Baccarat

One of the reasons baccarat is popular is because of the simple gameplay. Our complete guide covers everything you need to know about baccarat before you start playing at any online casino.

Baccarat is one of the undisputed favorite table games for affluent players in the US. and globally. Made famous by James Bond, it's a game that requires little to no skills or strategy to play and win. You can play baccarat online whether you are wealthy or poor. The game's objective is to bet on whether the player or dealer's hand will win or the game will end in a tie. 

Whether you are new to online baccarat or looking to increase your knowledge of the game, our detailed guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started. We've covered a brief history of baccarat, general rules, winning tips and betting systems, bet types, popular variations, a glossary, and much more.

A Brief History Of Baccarat

While the exact origin of the baccarat game remains unknown to this day, it is believed to have originated in Italy in the 1400s before it was introduced in France in the 1490s by the soldiers and immigrants. The original name was 'Baccara,' but the 'T' was later added without an apparent reason.

Nevertheless, the official mention of the name baccarat was in 1847 by Charles Van Tenac in his book, where he referred to it as 'Baccarat Banque' or 'Baccarat a Deux Tableaux. Though there are rumors of baccarat being played in the United States of America in the 19th and 20th centuries, there weren't any variants that were mentioned in Nevada's 1931 gambling laws.

The most popular and oldest variant of baccarat is Chemin de Fer, and it was introduced in 1958 in Las Vegas casinos. This was followed by the Cuban Punto Banco variation that was released in 1959. Initially, the games were associated with the high rollers. However, the creation of different variants has made the game available to people of all budgets. 

Today, there are multiple variations of baccarat games you can find at leading online casinos. You can play free online baccarat games or wager with real money.

Online Baccarat Gameplay And General Rules

Despite the mystery of its origin, the gameplay in baccarat is straightforward. Nonetheless, to be successful in baccarat, you need a good understanding of the game rules. Like other luck-based games, you cannot influence the outcome in baccarat.

The thumb rule of this table game is to get a hand as close to 9 as possible but not to exceed. Baccarat is dealt using 8 decks of cards, and a standard table can accommodate up to 14 players.

At the start of each game round of baccarat, the player's hand and the dealer's hand are dealt 2 cards. Also, players can bet on the tie hand. These hands have different odds of winning, with the banker bet having a house edge of 1.06% and the player hand having an advantage of 1.24%.

The hand value in baccarat is determined by adding the two card values together. However, it's the second number that is used. So, a 12-card value will be 2. The player having the highest hand on the table wins the round. If the game ends in a tie, the wagers are returned, except for the players who had placed a tie bet.

At most US online casinos, you will enjoy baccarat even money odds of 1:1, but the tie bets can be 8:1 or 9:1 for some casinos. Before highlighting the rules of playing each baccarat hand, it is essential to know the steps involved in the gameplay. These steps are:

Placing a Bet: the first step is choosing whether to bet on the player, the banker, or a tie. These hands have varying payout odds, with the banker having the lowest edge of 1.06%.

Dealing Cards: The player's and banker's hands are dealt two cards facing up. Please note that the cards have different values. The ace card is equivalent to 1 or 11, two through nine have their face value, and Ten, Jack, or King are equivalent to zero.

Third Card Value: There will be no more cards drawn for the player, and the banker's hand must stand on a six or a seven, or even drawn lower. In case the player's hand totals to 5 or less, then a third hand must be drawn. In this case, the banker must stand on a 7 or gets a third card based on the third card of the player as follows:

• If the banker's hand totals 0-2, a third card is drawn regardless of the dealer's card.
• If the banker's hand totals 3, another card is drawn unless the player gets an 8.
• If the banker's hand totals 4, another card is drawn unless the player gets a 0,1, 8, or 9.
• If the banker's hand totals 5, another card is drawn unless the player gets a 4, 5, 6, 7.
• If the banker's hand totals 6, another card is drawn unless the player gets a 6 or 7.

Please note that no more cards are required to make up the hand, and the winning hand is announced once a third card is drawn. Moreover, you are guaranteed fair payouts in online baccarat games as they use Random Number Generator (RNG) software to determine fair payouts.

Online Baccarat Hand Values

As earlier mentioned, baccarat hands values are based on the last digit of the total sum of all card values. We've already highlighted the values for the ace and other face cards in the game. As you understand, all card values are based on the last digit of the total of all card values. The hand values work as follows:

Action On Draws And Stands

The main actions you can take in any baccarat game are drawing and standing. When you choose to draw, an extra card is dealt to make the total hand up to three cards. In baccarat, this is hit, and it is referred to as a player who has hit a card. Nevertheless, if a player stands, it shows that they don't need to draw a card and would like to continue with the game while maintaining the current value of their hand. Do understand that there are baccarat rules to determine when a player should stand or draw cards, and these rules are unique from the bankers and the players.

Player's Hand

One thing you must understand is that the player's hand determines how the game will proceed. The good news is that the rules for the player's hand are quite easy to comprehend. In the event that the player has an initial total value of 5 or lower, a third card is drawn. But if the player has a total of 6 or 7, the best option is to stand.

Banker's Hand

In baccarat, the player is the first to make a move before the banker. If the player decides to stand, the banker or dealer will follow the same suit. In that case, if the banker gets a hand value of 6 or 7, the best option is to stand.

