How to Play Double Deck Blackjack?

July 16, 2024
6 Minute Read

As the name implies, double deck blackjack is a game that uses two decks of cards – in contrast to single deck games and other games that use six decks or more.

The number of decks in play can have an impact on the house edge and the fewer decks used gives players a better chance at winning.

What is Double Deck Blackjack?

A close-up view of a blackjack table with players in action. The image captures a dealer's hand dealing cards to players. The table is green, and various chips and cards are spread across the table, indicating an ongoing game.

Double deck blackjack games use exactly two decks of cards with the action proceeding similarly to what one might find in other blackjack games. In general, the goal is to beat the dealer’s hand by getting as close to 21 without going over.

Players can find single deck games and double deck games in live and online casinos. Double deck is generally a good game for players, but may come at higher stakes than games with a higher number of decks. Lower numbers of decks usually includes better rules for players to reduce the house edge as well, such as 3 to 2 payouts on blackjack and late blackjack surrender.

Rules of Double Deck Blackjack

When playing blackjack with only two decks, the action plays out as in the traditional game. The dealer distributes two cards face up to each player and the dealer also gets two cards, but only one is face up.

The goal is the same as in traditional blackjack, to get as close to 21 without going over, also known as “busting.” Numbered cards retain that value, face cards count as 10, and aces count as 1 or 11.

A hard hand is one that is set already without an ace, such as 10-7 for 17. A soft hand is one with an ace, such as A-4, which can be 5 or 15. Here are a few of the actions and options available when playing double deck games.

  • Hit – This is when a player wants to add another card. A player signals a hit by moving a finger toward them or simply announcing “hit.” The dealer hits his hand to reach at least 17 as well.
  • Stand – This is when a player doesn’t choose to receive any more cards. A player generally moves a hand left or right behind the bet to signal stand. Knowing when the dealer has to stand is also important. A dealer usually stands on hard 17, but the casino’s rules may allow him to hit a soft 17.
  • Double down – Doubling in blackjack allows a player to double the bet amount on the first two cards. Doubling is often allowed on 9, 10, and 11 but sometimes on even more hands. Players receive only one card when doubling down.
  • Splitting – This is when players receive two identical cards. You can then split this pair into two hands with another bet. You’ll then receive another card for each hand and can then decide whether to hit or not. When you split aces, you’ll only receive one card on each hand.
  • Insurance – This is a bet a player can make to “protect” their bet if the dealer’s upcard is an ace. The dealer ace will mean he will then check the facedown card to see if he has a blackjack.
  • Surrender – Giving up your hand for half your bet.

Advantages of Double Deck Blackjack

When heading to the double deck blackjack tables, there are some key advantages that players may find. That includes a lower house edge because of the reduced number of decks.

These types of games also regularly feature blackjack rules favorable to players, such as 3 to 2 payouts on blackjack. Late surrender, which allows players to give up their hand for only half the bet, may also be an option.

Other positives players might find include being allowed to resplit aces (if dealt two aces and then another after splitting). Resplitting aces offers even more chances to hit a blackjack, further reducing the house edge. Allowing doubling down after splitting also works in the player’s favor as does dealer stands on soft 17.

Strategies for Double Deck Blackjack

An overhead shot of a busy casino table. Several players and a dealer are engaged in a game, possibly roulette or blackjack. The setting is elegant, with luxurious furnishings and lighting, creating a sophisticated and lively atmosphere.

Using a double deck basic strategy is key to winning at blackjack, whether featuring only two decks, one deck, or multiple decks. A blackjack game with only two decks cuts that house edge and those using excellent double deck blackjack strategy will offer more chances at winning.

For example, a blackjack strategy chart will offer players advice on every choice to make based on your own cards versus the dealer’s upcard. The game is close to a reduced house edge one might find in single deck blackjack, which comes with a house edge as low as 0.25% when using perfect strategy and with the most favorable rules.

In 2 deck blackjack strategy players will want to always split aces as in all other games. Also never split 10s – you don’t want to break up what is usually a winning hand. For other considerations, check out Lucky Blog’s guide to basic strategy charts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Double Deck Blackjack

Playing with basic strategy is the key to finding success in 2 deck blackjack. Charts are available to help players in this regard in every situation.

Some players may just want to go with their gut, but it’s always best to stick with basic strategy. For example, splitting aces is always advised in any situation. Splitting some hands, such as 6-6 in some cases, may not be advised as you then have a good shot at creating two likely losing hands instead of dealing with just one. Hitting is a better strategy here.
Another common mistake is to not take advantage of all positive plays when it comes to doubling down. The correct double deck blackjack strategy will include doubling down in stead of just hitting at times on hands beyond 9, 10, and 11, including soft hands at times when the dealer is forced to hit a weak upcard. Review double deck blackjack strategy charts to vastly improve your skills.

Conclusion

A blackjack game with two decks usually features higher stakes in many casinos, but also comes with a lower house edge. Only games with one deck offer lower odds on the casino floor than a game with two decks.

More decks greatly adds to the advantage the casino has and usually comes with less-favorable rules for the player.

Try playing blackjack with crypto at Lucky Block casino for a unique and exciting experience.

Learn more on blackjack:

FAQ

Does double deck blackjack better odds?

Yes, when gambling at the blackjack table fewer decks means better blackjack odds and a reduced house advantage overall

How to beat a two deck blackjack?

Becoming adept at basic strategy will help you determine the right play in all situations – making the right move based on the mathematics of the game. You will then know when to hit, stand, split, and double down depending on your hand and the dealer’s card.

Can you count cards in double deck blackjack?

Yes, card counting in blackjack also even offers a chance to tip the odds in your favor. This is system in which a player keeps a running count of high cards versus low cards and make decisions based on the count.

Counting at an online casino, however, isn’t possible as the deck is reshuffled after every hand. The count will ultimately be irrelevant and you instead play with a sound traditional strategy.

Tom Middleton

Tom is a crypto gambling expert with more than a decade of experience in the industry and Master’s Degree in Journalism. He has written thoroughly researched guides and reviews for several major publications.

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