Want to spice up your blackjack game? Consider the “Perfect Pairs” side bet, a popular addition that gives you a chance at bigger payouts based on pure luck.
With Perfect Pairs, you’re betting on whether your first two cards will be a pair. But it’s not quite that simple! There are actually different kinds of Perfect Pairs bets, each with its own payout structure and, of course, its own house edge.
Let’s dive into the world of Perfect Pairs, explore the different variations, and figure out the odds and potential returns.
Understanding Perfect Pairs
Perfect Pairs is a blackjack side bet that adds a little extra excitement to the game. But before you jump in, it’s important to understand how it works.
First, you need to know the different kinds of pairs:
- Perfect Pair: Two cards with the same rank and suit (like two Aces of Spades).
- Colored Pair: Two cards with the same rank and color (like an Ace of Hearts and an Ace of Diamonds).
- Red/Black Pair: Two cards with the same rank, one red and one black (like an Ace of Hearts and an Ace of Spades).
Here’s how it works: Before the hand is dealt, you place a side bet on whether your first two cards will form a pair. If they do, you win! The payout depends on the type of pair you get.
Important: Always check the pay table before you bet. The pay table shows how much each type of pair pays out, and it has a big impact on how the house makes its money.
Version 1: The Classic Perfect Pairs
The original Perfect Pairs side bet comes in a few different flavors, which I’m calling A, B, C, and D. The differences are in the pay tables, and those differences can have a big effect on the house edge.
The payout structure varies depending on whether you get a “perfect pair” (identical cards), a colored pair (same color, different suit), or a mixed pair (different color and suit). These payout differences affect the house edge significantly.
For example, Pay Table A with 8 decks looks like this:
- Perfect pair pays 25, probability 0.016867, return 0.421687
- Colored pair pays 12, probability 0.031152, return 0.373824
- Mixed pair pays 6, probability 0.062231, return 0.373386
- Total return 1.168897
Expected returns for this version of Perfect Pairs vary depending on the number of decks. You’ll see different returns for 2, 4, 5, 6, and 8 decks.
Version 2: The Perfect Pair
Version 2 of Perfect Pairs pays out if you get either one or two perfect pairs in your hand. Obviously, getting two perfect pairs is better and comes with a bigger payout.
The house edge in Version 2 changes dramatically based on how many decks are in play. Here’s a breakdown:
- 2 decks: 48.08%
- 4 decks: 21.50%
- 6 decks: 12.54%
- 8 decks: 8.05%
You might also find a variant of Version 2 with a payout of 25 to 1, whether you have one or two perfect pairs. In this version, the house edge with 8 decks is 13.03%.
As you can see, the house edge in Version 2 goes way down as more decks are added to the game. That’s a pretty big difference!
Putting It All Together
The biggest difference between Perfect Pairs Version 1 and Version 2 is how they pay out. Version 1 has variable pay tables, while Version 2 pays based on the number of perfect pairs you get.
Before you place a bet, take a moment to understand the pay table and the house edge. It’s important to know the odds before you play.
Finally, research and compare the different variations of Perfect Pairs. Look for the pay tables and rules that give you the best statistical advantage.