However, the case is quite different if the player draws a third card. The good thing about baccarat is that the dealer is responsible for all these actions, so you don't have to worry so much. Here is what to expect when you draw a third card in a baccarat game:

• If Banker has a total of 2 or less, he must draw a card every time
• If Banker has a total of 3, he must draw unless the Player has an 8 as the third card.
• If Banker has a total of 4, he must draw if the Player has a 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 as the third card.
• If Banker has a total of 5, he must draw if the Player has a 4, 5, 6, or 7 as a third card.
• If Banker has a total of 6, the Banker must draw if the Player has a third card as 6 or a 7.
• If Banker has a total of 7, the Banker must stand every time.

Popular Online Baccarat Variations

Whenever the name baccarat is mentioned, many gamblers tend to imagine that there is only one variation. Nevertheless, that is not true as there are many variations of baccarat that have emerged over the years. The following are the most popular baccarat games you'll come across:

Chemin De Fer

Chemin de Fer is so far the most popular game in the US. Also, it is one of the first baccarat variations to be created. The first traces of Chemin de Fer were discovered during the French Napoleon era. 

It is a game that was loved by those who wanted to play without the bank being involved. The game later found its way to the US and Britain, where it was well-received. As one of the most popular variations, you can find chemin de fer at top online casinos in the US and worldwide. 

This game was made famous by the James Bond movie. The exciting thing about this game is that you bet against each other and not the banker.

Moreover, players take turns with the banker's roles. Before the dealer deals with each hand, the banker must place a wager on the table, and each player is free to call 'Banco,' which refers to going all or opting for a different bet. In case the players are worth more than the banker's original wager, and cards are paid out at even odds of 1:1. Keep in mind that all bets will stay on the table for the subsequent hand if the final outcome is a tie bet.

Mini Baccarat

Mini Baccarat game is quite popular in online casinos than in land-based gambling venues. You can find this variant at leading online casinos in the US and play for free or real money. This game has a smaller layout, and it's fully optimized so that you can play with eight decks of cards. Moreover, the dealer has the responsibility of shuffling the card shoe. 

The most appealing thing about Mini Baccarat is that you can play with the same rules as a regular baccarat game. One good thing about mini-baccarat is that one member performs all the activities. The unique thing about this variation is that each player can take a turn as a dealer.

Punto Banco

Punto Banco is another favorite variation among baccarat players. This game is played with 6 decks of 52 cards each. Many people love this variant because it resembles the classic baccarat game. The available betting options in this bet are the banker or the player. Moreover, players are allowed to bet on the tie. The game was predominantly played in France before it migrated to the US and the rest of the world. What makes Baccarat Banque unique is that it is played with three standard decks of cards. The dealer reshuffles all the cards once all the gamblers have played their stakes. As earlier mentioned, betting on punto banco gives you the chance of landing massive winnings.

Baccarat Banque

Baccarat Banque is a favorite game in European online casinos and is played with three-deck of cards. The exciting thing about this game is that rules change depending on the casino. The banker's duty is designated to one player at the beginning of the game, and the position is permanent. In Banque, the shoe has inter-shuffled decks.

The bank sits on one side of the oval table, facing the croupier with a discard area. To start the game, the croupier shuffles cards and gives them to the player or the left and right for the same purpose. The banker is the last to shuffle and picks the person that will be the cut.

No Commission Baccarat

When playing baccarat online, the dealer takes a 5% commission on every banker who wins. In No Commission Baccarat, you won't be charged anything. This game has an exception, though; if the banker wins with a value of 6, he takes a commission of 50%. The rules of playing this variant are the same as the traditional baccarat game.

EZ Baccarat

EZ baccarat is a new variant that is popular in California. This game is played in the same way as a regular baccarat game. The good thing is that it takes no commission on banker line bets. Instead, the game has a specific winning hand called Dragon 7 that is made with three cards that totals 7 points. Additionally, players can place side bets in the base game for dragon 7 and Panda 8.

Three Card Baccarat

Three Card Baccarat is an exciting game to play. It is the best alternative for players who cannot afford to join the high roller table. The appealing thing about this game is the option to wager on any totals for the dealer's hand, and the bets are made on individual boxes. The probability of each number to the next is 10%, and individual numbers pay 8:1, with a small house edge of 2.91%.

European Baccarat

European baccarat is standard in UK casinos and globally. The unique feature of his variant is that a player can choose whether to draw or stand when the hand total is 5. The banker is free to decide whether to draw or not. Do understand that the hand of the banker is funded by the casino.

Dragon Tiger

Dragon Tiger baccarat has very close similarities with Punto Banco. The exceptional feature in this game is that you receive one card instead of two cards at the beginning of the game. Bets are made on whether the dragon or tiger side will get a card with a higher value. Note that there are no additional cards that are drawn in this variation. The game is considered a tie if both sides are dealt cards with the same value and half of the player's bets go to the casino.

