Blackjack Split Rules and Tips

Casino expert

Updated: December 23, 2022

Find crucial information about Blackjack splitting in this guide. Understand the right moments to split your cards, familiarize yourself with the rules, and enhance your gameplay by learning how to execute a split effectively.

Splitting is a strategic move in Blackjack that can boost your odds of surpassing the dealer. However, success heavily relies on executing this move at the opportune moment.

What does split mean?
When to use Blackjack split
Blackjack split rules explained
Analyzing the pros and cons of splitting your cards in Blackjack.
Should all pairs be split in Blackjack?

What does split mean?

In the game of Blackjack, splitting your cards is a voluntary choice you have when dealt a pair of cards with the same value.

When you opt to split, you're essentially playing with two separate hands. Each hand will receive an additional card from the dealer, and you’ll place a new wager equal to your initial bet. This approach is familiar to seasoned players.

Blackjack movies are probably familiar with this move.

Keep in mind, doubling your payout is a possibility when you split. Should the dealer go bust, your winnings could be twice as much compared to a regular winning hand.

When to use Blackjack split

Certain card pairings are more favorable for splitting, whereas others should be kept together. Additionally, the dealer's visible card can influence your decision.

Just like any other Blackjack strategy

The split option, like much of Blackjack, requires practice and doesn’t guarantee a win. Nonetheless, there are some recommendations to consider. So, which cards should you choose to split?

What You Should Always Split

Aces

If you have a pair of aces, one is counted as one, while the other is valued at 11. Achieving a total of 21 is only possible if you draw a nine.

The odds of drawing a nine are low, especially with numerous 10-value cards that would reduce your total to 12 if drawn. The best course of action is splitting a pair of aces.

Eights

Always split 8s regardless of the dealer’s visible card since having a pair of eights is considered a weak hand.

With two 8s, drawing any number higher than five might result in busting your hand. It’s advisable to split them into two hands, minimizing your probability of losing.

What You Should Never Split

Fours

A pair of fours isn’t advisable to split because no additional card can make you go bust, and the maximum score you can secure is 19 with an Ace.

In situations where you do choose to split fours, only certain cards like a 5, 6, or 7 have the potential to enhance your hand.

Fives

When dealt a 10, strategically, it’s best to take another move, unless the dealer is showing high cards like a nine, ten, or Ace.

double down

Pooling two 5s can lead to either a weak hand or one that might cause you to bust later in the game.

A hand consisting of tens is immensely strong due to its proximity to 21. Avoid splitting if you receive two cards worth 10, like Jacks, Queens, or Kings.

Tens

Standing on 20 is wise, as only an Ace potentially trumps your hand. Instead of splitting, hold firm at 20.

Only identical 10-value cards can be split, and if you split an Ace and a ten, it results in a non-Blackjack 21.

Blackjack split rules explained

You can only split once
Blackjack variations might include different versions with distinct rules on splitting. It's vital to review these to avoid misconceptions before play, especially when wagering real money.
Split Aces cannot be re-split
Split Aces can only hit once
For new players looking to try out different Blackjack rules, consider starting without risking real money.

A deep dive into the advantages and disadvantages of splitting cards in Blackjack games.

Enhancing your likelihood of besting the dealer through card splitting strategies.

new players’ promotions

Transforming a mediocre hand into a viable one by effectively using the option to split.

Analyzing the pros and cons of splitting your cards in Blackjack.

<p>Creating a favorable hand setup by choosing to split under suitable conditions.</p>

Advantages

The downside to a failed strategy is potential doubled losses if it doesn’t go your way.
Splitting doubles your win
With splitting requiring an increased stake, you might need a larger bankroll due to the added bet.
Consider that even a well-timed split doesn’t assure a win; the dealer might still prevail.

Disadvantages

Randomly splitting all sets isn’t advised in Blackjack since it demands bigger bets and risk exposure.
Maximize splitting when your odds are favorable and the dealer’s hand appears weak.
The game is mainly based on chance

Prime moments for splitting occur with Aces and eights. Sticking with the strategy of not splitting fours, fives, and tens minimizes bust risks during splitting.