6 to 5 Blackjack Risks: Why It’s a Bad Deal for Players

6 to 5 blackjack might seem like a sweet deal, but experts say it's not. 

Even though the idea of a single deck and faster play sounds great, the lower payout on a blackjack gives the casino a bigger advantage. In this post, we’ll explain 6 to 5 blackjack rules and why it’s better to steer clear if you want to win more. Keep reading!

6 to 5 Blackjack: A Great Deal or a Risky Trap?

6 to 5 blackjack is a variation of the standard blackjack game where a natural blackjack pays out at odds of 6 to 5 instead of the traditional 3 to 2.

Below’s a 6 to 5 blackjack payout chart:

The above chart shows that, if you bet $10 and get a blackjack:

• In a 6 to 5 table, you win $12 (6/5 × $10).
• In a traditional 3 to 2 game, you would win $15 (3/2 × $10).

As of now, many Vegas casinos have used 6 to 5 single-deck blackjack instead of the 3 to 2 payout as a way to increase the house edge. By lowering the payout on a natural blackjack, they can reduce player winnings on a natural blackjack, which means more profit for the house.

Even though this ratio is more favorable to the house, why do many people still participate in 6 to 5 blackjack variations? 

This variation is common at lower-stakes tables, attracting casual players who prefer smaller bets. Casinos know that these players often focus on the appeal of a single-deck game or lower minimums and may overlook the payout difference.

• Single-deck games give better odds because fewer cards make it easier to track which ones have been played. 
• To balance this, casinos often reduce the payout to 6 to 5 and may restrict options like doubling after a split, which limits the player's chance to maximize a good hand.

Even when doubling is allowed, the player’s advantage remains low compared to the house. So, despite the appeal of lower bets or single decks, 6 to 5 blackjack is less profitable for players and benefits the house more.

In essence, 6 to 5 blackjack is not as profitable for the player as advertised. Instead, it is more beneficial for the casino. Therefore, it’s not a game to choose even if you like lower minimum bets.

Blackjack 6 to 5 vs. 3 to 2: Which is a Better Choice?

The main difference between Blackjack 6 to 5 and 3 to 2 is how much you win when you get a natural blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card). In 6:5 blackjack, a natural blackjack pays less, with a 6 to 5 payout odd.

You should look for blackjack games that pay 3 to 2 because you’ll get a better payout on your winning hands.

6 to 5 Blackjack Reduces the Player's Chances

To help you see how the profits differ, here is a table summarizing the house edges and payouts of these two ratios:

The 6 to 5 blackjack rule means you lose about $3 in winnings for each natural blackjack. With 3:2 payouts, you can earn more and balance out other losses in the game. In 6:5 games, even when you have the best hand, you get paid less, making it harder to come out ahead.

The 6 to 5 Blackjack House Edge is High

With 3 to 2 odds in blackjack, the house edge is about 0.5%. This means if you bet $100, you can expect to lose around $0.50 on average. How ever 6 to 5 blackjack house edge rises to around 1.45%. So, for every $100 you bet, you would lose about $1.45. This difference may seem small, but it grows over time, especially with larger bets.

Casinos try to make 6 to 5 blackjack more attractive by offering single-deck games and allowing doubling after splits. These features can draw in casual players who want a faster and simpler game. However, the lower payout in 6 to 5 actually benefits the casino more than the player.

When you choose a blackjack table, it’s important to understand the difference between 6 to 5 and 3 to 2 payouts. In 6 to 5 blackjack, the game may seem easier and faster, especially if you’re new. But this version gives a lower payout for a natural blackjack. This means that, over time, you will win less money.

If you want a better chance to keep more of your winnings, you should pick a table that offers 3 to 2 payouts. A natural blackjack at a 3 to 2 table rewards you more for each winning hand, making it a smarter option in the long run.

Blackjack Tips & Tricks for Small Budget Players

If you're playing blackjack on a tight budget, here are some tips to help you enjoy the game without overspending and to keep things as fair as possible:

• Look for tables with low minimum bets during off-peak hours: Look for $5 or lower minimum bet tables during off-peak hours. Online casinos often offer even lower limits, like $0.50 or $1.
• Take advantage of bonuses: Take advantage of welcome bonuses or free chips, but always check the terms. Some require you to wager 30x or 40x before withdrawing winnings.
• Set a strict budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. If you win, consider playing with just your profit, keeping your original budget safe.
• Improve your skills: Rather than playing 6 to 5 blackjack, which offers lower payouts, you should learn basic blackjack strategies, like when to hit, stand, or double down. 
• Look for 3:2 single-deck tables: Some reputable casinos still offer single-deck blackjack with a 3:2 payout (with some tweaked rules to balance the house and player advantage). These games give you better odds, but they’re less common. For more details on single-deck blackjack and why it’s a better choice, check out this article!

FAQs

Why do Casinos Use 6 to 5 Blackjack Odds?

Casinos use 6 to 5 odds to increase their profit by lowering player payouts on blackjack hands. It gives them a bigger edge, but it still attracts casual players who might not notice or understand how much less they’re winning compared to 3 to 2 tables.

Should You Play 6 to 5 Blackjack Online?

It’s better to skip 6 to 5 blackjack online. The lower payout means you’ll win less when you hit blackjack.

How to Recognize a Blackjack Table with Better Odds?

To spot a table with better odds, look for one that advertises a 3 to 2 payout for blackjack to have higher returns when you hit 21. Just check the rules on the table or game description for details on the payouts before you sit down.

6 to 5 blackjack can really decrease your chances of winning because, unlike the traditional 3 to 2 payout, the 6 to 5 version gives you less money for a blackjack. So, you should stick to other tables instead of 6 to 5 blackjack. Remember, you should always manage your money and playing time wisely!