Types of Baccarat Bets

One good thing about baccarat is it's easy to understand the different bets. A standard game has three main bet options - the player bet, the banker bet, and the tie bet. Every table has an area where the bets are placed. Below is a detailed description of each baccarat bet:

The Banker Bet

The banker bet is commonly played by experienced people. This bet has the lowest house edge compared to the other wagers. The casino deducts a 5% commission every time the banker wins. However, the percentage of each commission may vary depending on the casino and the variation you are playing. Many people opt for banker bets because of the low edge of 1.06%. Also, some online casinos apply a specific minimum commission to the banker bet rather than the 5% commission.

The Player Bet

The player bet is the second most popular baccarat wager. This wager has a more favorable edge over the tie bet. The most appealing thing about this bet is it doesn't have a commission on winnings. The payout of a winning player bet is 1:1.

The Tie Bet

The third bet option in baccarat games is the 'tie' wager. In this case, you are betting the banker and the player to get an identical number. Though the payouts in the tie bet are pretty appealing, it has an unfavorable house edge. This explains why many players tend to avoid this wager.

Side Bets In Baccarat

Like other casino games, baccarat players can wager on side bets to increase winning opportunities. These bets are optional, and they differ from one game to another. The most common side bets you can play are:

• Dragon Bonus: This side bet is popular in mini Baccarat games, and it pays 30:1 for nine cards. It has a house edge of 2.65%.
• Panda 8 & Dragon 7: These side bets are common in EZ Baccarat games. In Panda 8, you are paid if the banker's hand collects 8 points in three cards. The payout is 25:1, and the house advantage is 10.19%. Dragon 7 bet has a payout of 40:1 and the house edge of 7.6%.
• Perfect Pair: This bet pays if the first two cards have matching suit and rank. The payout is 12:1, and the casino advantage is 13% when 8 decks are used.
• Egalite Bet: You're betting on the banker and the player to end in a tie. The good thing is that you can make multiple egalite bets.
• Odd/Even: There are four possibilities in this wager, including even player total, even banker total, odd player total, and odd banker total.
• All Red/All Black: You're betting on the player's hand to consist of all red or all black cards.

Online Baccarat Game Table Layout

Baccarat games can be found in numerous online casinos. The tables you will find in these casinos are identical to those in land-based casinos. However, the tables are much smaller though they have all the features of the classic card game. You will find three betting areas, and some variations come with an additional side bet area.

Online Baccarat Winning Tips

Baccarat is a game that is based on chance. That means that you cannot use baccarat strategies to influence the game outcome. However, following these simple tips and tricks will maximize your winning opportunities:

• Always stick to the player and banker bets.
• Pay attention to the odds and house edge of the game.
• Learn how to manage your funds.
• Play short baccarat sessions.
• Avoid the tie bet by all means.
• Quit playing when you are winning.
• Set a budget when you are playing real money baccarat.

Online Baccarat Glossary

The following are common terms you will come across when playing baccarat at online casinos:

• Action: Can refer to the amount of money wagered by a single or all players or the action of a hand.
• Bankroll: The money set aside for betting on baccarat games.
• Carte: Used when requesting an extra card.
• Commission: It's the casino's profit from each winning banker's bets.
• Coup: Is a single round or hand at a baccarat table.
• Cut: Splitting a deck of cards into two stacks after shuffling them.
• Face Cards: All cards bearing portraits, including Jacks, Queens, and Kings.
• House Edge: The percentage that the casino takes from the wagers.
• Live Dealer Games: These baccarat games let you play against real human dealers in real-time.
• Push: A wager that isn't winning or losing.
• Down Card: This is a card dealt facing down.

Choosing a Reputable Online Baccarat Casino

With so many internet casinos offering baccarat games, new players can find it challenging to choose a reliable site. Here are the key factors you must consider when sourcing for a safe and trustworthy online baccarat casino:

Licensing and Regulation: The first thing is to check if the casino site is licensed and regulated by a recognized authority, like Malta, Curacao, and the Gambling Commission.

Bonuses and Promotions: The site should have different offers like the welcome bonus, free spins, and VIP bonus.

Software Provider: The casino games should be powered by different companies like Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, and Pragmatic Play.

Mobile Compatibility: Players should access all games and other features on Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.

Security and Fairplay: The casino must employ the latest encryption technology like SSL to safeguard your data. Also, the game's outcomes must be determined by RNG software.

Payment Options: A good online casino should accept traditional FIAT currency and digital cryptocurrencies. Also, all transactions must be instant.

Customer Support: The support service should be available 24/7 through different channels like email, live chat, and telephone.

Conclusion

We hope that this information will help you whether you want to play baccarat for real money or to have fun. Baccarat is a simple table game that requires very little skill to play. The appealing thing is that this game comes in different variations. Moreover, playing baccarat online gives you a chance to benefit from generous bonuses and promotions. Make sure you understand the rules of baccarat before you start playing.

Play Baccarat Online FAQ's

The most common question is whether baccarat strategies really work. When appropriately used, betting systems can help you to improve your winning opportunities in baccarat. Find out more relevant information in our comprehensive guide.

If you are planning to play real money baccarat games, it is vital to have a basic strategy. Baccarat is a popular table game that has graced casinos for many years. Contrary to what is portrayed in films and movies as a high roller game, - It is a straightforward and enjoyable casino game. 

Additionally, baccarat features some of the best odds compared to other casino games. Like other games of luck, you cannot lower the house edge in your favor using strategies in baccarat. But you can apply various betting systems to boost your chances of winning.

