Blackjack Card Values Explained: How Much Is Each Card Worth

Those looking to head to the blackjack tables – whether at a live casino or playing online – would be wise to learn how to play the rules of the game and some good strategies to maximize winnings. A key part of that is knowing blackjack card values.

The game is one of the best in the casino when it comes to a low house edge and knowing the blackjack rules and card values is critical to finding success. Keep reading to learn more about this topic and how those card values are used when playing.

Blackjack Card Values

Understanding the value of cards in blackjack is pretty simple and here’s a quick look at the cards one can expect to see in a typical blackjack game.

Number Cards

All numbered cards in the deck count for that number. For example, the 3❤ courts as 3 toward your hand total. So a player dealt the 3❤ and the 10♣ has a total of 13.

Jack, Queen, King

All face cards count as 10 in a game of blackjack. So a player dealt K-Q has a count of 20. If you get K-5, then you have a total of 15. Remember: jack, queens, and kings all count as 10. Obviously any 10 card also counts as 10.

Ace

This card acts a bit different than others in the deck and counts as either 1 or 11. This is a favorable rule for players when it comes to blackjack card values. A hand with an ace is said to be “soft” as it is more flexible and gives players more options.

Blackjack Hand Total

Now that you know blackjack rules regarding card values, calculating your hand is a simple process. Simply add up the total based on the hand values spelled out above. Here are a few examples ao consider:

J-2-9 = 21 (always a winning hand unless the dealer also has 21)
A-9 = 10 or 20 (basic strategy would have most players stand with 20 here)
K-2-6 – 18 ( a solid hand, but definitely not always a winner)
A-4 = 5 or 15 (may be appropriate to double down with this hand depending on the dealer’s upcard)
A-Q = 21 (a blackjack that is paid out at 3 to 2 ot 6 to 5 depending on the casino’s rules)

Blackjack Rules: Card Values

The rules of blackjack don’t change when it comes to the value of cards. These values are set and players can expect to see these card values in every casino around the world or online and won’t have to worry about having to ask questions like “how much is a king worth in blackjack?”

The values stay the same in every game of traditional blackjack and here’s a quick reminder.

Numbered cards – count as that number
Face cards – count as 10
Aces – count as 1 or 11

Soft Hands

There are a couple terms used to describe hands that contain an ace and those that don’t. Hands with an ace are referred to as “soft” because those hands can count as two different values depending on how the ace is used.

For example, a player with A-6 is said to have “soft 17” and will not bust by taking a hit. Because of that basic strategy calls for always hitting soft 17 as you have a chance to make a much better hand than 17, which can often be a loser. Players may also choose to double down on this hand in certain situations as well based on correct basic strategy. A soft hand gives players some added flexibility.

Hard Hands

In contrast, when it comes to blackjack card values, hands without an ace are said to be “hard” hands. These are set and less flexible than those with an ace. For example, a 10-7 is said to be a “hard 17” and taking a hit means a player will likely bust.

Rather than hitting with hard 17, basic strategy says a player should stand – unlike with a soft 17. A 17 isn’t not ideal as the dealer draws to a higher total than this at a high percentage.

Pairs

Being dealt pairs can be favorable for players at times as you can split these into two different hands. For example, a player with 8-8 should split against any dealer upcard and then will receive another card on the first 8. The player can then hit, double, or stand before moving on to repeat the same process on the second hand.

A player dealt a pair of aces will also want to split in all scenarios as you have a great chance of making great hands and ideally at least one blackjack. For other correct plays when it comes to splitting, consult a basic strategy chart.

Blackjack Card Value Tips

When heading to the tables, whether in a live casino in Las Vegas or when playing online, knowing the value of cards in blackjack is critical to securing some winning sessions (along with knowing basic strategy). Here are a few tips to remember.

All face cards count as 10.
All numbered cards retain that number.
All aces count as 1 or 11.
Add your hand up quickly as you receive more cards.
When in doubt, the dealer will usually keep a count of your cards as well.
Blackjack card value charts are easily accessible online to help.
Consult a basic strategy chart as well to learn the correct mathematical decisions in any situation.
Practice basic strategy to help avoid common mistakes and increase your winning potential.

Conclusion – Play Blackjack at Lucky Block Casino

Blackjack has a low house edge for those who can learn and utilize basic strategy. The game is also fairly easy to learn how to play and those who know the value of cards in blackjack will have a better chance of winning. The ability to quickly total up one’s hand is fundamental to the game, but a little practice makes this process easy.

Knowing blackjack card values helps players determine the correct play such as hitting, standing, splitting, or doubling down. For those looking to hit the tables and practice some of these skills, be sure to visit Lucky Block Casino. Setting up an account and getting started with some real-money gaming only takes a few minutes to get in the action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does each card mean in blackjack?

Each card in blackjack has a certain value. These are easy to remember and numbered cards retain their numbers, face cards count as 10, and aces count as 1 or 11. Players can remember these values to quickly total up their hands.

What are picture cards worth in blackjack?

Picture cards, usually known as face cards, are valued at 10

Is Ace 1 or 14?

No, aces count as 1 or 11. A hand with an ace is also known as a “soft” hand because these hands aren’t at risk of busting when taking a hit and are more flexible than “hard” hands that don’t have an ace. Soft hands can be used to double down at times, depending on the situation.