21+3 Blackjack Side Bet Meaning, Odds & Payout Explained

If you’ve ever played Blackjack, you might have seen something called the “21+3” side bet. This exciting option combines elements of Blackjack and poker, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the game. 

In simple terms, the 21+3 side bet considers your first two cards and the dealer’s face-up card. The aim is to make a three-card poker hand from these cards, and if they do, then you win the side bet. Popular hands include a flush, straight, or three-of-a-kind. 

This side bet offers various payout options, depending on the strength of your poker hand. The odds and payouts can vary, but typically, flushes pay less, while three-of-a-kind pays the most. 

Understanding the 21+3 side bet can help you decide whether placing this side bet is for you. Keep reading to find out exactly how it works, what your chances are, and how much you could win. 

What Is 21+3 In Blackjack?

The 21+3 side bet is an additional wager you can place while playing Blackjack. It combines elements from both Blackjack and three-card poker. You are essentially betting on your first two cards and the dealer’s face-up card forming a poker hand when taken together. 

Here’s how it works. You make the side bet before any cards are dealt. Once the cards are on the table, you check your two cards and the dealer’s face-up card. You’re looking for poker hands like a flush (three cards of the same suit), a straight (three cards in numerical sequence), or three of a kind (three cards of the same rank). 

A winning 21+3 bet can offer different payouts, depending on the strength of the hand you’ve made. It adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to your regular Blackjack game. 

Keep reading to learn more about the specific odds and payouts tied to the 21+3 side bet, so you can decide if this feature is right for you. 

21+3 Blackjack Rules

The 21+3 side bet follows simple rules that enhance your Blackjack experience. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand how it works. 

Placing the Bet

Before any cards are dealt, you place your main Blackjack bet as usual. Additionally, you can choose to place a side bet on the 21+3 option. This amount is separate from your main bet, so whether you win or lose, the side bet doesn’t affect the main Blackjack round. 

Evaluating the Hand

After all bets are placed, the dealer deals the cards. You receive your two cards, and the dealer shows one face-up card. To determine the success of the 21+3 bet, these three cards are viewed together to see if they form a poker hand. 

Types of Hands

The common hands you’re aiming for are: 

• Flush: Three cards of the same suit
• Straight: Three cards in sequential order
• Three of a Kind: Three cards of the same rank
• Straight Flush: Three sequential cards of the same suit
• Suited Trips: Three of a kind, all of the same suit (e.g., three Queens of Hearts)

Payouts

If your cards form any of these hands, you win the 21+3 bet. The payout varies depending on the rules of the specific Blackjack game and the strength of the hand, with higher payouts for rarer combinations. 

Knowing these basic rules can help you navigate the 21+3 side bet and decide whether to include it as part of your Blackjack gameplay. Keep reading for more details on the odds and potential payouts of this side bet. 

21+3 Blackjack Odds & Payouts

Understanding the odds and payouts for the 21+3 side bet can help you decide if it’s worth placing that extra wager. 

Odds

The odds for the 21+3 side bet can vary slightly based on the specific rules of the casino, but here’s a rough idea of how often you can expect to hit each hand in a six-deck game: 

• Flush: 0.058
• Straight: 0.031
• Three of a Kind: 0.005
• Straight Flush: 0.0021
• Suited Trips: 0.00021

Payouts

The payouts range depending on the strength of the poker hand and the specific rules of the game you’re playing. However, here are some common payouts: 

• Flush: 5 to 1
• Straight: 10 to 1
• Three of a Kind: 30 to 1
• Straight Flush: 40 to 1
• Suited Trips: 100 to 1

Of course, exact payouts can differ between casinos, so it’s always good to check the specific rules where you play. 

By knowing these odds and payouts, you can make a more informed decision about whether to place the 21+3 side bet in your next Blackjack game. 

Is 21+3 a Good Bet?

Deciding whether the 21+3 side bet is a good idea depends on your own individual preferences. Here are some factors to consider if you’re trying to decide whether this side bet suits you:

Entertainment Value

If you’re looking to shake things up and add some excitement to your Blackjack game, the 21+3 side bet may be worth considering as an option. It introduces a new element to the classic game, bringing in elements of another beloved card game, potentially making each round more interesting. 

Chance of Winning

Keep in mind that, like any side bet, the 21+3 bet has its own risks. The odds of hitting a winning hand are lower compared to the main Blackjack game. This means you might not win as often, so it’s important to play responsibly and consider your budget when deciding whether to place this side bet. 

Payouts

On the upside, if you do win, the payouts can be quite rewarding compared to those in the main Blackjack game, especially for rarer hands like suited trips. However, it’s essential to remember that higher payouts usually mean there are lower chances of hitting those hands. 

House Edge

The house edge for the 21+3 bet is higher than for the main Blackjack game. In standard Blackjack, it can range from around 0.5% up to 4%, whereas for the 21+3 side bet, it’s around 13.4%. This means it favours the casino more. If you’re playing for the long term, this is something to consider. 

Ultimately, whether the 21+3 side bet is good for you depends on your preference for risk and entertainment. Make sure to gamble responsibly and within your budget. 

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*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.