Basic strategy is the mathematically correct play for every blackjack hand. Follow it and the house edge drops to around 0.5%. Here's the strategy in plain English, for a standard multi-deck game.
~0.5%
house edge with strategy
2%+
without it
Legal
and encouraged
18+
play responsibly
Hard hands, soft hands, pairs
These rules assume a common online game: multiple decks, dealer stands on soft 17, double after split allowed, no surrender. Your hand is listed first, then what to do against the dealer's up card.
8 or less. Always hit
9. Double against 3–6, otherwise hit
10. Double against 2–9, otherwise hit
11. Double against 2–10, hit against ace
12. Stand against 4–6, otherwise hit
13–16. Stand against 2–6, otherwise hit
17 or more. Always stand
Soft 13–14 (A2, A3). Double against 5–6, otherwise hit
Soft 15–16 (A4, A5). Double against 4–6, otherwise hit
Soft 17 (A6). Double against 3–6, otherwise hit
Soft 18 (A7). Double against 2–6, stand against 7–8, hit against 9–A
Soft 19+ (A8, A9). Always stand
Aces, 8s. Always split
10s. Never split
9s. Split against 2–9 except 7, otherwise stand
7s. Split against 2–7, otherwise hit
6s. Split against 2–6, otherwise hit
4s. Split against 5–6, otherwise hit
2s, 3s. Split against 2–7, otherwise hit
5s. Never split; treat as hard 10
Insurance is a side bet that the dealer has blackjack. It carries a house edge of around 7%. Decline it every time.
Rules vary. If the dealer hits soft 17 or blackjack pays 6:5, the house edge rises. Prefer tables that pay 3:2 and stand on soft 17.
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Navi Casino editorial team
Reviews are written and fact-checked by our editors. Last checked 25 October 2026.
4 questions
Is basic strategy legal online?
Yes. It's simply playing correctly; casinos expect it.
Does basic strategy work in live blackjack?
Yes, as long as you check the table rules.
How much does it reduce the house edge?
From 2% or more for casual play to around 0.5%.
Should I ever take insurance?
No.
Gambling should be entertainment, never a way to make money or win back losses. Set limits before you play, and take a break if it stops being fun. Free, confidential help is available 24/7.
