What is online blackjack?
Online blackjack is one of the most popular card games in online casinos. This is the favorite game of all lovers of games in which not only luck counts but also acquired skills and experience. Online blackjack is a permanent element of the offer of online casinos in Australia. It is available as an online game with a computer or as a live game hosted by a real dealer during a live broadcast. At the best online casinos, blackjack players can receive special bonuses for playing, including a generous welcome bonus. In this article, we will present the best online casinos that not only offer a variety of blackjack games but also offer many benefits to new and loyal players.
If you don’t enjoy playing blackjack against the computer and would rather communicate with the croupier, check out the live section of each casino. Then you can play blackjack against a live dealer. If you are smart, in addition to winnings, you will also get an authentic gaming experience, which will be enhanced by the atmosphere of a brick-and-mortar casino. Some players prefer to play blackjack against the “computer”, which is not a bad choice. Random number generators (RNG) are set fairly in quality casinos, so your chances of winning are high.
The history of blackjack
Blackjack is a game with a long history, around which many legends have grown up. The first mentions of this card game come from 17th-century France. A game called “twenty-one” (Vingt-et-Un) was played there. This game had rules very similar to modern blackjack rules. The players’ goal was to create a hand with a value as close as possible, but not exceeding 21.
In the 18th century, the game came to America and quickly gained popularity. In the late 19th century, the name “Blackjack” began to be used because of the bonus players received if they had an ace of spades and a jack of spades in their hand. In the 1930s, this game took over Las Vegas casinos and additional bets began to be created.
30 years later, there was a lot of talk about the card counting method in blackjack, which turned out to be extremely effective and quickly became the target of casino owners who, unable to ban the use of this method, began to expel players who they suspected of using it.
The development of online casinos initiated the spread of new online blackjack variants. Thanks to this, it has become even more recognizable, not only among guests of land-based casinos.
Reasons why blackjack is so popular
Blackjack cards blackjack game charms above all with its simplicity. If you don’t like multiplayer games, online blackjack is ideal for you. Either you communicate with a live dealer or with the RNG itself. This way, you don’t have to endure the looks of the last players who are trying to determine with their eyes what cards you have.
Blackjack is also about simplicity and fun. This game does not have complicated rules, which significantly helps its popularity. The simpler the rules, the better players learn to play blackjack. Not talking about the speed of this game. You can play an incredible amount of hands in an hour. However, if you have lost several rounds in a row, do not try to quickly win the lost money. Take a break and play with a cool head.
What makes blackjack an exciting game?
Casino games are very diverse, but online blackjack is considered one of the most exciting real money games. Here are some reasons why it is one of the most loved gambling games:
Simple rules of the game are not everything – many players may think that mastering the basics of blackjack before starting the game is enough to play effectively. Unfortunately, it takes hours of practice and learning new game strategies to perfect it. For many players, this is extremely exciting because it allows them to improve their skills and have a real impact on the outcome of the game.
- Card counting – card counting in blackjack has become an iconic blackjack strategy, which, although it is one of the best methods of winning, is difficult to master and even impossible to use in online play. For many online gamblers, even the slightest possibility of transferring winning chances to their side is extremely exciting.
- Many game variants – classic blackjack is one of the most common variants in land-based casinos, but online casinos have mastered offering new types of blackjack to perfection. Players can choose from games with different stakes, games with side bets, bonuses or with different levels of difficulty.
- Fascinating live game – online blackjack can also be played with a real dealer, who ensures that the atmosphere of the game is as close as possible to the atmosphere in a real land-based casino. All this without leaving home!
Why is it worth playing blackjack online?
- Possibility to play in demo mode
By playing for virtual funds, you gain the opportunity to test new strategies or simply learn the game. And if you run out of money in demo mode, simply reload the game to start over.
- Blackjack bonuses
Online casinos allow you to gain bonuses such as a deposit bonus or cashback. You can use the money you earn in this way to play blackjack.
- Mobile device support
You can play online blackjack not only on your computer but also on your smartphone. This way you can play wherever you have internet access.