The two baccarat strategies are the positive progression and negative progression systems. In this complete guide, we've provided everything you should know about baccarat strategies, how they work, and other winning tips and tricks of baccarat.

What is a Baccarat Strategy?

To put it in simple words, a betting strategy is a plan that is laid down to help you to achieve a certain goal. Baccarat strategies are used by experienced players to enjoy huge winnings. Many betting systems that work on the basis of regulating your bankroll can be efficient in baccarat, just as they are used in blackjack or roulette. These betting systems require players to increase or decrease the bet amount based on the game outcome.

Moreover, it's pretty simple to use them as you only need to keep note of the results. Nevertheless, this doesn't mean that these strategies guarantee 100% winning baccarat. But they give you a better chance of managing your funds accordingly.

Baccarat Betting Strategies

As earlier mentioned, baccarat betting systems are in four main categories - positive, progressive, negative progressive, and non-progressive strategies. While the negative strategies are designed to help you recover your losses in a single sweep, the positive systems boost your winning streaks. We'll take you through the different systems to help you understand how they work. The following are the most common and reliable betting strategies in baccarat:

The Negative Progressive Baccarat Strategies

Many players prefer the negative progressive baccarat systems because they can help you recover all lost bets in a single sweep. With these systems, you must increase your bet whenever you lose. Though they are reliable strategies, they must be handled with great care.

Moreover, it requires players with huge bankrolls since you cannot determine how long a losing streak will take. Another risk of these strategies is that you can hit the game's betting limit and thus, prevent you from playing. These are the negative progressive baccarat strategies:

The Martingale Strategy

The martingale is the most popular negative progressive system in baccarat. The idea in this strategy is quite simple - You double your losing bets and reduce all winning bets by half. 

For instance, if your first bet amount was $5 and luckily you win, you must bet again with $5. If you lose in the next round, you double the stake to $10, and if you lose again, you increase the amount to $20. If you win in the next round, you return to the original bet of $5.

From this example, you can see how the player recovers the losses with a single win, and it works well if you are lucky enough.

The D'Alembert Strategy

Another popular negative progressive strategy is d'Alembert. Basically, this system requires players to increase the stake by one chip after a loss and reduce the amount by one chip after a winning hand. The exciting thing about the d'Alembert strategy is that you choose a betting unit. For instance, you can pick $10 as your starting stake, and if you win, the stake remains the same, and if you lose, you must raise your stake by one unit.

For example, if you stake $10 and lose the first hand, you increase the amount to $20. If you lose again, the amount will increase to $30, and if you win, you go back to the original bet of $10.

Unlike the Martingale, the d'Almbert system is not designed to help you recoup losses in one round. But you can gain profit in the long run.

The Labouchere Strategy

The Labouchere system is more complex than other negative progressive systems we've shared. This strategy is known by other names like cancellation, cross-out, American progression, or split martingale. It was developed by Henry Du Pre Labouchere, a renowned British politician and publicist. Like other systems, the goal is to recover losses in the long run. To learn and understand how it works, you must keep track of all your bets in writing.

The first step is to choose how much you want to win, and then you split the amount into a sequence of numbers. The first bet amount is the sum of the number on the left and right sides of the sequence. If you win, you cross out the numbers and then proceed to wager with the first and last numbers. However, if you lose, you must add a new number to the sequence.

For example, if your goal is to win $100 - You split this amount into a sequence of numbers as follows: 10-20-10-10-10-20-10-5-5. The first stake will be (10+5) = $15. These numbers are canceled if you win and you proceed to a new stake (20+5) = $25. But if you lose, you add your stake to the number on the right side of the sequence. Your goal is achieved once all numbers in the series are canceled.

The Fibonacci Strategy

Leonardo Fibonacci (1170 to 1250) is the brain behind this negative progressive system. He was a great mathematician of the Middle Ages. The Fibonacci system is very common in baccarat and roulette games. The good thing about this strategy is it's less risky, affordable, and easy to control.

The sequence has a long sequence of numbers, with each number being the total of the two that precede it. The following are the numbers in the Fibonacci sequence: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233, 377, 610, 987, and 1,597. To use the sequence, you must start with a single unit like $1. You move to the next number in the series, which is $1 if you lose. If you lose again, you proceed to the next number, $2.

The strategy rules require players to go back two numbers and place a stake of equal size. This system doesn't return your losses with one win but keeps you ahead by only winning c.a ⅓ of the hands played.

The Positive Progressive Baccarat Strategies.

As the name suggests, these systems are the opposite of the negative progression strategies. They require players to increase the stake when winning and reduce the amount on a losing streak. Many online casino players choose this method because it is easy to use.

Moreover, it can be applied to almost every online casino game. These strategies are designed to keep losses at a minimum when on losing. Below is the most popular positive, progressive betting strategy:

The Paroli Strategy

The paroli strategy is commonly referred to as the reverse martingale system. It has been around for more than 400 years, and it's still efficient in baccarat and other games. The system is based on a set of rules that have no direct influence on the results. With this strategy, you start by choosing a bet amount that acts as the basis of your progression.

