Is it possible to do card counting in online casinos?

Some casino players have the uncanny ability to predict the cards and make strategic moves in blackjack, thanks to card counting. This stands as a favoured method employed by blackjack players to tilt the odds in their favour against the house.

You may have seen it in movies and various forms of media, but what exactly is card counting? In this blog, we’ll explore the basics of card counting, how it works and useful tips to help you in your blackjack gameplay or other card games at Bicasino.

Ins and outs: What is card counting?

Card counting is a tactic mainly associated with blackjack, mainly used to gain an advantage over the house edge. It's a strategy that involves tracking cards that have already been dealt live and assigning them a value, which helps narrow down the ones still in the deck. 

With this kind of information, counters will know if the upcoming cards will benefit them or the dealer, in which they can adjust their strategy accordingly. 

If more high-value cards are left, it increases the odds of getting strong hands like blackjack or hands that can be doubled down on.

For instance, if a player successfully tracks the cards and knows that the next one will land them a natural pair of cards that exactly adds to 21, they can capitalise on this opportunity and bet larger amounts.

Conversely, if more low-value cards are left, the advantage shifts to the casino, and you may decrease your bets.

This strategy gained great recognition through the exploits of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) blackjack team during the 1980s and 1990s. The team's successful use of card counting strategies in Las Vegas casinos resulted in massive winnings amounting to millions of dollars, leaving a lasting impression on the history of blackjack.

How card counting works

Card counting is predominantly used in blackjack as it provides the most advantage in this casino game. This strategy requires strong focus and mindset given the immense focus you need to track the cards at play. 

In blackjack, the dealer or croupier gives the players seated at the table two cards. While playing, you can see which cards have already appeared and which haven't, which is where card counting comes in.

By doing some basic maths in your head as the cards continue to appear on the blackjack table, you'll have an idea of what cards might turn up next, helping you make a more profitable decision.

Another factor that makes this challenging is that some casinos use multiple decks, six to eight to be exact, which makes it harder to track the cards. If you're not skilled enough, you may end up losing count.

Although it's one of the hard skills to master, card counting can help you protect your bankroll.

Does card counting improve your chances of winning?

Card counting is proven to improve one's probability of winning. One particular statistic this affects is the house edge which is the built-in advantage that the casino has over the players. When done properly, card counting can reduce the casino's house edge and increase your odds of winning. 

Blackjack casino counting chart

Card counting involves spotting patterns based on the cards already dealt. Depending on the value of the card on the table, you adjust your running count by adding (+1), subtracting (-1), or doing nothing (0).

To practice card counting in play, you can use the chart below that outlines the patterns for various card counting methods:

In this chart, the uppermost row is the cards in the deck, while the leftmost column represents the card-counting strategies. Here's the legend for the rest of the numbers found in the table:

• +1 - add one
• -1 - subtract 1
• +2 - add two
• -2 - subtract 2
• 0 - do nothing
• +.5 - add half
• -.5 - subtract half
• +1.5 - add one and a half.

Tip: You can use this table and other basic blackjack charts at your disposal to help you make the most profitable decision in the game.

Is casino card counting legal?

Card counting, when performed without the aid of external devices, is legal. However, casinos know its potential and take measures to prevent it.

Casinos employ surveillance systems to assess a player's card counting skills and may use tactics like dealers engaging in conversation or shuffling more often to disrupt the counting process.

It's vital to note that card counting typically offers a modest edge of around 1-2%, which can be influenced by factors such as skill, strategy, game rules, and bet ratios.

So, while card counting won't result in criminal charges, it could lead to being banned from a casino or facing consequences, all for a marginal advantage in blackjack.

How to do card counting in online casino games

To start online blackjack counting, poker counting, or baccarat card counting in your next games, follow these four steps:

1. Mark the card value

When counting cards, you give each one a distinct value so you can monitor how each card affects the total count.

A common system is the Hi-Lo method. Assign a value of +1 to low cards (2-6), a value of 0 to neutral cards (7-9), and a value of -1 to high cards (10-Ace). As each card is dealt, mentally add or subtract the respective value to maintain a running count.

2. Keep a 'Running Count'

The running count is the ongoing sum of the card values you've encountered so far. Begin with a count of 0 at the start of the game and adjust it as each card is revealed.

For instance, if a 2 is dealt, add 1 to the running count. If a 10 is dealt, subtract 1.

Make sure to keep tracking the cards to have an accurate running count. Pay close attention to each card and update the count with each new card to stay on top of the game.