- Playing at a virtual table or with a dealer
When playing at an online casino, you can choose between playing with a live dealer and streaming gameplay on the casino floor. Alternatively, you can also play the virtual table version, blackjack via software.
How do we rate Australian blackjack casino sites?
Rating blackjack casinos in Australia involves a comprehensive evaluation based on a variety of criteria. Here’s an extended overview of the main factors used:
- Security and Licensing
A casino’s licensing information and security measures are fundamental. We rate sites higher if they are licensed by reputable regulatory bodies and employ advanced security protocols like SSL encryption to protect player data.
- Game Variety
We assess the range of blackjack variations offered, including classic, European, and live dealer options. A broad selection caters to diverse player preferences and strategies, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Software Quality
The quality of software impacts gameplay, graphics, and overall user satisfaction. We look for sites that partner with reputable software providers known for smooth, intuitive, and visually appealing games.
- RTP and House Edge
Sites that offer blackjack games with high Return to Player (RTP) rates and low house edges are rated higher. These metrics are crucial as they indicate the potential return to players and the fairness of the games.
- Bonuses and Promotions
We evaluate the bonuses and promotions available specifically for blackjack players, including welcome bonuses, cashback offers, and loyalty programs. Sites that provide valuable bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements score higher.
- Mobile Compatibility
With the growing trend of mobile gaming, we rate sites based on their performance on mobile devices. This includes the availability of a mobile app or a mobile-optimized website that offers a seamless gaming experience.
- Banking Options
The availability of diverse, secure, and convenient banking options for deposits and withdrawals is crucial. We consider the variety of payment methods, transaction speeds, and any associated fees.
- Customer Support
Effective customer support is essential for resolving any issues players may encounter. We look for sites that offer multiple support channels, including live chat, email, and phone, with quick response times and professional service.
- User Interface
The ease of navigation and the overall design of the casino site affect the user experience. Sites with a user-friendly interface, clear menu options, and a pleasant aesthetic are rated more favorably.
- Responsible Gaming
We assess the site’s commitment to responsible gaming, including the availability of tools and resources to help players manage their gaming habits, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and support for problem gambling.
How to start playing blackjack online?
Getting started playing blackjack online is easier than you think! In this section, we will walk you through the entire process of playing blackjack online in five simple steps.
Time Needed: 10 Minutes
Tools Needed: Laptop/Mobile
Software Needed: Email
Step 1
Find a reliable online blackjack casino
To play blackjack online safely and be sure that you will receive your winnings, choose the best online casino available on the market that has great reviews and clear operating conditions. Additionally, make sure they offer your favorite blackjack variant and other gambling games. On our website, you will find a wide selection of casinos where you can play blackjack online, earn bonuses and have fun playing other favorite titles.
Step 2
Register a new online casino account
Once you have chosen an online casino for yourself, you can proceed and create a new player account. To do this, complete the registration form, provide your personal and contact details, read the regulations, give the required consent and confirm your account registration by clicking the link sent to the e-mail address or entering the SMS code. If you have a promotional code, you can paste it now or when making a deposit.
Step 3
Make your first deposit using your favorite payment method
After opening your account, it's time to make your first deposit. Select your favorite payment method, enter the value of your first deposit and follow the on-screen instructions. If you want to claim your welcome bonus, make sure that your deposit matches the minimum deposit required to activate the bonus.
Step 4
Take advantage of your welcome bonus and extend your playing time
At many online casinos, you will receive a welcome bonus for registering an account and making your first deposit. Use it for your first steps in the casino. Make sure you can use the bonus funds in online blackjack. Most often, you will receive an increase in your top-up, e.g. a 100% welcome bonus up to AUD 500, etc.
Step 5
Play blackjack online and perfect your strategy
Your balance has already been topped up with your deposit and bonus, it's time to start playing for real money! Go to the casino's games catalog and test your skills by playing different types of blackjack online in demo mode. Take advantage of playing blackjack for free and then start playing for real money.
