The 21+3 side bet has become super popular because of the big payouts. It’s a mix of blackjack and poker, a new and fun way to play. Focusing on poker hands like straights, flushes, and three of a kind, the 21+3 side bet is for everyone, casual or experienced. Knowing the rules, odds, and strategies for 21+3 blackjack is key to making the most of this fun side bet.
Understanding What is 21+3 Blackjack Side Bet
21+3 in blackjack is a side bet where you try to make a winning combination with your first two cards and the dealer’s upcard. These combinations are straights, flushes, three-of-a-kind, and more. If you make any of these hands, you win the 21+3 side bet.
Key Point: The 21+3 side bet has big rewards but a higher house edge. It’s pure chance and adds extra fun to the regular blackjack game.
The 21+3 side bet is separate from the main game and has multiple payout options depending on the hand combinations.
How the 21+3 Side Bet Works
When you make a 21+3 side bet, you are betting that your two cards and the dealer’s up card will make a poker-style hand. These can be as simple as a flush to the highly rewarding suited three of a kind. The payouts are based on the odds of the hand, so there’s excitement in every round.
Objective: The goal of the 21+3 side bet is to form one of the designated poker-like hands—the more challenging the combination, the higher the payout.
Common Hands and Combinations
Here’s a breakdown of the common hands you can achieve with a 21+3 side bet, along with the associated probabilities and standard payouts:
- Flush (5:1 Payout)
- Description: All three cards are of the same suit.
- Example: 7♦, K♦, 3♦.
- Probability: 5.9%
- Straight (10:1 Payout)
- Description: Three cards in numerical sequence, regardless of suit.
- Example: 5♠, 6♥, 7♦.
- Probability: 3.1%
- Three of a Kind (30:1 Payout)
- Description: Three cards of the same rank but different suits.
- Example: Q♠, Q♦, Q♣.
- Probability: 0.5%
- Straight Flush (40:1 Payout)
- Description: Three cards in numerical sequence and of the same suit.
- Example: 4♥, 5♥, 6♥.
- Probability: 0.2%
- Suited Three of a Kind (100:1 Payout)
- Description: Three identical cards of the same rank and suit.
- Example: A♠, A♠, A♠.
- Probability: 0.01%
Statistical Overview and House Edge
- House Edge: The house edge for the 21+3 side bet is typically higher than that for the main blackjack game, ranging from 3% to 10%, depending on the specific rules and variations offered by the casino.
- Chances of Winning: The most common win, a flush, occurs roughly 5.9% of the time, whereas the rarest hand, the suited three of a kind, has a probability of just 0.01%.Fact: Due to the high house edge, the 21+3 side bet is considered a high-risk option. Players are encouraged to enjoy it as an entertaining side bet rather than relying on it for consistent wins.
21+3 blackjack bet offers a thrilling and potentially lucrative element to your blackjack experience. While it comes with higher risks, the chance to win big payouts makes it a popular choice for those seeking more excitement at the blackjack table. Understanding the odds, probabilities, and payouts is crucial to making the most of this side bet.
How to Bet 21+3
Blackjack Betting 21+3 is easy and adds to the fun of the game. This bet is made before the cards are dealt and paid out based on poker-style hands using your two cards and the dealer’s up card. Here’s how to do it.
How to Bet 21+3
- Find the Side-Bet Area
Most blackjack tables have a side bet marked with a circle labeled “21+3.” This area is next to the main bet area. The layout varies by casino, but the side bet area is usually to the right or left of the main bet area.
- Put Your Chips
- Decide how much you want to bet on 21+3 before the dealer deals any cards.
- Put your chips in the side-bet circle.
- Minimum and Maximum: Casinos have specific limits for side bets, such as $1 minimum and $100 maximum for 21+3. Always check the limits before you bet, as they can vary between tables and casinos.
- Wait for the Dealer to Reveal
Once all bets are made, the dealer will deal 2 cards to each player and 1 face-up card to themselves. After the cards are dealt the 21+3 side bet is resolved based on the 3 cards: your 2 cards and the dealer’s up card.
Win or Lose: If the 3 cards form one of the qualifying poker hands (flush, straight, 3 of a kind) you win according to the payout table. Otherwise, the side bet loses.
21+3 Side Bet Facts
- House Edge: The house edge for 21+3 can be 3% to 10%, depending on the casino. This is much higher than the house edge for the main blackjack game, which can be as low as 0.5% with optimal strategy.
- Payouts: The payouts are big for winning combinations. A suited 3 of a kind pays 100:1. So a $5 bet could win $500 if you get this hand.