It is recommended to use a figure that is bigger than 2%, such as $1. The amount doesn't change after you lose, and the second-hand starts with another $1 stake. But if you happen to win the second hand, you must 2x the amount of the winning bet to proceed with playing baccarat. Do understand that there are several variants of the Paroli betting strategies, but the rules are the same.

The Parlay Strategy

Parlay is an easy-to-follow positive, progressive betting strategy. The first step when using this betting system is to set a betting unit. If you are lucky to win, the stake is doubled by adding the previous win. Players are free to continue doubling in this manner until they lose. In that case, you return to the original bet amount.

For example, if you stake $10 on the player bet and win, the amount will be $20 in the next game round. If you win again, the stake becomes $40. If you lose in the next round, the amount goes back to $10.

The 1-3-2-4 and 1-3-2-6 Strategies

The 1-3-2-4 and 1-3-2-6 strategies are based on capitalizing on the winning streaks. They are the simplest as you need to follow a set sequence. When using the 1-3-2-4 system, you start with 1 unit on the player bet and baker bet. If you win, you increase to 3 units on the next bet; if you win, again, you place 2 units. Lastly, if you win, again, you increase to 4 units. Likewise, the 1-3-2-6 system follows the same style, only that you will increase to 6 units and not 4 units in the last game round.

For example, if you bet $10 on the player bet in baccarat and you lose on the first bet round, you must stake the same amount in the second hand. So if you win, your next stake will be $30 ($10x3). You must follow this system until the numbers in the sequence are all used up.

The best thing about these systems is that you risk 1 and 2 chips of your stake in round 1 and round 2. Please note that bet rules apply in both baccarat strategies.

The Oscar's Grind

The first mention of Oscar's Grind strategy was in Allan Wilson's 1956 book Casino Gambler's Guide. The system was created by Oscar to help in low-risk betting progression. He divides the game into sequences, where you aim to win 1 unit in each sequence. It all starts with $1, and the amount remains the same if you lose. But you increase the stake by 1 unit if you win. The grind restarts once you make 1 unit profit.

Reverse D'Alembert Strategy

In reverse D'Alembert's strategy, the betting system is reversed upside down. You must raise your stake by 1 unit for every win and reduce it by 1 unit after every loss. This betting system is pretty simple and can be profitable during a winning streak. The challenging part about this system is that you need to win more to strike an even balance.

Flat Betting System

The flat betting system is the simplest of all baccarat strategies. Players are required to stake the same amount over and over, regardless of the outcome. In baccarat, the banker bet has an attractive house edge of 1.06%. This is a profitable strategy if you are on a winning streak. The problem with this system is that it can get boring with time. There are no specific rules to follow or a pattern. The unpredictability in this system is what makes it a good choice for baccarat players.

Land-Based vs. Online Baccarat Strategy

The first thing to do when choosing a baccarat strategy is to decide whether you are going to play at an online or land-based casino. Of course, you must adjust your system when playing baccarat at these casinos.

The advantage of playing at brick-and-mortar and live dealer casinos is that you can use card counting in your favor. Baccarat games use a shoe, so you can track the cards that are dealt and know when to raise or reduce your stake.

The average betting range for a standard baccarat game is $5 to $20 at most casinos. It's hard for players to hit the maximum bet limit at baccarat tables.

On the other hand, it is impossible to count cards in online baccarat games. Moreover, the minimum odds are relatively low in many online casinos. Regardless of your choice, make sure you understand the strategy rules before applying them.

Best Winning Baccarat Strategy Tips

Now that you know the different baccarat strategies and betting systems, it is equally important to know the tips and tricks to win. We have highlighted a couple of tips from expert players. They include:

Start by Setting Win and Loss Limits

The first thing before you think of playing real money baccarat is to set your win and loss limits. This way, your bankroll will be safe, and it also helps to enhance your winning strategy.

Play Low House Edge Bets

Of the three bets in baccarat, the banker bet is the best as it comes with a low edge of 1.06%. Another good option is the player bet which has an edge of 1.24%. The worst option is the tie bet, with an advantage of 14.36%.

Use an Optimal Baccarat Strategy

The best thing about baccarat is that you can apply different strategies to maximize your winning opportunities. The martingale system is highly recommended for high rollers since it's based on increasing the stake. You can opt for other strategies like paroli, parlay, 1-3-2-6, and 1-3-2-4.

Learn Money Management Skills

Bankroll management is a skill that every gambler must learn. As you are aware, there are occasional losing streaks and winning streaks in baccarat. The objective is to have enough money to take you through these moments.

Go for Casino Bonuses and Promotions

Many online casinos reward new players for registering and depositing. These bonuses range from free spins, welcome, reload, referral, and VIP bonuses. Make sure you read and meet the bonus terms and conditions before you can cash out.

Play at Mini Baccarat Tables

Many variations of baccarat are available at online casinos. If you are a beginner, the best option is to start with the mini-baccarat game. It's beginner-friendly, and the rules are pretty simple. You should avoid the big baccarat and midi baccarat games because they are more complex.

No Best Bet in Baccarat

There is no best bet in baccarat; it depends on what you are after. You can choose to go for small but regular wins or unpredictable outcomes.

Always Have Fun and Take Your Losses in Stride

The fact is you will experience losses even with the best betting strategies. The most important thing is how you react to these losses. Some people leave the table when losing while others continue playing. Make sure you play in short sessions and always accept the losses positively.