Top Australian blackjack sites 2024
- Dolly Casino: Up to A$1500
- Hugo Casino: 225% up to A$1000 + 275 Free Spins
- Rolling Slots Casino: 280% up to A$4900 + 300 free spins
- Bizzo Casino: Up to A$1000 + 150 free spins
- National Casino: Up to A$1500 + 150 free spins
- Playamo Casino: Up to A$1500 + 150 free spins
- AmunRa Casino: Up to A$750 + 100 free spins + 1 bonus crab
- Buran Casino: Up to A$4000 + 150 Free Spins
- King Billy Casino: Up to A$2500 +250 free spins
- Hell Spin Casino: Up to A$1200 + 150 free spins
Online blackjack payback rate
Among the card games available in online casinos, blackjack stands out with its high return rate. It means what long-term return on gaming you can count on in an online casino. In the basic game, this ratio is 92%. It’s not much, but blackjack is not just a game of luck, but a carefully thought-out strategy.
Using the optimal basic strategy, the house edge decreases to only 0.2% to 0.5%. The RTP is therefore up to 99.8%. However, remember that everything also depends on the variant you play and the payout table in a given game. All this can be checked in the interactive help available for each game on the Internet. In practice, payback rates can be tested in virtual table games, where it is possible to play blackjack online for free using virtual funds.
To get the full benefits and understand the rules of blackjack and the chance of winning, it is best to make your calculations or use tables that can be found on the Internet or in gambling guidebooks. They tell you in what situations it is best to enter the game and when to fold, depending on the hand you are dealt and the dealer’s revealed card.
Blackjack rules, bets and combinations
See how simple the rules of blackjack are. As you will see, there are many ways to play this simple card game, provided you know the rules well.
The goal of the game is one – the sum of cards in your hand must be as close to 21 as possible, but cannot exceed this number. Your cards must also be better than the dealer’s. For example, if your card total is 19 and the dealer’s card total is 20, he wins the round.
First, let’s look at the card values. All number cards (2 to 10) have a value equal to their number. The face cards – Jack (J), Queen (Q), King (K) have a value of 10. An Ace card can have a value of 1 or 11 – it is decided by the player. The gameplay is as follows. You and the dealer have two cards at your disposal. The player’s first two cards are dealt face up, the dealer receives one card face down and one card face up. The player analyzes his situation and decides (or not) to draw a card. When a player’s hand (after or before a draw) exceeds 21 points, the player automatically loses.
If a player decides not to draw a card, hoping that the sum of his cards is better than the dealer’s, the opponent reveals his second card face down. The dealer must draw the remaining cards until a minimum of 17 points is reached. Players who have more points than the dealer (not exceeding 21) win and receive a prize. If the player gets a weaker hand than the dealer, he loses.
After placing the bet, the croupier deals the player and draws one card in a clockwise direction. He deals the second card in the same way. According to the rules of blackjack, the cards are turned face up, but you can also encounter cards turned face down (modification of the rules in the specific casino). After the cards are dealt, the dealer asks the player how he will proceed. These are all possibilities:
- HIT – The player can take another card from the dealer.
- STAND – The player does not want another card and can skip a turn or end the round.
- DOUBLE DOWN – The player doubles the bet and takes exactly one card. In some casinos, you can increase the bet by less than 100%, which means that you do not have to completely double it.
- SPLIT – If you get two cards of the same value, you can split them and play with two packs of cards. However, you must make another bet. When dividing the cards into two piles, you play both piles separately. This means that you can win with one stack and lose with the other. Before you start playing blackjack online, read the casino rules. In some casinos, you can only deal cards if you have the same suit (you can deal 10-10 cards, but not 10-K cards).
- SURRENDER – This option can be used immediately after the cards are dealt. You can give up and half of the bet will be returned to you.
- INSURANCE – If the first card is the dealer’s ace, he can play to insure all cards against Black Jack (21 total) before taking another card. The insurance pays out in the ratio of 2:1 and you can insure up to half of all bets
Although the house edge in blackjack games is much higher than in games of chance, much depends on individual player decisions, which have a direct impact on the game’s RTP.
The most popular blackjack variants
Blackjack is a simple card game that has developed many variations over the years. Thanks to this, players can test different versions of the game, compete with other players or test themselves in more difficult variants. Fortunately, you’ll find a huge selection of options at most of the top online casinos, including King Billy, Hell Spin and 5 Gringos Casino.