3. Calculate the 'True Count'

The true count considers the remaining decks in the shoe, which affects the accuracy of your card counting. To calculate it, divide the running count by the estimated number of decks left to be dealt.

For example, if the running count is +6 and about 2 decks are remaining, the true count would be +3. 

This adjustment is crucial as it allows you to compare the count to the number of decks left, providing a more accurate indication of the deck's edge.

4. Adjust your betting

As the true count increases, it indicates a higher ratio of good cards remaining in the deck. This situation gives you a chance to increase your bets and take advantage of the improved odds of winning.

On the other hand, when the true count decreases, indicating a lower ratio of good cards, it's wise to reduce your bets to reduce potential losses.

Adjusting your bets based on the true count helps you enhance your chances of success while using the card counting strategy.

Blackjack counting strategies you can try

Card counting consists of multiple advanced systems, each using different patterns. Here are some of the key strategies you can explore:

1. High/Low

The High/Low strategy is one of the most popular and simple card counting systems. It assigns a value of +1 to low cards which are 2 to 6, 0 to neutral cards which are 7 to 9, and -1 to high cards which are 10 to Ace.

With this method, you keep a running count throughout the game by adding and subtracting these values for each card dealt.

The rule here is simple: the higher the positive number, the more likely the deck has several high-value cards left.

2. Omega II

The Omega II system is a more complex card counting strategy that uses a multi-level system. This means that some cards are worth adding or subtracting 2 points instead of the usual 1.

Here are the marks of each card ranking in the Omega II card counting strategy:

• 2, 3 and 7: +1
• 4, 5 and 6: +2
• 9: -1
• 10, Jack, Queen, King: -2
• Ace, 8: 0

The system considers the density of high cards, low cards, and middle cards to provide a more accurate estimation of your advantage.

Lastly, Omega II is considered a balanced system, which means you'll know if you've counted the cards right when you end up at zero when all the cards have been dealt.

3. Wong Halves

Wong Halves is among blackjack's most complicated card-counting techniques due to the fractional values that make it even harder to stay on track. It uses a half-point system to assign values like +0.5, +1, -0.5, and -1 to various cards, providing a more precise estimation of the count.

Here's a quick rundown of the marks of each card ranking in Wong Halves:

• Ace, 10, Jack, Queen, King: -1
• 2, 7: +0.5
• 3, 4, 6: +1
• 5: +1.5
• 8: 0
• 9: -0.5.

This strategy offers greater accuracy but requires more mental calculation and practice to use effectively.

4. Victor Advanced Point Count

The Victor Advanced Point Count (VAPC) is a comprehensive and complex card counting system that assigns different values to each card. It considers various ranks and suits of the cards to provide a highly accurate estimation of the count. The VAPC strategy requires deep study, practice, and focus to implement successfully.

5. Knock-Out (KO) System

The KO system is a renowned alternative to the Hi-Lo system. It follows the same value assignments as Hi-Lo but removes the need to convert the running count to a true count.

KO’s simple rule makes it easier to use for some players. However, it's vital to note that the KO system does not account for the number of decks remaining, which can slightly affect its accuracy.

6. Zen Count

The Zen Count is a more advanced card counting system that assigns different values to cards based on their impact on the overall count. It considers the specific values of cards and their effect on your advantage.

For example, it may assign a value of +2 to certain low cards and -2 to certain high cards. The Zen Count offers greater accuracy than simpler systems but requires more practice and focus to master.

any amount to your running count. The values included in this category are 7, 8 and 9.

Factors that make card counting difficult

Counting cards can be challenging due to several factors. Learn all about them below: 

1. Mental calculations and memory skills required

Card counting involves doing quick mental calculations and keeping track of the count while playing. This is why being proficient in mental calculations and memory skills is crucial to counting cards well. It requires solid arithmetic skills and the ability to remember and update the count accurately as each card is dealt. 

2. Multiple counting systems

There are various card counting systems available, each with its own set of rules and strategies. Learning and mastering a certain counting system can be challenging, as it requires knowing the assigned values, adjusting the count, and making proper betting decisions based on the chosen system.

3. Keeping track of multiple card values

In some counting systems, cards are assigned different values based on their ranks. Keeping track of these various values for different cards at the same time can be demanding as it requires focus and practice to assign and update the values for each card dealt.

4. Dealing with distractions and maintaining focus

In brick-and-mortar casinos, distractions abound with their array of loud noises, flashing lights, and the constant presence of other players. Amidst these distractions, keeping a high level of focus can be hard.

