What is Double Down in Blackjack?
Doubling down in blackjack casinos means placing a second bet equal to the original and standing after hitting.
Usually, once the dealer shares the first two cards, you’ll find the option to double alongside hit and stand. When you select it, the dealer will give you one more card and then you stand. You can’t hit anymore. Next, the dealer will uncover their downcard, and you compare for the winner.
For instance, you placed a $100 bet in blackjack, and the dealer dealt the first round of cards. You can double and add another $100 to your bet, taking the total to $200. Also, you’ll receive another card, which gets you a 3-card hand. Now, you wait for the dealer to reveal their downcard and hit if necessary. If you win, your payout will be calculated based on the total $200 bet. Likewise, if the dealer’s hand is better, you lose the entire $200.
Follow our guide and learn how to use this blackjack strategy.
When to Double Down in Blackjack
From the previous explanation, it’s clear doubling down in blackjack requires a large bankroll. If you bet $500 and double, your bet becomes $1,000. Of course, without enough chips to cover the second bet, you can’t make the move. This is the primary reason some players don’t double down since it’s relatively risky.
However, with high risk comes high profits. So, if you double down at the right time, you can score significant winnings. Drawing from expert research, here are the best situations in blackjack when a double down can be a perfect move:
When You Have a Total of 11
With an 11, you’re close to hitting 21 if you land any 10-value card. Hence, you’re in a powerful position to double and increase your bet. You may not get a 10, but any card value can easily create a strong hand.
When You Have a Total of 10
Similar to an 11 hand, having a 10 is also ideal for doubling down. However, you’ll have to consider the dealer’s upcard. If it’s weak — say 2 to 9 — you have a better chance of winning with one more card.
When You Have a Total of 9
It’s okay to double down a 9-value hand if the dealer’s upcard is very weak. Specifically, it’s recommended the upcard be 3 to 6, as such a hand puts the dealer in a vulnerable position. They may need to hit twice to reach 17, which means a high chance of bursting.
When You Have a Soft 16 to 18
This implies a hand with an Ace and 5, 6, or 17. The Ace can count as 1 or 11, so if you double and get an extra card, you can’t burst. If your hand gets over 21, the Ace simply becomes one. However, if it doesn’t cross 21, it’ll be pretty close, meaning you still have a solid winning chance
When Not to Double Down in Blackjack
To perfect the double-down strategy, it’s not enough to only learn when it’s ideal. You’ll also want to know situations where it’s straight-up unadvisable, such as:
When You Have a Hard 12 or Higher
Hitting on a hand totaling 12 or more without an ace is usually risky. If you double down, the risk amplifies as you’ve increased your bet. So, it’s best to avoid the move altogether.
When the Dealer Has a Strong Upcard
A strong upcard, in this case, implies a 7, 8, 9, 10, or Ace. With such a hand, the dealer is in a much better position with a low chance of bursting. At most, they’ll have to hit once after revealing the downcard. So, you can minimize the risk of losing by not doubling down.
When Your Hand is Soft and Not 16-18
Doubling down isn't the best move if you have a soft 12 to 15, 19, or higher. That’s because you have a low chance of getting a strong hand with an extra card. The best move is to stand and let the dealer uncover the downcard.
What to Look for When Doubling Down
When playing strategic card games like blackjack, it’s ideal to pay attention to your real-time situation. You can follow the earlier tips on the best and least ideal moments to double down.
However, always consider these factors first:
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Table Rules: Casino software providers create blackjack games with varying table rules, and most are specific to moves like doubling down. For instance, some blackjack versions restrict doubling down to only hands with 9, 10, or 11. Meanwhile, others allow it on any two cards. It’s essential to check and confirm so you know how to plan your strategy.
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Bankroll: Doubling down means increasing your bet, and you can win or lose. As a responsible gambler, always consider the worst that can happen — which is losing. If your bankroll can’t handle the loss, don’t make the move.
Bottom Line
So far, you’ll agree doubling down isn’t exactly complex. Going for the option is risky since you have to place a second bet. However, it can also be worthwhile if applied at the right time. So, follow our tips on when and when not to double down to capitalize on the move at the perfect moment. At the same time, don’t skip considering factors such as your bankroll and table rules.
FAQs
Can you Double Down after Hitting?
Can you Split and Double Down?
Should you Always Double Down on 11?
How do you Signal a Double Down?
Can you double anything in blackjack?
Ijeoma Esther is an iGaming content writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the New Zealand mobile casino industry. While initially diving into online casino gaming as a hobby, she soon found herself immersed in the enthralling world of mobile slot and live casino games.Through the years, she discovered that writing about her favorite pokies was just as fun as playing them.
