How to Count Cards in Blackjack: Explained

Blackjack is one of the few casino games where skill and strategy are combined. Beyond the basic rules, some players have looked for ways to gain a slight edge over the house.

That search has made card counting one of the most talked-about techniques. You’ve probably seen it in movies, but how does it actually work in practice? And how long does it take to learn card counting?

The truth is far simpler than most people think, yet it’s often misunderstood. In this guide, you can discover how to count cards in Blackjack​ and why it continues to spark debate.

What Is Card Counting?

Card counting is a strategy used by Blackjack players to track the ratio of high cards to low cards remaining in the deck. The idea is simple: when more 10s, face cards, and Aces are left, the player’s chances of hitting a strong hand or getting Blackjack increase.

On the other hand, when the deck is filled with low cards, the advantage shifts back toward the house. So, what is the easiest way to count cards in Blackjack?

Instead of memorizing every single card, players use a counting system. The most popular method is the Hi-Lo method, which assigns values and keeps a running score as each card is dealt. 

The running total helps them decide when to increase bets and when to play more cautiously. Moreover, most players can grasp the basics of card counting in a few hours, but it takes weeks or months of practice to use it accurately in real games.

How the Hi-Lo System Works

The Hi-Lo system is the most widely used method of card counting because it balances simplicity with effectiveness. It allows players to track the flow of cards without memorizing every one. 

The system is built on assigning values to cards, keeping a running count. Players then convert this running count into a true count and adjust their bets accordingly. 

But how can you tell if someone is counting cards? You may tell by their sudden bet increases when the deck favors them and unusual play decisions that don’t match basic strategy.

Step 1: Assign Values to Each Card

In the Hi-Lo system, every card is given a point value. Cards from 2 through 6 are counted as +1, cards 7 through 9 are neutral and counted as 0, while cards 10 through Ace are counted as -1. 

By adding or subtracting these values as cards appear, players begin to see whether the deck is leaning toward high or low cards.

Step 2: Keep a Running Count

Each card dealt changes the running total. For example, imagine the following sequence: 5, 2, 9, King, 7, Ace. The 5 and 2 would add +1 each, the 9 and 7 would add nothing, while the King and Ace would subtract one each. 

At the end of the sequence, the running count would sit at zero. A positive count means more high cards remain, while a negative count means the opposite.

Step 3: Convert to a True Count

As most Blackjack games use multiple decks, the running count needs to be adjusted. The true count is calculated by dividing the running count by the number of decks left in play.

For instance, if your running count is +6 and you estimate that three decks remain, the true count is +2. The adjustment gives a more accurate measure of the advantage.

Step 4: Adjust Your Bets

The true count determines how players size their wagers. If the count is low or negative, the minimum bet is the safest choice. As the count climbs, bets increase. 

Imagine a table with a $10 minimum. With a true count of +2, a player might wager $20 or $30.

If the count rises to +4, that bet could increase to $40 or $50. The principle is simple: the higher the true count, the stronger the player’s position. And the more it makes sense to raise the stakes.

Does Counting Cards in Blackjack Really Work?

At first glance, card counting seems like a secret weapon that may turn the tables in Blackjack. And in some ways, it does. 

A skilled counter might turn the house edge of about 0.5% into a small player edge of around 1%. That might not sound like much, but over thousands of hands, it can add up. The catch is that it takes accuracy, patience, and a big bankroll to see real results.

Casino Countermeasures

Casinos know exactly what players are trying to do. Due to this, they’ve introduced continuous shuffling machines, reduced deck penetration, and close surveillance at tables. 

Even when the count swings in your favor, a sudden shuffle can wipe out the advantage. It makes counting far less effective in modern brick-and-mortar casinos than it was in the past.

Online Blackjack: What Really Works

Online Blackjack works differently from live tables. If you’ve ever looked up how to play Blackjack online, you’ve probably seen strategies like card counting suggested. 

Games that use RNG software or provably fair systems, like the Blackjack tables on Jackpot.bet, automatically reshuffle after every round. That means no running count, no tracking, and no long-term advantage from counting cards.

Instead of focusing on counting, online players should concentrate on mastering core strategies that always apply. Such as:

• Learning the basic Blackjack chart for hits and stands.

• Understanding when to use a Blackjack split strategy.

• Managing your bankroll so you can play longer sessions.

• Practicing with free games before betting real money.

The mentioned strategies won’t give you an “edge” over the house, but they could help you make better decisions. With our provably fair mechanics, you can be sure every hand is transparent and random.

Land-Based vs. Online Blackjack

Card counting gained popularity in traditional casinos, where players could track the shoe over long stretches. While it sometimes offered a small edge, casinos quickly introduced countermeasures like multi-deck shoes and frequent shuffles, making it far less practical today.

In contrast, online Blackjack reshuffles the deck every round, so card counting isn’t possible. Instead, the appeal of online play lies in the variety of formats. 

For example, the speed of the games and the option to try out new features that don’t exist in land-based casinos. On Jackpot.bet, we combine our own in-house creation with titles from some of the best providers in the industry:

• Blackjack Original: Exclusive to Jackpot Originals.

• Multihand Blackjack and Multihand Blackjack Pro: Developed by BGaming.

• Lightning Blackjack, Infinite Bet Stacker Blackjack, and Easy Blackjack: Powered by Evolution Gaming.

• Blackjack (Evolution Gaming Lobby) and Blackjack (Pragmatic Play Lobby): Standard live tables from top providers.

The blend of Originals and provider-powered tables gives players access to straightforward single-hand Blackjack. It also includes interactive formats with multipliers and live dealers. 

Quick Recap: Card Counting at a Glance

Card counting sounds complicated at first, but it really comes down to a few clear steps. Here’s a quick look of how it works and why it doesn’t apply to online Blackjack:

Key Difference: In land-based casinos, these steps can give players a small edge. But in online Blackjack, the deck resets each round.

Conclusion: Card Counting and Modern Blackjack

Understanding how to count cards in Blackjack is a good strategy that can give players a small edge in traditional casinos. In reality, it offers only a slight edge in land-based casinos and none at all online. 

That’s why today’s players have shifted their focus from chasing counts to using smart strategies and exploring new formats of the game.

On Jackpot.bet, his shift comes to life with our exclusive Blackjack Original and a full range of titles from Evolution, Pragmatic, and BGaming. 

With so many options available, the real advantage today is choosing the Blackjack table that matches your preferred format, hand speed, and betting limits.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Count Cards in Blackjack on Jackpot.bet

Is counting cards in Blackjack illegal?

No, counting cards isn’t illegal. It’s just a strategy based on observation and math. However, land-based casinos can refuse service or shuffle more often if they suspect you’re counting.

Can you count cards in online Blackjack on Jackpot.bet?

No. In online Blackjack, the deck resets after every round, so there’s nothing to track. Our Jackpot.bet platform uses fair systems that make each hand independent.

How does the Hi-Lo system work in Blackjack?

The Hi-Lo system assigns values to cards: +1 for low cards, 0 for neutral, and -1 for high cards. By keeping a running total, players can estimate when the deck is more favorable.

What is the best strategy if I can’t count cards?

If card counting isn’t an option, focus on core strategies. Learn when to hit or stand, practice the Blackjack split strategy, and manage your bankroll wisely. On Jackpot.bet, you can test these strategies across different tables like Blackjack Original or Lightning Blackjack.