What is a Blackjack Switch?
Blackjack Switch is a variation of the classical blackjack game, where instead of one hand dealt, you get two. Once you get the four initial cards, you will be able to switch cards. But, of course, there is a rule for that, once you got your two pairs, you will be able to switch the top cards.
This variation of Blackjack was invented by Geoff Hall in 2003. The whole idea behind this variation of the game came after he was playing at two tables simultaneously. He got two very weak hands and thought that they could be drastically improved if the top cards could be replaced with each other, which started the idea of the Blackjack Switch.
In 2009, the switching strategy of blackjack became patented and started gaining popularity all over the world at a very fast rate. Since then, the game has become available in online casinos, and now it is mainly played online, but can also be played in some Las Vegas casinos.
What are the Rules and Gameplay of Blackjack Switch?
As you already know, the Blackjack switch is a variation of blackjack, which follows switching strategies. Unlike the classic version, in blackjack switch, you will be dealt two hands, which top cards you can switch to make a super match, giving you a very good house edge.
To play these two hands, you will have to place two equal bets for each one, considering the fact that they are two separate hands. For blackjack switch games, the number of decks can vary. There are variations with four, six, or eight decks. So, if you are relying on card counting, you will have to keep that in mind.
Apart from that, all other rules remain the same as in the classical blackjack variant. Also, the peek rule for the dealer remains. He can check if he is natural, whenever he gets an ace or a ten. At most online casinos, you will have the option to put insurance against the dealer's upcard, if it's an ace or a ten, with odds of 2:1.
Another interesting rule that you can take advantage of, is that you can still re-split your initial four cards, up to 3 times, with a maximum of four hands.
How to Start Playing Blackjack Switch?
At first, the blackjack switch may sound a little frustrating, but do not worry, we are going to explain to you how to start playing the game step-by-step.
- Once you sit on a blackjack switch table, you and all the other players will be dealt with two hands. The dealer will deal one hand for themselves.
- Then, you have the freedom to switch, hit, or double, in order to have the best possible hands for a perfect playing position.
- When you are done with your hands and get as close to 21 as possible, you can stand and see if your simple switching strategy actually worked.
- After that, the dealer will turn their facedown cards and play as in classical blackjack.
Unique Blackjack Switch Rules
To help you understand how to play Blackjack Switch, we are going to group the rules that differentiate it from the classical version of the game.
- Players can double down after they split,
- When a player switches to making a blackjack, it will be counted as 21.
- In most games, the dealer's hand hits a soft 17.
- Blackjack Switch pays 1:1.
- Insurance is available at odds of 2:1.
- The house edge in Blackjack Switch is 0.13%.
Blackjack Switch Side Bets
As in most other blackjack games, in the switch variations, players also have access to side bets, which are also known as supermatch side bets. Basically, these rules are used by players who have advanced switching strategies, as more precision is required.
For side bets in Blackjack Switch, the rewards are in the case of two or more matching cards in any hand. Of course, the payouts may be different in various online casinos, but usually, you can expect payouts like that:
- Any Pair - 1:1
- Three of a Kind - 5:1
- Two Pairs - 8:1
- Four of a Kind - 40:1
How to Win at Blackjack Switch?
In order to be successful in this blackjack variation, you will have to be very well prepared and know when to make the switch decision. The best thing for you to do is find a good strategy to follow and stick to it no matter what.
What Switching Strategy to Choose?
Of course, there are plenty of switching strategies that you can find to use for your online blackjack betting experience. Unfortunately, as you will have two hands, you should have a more advanced switching strategy, in order to be prepared to play both. Still, a simple switching strategy can work, but you should improve as soon as possible.
No matter your strategy, everything begins after the initial deal, when you must decide if you want to split. Then, if not, you can continue with the basic strategy that you used for the classical variation.
Luckily, nowadays, you can find a switching calculator online, which can help you in any situation, to tell if it would be better to switch cards or not.
Overall, when to hit, stand or switch, should always be kept in mind when you are creating your strategy, but what else to look for?
- Always keep your bankroll in mind, as every time you will be betting on two hands.
- In most cases, insurance and side bets should be avoided.
- You can switch the top cards only.
- Keep in mind if you are playing with six decks, four, or eight.
Where is a Blackjack Switch available?
The blackjack switch has become quite popular over the past few years, as it gives you the option to play with two starting hands, trading cards between them, and also place money on every two cards. Many casino providers and casinos are into it, so you can literally find Blackjack Switch everywhere: in online casinos, in Las Vegas casinos, or any other.
Why Choose a Blackjack Switch?
By now, the blackjack switch should sound a little bit simpler, so it should have already attracted your attention. But, in order to help you decide if this is the best blackjack game type for you, let's see the main benefits of it.
- The house edge in the blackjack switch is very low.
- In Blackjack switch, you have the freedom to play with two hands, against the single dealer hand.
- You can make a switch, or choose to remain with the current combination.
- It allows you to experience different moves and situations.
- You can benefit if you place a supermatch side bet.
Safety and Security Playing Blackjack Switch
Blackjack switch is a game variation which can be found in every top casino, no matter if it is online or land-based. Of course, usually this game type comes in a live format, which, as most of you already know, is a very safe option. When you are playing live tables, your data is protected by very advanced encryption technologies. In order to further increase security, you may have to take a look at the best online casino sites that are trusted and secure.
About the author
Ethan Williams
About
Ethan Williams, a lively 24-year-old lad from the UK, brilliantly fuses his passion for online casinos with top-notch English localisation, creating bespoke casino guides for Britain's keen gaming lot.