Here are some of the most popular blackjack variations you’ll find at most online casinos:
- Atlantic City Blackjack
This type does not differ from the basic game. Here, the dealer stands on Hard and Soft 17 cards, players can deal their cards during the game and double them after the deal. The so-called late delivery is also an advantage.
- European blackjack
Some games of European blackjack are played with two decks of cards, which is a big advantage for players, especially when using the above strategies. In most cases, however, players do not have the opportunity to multiply cards and do not even have the opportunity to surrender.
- Multi-hand blackjack
In this type of blackjack, the rules are the same as in the base game, so the player does not have to learn anything new. The only difference is that players can have cards in more than one hand, so they can bet more and make more moves at once.
- Double Exposure Blackjack
In this variant of blackjack, the dealer’s cards are turned face up. Seeing the cards of both dealers gives players an extraordinary advantage and can change the entire course of the game. Splitting is allowed only once here, and players cannot fold or insure because they know the dealer’s cards.
- Single Deck Blackjack
The first difference compared to the classic game lies in the fact that the player has the first two cards turned face up, so he does not recognize them. There is only one pack of cards, and players have the opportunity to deal a maximum of three times.
- Blackjack Switch
Unless the casino decides otherwise, this version has almost the same rules as Blackjack 21. The difference is that the player has cards on both hands and this allows him to switch top cards between them. In both cases, however, you must bet the same amount.
- Super Fun 21
The game differs from blackjack in that if the player has 6 or more cards worth 20 in his hand, he automatically wins. This rule applies even if the dealer has 21 cards.
- Pontoon
There are two versions of Pontoon – Malaysian and British. The Malaysian version is more similar to the Spanish version of 21, while the British version with its rules is similar to classic blackjack. The British type of game usually uses one pack of cards, whereby another pack of cards is added for a multi-player game. This variant of the Pontoon is also more common.
- Perfect Pairs Blackjack
In this type of blackjack, the first two cards that the player receives form a pair and three types of pairs with different odds are paid out.
- Spanish 21
The only difference compared to the classic game is that 48 cards from the pack are used because all tens are removed from the pile. It is usually played with 6 to 8 balls.
Popular online blackjack variants
Blackjack Types |
RTP |
House Edge |
Classic Blackjack |
99.41% |
0.59% |
European Blackjack |
99.34% |
0.66% |
Atlantic City Blackjack |
99.65% |
0.35% |
Blackjack Switch |
99.92% |
0.08% |
Vegas Strip Blackjack |
99.65% |
0.35% |
Double Exposure Blackjack |
99.33% |
0.67% |
Single Deck Blackjack |
99.75% |
0.25% |
Multi-Hand Blackjack |
99.60% |
0.40% |
Progressive Blackjack |
Varies |
Varies |
Live Dealer Blackjack |
99.50% |
0.50% |
Online casino bonuses for blackjack
Bonus offers for new and regular players are something every online casino boasts about. However, not all bonuses are available for playing blackjack online. Let’s take a look at these bonuses that are worth paying attention to and are perfect for using them in your online blackjack game.
- Welcome bonus
A welcome bonus is the most generous gift you can receive from a casino to start your adventure together. Most often, it is a bonus that increases your first deposit (or the first few) by 100% or more and adds free spins to your account. Using the bonus is a good idea to start playing for real money with less risk. This is important, especially if you are a beginner and just learning the rules of the game. With the funds from the welcome bonus, you can play blackjack much longer and test new strategies. Remember to meet the turnover conditions before withdrawing.
- Cashback bonus
The cashback bonus is one of the favorite promotions of Australian players who want to get a partial refund of their game losses during a given period. This allows you to minimize your losses from online gambling, extend your playtime and enjoy a bonus without high wagering requirements. The cashback bonus has a specific percentage, which ranges from 5% to 20% and more. For a beginner player, the percentage of return is usually lower and increases as their adventure with an online casino increases. The cashback bonus funds can be spent on your favorite table games, slots and even live games.
