When to Split in Blackjack & Blackjack Strategy Card

You’re at the blackjack table and feeling lucky, but the dealer deals you a pair. Now what?

Knowing when to split can make or break your game. Splitting doubles your bets but also doubles your chances to win.

In this article, we’ll break down the strategy behind splitting so you can avoid busting and maximize the value of your hand. Whether you’re at casinos or playing on a site online, keep this guide handy because it will help you make the right call when you’re faced with the same two cards.

What does split mean?

For starters, what does it mean to split in blackjack, exactly? This is the blackjack split explained.

Imagine when you play blackjack, you’re dealt two same-value cards, like two 8s or two aces. Instead of playing them as one hand, you can split them into two separate hands. If you do so, you’ll need to place a second bet equal to your original wager. Now, you’ve got two hands to play. From there, each hand plays separately; you’ll draw one card per new hand and continue as usual.

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When should I split?

If any player advises you to split every pair, tell them to tell that to Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Not every pair is worth splitting, But when the time is right, it can turn a weak hand into a power couple.

Always split 8s and Aces

This one’s non-negotiable: always split aces and always split eights – and we’re not just splitting hairs here.

An ace is one of the most valuable cards in blackjack. A pair of aces gives you two chances to draw a second card that could result in a blackjack, especially if you draw a face card. Otherwise, you’re stuck with a sad 12 (11+1).

A pair of eights is one of the worst totals in blackjack (16), so regardless of the dealer’s card, splitting gives you the best chance to improve.

Splitting 7s, 3s, or 2s

A split pair of 7s, 3s, or 2s can turn a weak hand into something playable, but only if the dealer shows a low card (2-7). If the dealer is showing something stronger, keep your bet small and hit instead.

Splitting 6s

A pair of 6s is tricky. Against a dealer with a low card (2-6), splitting gives you a shot at turning two bad hands into something decent. But if the dealer has a high card, like 7 or higher, you’re in trouble. In most cases, it’s best to hit and hope your additional card saves the day.

Splitting 9s

Splitting 9s is a bit of a gray area that depends heavily on what the dealer is showing.

If the dealer has a low card (2 through 6) or an 8 or 9, go ahead and split. The dealer is in a weak position and more likely to bust, giving you the best chance to turn your 9s into two strong hands. However, if the dealer shows a 7, 10, or ace, stand. Your 18 is already solid, and the dealer is more likely to have a strong hand.

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When should I not split?

Not every pair is worth breaking up. Some splits might look tempting, but in reality, they’re one of the biggest rookie blackjack mistakes that put you at a higher risk of losing.

Don’t split 10s or 5s

Many players ask about when to split 10s in blackjack, and the answer is: don’t.

A pair of 10s is already 20, which is a powerhouse in blackjack. Breaking it up is like throwing away a winning hand just to chase something riskier. No matter what the dealer shows, keeping your 20 gives you the best odds to win.

A pair of 5s is another no-go. Together, they make 10, which is perfect for doubling down if the dealer shows a low card. Splitting them leaves you with two weak hands, increasing your risk of a bust. Trust the odds and keep these pairs together to maximize your value.

Don’t split 4s

A pair of 4s isn’t a great start, but splitting them makes it worse. If you draw one of the numerous face cards (and there are many when you play with multiple decks), you’ll end up with two hands of 14 – a nightmare in blackjack.

Instead, hit and hope for an additional card that turns your hand around. The only exception is if the dealer shows a 5 or 6 and the house rules allow you to double after splitting; then it might be worth considering. Otherwise, keep your 4s together and play it safe.

Follow Blackjack Strategy Charts

If you want to play blackjack with the highest possible chance of return, you need to follow a strategy. A blackjack strategy chart tells you exactly when to split, hit, stand, or double down based on what the dealer shows; it’s based on hard math, not a lucky feeling. Many casinos even allow you to keep a chart at the table, so there’s no reason to wing it.

Is splitting worth it in blackjack?

Absolutely – when done right. When you have two of the same card in blackjack, splitting can be one of the smartest playing decisions, as long as it’s appropriate. It increases your hand’s value and gives you a better chance to beat the house. But just like any strategy, knowing when to split and when to hold your hand is key, so never forsake the holy blackjack chart.

Blackjack Splitting Tips

Understanding when and when not to split in blackjack is just the beginning; you also have to understand the game’s rules and strategies to maximize its value. These are some tips to save you money when it comes to splitting.

Know the rules: Can you double down after a split?

Not all blackjack variations treat splitting the same way. Some let you double down after a split, while others don’t, and that one rule can change everything. For example, if you can double after splitting, break up 3s and 2s if the dealer shows a weak card of 2 or 3. Otherwise, keep them as-is to minimize risk.

Double-Check Surrender Rules & Basic Strategy Deviation

If surrender is allowed, it can sometimes be the better choice over a split. For example, if the dealer has an ace and you have two eights, some strategies suggest surrendering instead of splitting. This depends on whether the casino follows H17 or S17 rules, AKA whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17, which impacts the house edge.

Also, some games increase your risk by limiting how many times you can split, which means you might need to tweak your strategy.

Conclusion

Before we split, let’s recap this article: blackjack offers one of the lowest house edges of all table games when done right. Whether it’s splitting aces or avoiding 10s, these tips can help you beat the dealer and boost your winning potential. Keep this guide in your back pocket and put your skills to the test with blackjack at Cafe Casino. Now – split!