What is Split in Online Blackjack?
What is Split in Blackjack?
If you're new to blackjack, you might come across the term "split" and wonder what it means. In blackjack, splitting is a strategic move that allows you to break your starting hand into two separate hands, each with its own wager, giving you the opportunity to win twice if things go well. It’s one of the most important decisions you can make in the game, but it also comes with its own set of rules and risks.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what splitting means in blackjack, when to use it, and how it can impact your overall strategy at the table.
What Does "Split" Mean in Blackjack?
In blackjack, when you’re dealt two cards of the same rank (like two 8s or two Kings), you have the option to “split” your hand into two separate hands. This allows you to play each card as if it were the first card in a new hand. You must place an additional bet equal to your original wager on the second hand.
For example, if you’re dealt two 7s, you can choose to split them into two separate hands. After splitting, you’ll receive a new card for each hand, and you can continue playing both hands independently, deciding whether to hit, stand, or double down as you would with any other hand.
While splitting can increase your chances of winning, it also involves some risk since you're essentially increasing your bet by splitting your cards. To make the most of this option, it’s important to understand when it’s a good move and when it might be better to stick with your original hand.
When Can You Split?
The option to split is available only when you’re dealt two cards of the same rank. This means you can split pairs like two 3s, two 10s, two Aces, and so on. Most casinos allow players to split up to three times, giving you four total hands to play, though this rule can vary depending on the specific house rules.
However, there are some important restrictions and considerations when it comes to splitting:
Splitting Aces: If you’re dealt two Aces, you can split them, but most casinos only allow you to draw one additional card per Ace. This means you can’t continue hitting after splitting Aces, even if you get a low card.
Double After Split (DAS): Some casinos allow you to double down after splitting a hand, while others don’t. This rule, known as DAS (Double After Split), can be beneficial because it gives you more opportunities to increase your bet when the situation is favorable.
Re-splitting: Some casinos let you re-split your hands if you get another card of the same rank after splitting (for example, you split two 8s and then draw another 8). Other casinos limit this to one re-split.
Why Would You Split in Blackjack?
The primary reason for splitting is to increase your chances of getting a strong hand. By splitting, you turn one hand into two, each with the potential to win. Depending on the cards you draw, you could end up with two hands that are much stronger than your original hand.
Here are a few scenarios where splitting makes sense:
1. Pair of Aces (AA)
The most obvious and advantageous situation for splitting is when you're dealt two Aces. A hand of 12 (A-A) is weak because there's a high chance you'll bust if you hit. However, when you split Aces, you can have two chances to hit a 10 or face card, which would give you a strong hand (21). Even though many casinos limit you to one card per Ace, splitting still offers you the opportunity for two strong hands.
2. Pair of 8s (88)
Another common pair to split is a pair of 8s. A total of 16 is one of the worst hands in blackjack, as it’s too low to stand and too high to hit without risking a bust. By splitting the 8s, you create two separate hands, each with a starting value of 8, which offers a much better chance of improving with the next card.
3. Pair of 7s (77)
Splitting a pair of 7s is also a reasonable strategy, especially if the dealer is showing a weak card, like a 2 through 6. A total of 14 isn’t a great hand, but splitting gives you the potential to get two hands that could both improve to something stronger.
4. Pair of 2s or 3s (22 or 33)
You might also consider splitting small pairs like 2s or 3s if the dealer is showing a weak card. In these cases, the goal is to improve both hands and take advantage of the dealer’s potential weakness. Keep in mind that the best time to split 2s or 3s is when the dealer is showing a card between 4 and 6, as those are vulnerable cards that could lead to a bust.
When Should You Avoid Splitting?
While splitting can be a great way to increase your chances of winning, it’s not always the best move. Here are a few times when you should avoid splitting:
1. Pair of 10s (TT)
A pair of 10s gives you a solid hand of 20, which is one of the best hands you can have in blackjack. Splitting 10s is generally a bad idea because you’re breaking up a very strong hand into two weaker hands. Most of the time, you should stand on a total of 20 rather than splitting it.
2. Pair of 5s (55)
A total of 10 is a good hand to work with, and splitting 5s won’t improve your chances of winning. Instead, you should consider doubling down on a total of 10, as this gives you a better opportunity to hit a 10-value card and make a strong hand of 20.
3. Pair of 4s (44)
While it may be tempting to split a pair of 4s, it’s often better to hit and try to improve your hand. Splitting the 4s can result in two hands that are still weak, especially if you draw low-value cards.
Risks and Rewards of Splitting
The main risk of splitting is that you’re effectively doubling your wager, since you have to place an additional bet equal to your original bet. This means that even if one of your split hands is strong, you could still lose the second hand. Additionally, if you draw poor cards after splitting, you might end up with two weak hands.
However, the reward is that splitting gives you a chance to maximize your winnings when the odds are in your favor. By splitting, you can turn a potentially weak hand into two opportunities for success.
Conclusion
In blackjack, splitting is an important strategy that allows you to break your hand into two separate hands, each with its own bet. It can be a powerful way to increase your chances of winning, especially with pairs like Aces, 8s, or 7s. However, it’s important to know when splitting is advantageous and when it’s better to stick with your original hand. By using splitting wisely, you can make smarter decisions and maximize your chances of success at the blackjack table.
So, next time you're dealt a pair, take a moment to consider whether splitting might be the right move for you!
