Card Counting (Hi-Lo)
Track the ratio of high cards to low cards to know when the deck favors you.
What is Card Counting?
Card counting is a technique that tracks the ratio of high cards to low cards remaining in the deck. The Hi-Lo system is the most popular method, where you assign values to cards and maintain a "running count" as cards are dealt.
When the count is positive (more high cards remaining), you have an advantage and should bet more. When negative (more low cards remaining), the dealer has the advantage and you should bet minimum.
How it Works
In the Hi-Lo system, every card is assigned a value. You keep a "Running Count" by adding these values as cards are dealt.
How It Improves Your Odds
With Basic Strategy Only:
House edge: ~0.5%
With Card Counting:
Player edge: +0.5% to +1.5% (when count is favorable)
Card counting turns the tables! Instead of the casino having an edge, YOU have the advantage when the count is positive. This is why casinos ban card counters.
Why it Works
High cards (10s and Aces) favor the player because they increase the chance of Blackjacks (paying 3:2) and dealer busts. Low cards favor the dealer.
Positive Count = Bet More
Negative Count = Bet Minimum
Speed Count Drill
Press Play to start
True Count
The Running Count must be adjusted for the number of decks remaining. This is the "True Count".