In blackjack, a Perfect Pair refers to two identical cards dealt as your first two cards. This could mean they're the same in both rank and suit, like two Kings of Hearts. But why is this exciting? Because it is a side bet that can pay more than a win in the main blackjack game.
Depending on the casino, a Perfect Pair can pay up to 25 to 1. This means if you bet £10 and hit a Perfect Pair, you could win £250, plus your initial bet back. It's a fun twist that adds an extra layer of excitement to blackjack without needing to be a pro to understand it.
Stick around as we delve deeper into how Perfect Pairs work and share tips to enjoy your game responsibly.
What Is a Perfect Pair In Blackjack?
A Perfect Pair in blackjack is a special type of side bet. This means in addition to your main game wager, you can place an extra bet on getting matching cards as your first two cards dealt.
This match can happen in three ways: both cards are of the same rank (like two 4s or two Queens), and they match in colour and suit or just in colour.
When we say "Perfect", we mean both cards are exactly the same in every way - same rank, colour, and suit. There's also something called a "Coloured Pair" (cards are the same rank and colour but different suits) and a "Mixed Pair" (same rank but different colours and suits).
It's a quick side bet within the game of blackjack, offering a chance for an additional win, as this side bet doesn't impact the main game bet. This bet is entirely optional but can make the game even more exciting.
Remember, not all blackjack tables offer Perfect Pairs, so if you're keen to try, look out for a table that does.
What Does a Perfect Pair Pay In Blackjack?
The exact amount you win for a successful Perfect Pair side bet depends on the casino's rules, but here's a general idea:
- Perfect Pair (same rank, same colour, and same suit): This is the top tier of pairs and usually pays out at 25 to 1 in most games that offer this side. So, if you've placed a £5 side bet, you're looking at £125 in winnings plus your bet back.
- Coloured Pair (same rank, same colour, but different suits): Not as identical, but still pretty close. These typically pay 12 to 1. So, placing a £5 Perfect Pair side bet and receiving this hand could get you £60 in addition to your bet.
- Mixed Pair (same rank, different colours and suits): The odd couple of the Perfect Pair side bet, offering the lowest payout at 6 to 1. That £5 bet? It could fetch you £30 plus your initial bet.
Remember, while these side bets can be exciting and offer the potential for big wins, they typically have a higher house edge than the main blackjack game. Always play responsibly, and don't chase your losses.
How Do You Get a Perfect Pair In Blackjack?
Wondering how to get your hands on a Perfect Pair in blackjack? It's all down to chance, but here's the gist of how it works.
When you sit down at a blackjack table that offers the Perfect Pairs side bet, you place your wager on the main blackjack round (i.e. betting on you ending up with a hand closer to 21 than the dealer without going bust), but you can also choose to place an additional wager on the first two cards you receive being a pair. All bets must be placed before the deal starts.
After bets are placed, the dealer deals cards. To win the Perfect Pair side bet, your first two cards must be a pair. If they're identical in rank, colour, and suit, then this makes a Perfect Pair. The same rank and colour but different suits make a Coloured Pair, and the same rank but different suits and colours make a Mixed Pair.
There's no strategy to getting a Perfect Pair; it's purely down to chance. The thrill of possibly getting a Perfect Pair adds an extra layer of excitement right from the start – but remember, it's never guaranteed.
What Are The Odds Of Getting Perfect Pairs In Blackjack?
Getting a Perfect Pair is all down to chance. Let's look at the odds.
In a single deck game, your chances of landing a Perfect Pair are zero because there is only one of each rank in each suit, but you can still get a Coloured or Mixed Pair. However, most casinos use multiple decks, with more decks meaning increased odds. Despite the deck variations, getting that matching pair is still a rare occurrence.
To put it in perspective, the odds of getting a Perfect Pair are roughly 1.7% in a game using 8 decks. This means for every 60 hands or so, you might see a Perfect Pair once. Remember, these figures are an average estimation, not a guarantee.
For Coloured and Mixed Pairs, the odds are a bit more favourable. You have a slightly higher chance of seeing these because they don't have to match in both suit and colour.
Even though the odds of hitting a Perfect Pair are low, the chance to win bigger payouts than those offered by the main game is what makes side bets like this so exciting. However, it's important to play responsibly. Stick to a budget and remember that side bets often have higher house edges than the main blackjack game.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.