Whether you’re brand new to blackjack or a seasoned player looking to sharpen your strategy, knowing what to do with the most common hands can seriously boost your odds. Blackjack is not just a game of luck, it’s a game of decisions. And making the right move at the right time can mean the difference between walking away with a win or losing your chips faster than you can say “hit me.”
Below are ten of the most common blackjack hands you’ll see at both online casinos and real world gaming tables, and of course, exactly how to play them like a pro.
1. Hard 16 vs. Dealer 10
Ah, the dreaded hard 16. This hand — any two cards that total 16 without an Ace counting as 11 — is one of the worst you can get.
Best play: Hit (or Surrender if allowed).
Why? Because the odds are against you either way, but hitting gives you a slim chance of improvement, whereas standing almost guarantees a loss. If surrender is an option, take it and save half your stake.
2. Pair of 8s vs. Dealer 10
It might seem mad to split when the dealer has a strong card showing, but this one’s simple.
Best play: Always split.
Two 8s total 16 — the worst hand in blackjack. Splitting gives you a shot at two potentially winning hands instead of one likely losing one.
3. Soft 17 vs. Dealer 2
A “soft” hand includes an Ace counted as 11. In this case, you’ve got an Ace and a 6.
Best play: Hit (or Double Down in some cases).
Standing leaves you too vulnerable. You want a stronger hand, and with a soft 17, you can’t bust on the first hit.
4. Hard 12 vs. Dealer 3
This is one of those hands that seems weaker than it actually is.
Best play: Stand.
The dealer’s 3 is part of the “bust card” range (2–6), so standing gives you a better chance to win if the dealer busts. Hitting increases your chance of going over 21 unnecessarily.
5. Blackjack (Ace + 10)
You’ve got 21 — the best hand in the game.
Best play: Stand and collect.
If the dealer offers “even money” and is showing an Ace, think twice — it’s usually better to take your chances and aim for the full 3:2 payout.
6. Pair of Aces vs. Dealer Any Card
Two Aces? Lovely — but they’re useless together.
Best play: Always split.
This gives you two chances at a 21 or a strong hand. Most casinos will only allow one card per split Ace, but it’s still the right move.
7. Hard 13 vs. Dealer 2
This one feels awkward — not strong, but not terrible.
Best play: Stand.
With the dealer showing a weak card, let them take the risk of busting. Hitting could push you over 21 unnecessarily.
8. Soft 18 vs. Dealer 9
Ace and 7 — looks good, right? Not always.
Best play: Hit.
Soft 18 isn’t as solid as it seems, especially against a dealer’s 9 or higher. Hit to improve, or double down if allowed (against 3–6).
9. Hard 11 vs. Dealer 6
This is one of the best doubling opportunities in the game.
Best play: Double Down.
You’ve got a strong hand, and the dealer is in a weak position. Put more money on the table and make the most of it.
10. Hard 9 vs. Dealer 3
It’s not quite as strong as 11, but still solid enough to make a move.
Best play: Double Down.
Statistically, this play has a great chance of turning into a winning hand. It’s a prime spot to take advantage of the dealer’s weaker upcard.
Bonus Tip: Use a Strategy Chart
You don’t have to remember every single scenario — blackjack strategy charts are widely available, easy to read, and legal to use in most casinos. Whether you’re playing online or at a real table, studying a chart helps you make the best possible decisions every time.
Final Thoughts
Blackjack isn’t about guessing — it’s about knowing. The hands above represent some of the most common (and most misunderstood) scenarios you’ll face at the table. By learning how to play them properly, you can minimise losses, make smarter bets, and enjoy the game with a clear edge.
Remember: the house always has an advantage, but smart strategy is how you fight back.
What’s Your Trickiest Hand?
Which blackjack hand throws you off every time? Let us know in the comments! And if you want more casino tips, card game strategies, or betting insights, subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a beat.