- Loyalty program
A loyalty program is one of the most effective ways to encourage already registered players to visit the casino frequently and play online games such as blackjack. You can earn points for your bets, and the collected points can be exchanged for prizes and progress to new levels. Higher levels in the loyalty program allow you to receive better benefits, such as higher monthly withdrawal limits, additional bonuses and personalized promotions, VIP manager care and access to closed tournaments. In each online casino, the loyalty program may have different rules and sometimes be a closed VIP program, available only by invitation.
How to play blackjack for free?
Fortunately, every casino has the option to play blackjack in a demo version. Although free play does not allow you to withdraw your winnings, it is a great way to learn the rules of the game, make sure which blackjack strategy is right for you, and have some fun without the risk of losing money.
In the blackjack game, the rules are quite simple, but especially beginner players may have trouble understanding the different variants of online blackjack, and there are many of them: Spanish Blackjack, live dealer blackjack, City Blackjack, Double Exposure Blackjack, Atlantic City Blackjack or European blackjack are just some of them.
To play a blackjack game for free, simply go to the online casino directory and check the availability of demo play options. Sometimes you just need to hover your mouse or finger over the game’s thumbnail and see the available options.
You can then test a wide range of blackjack games, look for your favorite game variant, place larger and smaller virtual bets and enter the world of blackjack without risk and see why this game is loved by millions of players around the world.
Online blackjack on your mobile phone
What could be better than playing a few games while traveling by train, waiting in line or lying comfortably on the couch? This is possible thanks to mobile blackjack, which can be played on a smartphone or tablet.
Many online casinos have mobile applications that you can download to your device and get even faster access to the game anywhere and anytime. Applications are most often available for iOS and Android devices. In addition to blackjack, they offer many other gambling games, including slot machines, roulette and poker.
An even faster solution that does not require additional downloads is to use the online casino’s mobile website and start playing blackjack through your browser. Just enter the casino address in the browser bar, log in to your account and go to the games catalog. This way you are not limited to one casino (as with the mobile app), but you have access to all your favorite brands.
Currently, all casino game providers create their products in HTML5 technology, which is tailored to the requirements of the most modern browsers and mobile devices, including iPhones, iPads and Android smartphones.
This allows you to play high-quality online blackjack games smoothly and without fear of interruption. However, remember that playing blackjack in a live casino requires a really good and stable internet connection. Only then can you enjoy the highest quality of gameplay and not be afraid of interruption of the connection and loss of previous winnings.
Live dealer blackjack
Online casinos are not limited to simulating card games in the form of software. The development of gambling technologies has led to the creation of a completely new category of games: live dealer games. They are run by large development studios that have the resources and staff necessary to run games on the Internet.
The broadcast from the casino studio, decorated like real casinos, takes place in the form of online streaming. This means that you need at least a decently fast internet connection to receive it, and you can play it on a computer or smartphone. However, you do not need additional software, because thanks to cross-platform HTML5 technology, all games are available in the browser.
The casino table on which the online blackjack game is played is packed with sensors and cameras that automatically transmit information about the game to the server. The cards usually have QR codes or NFC chips, which allow you to scan them immediately after putting them on the table and automatically play the game.
So players place bets on their devices, deciding whether they want to split, double their bet, or fold with literally one click. The dealer receives information about this and deals further cards based on the decision made by the player. At the same time, the dealer discusses the course of the game and encourages them to start playing, welcoming new players as well as those who are just observing the game on the table. The game takes place within a specific time frame, and players have a short window to decide whether to draw a card, pass or join the game, with a counter displayed on the screen. In some games, you can even switch cameras yourself to view the table and cards from different angles to make the game more interesting.
Players, however, most often have the opportunity to communicate with the dealer and even with other players thanks to the live chat function. It is a good custom to say hello and goodbye after the game. In this way, full remote play is possible, with money automatically credited to the player’s casino account in case of winnings. Live casino play generally runs 24 hours a day, with short technical breaks or for the dealer to replace the player.
Online Blackjack pros and cons
- Low house edge: Online blackjack is one of the casino games in which the player’s skills can influence the outcome of the game. Experienced players can reduce the online casino edge to a minimum.
- Simple rules of the game: You can learn online blackjack in just a few minutes and then go straight to playing for real money. It may take a little more time to learn the most effective game strategies.
