How To Play Blackjack Switch For Dummies!
Written by
Joe - Poker PlayerLast updated:
March 11, 2024
Blackjack Switch is one of the exciting blackjack variants that provide a unique twist on the classic casino game. Each player receives four cards(two hands) and can choose to “switch” the two top cards between hands to increase their chances of beating the dealer’s hand. But this is not all; innovative rules like all bets pushing when the dealer gets a 22 make the game even more exciting, opening the doors to a lot of interpretations!
Whether you’re a card counter, advantage player, or casual gambler, Blackjack Switch offers new layers of fun and more ways to win at the blackjack table. With this complete overview of rules, strategy, odds, and tips, you’ll be equipped to make the most of this unique blackjack game on your next casino trip or online gaming session.
But Why Should You Bother To Learn Blackjack Switch?
First and foremost, it is fun to play! Apart from that, the switching element requires players to be more cautious and strategic with their moves. So, it is perfect for blackjack enthusiasts who love to challenge their brains more! Also, lucrative side bets, like Super Match, allow players to enjoy big, juicy payouts(more on this later.)
Blackjack Switch Basic Rules Made Simple
The game is a Blackjack derivative while incorporating aspects of the Poker game, like Pai Gow. When you sit at a Blackjack Switch table, the first thing that catches your eye is the table layout:
Unlike classic blackjack, you will be dealt two hands to bet on. In other words, you should place two equal-sized bets in the two designated areas in front of you(two circles in the picture above).
Card values are the same as in the original version of the game.
The objective of the game also remains the same; you have to beat the dealer without going over 21.
The rest of the gameplay is virtually the same, though there is no surrender in this game. It means you cannot surrender unless otherwise stated by the house.
The game rotates clockwise, and you only play against the dealer, not other players at the table. The dealer deals two face-up cards to each of your hands and two cards to themselves: one face-up and one face-down. However, from here on, actions, payouts, and additional side bets make Blackjack Switch so much different than traditional Blackjack.
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How To Play Blackjack Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide
The gameplay and players’ options are pretty much the same in both games. Still, there are some additional rules to learn and practice here.
Gameplay and Player’s Options
Once you and everyone at the table place your two equal-sized bets, the dealer starts to deal cards clockwise. Every player receives two cards for each hand, one at a time.
Once you are dealt your hands, you should act. The possible moves are :
- Hit: request another card. The hand gesture is the same as in classic blackjack, where you tap the table with your index finger or your entire hand.
- Stand: You wave your hand palm-down over the cards to indicate that you keep what you have.
- Double down: You place another bet of an equal amount next to your initial bet and point with your index finger. The dealer will deal you only one card, as shown in the picture below. Remember, in the blackjack switch, you can double down after splitting, unlike the traditional game of blackjack.
- Split: you can split a pair, like a pair of 4s. Place another bet equal to your initial wager, and the dealer will give you another hand.
- The fifth option is Switch, hence the name of the game. Make the up-and-down finger motion, and you will be allowed to switch the two top cards(two cards closest to the dealer). At land-based casinos, the dealer switches the cards for you, as players are not allowed to touch the cards. You can switch back as many times as you want, but once you hit, you cannot switch again. The switch is so powerful and gives players an edge over the casino. That is why they have modified the game further to take their edge back or at least even out the odds.
When the dealer gets 22, every bet at the table pushes, and everyone gets their chip back. Even if a player has a Blackjack.
The rest of the gameplay is the same except for the dealer’s move on 17, which varies from casino to casino. Some casinos, mainly Vegas casinos, require the dealer to stand on all 17s, while others require them to hit soft 17s. Hence, the dealer plays as the layout says.
House Advantage and Payouts
The house advantage in Blackjack Switch is affected by rule variations and the number of decks. The game can be played using six or 8 decks of cards. Still, the house advantage is relatively lower than the traditional version, being around 0.58%. Here is a breakdown of Blackjack Switch house advantage:
| Blackjack Switch House Edge | |
| Rule Variation | House Advantage Change |
| 8 decks | Increase the edge by 0.02% |
| Switched blackjack being an automatic win | The edge decreases by 0.40% |
| Switched A/10 considered as 21, not a Blackjack | The edge increases to 0.6% |
The house takes its edge back by paying naturals or blackjack even money instead of the traditional 3:2 payout. In other words, you will win 1 dollar for every dollar you bet if you get an Ace+ a 10, or a face card as your first two cards. Normally, in this game, switched blackjacks are treated as 21 with an even money payout unless the casino rules consider them as an automatic win.
