How to Count Cards in Blackjack: Card Counting Guide
Want to improve your blackjack game? Learning how to count cards can give you a strategic edge over the casino, although it remains a highly controversial tactic.
In this article, we take a closer look at the basics of card counting, how it works, and what casinos do to stop it.
- Card counting in blackjack involves tracking the ratio of high to low cards to gain an edge over the dealer.
- Mastering the Hi-Lo system is essential for card counting, where low cards are valued at +1 and high cards at -1.
- Card counters use various techniques to avoid being detected, including varying betting patterns and changing their appearance.
Important Notice: Whilst card counting is not illegal, many casinos don't allow players to employ card counting techniques, and in some cases, players can be banned from a casino. Using electronic or mechanical devices to count cards is illegal in most states.
Understanding the Basics of Card Counting
Counting cards is a strategy used by blackjack players to gain an edge over the casino by keeping track of the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck.
This method helps players determine who has the advantage in the next hand by monitoring the ratio of high to low cards dealt.
The concept might sound simple, but it requires strong concentration, quick thinking, and the ability to do math at a rapid pace. Players often learn to count cards to improve their chances of winning.
What is the Goal of Card Counting?
The goal of counting cards in a game of blackjack is to identify the mix of cards in a deck.
- A deck with more high cards (10s, face cards, and Aces) increases the player’s chances of hitting a blackjack or getting a strong hand.
- A deck rich in low cards (2-6) favors the dealer.
Looking for your next strategy for Online Blackjack? Try our full Blackjack Guide to see which strategy has the best odds.
Read moreHow to Count Cards: A Step-by-Step Guide
In essence, card counting is based on a few basic steps. We'll cover these fundamental steps here along with guidance on how they can be used:
1. Learning Basic Strategy
Before you start card counting, you should attempt to master basic strategy. This means
- Identifying the best method for playing any given set of hands in blackjack.
- Consider both your own cards and what the dealer has shown.
By nailing the basics, you can reduce the house edge substantially, which is a crucial step before moving on to card counting techniques.
2. Know the Difference Between the Running Count and True Count
- The Running Count is kept by updating it with the point value of each card dealt. For instance, if a 5 is dealt, you add +1 to your running count. If a King is dealt, you subtract 1. Keeping a running count gives a general sense of whether the deck is stacked with more high or low cards.
- The True Count adjusts the running count for the number of decks remaining, providing a more accurate measurement of player advantage. In the Hi-Lo system (see below), the player’s running count is divided by the number of decks remaining to determine the true count.
Running Count and True Count Examples
Let's say your running count is +6 and there are 3 decks remaining.
This means that your true count would be +2 (the running count of 6 divided by the number of decks, in this case 3).
This adjustment is crucial when playing multiple deck games because it makes keeping track much easier, regardless of how many deck are being used.
3. Mastering the Hi-Lo System
The Hi-Lo System is a simple way of keeping track of how many high versus low cards have been dealt. Here's how it works:
- Each low card from 2 through 6 gets assigned a positive value because they tend to be more favorable for dealers.
- High cards like tens (10), Jacks (J), Queens (Q), Kings (K) as well as Aces (A) which typically work against players’ odds receive negative values.
- Using this information, card counters will increase wagers when advantageous counts arise and lower their bets or stop when the count is less favorable.
Using the Hi-Lo System means that cards are assigned various values. It works as follows:
| Card Value | Hi-Lo Value |
|---|---|
| 2-6 | +1 |
| 7-9 | 0 |
| 10, J, Q, K, A | -1 |
To convert the running count to the true count, divide the running count by the total number of decks remaining in the shoe.
In noisy environments, using chips can help track the estimated running count discreetly. Practice is key to mastering this system, so spend time honing your skills using various tools and resources, which we’ll discuss later.
How Do Card Counters Avoid Detection?
Avoiding detection is just as crucial as mastering the art of counting cards. Casinos are vigilant in identifying card counters, which means that players to adopt strategies to avoid detection as experienced casino workers can tell if someone is counting cards before they start making noticeable profits. If a casino discovers that a player is counting cards, the player can face a ban from playing at that casino.
Most card counters will attempt to blend in with casual players and avoid drawing attention to themselves. This means using various betting patterns even using disguises in some cases!
How Players Disguise Card Counting Strategy
Card counters carefully modify their wagers and switch up betting patterns to give the impression that they are casual gamblers, and hopefully avoid being detected.
This is particularly key when the hand is advantageous as increasing the size of a bet can be a signal to the casino that someone is counting cards. Often, card counters will work in pairs or small groups to alternate their bets and throw casino staff off their scent. Partners among card counters have strategies for discreetly communicating when it’s time to place more substantial bets.
Although it sounds like something out of a movie, many card counters will frequently alter their appearance to avoid being identified. This can include using a different style of dress or using props and accessories.
What Measures Do Casinos Use to Detect Card Counting?
To maintain an upper hand against players, casinos deploy numerous strategies to thwart card counting. By imposing restrictions on mid-shoe entry (entering a game of blackjack in the middle of a deck), they curtail the opportunity for card counters to modify their game plans effectively. Using several decks and shuffling regularly is another common tactic used by casinos to prevent card counting from taking place.
The staff at casinos and monitoring teams are well-versed in identifying potential indicators of suspicious activity or irregular wagering patterns indicative of counting techniques. Card counters will make an effort to understand how these establishments attempt to deter counting, and therefore how they can steer clear of unwanted attention.
When Card Counting 'Detection' Goes Wrong
Some casinos can find themselves in hot water when accusing players of counting cards. As recently as October 2023, the Ameristar Casino, in Black Hawk, Colorado was sued for $3m in damages by a player they accused of counting cards at their blackjack tables.
The player, Joesph Shiraef, asserted that he was illegally detained by the casino and prevented from cashing in his chips after the casino accused him of cheating.
Card Counting: The PokerNews Verdict
Wislt we've attempted to outline the main strategy involved in card counting, we should be clear: we don't advise that you use this tactic next time you sit down for a hand of blackjack in a case.
The truth is, many casinos are now employing sophisticated techniques to sport card counters, and if caught, you could be banned from the premises (and even other casinos).
In addition, although card counting can be learned, it takes years to master, and in addition to learning the mechanics, you'll also need to get good at avoiding detection.
Want to play Online Blackjack? Check out our Blackjack Guides:
Card Counting FAQs
Is card counting illegal?
Card counting isn’t illegal, but casinos can totally kick you out if they think you’re doing it. Just keep that in mind if you’re at the tables!
How long does it take to learn card counting?
It usually takes several months of consistent practice to master card counting, so stay dedicated and keep at it!
Can card counting be used in online blackjack?
Card counting doesn’t really work in online blackjack since the decks are usually reshuffled after every hand, so, you might want to focus on other strategies instead,
What is the best card counting system for beginners?
The Hi-Lo system is the best choice for beginners because it’s easy to learn and really effective.
How can I practice card counting?
To get good at card counting, try using mobile apps and simulators, plus dive into some books or online courses about the strategy.