Truth About Card Counting in Online Blackjack
Card counting is a thing which has been discussed very much in the world of blackjack for many years. A lot of players wish to find out whether it is possible for them to count cards while playing online blackjack. The ability has been depicted in movies such as “21” and “Rain Man.” However the question is whether it works in online games as well or not? To know the truth, we need to compare the data and then realize whether card counting is a myth or a fact in the digital world of blackjack.
What Is Card Counting?
Card counting is a way to track cards that have been dealt in blackjack. The goal is to know when the deck has more high cards left. This gives the player at Truewin Online an edge over the house. When done right, card counting can help players win more money.
The most basic card counting system is the Hi-Lo count. In this system, cards 2-6 are worth +1, cards 7-9 are worth 0 and cards 10-Ace are worth -1. Players keep a running count as cards are dealt. A high positive count means there are more high cards left in the deck. This is good for the player.
Types of Card Counting Systems
There are many ways to count cards. Some are easy, and some are hard. Here are the main types:
- Level 1 Systems – These are the easiest to learn. The Hi-Lo count is a Level 1 system.
- Level 2 Systems – These give some cards a value of +2 or -2. They are more precise but harder to use.
- Level 3 Systems – These are the most complex and can give cards values from -3 to +3.
Why Card Counting Works in Live Blackjack
Card counting works in live casinos because the cards are dealt from a shoe. Once a card is dealt, it’s gone until the next shuffle. This means the odds change with each card that comes out.
When there are more high cards left in the deck, players have a better chance of getting blackjack. The dealer is also more likely to bust when drawing to a stiff hand. Smart players bet more money when the count is high and less when it’s low.
House Edge and Card Counting
The house edge in blackjack is about 0.5% with basic strategy. But with card counting, players can flip this edge in their favor.
| Counting System | Potential Player Edge | Difficulty Level | Time to Master | Risk of Detection |
| Hi-Lo | 0.5% to 1.5% | Easy | 20-40 hours | Moderate |
| Omega II | 0.85% to 1.65% | Medium | 50-80 hours | Moderate to High |
| Wong Halves | 0.99% to 1.8% | Hard | 100+ hours | High |
| Hi-Opt II | 0.91% to 1.7% | Medium to Hard | 80-100 hours | High |
Why Card Counting Doesn’t Work in Online Blackjack
Now for the big question: Can you count cards in online blackjack? The short answer is no, and here’s why.
Random Number Generators
Most online blackjack games use Random Number Generators (RNGs). These are computer programs that pick cards at random for each hand. The key point is that online decks are “shuffled” after each hand. This means there is no “memory” of which cards have been dealt.
When each hand starts with a fresh, random deck, keeping track of cards that came before is pointless. The odds don’t change from one hand to the next.
Live Dealer Games
Some online casinos offer live dealer blackjack. In these games, real people deal real cards that you watch on video. In theory, you could count cards in these games.
But there are big problems:
- Most live dealer games use 8 decks and shuffle at 50% or more penetration.
- Many use automatic shuffling machines.
- Casinos watch for card counters and can kick you out.
Reality of Online Card Counting
The truth is that card counting in standard online blackjack is a myth. It simply doesn’t work because of how the games are set up. In live dealer games, it might be possible but very hard to do well.
What You Can Do Instead
If you want to play online blackjack with the best odds, try these tips:
- Learn perfect basic strategy.
- Look for games with good rules (3
blackjack payouts, dealer stands on soft 17). - Take advantage of casino bonuses.
- Manage your money well.
Conclusion
Card counting in online blackjack is mostly a myth. The way online games work makes it impossible in RNG games. In live dealer games, it’s possible but very hard to do well.
Instead of trying to count cards online, focus on playing with good strategy and finding games with the best rules. This will give you the best chance to win in the long run.
Remember, blackjack should be fun. Play smart, know the odds and enjoy the game for what it is – one of the best casino games with some of the best odds for players.