Blackjack continues to be one of the most popular card games throughout the UK and beyond.

Popular due to its simple rules, widespread availability at online casinos and the ease with which players can play, blackjack remains one of the most popular game options at online and brick-and-mortar casinos, along with games such as roulette, poker and slots.

And though they are easy to learn, there are plenty of blackjack rules, actions and strategies to be aware of – both for beginners and for more seasoned players.

The Blackjack 21 + 3 is one such addition to the game – it is a popular side bet in blackjack games that combines blackjack and three card poker.

As with other side bets, 21 + 3 gives players additional betting options beyond the standard blackjack game, and potentially offers higher payouts.

In this guide, we have provided the key information on the 21 + 3, including how it works, the winning hands, variations and useful 21 + 3 strategies to test out on safe casino sites.

How does the 21 + 3 side bet work?

So what does 21 + 3 mean in blackjack?

The 21 + 3 side bet is based on the first two cards dealt to the player and the dealer’s upcard. Together, these three cards form the basis of the side bet.

Players bet on whether or not these three cards form a poker-style hand, such as a flush, straight, three-of-a-kind, or straight flush.

The outcome of the side bet differs from your main blackjack hand and can win even if the player loses their primary blackjack hand.

Winning Hands in 21 + 3

Below, we have provided a list of the possible winning combinations in the 21 + 3 side bet:

Flush: All three cards are of the same suit.

Straight: All three cards are in consecutive rank, regardless of suit.

Three of a Kind: All three cards are of the same rank.

Straight Flush: All three cards are both consecutive in rank and of the same suit.

21 + 3 Payouts

Each potential second hand operates its own typical payout structure for the 21 + 3 side bet. These are the usual odds, although it may differ depending on the online casino; remember to consider your odds before placing a side bet.

Flush: 5:1 payout.

Straight: 10:1 payout.

Three of a Kind: 30:1 payout.

Straight Flush: 40:1 payout.

Why play the 21 + 3 side bet?

The 21 + 3 side bet gives players a chance for higher payouts than in standard blackjack.

Of course, this side bet adds an extra layer of excitement to blackjack tables, so it has become popular among more experienced players who enjoy taking additional risks.

However, although the side bet offers larger payouts, it comes with a higher house edge, meaning the odds of winning are lower than regular blackjack hands (as is reflected in the potential payouts).

21 + 3 strategy

While the 21 + 3 side bet is primarily a game of chance, there are strategies that can help players make informed decisions.

Primarily, players should remember to approach the 21 + 3 bet as a fun, additional bet rather than a primary strategy for winning. It should be used sparsely, not on every hand.

In addition, players should only wager what they are comfortable losing, since the house edge is typically higher (so you are more likely to lose).

21 + 3 blackjack variations

Some new casino sites may offer different versions of blackjack 21 + 3 with additional rules or different payouts.

If you are keen on learning this side bet, or are already a regular user, shop around on the best gambling sites to find the game and odds that appeal to your wagering needs.

Responsible gambling

Remember to gamble responsibly whether you’re playing blackjack, real money poker, sports betting or any other type of gambling platform.

Gambling is a form of entertainment, not a way to make money, and players can quickly lose money on a game like blackjack.

Never wager more than you can afford to lose, and take steps to remain in control of your budget from the second you register for a casino sign up bonus.

Make use of responsible gambling tools if necessary. These are offered by all regulated casino sites, and options include self-assessment calculators, deposit limits, loss limits, self-exclusion and time-outs.

If you need to seek help for gambling-related issues, there are several charities and healthcare providers who offer support and information, including:

Summary: 21 + 3 in Blackjack

To recap, it is worth noting that the 21 + 3 is an optional side bet designed to offer an additional element to traditional blackjack games by providing a poker-style bet.

Before using this side bet on casino apps, punters should make sure they are fully aware of how it functions, what the potential winning scenarios are, and the odds associated with each one.

Users should note that adding a side bet is riskier due to the higher house edge, so players should gamble responsibly.

Ideally, punters should test out 21 + 3 side bets in low-stakes games or free online blackack games before committing to higher wagers in real-money games.

FAQs: What is blackjack 21 + 3?

What is blackjack 21 + 3?

The blackjack 21 + 3 is a side bet used in blackjack games that combines the game with a poker-style hand. When making the bet, the punter is wagering on whether the first two cards dealt to the player and the dealer’s upcard form a poker-style hand, such as a flush, straight, three-of-a-kind, or straight flush.

How do you win at blackjack 21 + 3?

The player wins the 21 + 3 Blackjack side bet if the three cards (the first two cards they are dealt, plus the dealer’s upcard) form either a flush, straight, three of a kind or a straight flush. Players will win according to specific odds, with payouts the highest for a straight flush and lowest for a flush.

What are the advantages of blackjack 21 + 3?

The main advantage of the 21 + 3 blackjack bet is that it gives the game an additional angle for players as something else to bet on. It adds not only a degree of excitement but also potential additional winnings, with 21 + 3 blackjack payouts being as high as 40:1 for a straight flush.

Where can I play blackjack 21 + 3?

Many online casinos offer the option to play blackjack games, and some of these will allow the 21 + 3 side bet, though some don’t, so remember to check your chosen casino for any specific 21 + 3 blackjack rules.

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