Card Counting May Not Be Effective

Even though card counting can be profitable, we don't recommend it in online baccarat. At many online casinos, the decks are shuffled after every deal, making it impossible to count cards.

Play Baccarat with Fewer Decks

The good thing about baccarat games with few decks is that they have a lower variability of the next card. It's easy to track with fewer decks while playing baccarat online.

Play Commission Free Baccarat

Commission-free baccarat games are the best because there's no charge for banker bets. However, the player should understand that the payout of the banker bet has been adjusted to raise the edge to 4.07%.

Cheating in Baccarat Games - Is it Possible?

The strategies we have shared in this guide can be used at any online casino without the worry of being arrested. However, several techniques have been used by players over the years to cheat. The most popular cheating methods are:

• Edge Sorting: This method requires players to study the back of cards to identify inconsistency in cards, thus, giving players a better edge.
• Card Counting: It is illegal to count cards in many casinos. This style involves tracking the high and low-value cards in the deck, so you know whether to wager on the banker or the player.
• Past Posting: The technique consists in adding betting chips to a wager after winning.
• Card Marking: Some players have been caught with marked baccarat cards. This is a way of making the high and low cards easily identifiable.
• False Shuffling: This cheating method requires the player to lias with the dealer. It's self-explanatory where the dealer pretends to shuffle cards, and then the player identifies the unshuffled cards.

What is the Best Baccarat Betting Strategy

By now, you are probably wondering which is the best baccarat strategy to use. The best strategy will vary depending on many factors. First of all, it depends on what you want to achieve in the long run. Moreover, it depends on whether you are ready to try bigger risks or go for slow and progressive strategies. Whether to use the positive or negative progression strategies solely depends on you. As we've said before, ensure you understand the ins and outs of a particular system before trying it on any casino games.

Baccarat Strategy FAQ

As the most popular table games, blackjack, and baccarat couldn't be any more different. Blackjack games require some skills and a strategy to win, while baccarat is a pure game of chance where you only need to decide how much to wager.

Playing online casino games has proven to be one of the best pastime activities. Numerous casino games are available for people of all experiences and skills. The two most popular games you can find at almost every casino are baccarat and blackjack. These two games have been around for many decades and are favorites to every gambler. 

The good thing about online casinos is that you get to enjoy different variations of these games. Moreover, you can try any game you want in free play mode before advancing to playing with real money. A common question from new casino players is which game between baccarat and blackjack is the best. We'll take you through the key differences between these two games and their pros and cons to help you make a sound decision.

Basic Rules And Gameplay Of Blackjack

Blackjack table games can be found in all leading US online casinos. Many professional gamblers love this game because of the low house edge. Also, you can apply different strategies to increase your winning opportunities. The goal in blackjack is to get a hand close to 21 without exceeding it. Overall, players aim to beat the dealer's hand.

The game starts with the dealer dealing two cards, one facing up and the other facing down. In blackjack, all number cards have the same value as their number, and all picture cards (face cards) have a value of 10. The aces can have a value of 1 or 11.

Players have four options to make after the first two cards are dealt. They can stand, split, surrender or double down. The dealer is the last to make a move. Blackjack rules require dealers to stand if they have a 17 to 21 and always hit if the total is less. The player wins with a 21 or less if the dealer goes bust.

Blackjack is a great casino game for players looking to test their skills. Make sure you understand all the playing rules and use a basic strategy to maximize your winning opportunities.

Basic Rules And Gameplay Of Baccarat

Baccarat is becoming more and more popular in top US casinos. Though it used to be considered the high rollers game, you can play baccarat at land-based, online, and live casinos with any budget.

The objective of the game is to get a winning hand close to 9. Many gamblers love baccarat's simplicity and solid odds. You don't have to be like James Bond in the movie to beat the dealer in baccarat. Unlike blackjack, a hand cannot go bust in baccarat. In case a hand exceeds 9, the score loops round and reset to 1 while ignoring the first total of 10 in a score.

The three options available in baccarat are banker bet, player bet, and tie bet. Once the cards are drawn, the winner is the one with the total hand of close to 9. Moreover, the player has a house edge of 1.2%, and the tie has an advantage of 14.3%. The casino has a lower house edge of 1% in baccarat.

Numerous baccarat games are available at online casinos, including chemin de fer, punto banco, EZ baccarat, no commission baccarat, and many others. Though baccarat is a game of chance, learning basic strategies and practicing regularly can enhance your gaming experience and win.

Differences And Similarities Of Blackjack And Baccarat

There are significant differences and similarities between these two games. Both baccarat and blackjack are compared to one another because they use a standard 52 deck of cards. Additionally, blackjack is believed to be a descendant of baccarat. Let's look at other differences between the two popular table games.

The Objective Of The Games

The aim in both baccarat and blackjack is to get a hand as close as possible to a predetermined number while beating the dealer. The cards are assigned a certain value in both games. Nevertheless, the ace is equal to 1 or 11 in blackjack, and it's worth one point in baccarat.

Betting Options

One of the most notable differences between these games is the betting options. Baccarat offers three betting options, the player, the banker, and the tie bet, while in blackjack, you only bet on yourself to win. In Baccarat the player bet offers even money payouts, the banker pays 20 to 19, and the tie bet pays 9 to 1. In blackjack, bets are paid out 1:1 unless you hit a 'blackjack' where you have great odds of 3:2.