Example
You bet $10 main and $5 side. You get 8♣ and 9♣ and the dealer’s up card is 10♣, you have a Straight Flush. 40:1 payout, you win $200 on your $5 side bet. This is an example of the excitement and reward of the 21+3 side bet, but remember that this is rare.
21+3 Side Bet Tips
- Check the Table Rules: Always know the house rules and payout table, as this will affect your strategy and wins.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Since the house edge is higher, be careful with your bankroll. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and don’t rely on the 21+3 side bet to win consistently.
- Know Your Chances: Knowing the probability of getting different hands will help you set your expectations. For example, the chance of getting a Straight Flush is 0.2%, and a Flush is 5.9%.
Did You Know?
Side bets like 21+3 are meant to add fun and variety to the game but come with more risk. While they can pay big, they should be treated as entertainment not a way to win consistently.
Now you know! 🎲️️️️️️️️️
The Odds and Probability of Winning a 21+3 Side Bet
The 21+3 side bet in blackjack carries a higher house edge than the main game, generally between 3% and 10%, depending on the casino’s rules. This makes it a higher-risk option with the potential for substantial payouts.
Common 21+3 Hand Probabilities and Payouts
The odds of forming each winning hand affect both the rarity and the payout, as shown below:
- Flush (5:1): Probability of 5.9%
- Straight (10:1): Probability of 3.1%
- Three of a Kind (30:1): Probability of 0.5%
- Straight Flush (40:1): Probability of 0.2%
- Suited Three of a Kind (100:1): Probability of 0.01%
Key Takeaways
- High House Edge: Higher than the main game, meaning it’s riskier.
- Rare Big Wins: Hands like Suited Three of a Kind are extremely rare (0.01% chance) but offer high payouts.
- Primarily Luck-Based: Unlike regular blackjack, the 21+3 side bet is purely chance, making it more of a gamble than a strategic play.
Payouts for 21+3 Side Bet Combinations
The 21+3 side bet offers varying payouts based on the specific combination of poker-style hands formed. These payouts reflect the rarity and difficulty of achieving each combination, adding an element of excitement to the game.
Breakdown of Payouts
- Flush (5:1 Payout)
- Example: 7♦, K♦, 3♦
- Payout: Typically 5:1
- Payout Calculation: If you wager $10 and hit a flush, you’d receive $10 x 5 = $50.
- Straight (10:1 Payout)
- Example: 5♠, 6♥, 7♦
- Payout: Typically 10:1
- Payout Calculation: A $10 bet with a straight win yields $10 x 10 = $100.
- Three of a Kind (30:1 Payout)
- Example: Q♠, Q♦, Q♣
- Payout: Typically 30:1
- Payout Calculation: A $10 bet wins $10 x 30 = $300.
- Straight Flush (40:1 Payout)
- Example: 4♥, 5♥, 6♥
- Payout: Typically 40:1
- Payout Calculation: A $10 wager wins $10 x 40 = $400.
- Suited Three of a Kind (100:1 Payout)
- Example: A♠, A♠, A♠
- Payout: Typically 100:1
- Payout Calculation: A $10 bet yields $10 x 100 = $1,000.
Example Calculation
If you place a $5 side bet and win with a Straight Flush, you would earn $5 x 40 = $200. This demonstrates the high-reward potential of the 21+3 side bet, even though achieving these combinations can be rare.
Strategy Tips for 21+3 Blackjack
While 21+3 is a game of chance, there are some strategies to managing your risk. By understanding the odds, using the side bet sparingly, and keeping your bankroll in check, you can enjoy the experience.
1. Understand the Odds and House Edge
The odds and house edge for the 21+3 side bet are much higher than the main blackjack game. The house edge can be 3% to 10%, which means the online casino has a big advantage. Here’s why that matters:
- High Risk: The higher house edge means you will lose side bets more often than the main game over time.
- Probability of Winning: For example the probability of getting a common hand like a Flush is 5.9% and a rare hand like Suited Three of a Kind is 0.01% (1 in 10,000 hands).
2. Use Side Bets Sparingly
Because of the high house edge it’s best to use side bets when you’re comfortable taking a risk. Use side bets:
- When You’re Ahead: If you’ve won a few hands and have extra money, use the side bet to add some excitement.
- For Entertainment: Treat the 21+3 side bet as entertainment rather than a winning strategy. Remember the payouts are good but the odds of winning big are low.
3. Manage Your Bankroll
Bankroll management is key when using 21+3 side bets. Here’s how:
- Set a Side Bet Budget: Allocate a portion of your bankroll for side bets and stick to it. For example if you have a $100 session bankroll you might allocate $10-$15 for side bets.
- Don’t Chase Losses: Don’t increase your side bets to recover losses. Stick to your budget as chasing losses can lead to overbetting.
