Blackjack basic strategy
The mathematically best play for every hand. It lowers the cost of blackjack; it does not beat it.
By Ryan Jessop. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- Brings the edge to about 0.5%.
- Depends on the dealer's card.
- Never take insurance.
- Charts vary slightly with table rules.
AnswerStand on hard 17 or more; hit 12 to 16 against a dealer 7 or higher; double 11; always split aces and eights; never split tens or fives.
Hard hands
| Your total | Dealer 2 to 6 | Dealer 7 to ace |
|---|---|---|
| 17 or more | Stand | Stand |
| 13 to 16 | Stand | Hit |
| 12 | Stand on 4 to 6; hit on 2 or 3 | Hit |
| 11 | Double | Double on most rules |
| 10 | Double | Double against 7 to 9 |
| 9 | Double against 3 to 6; otherwise hit | Hit |
| 8 or less | Hit | Hit |
Soft hands
| Your hand | Play |
|---|---|
| Soft 19 or 20 | Stand |
| Soft 18 | Stand against 2, 7, 8; double against 3 to 6; hit against 9 to ace |
| Soft 17 or less | Hit, or double against 4 to 6 |
Pairs
| Pair | Play |
|---|---|
| Aces, eights | Always split |
| Tens, fives | Never split |
| Nines | Split except against 7, 10 or ace |
| Sevens, threes, twos | Split against 2 to 7 |
| Sixes | Split against 2 to 6 |
| Fours | Split only against 5 or 6, where doubling after split is allowed |
A summary for common rules. Exact charts vary with decks and dealer rules.
Why the plays are right
- 13 to 16 against a weak card: the dealer is likelier to bust than you are to improve.
- Those hands against 7 or higher: the dealer probably has 17 already.
- Double 11: one card very often makes 21 or close.
- Split eights: 16 is the worst hand.
What mistakes cost
Instinctive play typically costs about 2%: four times the price. A 6 to 5 table adds well over a point however you play.
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House edges and RTPs are standard published figures for common rules, and are long-run averages. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
What is basic strategy?
The best play for each hand.
Does it beat the casino?
No; it lowers the edge to about 0.5%.
Should I take insurance?
No.
Does card counting work online?
No.