Card Counting in Blackjack

If you are interested in learning about card counting, this is a guide to help you understand how to do it.

Card counting is a legal strategy used to gain an advantage over the casino in blackjack.

It's a relatively simple process, though mastering it can take significant practice and dedication. Skilled card counters have won millions of dollars from casinos, leading to many being banned for their consistent wins.

Contrary to popular belief, card counting does not require memorizing every card dealt, such as tracking the exact number of queens or other specific cards. Even people with average memories can use it effectively.

The strategy becomes favorable for the player when the remaining cards in the shoe are rich in high-value cards—aces and ten-value cards (10s, Jacks, Queens, and Kings).

Card counting systems simply track the ratio of low cards to high cards as the game progresses.

Hi-Lo: The Most Popular Card Counting System

The Hi-Lo system is the most common method. Here's how cards are valued:

2-6: +1
7-9: 0 (neutral)
10-Ace: -1

As each card is dealt (to players or dealer), you add, subtract, or do nothing to your mental count based on its value.

Step-by-Step Guide to Card Counting

Step 1: Assign a Value to Every Card
In the Hi-Lo system, assign +1 to low cards (2-6), 0 to neutral cards (7-9), and -1 to high cards (10, J, Q, K, A). Apply this to all cards dealt from the shoe.
Step 2: Maintain the Running Count
Start at zero. Update the running count continuously as cards are revealed in every hand. A positive running count indicates more high cards remain; negative favors the house.
Step 3: Calculate the True Count
For multi-deck shoes, divide the running count by the estimated decks remaining. Examples: Running count +10 with 5 decks left = true count +2; running count -7 with 2 decks = true count -3.5 (typically round down).
Step 4: Adjust Bets and Playing Strategy
Increase bet size on positive true counts (player advantage). Use the count for 'deviations' from basic strategy, like insurance on high counts or aggressive doubles/splits.

Casinos use multiple decks to make counting harder, which is why converting to true count is crucial. The concentration of high cards matters most—it boosts player blackjacks and profitable doubles.

Beyond Counting: Keys to Success Against Casinos

Memorizing a count and basic strategy chart is just the start. Successful card counters train extensively, practice proper bankroll management to survive swings, camouflage their betting patterns to evade surveillance, choose games with player-friendly rules, and maintain emotional discipline during ups and downs.

Ready to practice your edge? Check out these current blackjack tournaments:

Latest Bonuses