Top 9 Blackjack Types You Need to Learn

Blackjack is one of the most exciting casino games, but did you know there are many blackjack variations? Each version has unique rules, odds and strategies. In this blog, we’ll explore different types of blackjack, helping you choose the best option based on your skill level and preferences.

Top 9 Blackjack Variations

The most popular types of blackjack online include:

• American Blackjack
• European Blackjack
• Spanish 21
• Pontoon
• Super Fun 21
• Vegas Strip
• Blackjack Switch
• Perfect Pairs
• Atlantic City Blackjack

American Blackjack

American Blackjack is one of the most well-known versions of the game, usually played with six to eight decks. One helpful rule for players is that the dealer checks for blackjack right away if they’re showing an Ace or a 10-value card—this prevents players from losing extra bets unnecessarily.

You can double down on any two cards, giving you more flexibility, and if you get a pair, you’re allowed to split it up to three times. A key rule in this version is that the dealer has to stand on soft 17, which slightly boosts your chances. Insurance is offered if the dealer shows an Ace, though surrender usually isn’t an option in this variant.

European Blackjack

European Blackjack offers a slightly different take on the classic game and is usually played with two to eight decks. One of the main differences is that the dealer only gets one card at the start. The second card is dealt after all players have finished their turns, which adds a bit more suspense to each round.

You can double down, but only if your hand totals 9, 10, or 11—so it's a bit more restricted than in other versions. Splitting is allowed once, but you typically can’t re-split Aces. Also, in this version, there’s no surrender option and the dealer doesn’t check for blackjack early, which means you’ll have to be a little more cautious with your strategy.

Spanish 21

Spanish 21 is a lively twist on traditional blackjack that keeps things interesting. It’s usually played with six or eight decks, but here’s the catch—all the 10s are removed, which makes hitting 21 a bit trickier and slightly favors the house.

To make up for that, the game offers some exciting perks. You get bonus payouts for special hands, like making 21 with five or more cards. You can also double down on any number of cards, not just your first two, and you’re even allowed to surrender after doubling down—something you won’t find in standard blackjack. Just keep in mind that the dealer typically hits on soft 17, adding a bit more edge to their side.

Pontoon

Pontoon is a fun twist on classic blackjack, with its own set of rules and lingo. Instead of calling it a “blackjack,” the best hand—an Ace plus a 10-value card—is called a “Pontoon.” One big difference? The dealer keeps both cards face down until the round is over, adding a bit more mystery.

If your hand totals 14 or less, you’re required to hit—no playing it safe. You can double down whenever you like, even after hitting, which gives you more control. Splitting is allowed too, and if you manage to build a five-card hand without busting, that’s an automatic win. 

Super Fun 21

Super Fun 21 lives up to its name by offering a more relaxed, player-friendly take on traditional blackjack. It’s often played with one to six decks and gives you a lot more freedom in how you play your hand. You can double down whenever you want—even after splitting—and you’re allowed to surrender, even after doubling down, which isn't common in most blackjack games.

One of the coolest features? If you manage to build a six-card hand that totals 20 or less, you win automatically. Also, your blackjack always beats the dealer’s, no questions asked. The trade-off is that blackjack pays even money instead of the usual 3:2, but for many players, the added flexibility makes it worth it.

Vegas Strip

Vegas Strip Blackjack is a well-loved version of blackjack that’s fast-paced and packed with action. It’s played with four decks, and the rules are pretty friendly for players. The dealer has to stand on soft 17, and they’ll check for blackjack right away if showing an Ace or a 10-value card, which helps avoid surprises.

You can double down on any two cards—even after splitting—which gives you more ways to boost your winnings. Splitting is allowed up to three times, so if you keep getting pairs, you’re in luck. Just note that Aces can only be split once.

Blackjack Switch

Blackjack Switch puts a fun twist on traditional blackjack by letting you play two hands at once—and here’s the cool part: you can swap the second card between them to improve your chances. It’s played with six or eight decks, and the dealer hits on soft 17, keeping the game dynamic.

One thing to keep in mind is that blackjacks only pay even money instead of the usual 3:2. Also, if the dealer ends up with a total of 22, it’s a push against any hand that hasn’t busted. Still, you’re allowed to double after splitting, giving you more flexibility.

Perfect Pairs

Perfect Pairs Blackjack adds an extra layer of excitement to the classic game by introducing a side bet on your first two cards. If they form a pair, you can win a bonus payout. There are three types of winning pairs: a Perfect Pair (same rank and suit, like two King of Hearts), a Colored Pair (same rank and color, like King of Hearts and King of Diamonds), and a Mixed Pair (same rank, different suits, like King of Hearts and King of Spades).

Aside from the side bet, the main game sticks to traditional blackjack rules and is usually played with six or eight decks.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City Blackjack is a player-friendly version of the game that uses eight decks and sticks to some generous rules. The dealer stands on soft 17, which slightly improves your odds, and checks for blackjack when showing an Ace or 10-value card—so you know right away if you're beat.

You can double down on any two cards and even after a split, giving you more flexibility to play strong hands. Splitting is allowed up to three times, including Aces, which many versions limit. And if you’re in a tough spot, late surrender is on the table—letting you fold your hand and keep half your bet.