- Fast pace of gameplay: This is an ideal game for people who do not want to spend too much time on one game and want to know the result of the game immediately. With fast play, you can play more rounds at the same time.
- Bonus wagering conditions: In most online casinos, blackjack does not qualify for bonus wagering requirements, or only 5-10% of bets placed are covered.
- Lower winning: Online blackjack games do not give you the chance to win big prizes like casino slot machines or jackpots.
- Challenging game strategies: Some blackjack strategies can be difficult for beginner players to understand. Good analytical and mathematical skills are required to apply them correctly.
Online blackjack tips
You already know the basic rules of blackjack. It’s time to create your gaming strategy in which you will systematize your knowledge, gain control over your bankroll and minimize potential losses.
- Determine your gambling budget
Determining your spending level in advance will protect you from excessive losses. By setting loss limits, you can leave the table with a limited amount of money lost and start playing in the next session when your cards are better. It is also worth setting limits for your winnings. This will allow you to get larger amounts of money at the right time.
- Set a game time limit
Limiting your gameplay should also apply to the time you spend playing blackjack. It is a very addictive game, but playing for too long can distract you. It is better to approach card games with a rested mind to react faster and more effectively to the situation on the table.
- Find the best blackjack variant for yourself
As you expand your blackjack knowledge, you will discover that different blackjack variants will give you different options and will be adapted to your level of risk, speed in making decisions and estimating possible losses.
- Learn a basic strategy and stick to it
There is a basic, most optimal strategy in blackjack. It was first developed in the 1950s by American mathematician and casino player Edward Thorp, who described it in his best-selling book “Beat the Dealer”. Basic strategy is a type of optimal game, which, however, does not provide an absolute chance of victory, but brings you closer to it.
- Learn what card counting is
Although this is not a very useful strategy in online play, learning it will help you understand the relationships in the game, know the ratio of high and low cards in the deck, and know when it is worth increasing your bets. You can transfer the acquired knowledge to the game in stationary mode.
- Don’t play on insurance
Insurance is an additional feature found in some blackjack variants. It involves placing an additional bet that the dealer will achieve blackjack, i.e. 21 points. However, it is not optimal because the rates paid are not adequate for the risk incurred. This reduces the RTP factor.
- Check the dealer card
Before you enter, check the dealer’s face-up card. If he has a card with a value of 2 to 6 it is generally bad, but cards from 7 and up are good for you. The initial hand often determines the game and the strategy you will use.
- Don’t split tens
Splitting tens is always a bad move. Two tens give you twenty points, so you’re only one point away from blackjack. This ensures a high chance of winning. Splitting tens closes this opportunity, reducing the probability of winning.
- Don’t be afraid to fit in
The ability to fold is crucial for professional players who make a living playing blackjack. If the cards you are dealt are not going your way, you should fold them immediately. Although this means you lose the bid you initially entered for, you avoid further losses in the bidding.
- Take advantage of casino bonuses
Although not all of them are dedicated to the game of blackjack, many of them will allow you to top up your balance and extend your game, even several times. Pay attention to the bonus offer at a given casino and make sure you understand their wagering requirements.
- Play live after a good workout
Playing live blackjack can be incredibly exciting, but it has one drawback – it is not available in demo mode. This means that you go straight into the deep end and have to follow the rhythm of the game. A good option may be to test out Evolution games, where the gameplay is similar to that of a live casino.
The above tips may seem very general, but applying them will help you achieve better and more reliable results in the game. Remember that playing for money always carries risk, so do not play with money you cannot afford to lose.
Final thoughts on Australian blackjack sites
Online blackjack is one of the most popular card games in online casinos. This is the favorite game of all lovers of games in which not only luck counts but also acquired skills and experience. Online blackjack is a permanent element of the offer of online casinos in Australia. It is available as an online game with a computer or as a live game hosted by a real dealer during a live broadcast. At the best online casinos, blackjack players can receive special bonuses for playing, including a generous welcome bonus. In this article, we presented the best Australian online casinos that not only offer a variety of online blackjack games but also offer many benefits to new and loyal players.