Let’s play some live blackjack, shall we!
We’ve done some digging and come up with a list of the top casinos offering live blackjack to players from the US.
You can rest assured that these operators have the stamp of approval from our team of casino lovers, who have vetted them for quality, reputation, security, and so on. You just have to take our word for it!
100% deposit match up to $1,000
- Exclusive games like MGM Bonus City
- Rewards program with redeemable points
- More than 1500 other games
Live Blackjack vs. Regular Online Blackjack
While both live blackjack and regular online blackjack follow similar rules, there are some key differences between the two:
Realism and Social Interaction
The most significant difference between live blackjack and regular online blackjack is the level of realism and social interaction. With live blackjack, players can see and interact with a real-life dealer and sometimes even other players through a chat feature. This adds to the immersive experience of playing at a land-based casino.
Speed and Convenience
Regular online blackjack tends to be faster-paced than live blackjack as there is no waiting time for other players to make their decisions. Additionally, regular online blackjack offers the convenience of being accessible anytime and anywhere, unlike live blackjack, which has set operating hours.
Betting Limits
Live blackjack often caters to high rollers with higher betting limits compared to regular online blackjack. This can make it more challenging for recreational players with smaller budgets.
Fairness and Security
Both live blackjack and regular online blackjack use random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fair gameplay. However, some players may feel more secure seeing the game unfold in real-time with a human dealer rather than relying on an algorithm.
How to Play Live Blackjack
The objective of live blackjack is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. The game uses a standard deck of 52 cards and follows similar rules as regular online blackjack. However, the presence of a real-life dealer and other players adds an extra layer of excitement to the game.
To start playing live blackjack, you must first place your bets. You can do so by selecting the chip value and placing it in the designated betting area on the virtual table. Once all players have placed their bets, the dealer will deal two cards to each player face-up and two cards to themselves, one face-up and one face-down.
The values of the cards are as follows: numbered cards are worth their face value, all face cards (King, Queen, Jack) are worth 10 points, and Aces can be counted as either 1 or 11 points depending on which is more advantageous for the player’s hand.
After receiving their two initial cards, you have several options to choose from:
- Hit: Request an additional card from the dealer.
- Stand: Keep the current hand and end your turn.
- Double Down: Double the initial bet and receive one more card.
- Split: If the first two cards are a pair, players can split them into two hands and play each separately with an additional bet equal to the original.
Once all players have made their decisions, the dealer will reveal their face-down card. If their total is 17 or higher, they must stand. If it’s 16 or lower, they must hit. The winner is then determined by comparing the values of each player’s hand to the dealer’s hand.
Variations of Live Blackjack
One of the reasons live blackjack remains a popular choice among casino players is its various variations. These versions offer different rules and side bets, keeping the game fresh and exciting for every round. Some common variations include:
VIP/High Roller Blackjack
VIP/high roller live blackjack is a version of live blackjack that caters to high rollers and players who prefer larger betting limits. This variation offers an elevated and exclusive experience for those looking to play with higher stakes. Minimum bets can range from $50 to $1000.
In addition to higher betting limits, VIP/high roller live blackjack often includes exclusive perks like dedicated tables, personalized customer support, and faster withdrawals. However, with higher stakes comes higher risk, so proper bankroll management is crucial.
Double Exposure Blackjack
Double exposure live blackjack adds an exciting twist to traditional blackjack rules. In this version, both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face-up, giving players more information to make strategic decisions. However, there’s no insurance option, and players must work harder to reach 21 without going bust. Side bets, such as Perfect Pairs and 21+3, can add extra excitement and potential payouts.
Spanish 21
Spanish 21 uses a Spanish deck, removing all four 10s from the deck, which increases the house edge. Players have additional options like late surrender, doubling down on any number of cards, and bonus payouts for specific combinations like a 5-card hand totaling 21. Despite its challenges, Spanish 21 is a fun variation for players seeking something different.
Final Thoughts
Live blackjack offers an immersive and dynamic gaming experience, with the added excitement of interacting with a live dealer. Whether you prefer classic rules or unique variations like VIP blackjack, double exposure, or Spanish 21, live blackjack provides endless entertainment for players of all skill levels.

Claire Said
Casino Expert

Val C. Martinez
Founder of BettingLadies.com