Totalling Card Values

Blackjack is straightforward when it comes to counting your total card, while baccarat has a more complex method. To determine the highest hand in either game, you must know the values of different cards. In blackjack, Jack, Queen, and King cards have a total value of 10, and the rest of the cards are equal to their face value. The Ace counts as 1 or 11. In baccarat on the other hand, the total hands of two cards are added, and the first number is removed to determine a winning hand.

Busting

Getting a total hand that exceeds 21 while playing blackjack is considered a 'bust,' and the player loses the bet. Players can be dealt up to five cards as they try to beat the dealer until they stand. This is not the case with baccarat as there is no bust option. The primary goal is to beat the dealer.

Odds Of Winning

Baccarat games offer the lowest house edges than any other games in casinos. But the house edge depends on the bets you play. The banker bet has a small edge of 1.06%, and the player bet has 1.24%.

With a proper strategy, you can lower the house edge in blackjack to 0.5%, which gives better odds of winning. However, the edge can increase by 2% without a good blackjack strategy.

Both games offer better odds of winning despite the different rules of playing. Nevertheless, you must understand that there is no baccarat strategy that can lower the odds. They can only increase your winning opportunities.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Baccarat And Blackjack Games

Whether you choose to play blackjack or baccarat, you will experience some advantages and disadvantages. The following points should help you decide which game is the best to go for.

Advantages Of Playing Blackjack

There are many benefits of playing blackjack and lots of reasons why it is the most popular table game across all casinos. This game combines the elements of skill and chance and allows players to utilize basic strategies. Let's find out the benefits you'll get:

• A Low House Edge: Players enjoy a relatively low house edge of 1% or can be as low as 0.5%.
• Blackjack Strategy: The blackjack odds of winning can increase using a proper strategy. Learning basic strategies in blackjack is quite easy, and most of them are reliable.
• Involves Multiple Decisions: Blackjack games offer numerous choices for players that influence the odds of winning. The total score plays a big role in the choices you make in each round.

Disadvantages Of Playing Blackjack

The following are the downsides of playing blackjack games:

• Varying Rules: Different rules apply depending on the blackjack variation you are playing. It's hard to tell what will happen from one blackjack table game to the next.
• Complicated Strategies: Most blackjack strategies are complex for beginners to master. They require regular practice before one can start benefiting from them.

Advantages Of Playing Baccarat

Baccarat has become a favorite brand for people of all caliber in the USA. Here are some advantages you'll enjoy from playing this game:

• Low House Edge: Many people are attracted to the high baccarat odds of winning. The lowest house edge in baccarat is 1.06% if you choose the banker hand or 1.24% with the player bet.
• Easy Gameplay: The rules of playing baccarat are easy to understand; no wonder it is a favorite among beginners. You simply place a bet, check the cards, and calculate the numbers.
• No Strategy Needed: Baccarat is a pure game of chance, which means that you don't require a strategy to reduce the odds in your favor. 

Disadvantages Of Playing Baccarat

Like other games, baccarat has some downsides. Here are the disadvantages of this game:

• Complicated Scoring System: Though baccarat is a simple game, you will realize that the scoring system becomes complicated when it comes to the third card.
• Limited Betting Options: Some baccarat variants have one or two side wagers. Overall, you only have three-bet options to choose from.

Baccarat Or Blackjack? - Which Is A Better Game?

If you were asked to choose one game between blackjack and baccarat which one would it be? Both games offer the best odds of winning, with baccarat having 1.06% and blackjack at 0.5%. Blackjack can be very profitable to skilled players who understand using optimal strategies. 

Since baccarat is more about luck, it is a good option for beginners. So, the choice is all yours. You can go for the game of chance or test your skills with blackjack. Make sure you choose a reputable online casino to try your game of choice. Last but not least, pay attention to different rules and variations when comparing baccarat vs. blackjack games. Make your decision and have some fun now.

New to online baccarat? One thing you will like is the vast range of baccarat games you can play at leading US online casinos. Join us as we explore the different variations and their unique features.

Baccarat is a popular game that you can find in all online casinos. Though it is commonly associated with the rich class, you can play online without depositing money. It's popular for featuring in several bestselling books and blockbuster movies like James Bond.

Unlike in the past, when there was only one type of baccarat, modern casinos offer numerous types of baccarat games. Each variant has a unique design and varying features. Besides, baccarat attracts many people because of the straightforward rules.

Our hand guide will help you understand the various baccarat games you can play and their guiding rules. Read till the end to find other relevant information.

What is Baccarat?

Baccarat is a simple traditional card game played with 2 to 3 cards. As a game of chance, there is nothing you can do to influence the outcome. This game is played between two hands, the banker and the player. 

This table game originated in the mid 19th century in France before spreading across the world. The goal in baccarat is to predict the hand that will be close to or equal to 9. Please note that the objective of the game is the same, regardless of the variant you are playing.

How to Play Baccarat?

It is recommended to understand the rules of every game before you start playing. With baccarat, the rules are quite straightforward. You don't have to master complicated strategies to know how to play baccarat online or in land-based casinos. 

