Choosing the right Blackjack Table

Wednesday 26 May 2010 11:00 GMT

Whether you’re playing blackjack online or in a land based casino, you’ll always want to make sure that you’re playing at the best table. Many inexperienced blackjack players simply opt for the first table that they see, which is often the worst choice. Online casinos often ‘hide’ their more favourable games, and place the lowest paying games in the most prominent positions. Land based casinos play the same trick, with the tables closest to walkways delivering higher profits. Remember that the casino is there to make money, and they will have considered every minor element that boosts their bankroll and diminishes yours.

So the first tip is to spend a few minutes checking out all the available games. Have a walk around the casino and see what game variants are on offer. If you’re playing online, make sure you check through the multiple pages of blackjack games. Different blackjack variants have different rules and strategies. Make sure you know which game has the most favourable rules, as this will give you more game play. Some blackjack variants pay nearly 100%, while others languish at 95%. Choosing the right game can have a drastic impact on your bankroll. There is plenty of information online about the best game to play, so spend a couple of minutes researching and you’ll more than make up that time in extra play.

Remember that the casino is there to make money

The second tip is to choose an appropriate table for your bankroll. Choosing a table with a $50 minimum bet isn’t a great idea if you only have $100 to play with. Again, many of the most prominent tables have higher limits, which will reduce your time at the tables. You should always have some kind of idea of your bet amount, so choose a table that reflects this rather than changing your game plan.

If you’re in a land based casino, then the number of people at the table will impact on you. This comes down to personal preference, but is worth considering. If you’re a new player and want to take things slowly then you might be best on an empty table. This will give you the chance to clarify any queries you have with the dealer, and to take your time. You don’t want to rush, or be worrying that other people are judging your play. Of course, the right players at the table can really help you to settle down, so it all depends on your own feelings on the matter. If you’re planning to count cards then avoiding too much chat at the table might also be beneficial. Also think about your position on the table. Do you want to be playing first, or last, or sat in the middle? It’s best to have an idea before you even enter the casino so you can fully focus on your blackjack play.

Some of these decisions are more straightforward online. You can select single or multi player, and thoroughly check the rules without feeling rushed. The most important tip for both online and land based players is to take your time and go at your own pace. Think about the table that you’d like to play at, and don’t get impatient if you can’t see the table you want straight away. A happy blackjack player is a patient one!