Can You Count Cards in Baccarat?

June 27, 2024
5 Minute Read

Baccarat card counting is a popular strategy among gamblers who want an edge. But how effective is it really in this game?

In this article, we explore various techniques and challenges of baccarat counting cards. Discover if counting cards can truly give you an advantage in baccarat and learn the best strategies you can use.

Card Counting in Baccarat

 A close-up view of a baccarat table with playing cards spread out, including several face cards such as Kings and Jacks, emphasizing the intricacies of card counting in the game.

Counting cards in baccarat aims to give players a slight advantage by keeping track of card values that have already been played. This helps predict the likelihood of future hands. Unlike blackjack card counting, baccarat is harder because of the game structure and frequent shuffling. Will card counting work? Yes, but the benefit is minimal.

The short answer is: traditional card counting cannot beat the main game of baccarat. Both blackjack and baccarat are “deck depletion” card games. But only blackjack can be successfully counted by a skilled player with a large bankroll. The main game of baccarat cannot be counted successfully, no matter the player’s skill or bankroll. However, this is not always true for the side bets in baccarat.

Today, many casinos offer a variety of baccarat side bets. Think like the tie count, that can be placed on the baccarat gaming table.

Learn more: Baccarat rules explained

How to Count Cards in Baccarat

There are several baccarat card counting strategies. Below are some of the most common card counting techniques:

The big player count

This method focuses on keeping track of the 8’s and 9’s, because it gives a house edge. Each time an 8 or 9 is dealt, the count must be adjusted.

The edge sorting method

The baccarat edge sorting method is a card counting baccarat technique in which players use the small differences in the backs of the cards to determine which cards are high or low. The disadvantage of this is that as a player you almost need a photographic memory. In addition, it is also quite time-consuming if you consider that physical casinos change decks very regularly. This technique can’t be applied in an online casino game.

The effect of removing a card

This involves analyzing how removing specific cards affects the odds. For example, removing a 7 can change the player’s or the banker’s bets odds.

The simple count

A simple approach where you only keep track of how many high (10, J, Q, K) and low (A, 2, 3, 4, 5) cards have been played. This can help you figure out the probability of a win for the player.

John May’s card counting system for the tie bet

A baccarat table with two cards dealt face-up, including an Ace and a King of hearts, set against the backdrop of a casino, highlighting the ambiance and setup of a typical baccarat game.

John May has developed a unique card counting system with a focus on the tie bet in baccarat. In this system, specific cards are assigned different weights to more accurately predict the probability of a tie. Certain cards, such as high cards (Aces, Kings, Queens, Jacks) and low cards (2, 3, 4) are given a different value in the count.

By keeping track of these weights during the game, a player can better estimate when the chance of a draw is greater. And then bet on this strategically. This system helps to better utilize the tie bet. This is normally difficult to predict.

Thorp’s baccarat card counting system

Edward Thorp is known for his pioneering work in card counting in blackjack. He also developed a system for baccarat. His method focuses on the values ​​of the cards and how they influence the odds in the game.

Players can gain a better understanding of the likely outcomes of future hands. All through keeping track of which cards have already been played. This can help them make strategic bets. An advantage in baccarat is less significant than in blackjack.

Card counting the Dragon 7 side bet in EZ Baccarat

Card counting for the Dragon 7 side bet in EZ Baccarat is a specific method. Players keep track of cards to determine when this side bet is favorable. The Dragon 7 side bet pays out when the dealer wins with a three-card total of seven.

By keeping track of the cards that have already been dealt, players can estimate when the probability of this specific outcome increases. The count allows them to strategically place their bets on the Dragon 7 side bet. This will increase their chances of winning.

Conclusion

Card counting in baccarat gives pro baccarat players a small advantage, but it is harder and less effective than in blackjack.

This is due to frequent shuffling and the game’s structure. Traditional card counting does not work in the main game of baccarat. This is true no matter the player’s skill or bankroll.

However, despite these challenges, playing crypto baccarat at Lucky Block Casino offers an exciting and enjoyable gaming experience for all players.

Learn more on baccarat:

FAQ

Is there a pattern in baccarat?

No, there is no predictable pattern in baccarat. Each hand is independent of the previous one. The game is based purely on chance and luck.

Can you win in baccarat consistently?

No, you cannot win consistently in baccarat. The game’s random nature makes consistent wins impossible. Luck plays a big role in each game.

How to calculate baccarat cards?

Cards in baccarat are calculated as: Ace = 1, 2-9 = face value, 10 and face cards = 0. The value of a hand is the sum of the cards, with only the last digit counting.

Is it possible to card count in baccarat?

Yes, you can count cards in baccarat, but it’s not very effective. Card counting while playing baccarat gives a little advantage in side bets but doesn’t help much with the main game.

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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