Before playing, you need to understand that there are three bets, the banker, the player, and a tie bet. A standard game uses 6 to eight decks of cards. The two hands that you can choose at the beginning of the game are the banker's hand and the dealer's hand.

What Are the Different Types of Baccarat Games?

The type of baccarat games will vary from one online casino to another. Some casinos offer multiple variations, while others stick to only a few types. In this section, we have provided all the popular baccarat variations you can find in major US casinos. These games are:

Punto Banco

Punto Banco is one of the oldest and most popular baccarat variations. This game was initially created by Argentinian casinos before it was introduced in the US in the 1950s. It is still a favorite game to high rollers and players on a budget. 

Many variants have borrowed its name though the features are different. Cards in punto banco are rearranged 8, 6, or 4 decks of 52-card decks. It starts with the player and the banker getting two cards, and a third card is only drawn if none of them has a hand value close to 9 or 8.

Chemin De Fer Baccarat

Chemin De Fer is a French version of baccarat that attracts a huge fan base. It is dealt with 6 decks of cards on a wide table, and players bet against each other. The player who is responsible for dealing cards is referred to as a 'banker,' and the rest of the players are 'punters.' 

After dealing cards, the banker places a bet which acts as the maximum limit and must match other players' wagers to his amount. The game follows a clockwise direction on the table, and players must decide the amount they are willing to stake without exceeding the banker's limit. 

The player that scores the highest bet becomes the one to act on behalf of others. Going forward, the banker deals two hands face down, one for him and the other for the representing player. In case a natural 8 or 9 occurs, the hands are compared, and the winner is determined.

Baccarat En Banque

While Baccarat Banque is common in European casinos, you can find it also in top US gambling venues and platforms. This variant is played with three decks of cards. However, baccarat en Banque varies from others as the rules are decided by the casino. 

In this casino game, a banker is determined before the cards are dealt, and the position is permanent. The baccarat en Banque table can hold up to ten players. Once the punters make their bets, the banker deals three cards. The first card is dealt to the player on the right, the second card to the player on the left, and the third card to himself. Three more cards are dealt in the same way.

Mini Baccarat

Mini baccarat is another widely played casino game. Though this game follows the rules of punto banco, it varies as it uses a single croupier. As the name suggests, you play a smaller table than other variants of baccarat. This is one of the most played casino games because of its fast-paced action. In some cases, you can witness up to 200 hands played in an hour or less.

Three Card Baccarat

Three card baccarat is a very famous casino game in Macau casinos. Many gamblers who cannot afford to join high roller tables prefer this variant. The most appealing thing about this game is the option to wager on any total for the dealer's hand. The bets are placed on individual divisions in this game.

Super 6 Baccarat

Super 6 baccarat is one of the easiest casino table games to play. The one slight difference between this variant and other games is in the payment structure and not the rules. Moreover, even money is paid on winning banker bets. But the situation changes when the banker wins with 6 where the pay is 50%. This variant is also known as Punto 2000 at some online casinos.

EZ Baccarat

EZ is a popular traditional version of baccarat. Many casinos in the US offer this variant than regular baccarat games. In EZ Baccarat, there is a banker bet and player bet, and players are free to wager on either of them. 

More exciting about this game is that it's easy and fast to play. To start, two hands are dealt, and each hand gets two cards. Even money is paid on both winning banker bets except when the banker wins with a total of 7 after drawing the third card.

No Commission Baccarat

The fact is that casinos take a 5% commission on every winning banker bets in baccarat games. However, no commission baccarat ignores this rule by not deducting any percentage out of your winnings. This way, players enjoy a prolonged house edge over the casino. This is one of the reasons many people are attracted to this variant. Nevertheless, the rules of this baccarat variation are adjusted so the house can retain its advantage.

Which Baccarat Game is the Best?

It's pretty difficult to decide which baccarat game is the best. The best version will vary depending on what you are looking for. Also, it depends on whether you are playing at brick-and-mortar casinos or online casinos. 

If you are looking for low stake baccarat games, you should try mini-baccarat, which accepts a minimum of $5 per hand. But if you prefer high stake games, you can choose VIP Baccarat games that accept a minimum bet amount of $100.

Tips for Winning in Baccarat Games

Are you wondering how people have been successful in playing baccarat games? We've shared secrets and tips you can apply to any variant and increase your winning opportunities.

1. Always set your win and loss limits and stick to them.
2. The banker bet is the most efficient wager regardless of the baccarat variation.
3. Start with wagering on the low house edge bets.
4. Master the optimal baccarat strategy.
5. Never depend on tie bets.
6. Start with the low table limit games.
7. Stick with the player bet until it loses.
8. Take advantage of the baccarat offers.
9. Learn bankroll management skills beforehand.
10. Never chase your losses in baccarat games.

Conclusion

Baccarat is now available in different variations, thanks to modern technology. These games are available in land-based casinos as well as internet-based platforms. The best part is that you can play baccarat at live casinos against real human punters. 

As we've stated earlier, none of the variations is better than the other. They are designed to meet the tests and preferences of different people. You can play baccarat in any format you like, and if you are lucky, you could win big prizes. Make sure you read and understand the underlying rules of each variation before playing, whether for fun or real money.

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