However, it is crucial to stay disciplined, block out external stimuli, and remain focused on the cards and the count. These skills are essential for achieving success in card counting.

5. Applying the count under pressure

Playing in fast-paced games with real money at stake can add pressure and stress. It can be difficult to apply the count well and make optimal betting decisions while under pressure.

Practising card counting in simulated or low-stakes card games can help you develop the skill to perform under pressure.

6. Casino countermeasures

Casinos are aware of card counting techniques and employ countermeasures to deter or detect card counters. These may include using continuous shuffling machines, increasing the number of decks used, or employing increased surveillance.

As a card counter, you must be aware of these measures and adapt your strategies accordingly.

7. Deck changes

In some cases, casinos may change decks before the cards have been completely dealt with, disrupting the flow of the count. Adapting to deck changes and adjusting the count well can pose a challenge for card counters. Being observant and adjusting your strategy when deck changes occur is important to maintain accuracy.

Tips and tricks to improve your card counting skills

Whether you're card counting online or in a brick-and-mortar casino, some tips can help elevate and hone your skills. Here are our best tips and tricks for beginners:

1. Vary your betting

Mixing up your bets is a nifty tip for levelling up your card counting skills. By adjusting your bet sizes, you can keep your counting technique under the radar. 

This clever trick makes it harder to catch on. Stay subtle and boost your winning potential by varying your bets strategically.

2. Stay at the table during cold decks

During periods when the deck is critical, known as ‘cold decks’, it's best to stay at the table and continue playing cautiously. This practice helps keep your cover as a regular player and prevents arousing suspicion by abruptly leaving the table during adverse conditions. 

However, you should adjust your betting and playing decisions during cold decks to reduce losses.

3. Be discreet about your bankroll

When playing in brick-and-mortar casinos, it's important to be discreet about your bankroll. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash, flashy behaviour, or discussing your financial situation openly.

When you appear like a casual player with a moderate bankroll, you reduce the chances of arousing suspicion about your card counting efforts.

Blackjack success without counting cards?

Although by this stage you might be under the impression that given how powerful counting cards is as a strategy in blackjack, there is no point in playing without doing; you would be sorely mistaken! Indeed, counting cards isn’t the only way to increase your chances of blackjack success and represents only one amongst many strategies.

With that said, here are two popular alternative strategies for counting cards:

• Hold Carding: This entails identifying what the dealer's hole card is and adjusting your strategy based on this. A ‘hole card’ is the dealer's face down card and once you figure out what it is likely to be, this information can give you an incredible competitive edge.
  
• Front Loading: This involves the player attempting to identify what the next card will be and adjusting their strategy accordingly. Front loading occurs when the dealer inadvertently exposes the hole card while pulling it out of the deck.

Myth #1: The card counter always wins

You’ve got Dustin Hoffman’s character Raymond Babbitt and the rather less likely figure of Zach Galifianakis’ Alan in The Hangover to thank for peddling the myth that card counting is a shortcut to instant wealth.

It will surely be raining money in a matter of minutes if you count the cards at the blackjack table, right?

Unfortunately, it doesn’t quite pan out that way as blackjack is a game in which players accumulate their way to a winning position. Card counting – when performed correctly – can only accelerate that process by a small amount.

Blackjack, as a game of luck, mostly, almost guarantees streaks – winning and losing – that can be explained away by the laws of probability. Being able to count cards effectively cannot turn a bad hand into a winning one – though it might just save you from hitting or standing at the wrong time.

Put it this way: card counting does not suddenly turn the tables on the house, rendering their edge obsolete. The casino still has the wood on you even if you can count well – it’s just that you might claw back a tiny percentage of said edge.

Do card counters always win? Of course not – if they did, everybody would be at it!

It’s not about intelligence, as such, and you don’t need a photographic memory – but you will need to be able to memorise sequences and/or follow strategies in order to make it work for you.

Remember, the basic aim of card counting is to predict what cards are going to be dealt next. Are you “due” an ace, or maybe a picture card? Keeping track of a pattern of cards in single-deck blackjack is a lot easier than when you add multiple decks, but again with discipline and concentration, it can be done.

A lot has been written about card counting strategies, and you can read up on these with a cursory search online. The concept behind such a strategy is to make the job of tracking cards easier, usually by assigning them a numerical value beyond that which is displayed on the card.