Blackjack Switch Side Bets: Should You Play Insurance?
As a rule of thumb, avoid all blackjack side bets regardless of the variation. Why? Because side bets are designed to deceive you with the juicy payouts while the odds are terribly against you. Side bets have a high house edge, which means you will lose more than you are likely to win. But this doesn’t mean that you cannot try once or twice to get the adrenaline rush! Some Vegas casinos offer a side bet called “Push 22.” It is a side bet with a usual 1:1 payout unless otherwise stated by the casino. Now, let’s talk about the lucrative Super Match side bet. This side bet is based on the four cards that you receive.
Not all casinos offer this side bet, but if they do, you will be paid out according to your cards, as shown in the picture above. Remember, the cards should not be together for you to receive the payout. For example, if you are dealt ♥A ♠K and ♦A ♣3, you will receive an even money payout for your Super Match side bet because you have a pair of Aces among your four cards. But what about Insurance? When the dealer gets an Ace as their up card, you will be offered an insurance side bet. It means you bet half of your original wager, and if the dealer gets a blackjack, you lose your initial wager and receive a payout of 2 to 1 on your insurance bet.
NEVER PLAY INSURANCE. It is a SUCKER bet with a huge house edge of up to 7.8% and terrible odds of winning.
Basic Blackjack Switch Strategy: Proven Tips To Win The Game
The best way to win at Blackjack Switch is to stick to the traditional basic blackjack strategy. Remember, the switch part is where extra brain work and strategy come into play while playing Blackjack Switch. So, make sure to practice the basics and stay super focused while playing the game.
Here is a summary of what you can do to increase your chances of winning:
- Switch best works when you have a soft 16 and a 15.
- Double down 9,10, and 11.
- Never accept insurance.
- Master the basic blackjack strategy and follow it when deciding to switch or not.
- Never chase your losses.
Where Can I Play Blackjack Switch Online?
Not so many online casinos offer real money Blackjack Switch. But you can find world-class, high-quality tables at BetMGM online casino available to players from New Jersey and some other US states. In addition, you can find plenty of apps and social casinos offering the game using virtual currencies. Take advantage of those to practice and master your skills before starting to play for real money.
However, many land-based casinos offer the game as it started to boom in popularity in the late 2000s. On your next trip to Vegas, visit Aria or Bellagio for the ultimate Blackjack Switch experience.
Wrap-Up: Does Blackjack Switch Worth It?
Yes. I strongly recommend trying a couple of hands at Blackjack Switch as it offers extra fun and is a perfect choice to play blackjack with added elements of fun and strategy. Blackjack Switch offers both pros and cons for players to weigh. On the positive side, the ability to switch cards and play two hands can provide more opportunities to improve your odds against the house. The game also allows players to make strategic decisions that can reduce the house edge. However, the side bets and special rules can also work against you if you’re not careful. So, make sure to learn the basics, practice enough, and manage your bankroll.
May the Blackjack God be with you!
Blackjack Switch FAQs
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How Do You Switch Cards In Blackjack Switch?
After being dealt two hands, players have the option to switch the top cards between the two hands to try to improve them. This is the defining feature of Switch that gives players more options and control.
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Can I Surrender In Blackjack Switch?
No. It is not allowed to surrender a hand in the game of blackjack switch unless otherwise stated by the house.
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Is Card Counting Possible In Blackjack Switch?
Card counting is possible but more challenging in Blackjack Switch. Having two hands in play makes it harder to track the running count. Switching cards also alters the composition of the cards in each hand. Advanced card counters can still get an edge, but it requires mastery.
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What Is The Optimal Strategy For Blackjack Switch?
The optimal strategy in Blackjack Switch involves knowing when to switch, when to hit, stand, double down, split, etc., in each situation. It means balancing the value of improving one hand versus the cost of hurting the other hand. So, stick to the traditional basic blackjack strategy.
