The short answer: No. it doesn’t really matter where you sit at a blackjack table. Some players believe the third base (the farthest left seat at the blackjack table) is the best spot. However, this claim is not based on any blackjack math.
The exception is if you are a professional blackjack card counter. The position matters to card counters because they need to act last once they have counted as many cards as possible.
- First Base: This is the seat to the far right when facing the dealer. As the first to receive cards and take action, you may feel a sense of control, yet this has no mathematical impact on the game’s outcome.
- Middle Seats (Seats 2-5) The Middle Seats are more neutral and offer:
- Observation opportunities: Watch how the round unfolds before your turn.
- Flexibility in strategy: Adapt your play based on the preceding actions of others.
- Shortstop Position: This seat is situated right in the middle of the table. Because there are typically players on both sides, the shortstop has little control over the cards that other players receive. This player, on the other hand, may have the most “control” over the table. This person can be strategically placed to discourage other players from getting seated in the other spots at the table.
- Third Base: Often referred to as the last seat to the left before the dealer, players in this position make the final decision before the dealer plays. Some players believe that this position bears responsibility for the dealer’s hand, although, in reality, it does not.
What is the best seat at the blackjack table?
When all’s said and done, where you sit at the table has little to no consequence on your gameplay and odds of winning. The exceptions could be if you’re a newbie or plan to count cards. When card counting, most professional players swear by the third base position.
Best Seating Position for Card Counting
Card counting is one of the most effective winning strategies for blackjack, although some casinos frown upon it. Card counters can easily beat the dealer and create a decent bankroll. A crucial part of card counting is to know where to position yourself at the blackjack table.
The majority prefer the third base seating position. This seat provides them with a holistic view of everything that happens before they act. That’s the main goal of card counting—getting good view and count of the remaining cards.
Ideal Seating Position for Beginners
If you are new to the game, you want to understand how blackjack is played. That is why most beginners are recommended to take a middle seat, somewhere in the shortstop position. This allows them to get a good look at what is happening on the table and helps them avoid being blamed for any move that is deemed wrong. If that’s you, don’t be afraid to get help from the dealer. They know blackjack basic strategy.
Factors to consider:
- Distractions: If you’re easily distracted, consider sitting at the ends of the table to minimize interruptions—first base for fewer visual distractions and third base for fewer audio distractions.
- Watching Patterns: The table’s middle seats can offer insights into how the game unfolds on both ends, which some players find useful for tracking patterns, even though the effectiveness of such observations is subjective.
Is it better to play blackjack with a full table?
When you play blackjack, the number of players at the table influences the dynamics of the game. Each player’s decision can impact how quickly the game progresses, so it’s useful to consider these aspects:
- Pace of Play: A full table slows down the game. Fewer hands per hour means more time to consider each decision and less pressure from the dealer or other players.
- Social Aspect: More players contribute to a lively atmosphere. If you enjoy social interaction and aren’t solely focused on the number of hands, a full table can be enjoyable.
- Bankroll Management: Playing at a slower pace means fewer bets over time, which can lead to less variation in your bankroll.
Here is a breakdown of the average number of hands per hour by the number of players:
| Number of Players | Hands per Hour |
|---|---|
| 1 | 209 |
| 2 | 139 |
| 3 | 105 |
| 4 | 84 |
| 5 | 70 |
| 6 | 60 |
| 7 | 52 |
Positions While Playing Blackjack Online
Seating positions are irrelevant in online blackjack because they don’t exist. That means this game is ideal for newbies and non-card counters. If you are a beginner and often take third base, you should head to online casinos.
Online blackjack games have no real seats or seating positions. You are actually playing, one-on-one, against the virtual dealer. The exception is the live-dealer version. Live casino tables are authentic. Although betting takes place at a virtual table, your position is reserved based on a first-come, first-serve basis. This means you must pick the right available seat based on your playing preference.
What are the advantages of the anchor seat in blackjack?
The anchor seat, or the last position before the dealer, enables you to see more cards before making your play, which could inform your decisions. However, it doesn’t give you a statistical advantage over the house.
Why might someone choose a particular seat at a blackjack table?
Some players choose a seat based on superstition, past success, or a desire for more time to make decisions. Others may select a seat to better engage with friends or avoid the pressure of certain positions.
In what ways does the availability of blackjack charts influence seat selection?
It doesn’t. Blackjack strategy charts are valuable tools regardless of your seat. They provide the best possible moves based on your hand and the dealer’s upcard. Your position does not impact the chart’s effectiveness.
What etiquette should be followed to maintain a positive atmosphere at the blackjack table?
Respect other players’ choices, avoid unsolicited advice, and be mindful of the pace of your play. Good manners facilitate an enjoyable game for you and your fellow players.
What not to do at a blackjack table?
When at a blackjack table, avoid common errors such as hitting on a soft 17, making insurance bets, and attempting card counting. Refrain from splitting 4s, 5s, or 10s, over-doubling, playing 6:5 blackjack games, or frequently changing game variations. Also, learn the hand gestures for better gameplay.