One of the most commonly used is the Hi-Lo system, which aims to simplify the method of card counting. Here, cards worth six or less are given a value of +1, while tens, picture cards and aces are scored -1. The “middle” cards are ignored.

The concept is to make the count easier, so if a sequence of cards went queen, seven, three, ace, then in your head, you’d have -1, 0, +1, -1, and so on.

In answering the question, “Do card counters need a photographic memory?”, we can say no, they don’t, thanks to systems like Hi-Lo.

However, you will need to be disciplined and be able to mentally record and remember patterns of numbers.

Myth #4: It's easy not to get caught

When you’re playing single-deck blackjack, it is pretty easy for a dealer to work out when you’re engaging in card counting.

It will be evident from strange behaviour and unusual wagering patterns. If you’re hitting hard on 17, for example, then that might set alarms bell ringing, as will unexpected splits and double-downs.

Taking out insurance at an inappropriate moment, betting through the whole gamut of options, or sitting out a few hands randomly are sure signs that you are keeping tabs on the cards in the shoe.

There’s ample reason why card counters avoid single-deck blackjack: to avoid detection, mostly, and also to get around the maximum bet limits in place.

Newcomers to blackjack don’t really worry about classical strategy, and are often just feeling their way into the game. That’s why their movements at the table are occasionally eyebrow-raising.

For more experienced types, counting leads to a movement away from basic strategy to what is often termed “situational blackjack”, where actions are altered because of the count and the knowledge that a high or low card is incoming.

For instance, if you’re sat on 12 and your count dictates that there’s still plenty of 10s and picture cards in the deck, then you’d be tempted to stand. A dealer can read this sort of thing from miles away!

Myth #5: Card counting is illegal

This is your classic casino myth.

Many people assume that card counting is illegal because they see so many gamers being kicked out of a casino when caught out.

The truth is that card counting is not a crime – it is simply frowned upon because, when done well, it can minimise the casino’s house edge just a little.

You could even make an argument that says that card counting isn’t even cheating. Instead, you are simply using your brainpower to tilt the tables back in your own favour somewhat.

Casinos have the authority to ask you to leave, granted, but don’t worry: you won’t be spending the night in the cells if caught!

Should you try blackjack card counting systems?

Card counting is a powerful technique that can improve your winning odds, but it requires patience, practice, discipline, and discretion. Mastering various card counting methods can give you an edge, but it's important to be responsible and aware of the legalities and rules in your area.

To succeed, practice regularly in blackjack or other card games. Remember, making informed decisions and using strategies cautiously are key to successful gameplay. Always approach card counting responsibly and enjoy the game.

Explore our wide range of games and deposit at Bitcasino today. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is card counting?

Card counting is a strategy used in blackjack and other suitable card games to track the high and low-value cards remaining in the deck. By keeping a running count, you can estimate the proportion of favourable cards left, which can help enhance your betting and playing decisions.

What are the odds with card counting in blackjack?

Incorporating this strategy into your gameplay can increase a blackjack's RTP from 98-98.5% to 99-99.5%, which is a real 1-1.5% difference. However, remember that this advantage can only be possible with games that use the ideal number of decks for card counting, which is one or two.

Is it hard to count cards in blackjack?

While card counting requires practice and focus, it is not inherently hard. With commitment and enough knowledge of your chosen card counting system, you can become proficient at keeping an accurate count and making strategic decisions based on the count.

How to count cards in blackjack?

To learn how to count cards in blackjack, you simply have to assign a value to each dealt card. As the cards are played, you keep a running count to determine the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck. By adjusting your bets based on the count, you can gain an edge over the casino and increase your chances of winning.

How effective is card counting in blackjack?

As previously stated, using a card counting blackjack strategy can give you a 1 to 1.5% advantage. However, its effectiveness will vary per player and their mastery of the skill, as sometimes they could get lost in the sea of cards being dealt per game.

What is the best blackjack card counting strategy?

The answer to this question is Hi-Lo since it's the easiest way to count cards in blackjack. 

Additionally, it's vital to pick the card counting and blackjack strategy that suits your playing style, practise the game and the method, and adapt it to the rules of blackjack you're playing.

What casino games can be beaten by card counting besides blackjack?

When it comes to counting cards, blackjack is the game where players can benefit most. But it can also be used in baccarat and poker. In baccarat, you can use card counting to know which hand will have the better hand value.

Meanwhile, card counting in poker is almost considered a necessity since it can guide you into making decisions that will lead to profits. 

Words by: Andrea Dizon