Single Deck Blackjack: Strategies, Odds, and Tips for Winning

Blackjack is a favorable game for gamblers because of the low house edge, but can also feature plenty of rule differences and variations that can change that edge in a big way. Single deck blackjack is one of the best of those options for players.

This version makes use of just one deck and gives players the best odds of winning. While there will still be a house edge, the single-deck game offers the lowest house edge and is the game favored by many players looking at a real chance at some winnings.

Keep reading to learn all about single deck blackjack (sometimes referred to as one deck blackjack) and what to expect when playing this game in a casino or at an online platform like Lucky Block Casino.

What is Single Deck Blackjack?

Today’s gamblers will often find blackjack games featuring multiple decks, from two all the way up to eight, depending on where you’re playing. Single deck blackjack uses only one deck and is favored by blackjack traditionalists looking for the best chance to win. Why is this game chosen by many players? Here’s a look at some of the reasons this version is so sought-out.

Lower house edges.
Tends to have more favorable rules in some instances, such as 3-to-2 payouts and surrender.
The smaller number of cards makes it easier to track cards that have already been played.
Faster gameplay because the shuffling process can be faster and there may be fewer players at these tables.

Because of the smaller number of cards, players may have to adjust their basic blackjack strategy approaches and there are basic strategy charts available for just these types of games. Playing smart should offer a chance at some winnings.

Single Deck Blackjack Odds and House Edge

Blackjack already has a low edge, but that can be pushed to some of the lowest thresholds when practicing perfect basic strategy at a single deck game. First, you have a better chance of landing a blackjack. Here’s a look at the odds of getting blackjack using various decks.

Single deck	1 in every 20.72 hands
Double deck	1 in every 20.93 hands
Four decks	1 in every 21.02 hands
Six decks	1 in every 21.07 hands
Eight decks	1 in every 21.07 hands

Overall, the house edge is also lower when playing single deck blackjack when considering some of the most common rules. That includes 3-to-2 payouts when you are dealt a blackjack.

The house edge can be reduced to less than a half percent in these circumstances with the most favorable game rules, including 3-to-2 payouts on a blackjack. Here’s a look at how the house edge compares to games with other decks based on games with the most favorable rules, according to Wizardofodds.com.

Decks	House edge
Single deck	0.014%
Twos decks	0.341%
Four decks	0.499%
Six decks	0.551%
Eight decks	0.577%

These may vary depending on the house rules, but offers a look at the superiority of playing single deck blackjack. Those blackjacks can bring about more winnings for players over time.

Essential Single Deck Blackjack Strategies

When considering single deck blackjack strategy, you will want to make sure you’re adjusting your play considerations based on the correct number of decks. Using a strategy for eight decks won’t be the same as using a single deck.

There are 1 deck blackjack charts that make it easier to practice basic strategy. You can also use these charts when playing online to make sure you’re always making the perfect play. You’ll find the correct play to make when hit, stand, split, and double down blackjack based on the dealer’s upcard.

Blackjack strategies differ from multi-deck strategies due to fewer card combinations in a single deck game. A few key strategy moves to remember include:

Never take insurance because of the large house edge.
Never split 10s. You already have 20 and don’t want to break up a hand with a high probability of winning for a chance at two losing hands.
9, 10, and 11 are solid hands for doubling down in many scenarios. Use a blackjack chart to know the right circumstances.

Pros and Cons of Single Deck Blackjack

When playing 1 deck blackjack in Las Vegas or in other casinos, there are some key advantages and disadvantages to keep in mind. Here’s a look at a few of those.

Pros	Cons
Lower house edge.	Limited availability in many casinos.
Faster gameplay.	May require higher stakes.
Easier to track cards with a smaller number of cards.	Some rule limitations, such as limiting doubling down or splitting options to offset the lower house edge.
Better odds at finding winning sessions.	Higher volatility as fewer decks may bring larger wins or losses in shorter periods of time.

Conclusion

Single deck blackjack offers the lowest house edge of any version of the game because there are fewer cards and usually more favorable house rules regarding actions like surrender and 3-to-2 blackjack payouts.

That house edge can get as low as 0.014%, which is almost the same as 50-50, or flipping a coin. The house has just a slight advantage in this game. Players also have a better chance of landing a blackjack in single deck, about once every 20.72 hands.

Using blackjack basic strategy geared toward this version of the game offers players the best chance at maximizing their winning chances. It’s important to make sure you use basic strategy charts for the single-deck game and not for multiple decks or double-deck blackjack to get the best strategy to find some winnings.

Also seek out tables with more favorable rules when playing single deck blackjack. Playing online often offers some of the most favorable rules and the opportunity to play at lower stakes than in a traditional casino. Lucky Block Casino can be a great option for players looking for some nice single deck blackjack action. Sign-up and funding an account only takes a few minutes and you’ll soon be hitting the tables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between single deck blackjack and multi-deck blackjack?

Obviously there are fewer decks – just one. There is a lower house edge and a better chance of hitting blackjack. Players can also more easily track cards because of the smaller number of cards.

Does 1 deck blackjack offer better odds than other versions?

Yes, players can get a lower house edge by using single deck basic strategy. That can be as low as 0.014% compared to almost 0.6% for games with eight decks. This can vary based on the individual game’s rules. It’s key to seek out games with the best rules, such as allowing surrender and 3-to-2 payouts on blackjack.

Are there specific strategies for single deck blackjack?

Yes, use a single deck blackjack basic strategy chart to learn the best mathematical plays to make based on the dealer’s upcard. These will differ some from strategy charts for games with multiple decks.