- Bet Small: Because of the high risk it’s best to bet small compared to your main bet.
4. Know the Table Rules
Payouts and rules for the 21+3 side bet can vary between casinos and tables. Knowing these variations can help:
- Different Payout Structures: Some casinos may have different odds for combinations which can affect your winnings. For example, a table may pay 9:1 for a Straight instead of the standard 10:1.
- Rule Variations: Make sure you know any rule changes affecting the house edge or handling side bets.
Did You Know?
The probability of getting a high-paying hand like a Straight Flush is 0.2%, which means it happens roughly once every 500 hands. Knowing these odds will help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the thrill of the 21+3 side bet while minimizing potential losses and maximizing your overall blackjack experience.
Pros and Cons of the 21+3 Blackjack Side Bet
The 21+3 side bet can be fun, but it comes with big risks. Here are the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros | Cons |
Exciting Gameplay 1. The 21+3 side bet adds an extra layer of excitement as you wait to see if your cards and the dealers up card make a winning hand. 2. It’s fun for players who like a mix of blackjack and poker. | High House Edge 1. The house edge for the 21+3 side bet is much higher than that for the main blackjack game, 3% to 10%. So, it’s a riskier option, as the odds are more in the casino’s favor. 2. You’ll lose more often than in the main game. |
High Payout 1. The side bet has big payouts, 5:1 for a Flush to 100:1 for a Suited Three of a Kind. Example: A $5 side bet can pay $500 if you hit the rare Suited Three of a Kind. Good for those chasing big wins. | Unpredictable 1. There’s no way to influence the outcome of the 21+3 side bet, as it’s all about the cards dealt. Unlike blackjack, where skill and strategy can impact the game, the side bet is pure luck. 2. This can be annoying for players who like games where strategy counts. |
Variety in Blackjack 1. The 21+3 side bet adds variety to regular blackjack, breaks up the monotony of the game and attracts players who want more action. 2. For players who like to mix and match different card games. | Quick Losses 1. Losses can add up fast if you’re betting the side bet regularly. The high house edge and the luck of the draw can burn through your bankroll quickly. 2. Be smart with your bets, and don’t get caught up in the big payouts. |
FAQs
1. Is the 21+3 Side Bet Worth It?
It depends on your risk level. 21+3 adds fun and big wins but has a high house edge (3-10%). If you’re willing to take the risk for big wins, it might be worth it, but it’s more of a fun gamble than a smart bet.
2. How are 21+3 Blackjack Payouts Determined?
Payouts are based on the hand you make. Each winning hand (e.g. Flush 5:1 or Suited 3 of a Kind 100:1) has a set payout ratio by the casino. These ratios can vary slightly between tables and casinos.
3. Can I Win Consistently with 21+3?
No, 21+3 is a luck of the draw bet, the outcome is based on the cards dealt. Unlike the main blackjack game where strategy can reduce the house edge there is no way to win consistently with this side bet.
4. Can I use a strategy for 21+3?
No strategy can beat 21+3 as it’s all luck. The outcome is based on the randomness of the cards so it’s not affected by traditional blackjack strategies like card counting.
5. Does the 21+3 side bet affect the main game?
No, the 21+3 side bet is separate from the main game. Winning or losing the side bet has no effect on your main hand. You can still win or lose your main bet regardless of the side bet’s outcome.
6. Are the payouts for 21+3 the same everywhere?
Payouts can vary between casinos and tables. While most follow a standard structure (e.g. 5:1 for a Flush, 100:1 for a Suited Three of a Kind) some may have different odds. Always check the payout rules at the table you’re playing at.
7. Can beginners play the 21+3 side bet?
Yes, beginners can play the 21+3 side bet as it requires no blackjack strategy knowledge. It’s a simple bet based on luck of the draw so it’s open to all players.
8. What if the dealer has a blackjack?
The dealer’s blackjack has no effect on the 21+3 side bet. The side bet is settled based on the cards dealt initially.
Conclusion
21+3 side bet in blackjack is a nice extra thrill with big payouts, if you like the luck of the draw. With the high house edge, which is based on chance, it’s a risk but can be fun if you do it responsibly. Enjoy the fun, manage your bankroll, and treat 21+3 as a fun bet, not a winning strategy.
Note: Ballersbet is a betting platform for users 18+. Betting carries financial risk, so please gamble responsibly and make informed choices.
I’m a Michele, Casino Analyst and Reviewer at Ballersbet.com, where I specialize in providing honest insights and expert reviews of the latest casino games and platforms. With a passion for online gaming and a commitment to transparency, I strive to help players make informed decisions in the ever-evolving world of online casinos.