Blackjack is an attractive card game not only because of its simple rules but also because of its high strategy, especially the card counting technique – a method applied by many professional players in real casinos. However, when switching to the online Blackjack environment, many people ask the question:
“Can you count cards when playing Blackjack online?”
The following article by In 999 will analyze in detail about card counting in Blackjack, the operating mechanism of online Blackjack, and whether this technique is still effective.
1. Summary of basic Blackjack gameplay
Before talking about card counting, you need to understand the basic Blackjack gameplay:
Goal: Have a total score closer to 21 than the dealer but not exceeding.
J, Q, K cards count as 10 points; Ace (A) counts as 1 or 11; cards from 2–10 count by number.
The player and the dealer both receive 2 cards. The player can choose to:
Hit: Draw more cards.
Stand: Stop drawing.
Double: Double the bet, draw 1 card.
Split: Split the cards if 2 cards are the same.
Surrender (if any): Give up the cards, lose half the bet.
The dealer draws cards according to fixed rules (under 17, draw more).
2. What is card counting and why is it effective in traditional Blackjack?
Card Counting is a strategy that helps players know the percentage of beneficial cards remaining in the deck, thereby deciding to bet smarter.
How it works:
Assign a value to each card:
2–6: +1 point
7–9: 0 points
10, J, Q, K, A: -1 point
Accumulate the value when the cards are dealt.
When the total score is high, it means there are many big cards (10, A) → more beneficial for the player.
Requirement: Must continuously monitor the cards that have been dealt in the same deck. The less the cards are shuffled, the more accurate the ability to count cards.
3. Card dealing mechanism in online Blackjack
Online Blackjack is divided into 2 main types:
3.1. Blackjack using software (RNG – Random Number Generator)
The system uses a random algorithm to deal cards.
Each game is a new shuffle, there is no concept of a fixed deck.
Cannot track cards that have been dealt in previous games.
Conclusion: Cannot count cards effectively. Each game is independent.
3.2. Live dealer Blackjack (dealing cards directly via livestream)
Real dealers deal cards via online video.
Use physical decks like in real life.
Can observe cards that have been dealt in previous games.
Some bookmakers do not shuffle cards after each game.
However:
Most still shuffle cards frequently or use multiple decks, reducing the effectiveness of card counting.
The camera does not always clearly display all cards that have been dealt.
4. Can you count cards when playing Blackjack online?
In RNG Blackjack (most popular):
Cards cannot be counted.
Because the cards are “reshuffled” randomly before each game.
Each game is independent, there is no continuous sequence of cards.
In Live Dealer Blackjack:
It IS POSSIBLE to count cards to a limited extent, if:
The dealer uses a small number of decks (4–6).
Does not shuffle the cards after each game.
The cards are clearly displayed and easy to follow.
However, online casinos usually:
Use 6–8 decks to shuffle them.
Reshuffle them after about 50%–75% of the cards.
Automatic anti-card counting software may be used.
Therefore, the effectiveness of card counting in online Blackjack is very low.
5. Why do online casinos prevent card counting?
Card counting is not illegal, but it goes against the house’s advantage.
Online casinos use technology to:
Shuffle cards frequently.
Limit game history.
Warn accounts that show signs of “card counting”.
The goal is to ensure fairness while still giving the house an advantage.
6. How should beginners play Blackjack online effectively?
Instead of counting cards, focus on the following strategies:
Memorize the Basic Strategy table to know when to hit, stand, double or split.
Choose a table with favorable rules such as:
The dealer stands on “soft 17”.
Allow Doubles after Split.
Pay 3:2 for Blackjack (not 6:5).
Manage your betting capital wisely, dividing it into several sessions.
Do not bet insurance, because it is disadvantageous in the long run.
7. Summary: Should You Use Card Counting in Online Blackjack?
| Aspect | Blackjack Online (RNG) | Blackjack Live Dealer |
| Is card counting possible? | Not possible | Possible but limited |
| Number of decks used | Infinite / Randomized | 6–8 decks |
| Frequency of shuffling | After every hand | Typically after 50–75% of shoe |
| Card counting effectiveness | Very low | Moderate to low |
| Recommendation for beginners | Avoid card counting | Focus on basic strategy |
Online Blackjack is not an ideal environment for card counting.
Instead, players should focus on mastering basic strategy, choosing tables with favorable rules, and practicing smart bankroll management.
While card counting is a well-known technique in Blackjack, it is almost useless in modern online Blackjack versions, especially with RNG systems. If you want to truly experience card counting, look for quality live dealer casinos that have small decks and limited shuffling.
However, the best way to win at online Blackjack is still: understand the rules, apply sound strategy, and play with control.
You don’t need to be a math genius to win – you just need to play smart.
See more:
- Comparing Blackjack and Baccarat: Which game is easier for beginners?
