in blackjack should do. The good news is that it is one of the simplest things to learn in blackjack. Number cards are worth their face value and picture cards, face cards are worth 10. The Ace can be worth 1 or 11. Once you understand these basics you will be able to easily calculate your hand total and make good blackjack decisions.
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