Knowing the differences helps you make smarter decisions and enjoy the game with more confidence
Live dealer blackjack brings the excitement of a real casino straight to your screen, and among the most common types players come across are European and American blackjack. While the core gameplay is similar, the rules have a few key differences that can change how a hand plays out.
In both versions, the goal remains the same: beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. But what sets the two apart starts with how the cards are dealt. In American blackjack, the dealer gets two cards right away—one face up and one face down (called the hole card).
If the face-up card is an Ace or a ten-value card, the dealer checks the hole card for blackjack immediately. If they have it, the hand ends before you make any decisions, which saves you from losing more money by doubling or splitting in a lost cause.
In contrast, European blackjack is a little less forgiving. The dealer only gets one card at the start, and the second card isn’t dealt until all players have finished their hands. That means even if you double or split, you could still lose to a hidden blackjack once the dealer’s second card is revealed. This small change affects your strategy and the risk involved in certain moves.
Other differences can include how many decks are used and when the dealer must hit or stand. European blackjack usually uses fewer decks and often requires the dealer to stand on a soft 17, while American versions might use more decks and allow hitting on soft 17.
Both types offer a real-time experience with live dealers, and the version you choose depends on how much risk you’re comfortable taking.
