Games, it’s important to understand that the house edge is calculated over a large number of bets. In the short term, anything can happen – you might hit a lucky streak or face a losing spell. However, over time, the house edge will inevitably manifest itself. This is why casinos can offer games with a seemingly small edge and remain highly profitable.
King of low house edge
Blackjack is renowned for having one of the lowest house edges in the casino world, especially for skilled players who use optimal strategy. In fact, with perfect basic strategy, the house edge in blackjack can be as low as 0.5% in some variations. This makes it an extremely attractive option for players looking to maximize their chances of winning.
- The number of decks used
- Whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17
- Doubling down rules
- Splitting rules
- Surrender options
imp source it’s worth noting that these rules can vary between different online casinos and even between tables at the same casino. Always check the specific rules before playing, as they can significantly impact the house edge.
Simplicity and low edge
Baccarat is a game of chance that offers surprisingly good odds for players. The simplicity of the game, combined with its low house edge, makes it a popular choice among high rollers and casual players alike.
- Player: 1.24% house edge
- Banker: 1.06% house edge
- Tie: 14.4% house edge
Clearly, the banker bet offers the best odds despite the 5% commission typically charged on winning banker bets. The tie bet, while tempting due to its high payout, should be avoided due to its higher house edge.
Skill and strategy pay off
Video poker is another game where skilled players enjoy a very low house edge. In fact, with perfect play on certain machines, it’s possible to eliminate the house edge or even gain a slight edge over the casino.
- Finding machines with favourable pay tables
- Mastering optimal strategy for each variation
- Taking advantage of casino comps and promotions
It’s important to note that these house edge figures assume perfect play, which is challenging to achieve consistently.
Word of caution
While slot machines are incredibly popular in both online and brick-and-mortar casinos, they generally have a higher house edge than table games. The house edge on slots ranges from about 2% to 15% or even higher, depending on the specific machine and casino. However, the exact house edge on slot machines is often not publicly disclosed, making it difficult for players to make informed decisions. If you enjoy playing slots, look for machines that advertise high payout percentages, but be aware that your odds of winning are generally lower than with table games.
Online casino considerations
When playing at an online casino, there are a few additional factors to consider:
- Bonuses and promotions effectively reduce the house edge if used wisely
- Some online casinos offer better odds or more favourable rules than their land-based counterparts
- Live dealer games may have different house edges compared to their digital counterparts
Always read the terms and conditions carefully and understand how any bonuses or promotions affect your overall odds.