The 21+3 Side Bet in Blackjack
What does that sneaky 21+3 box on the blackjack table actually do? Spoiler: it’s not there to take your chips only. Can it boost your game if you use it right, though? Let’s see.
If you’re here, you probably saw someone slap down a chip on 21+3 and thought, “What’s the deal with that anyway?”
Most either ignore that 21+3 side bet completely or use it without even knowing what it does. Let’s fix that.
As a matter of fact, 21+3 is one of the most popular blackjack side bets. Did you know that players using it tend to come back for more rounds? Not necessarily because they win, but cuz it spices up the game.
How does the 21+3 side bet really work? What are the odds? Is it a good bet? Can you use it in live blackjack as well? Who should actually use it? Oh, there’s a lot to unpack.
Don’t go anywhere, we’re just getting started.
What’s the 21+3 Side Bet in Blackjack?
21+3 is a side bet (obv) you can place on blackjack, absolutely optional. No, it doesn’t have anything to do with hitting 21 or beating the dealer.
Wait, it gets even more interesting – this side bet is based on poker hands. Yeah, that’s right, poker meets blackjack. Weird combo? Kinda.
How It Works
Once you make your regular blackjack bet, if you’re in the mood, you can throw in a little drama with a 21+3 side bet. After the cards are dealt, your first two cards + the dealer’s upcard are put together to generate a 3-card poker hand.
What Hands Pay in 21+3
You win the side bet if the 3 cards make the following combos. Do note, though, that payouts may vary at different casinos.
| Hand | Meaning | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Suited Trips | 3 of the same rank, same suit | 100:1 |
| Straight Flush | 3 in a row, same suit | 40:1 |
| Three of a Kind | 3 cards, same rank, different suits | 30:1 |
| Straight | 3 in a row, any suit | 10:1 |
| Flush | 3 of the same suit | 5:1 |
What Are the Odds of Winning the 21+3 Bet?
Ah yes, the fine print nobody wants to read.
First, let’s talk house edge. Did you know it can range from 3.2% to 10% and even more? Well, that’s a lot. For context, classic blackjack (with perfect strategy) can have a house edge as low as 0.5%. “One of the most favourable casino games,” says Investopedia.
Wondering if you’re giving the house a massive ol’ high-five with this one? You bet.
And the Odds? Not Exactly in Your Favour
Generally, the odds of landing a winning 21+3 side bet combo are around 7.28%. Translated, it means you’ll win roughly 7 out of 100 hands, give or take. And it doesn’t work the same for all hands – from a 3.49% win probability for Flush to as low as 0.02% for Suited Trips.
That’s not all. Like I said, some online casinos can tweak payouts, so double-check before playing.
When Should You Use the Side Bet?
If the house edge is so big, you may wonder when you should actually use the 21+3 side bet.
Short answer? If you’re in for fun. Don’t expect much profit. But seriously, decide your budget for the side bet in advance. Plus, stick with blackjack tables with better paytables. I mean, side bet house edges closer to that 3%.
Can’t find the payout table? Google the blackjack title + paytable.
Just remember – the side bet doesn’t improve your odds, especially if you’re serious about blackjack strategy. That side bet will simply distract you.
Best Sites for 21+3 Side Bets in Blackjack
1
100%, up to $1,600
- Outstanding four-part welcome offer for new players
- Decent live dealer casino section
- Long-lasting casino, operating since 1998
2
$1,500 Bonus + 100 Free Spins
- Over 2,500 games from A-list providers
- Wide range of payment options, crypto included
- AGCO registration and iGaming Ontario operating agreement
3
50 Free Spins No Wagering
- Award-winning gaming platform
- Licensed in Canada
- Over 3,000 games from industry’s premium providers
4
100% Up to $750 + 200 FS + 1 Bonus Crab
- Wide selection of games from top providers
- Excellent selection of promotions
- Multiple payment methods (crypto included)
5
100% Bonus Up to $700 + 100 FS on Gates of Olympus
- Generous welcome package and various promos
- Over 9,000 games from big-name brands
- Multi-tier VIP system
Is 21+3 Side Bet Any Different in Live Blackjack?
Yep, that little side bet made it to live dealer games too.
Gameplay-wise, it’s the same rules, odds, and payouts. The only thing that feels different is the vibe. In live blackjack, you feel everything doubled.
First, cards are dealt from real shoes. The game is way slower and more social. And when it comes to that side bet, there’s real anticipation as cards hit the felt. Not the click-click you get in RNG games.
You see, those live tables add a layer of suspense to everything. And honestly? It’s half the reason so many players go for it.
Final Take: Is The 21+3 Side Bet a Good Bet?
Feels like time for a wrap-up.
So, is that 21+3 bet a sneaky money trap or a golden ticket?
Actually, it’s a fun extra spice to the classic blackjack game, but you should not expect a guaranteed win. Look, guys, I’m not gonna sugarcoat anything, but the house edge on this one is way higher than a standard blackjack session. Either way, the house got that long-term advantage.
You might click with it if you’re chasing thrills (not losses). But if you’re here for consistent wins, not this time, bud.
If you do go for it, watch out for those tempting payouts. Yeah, they seem juicy but rarely hit. Plus, casinos can slightly change them.
After all, blackjack’s best friend is smart play, not side bets. So, keep your game tight, and your budget? Even tighter.
FAQ
Can I play the 21+3 side bet at Canadian casinos?
Yes. Many online casinos in Canada offer blackjack games with 21+3 side bets. Make sure you play at a licensed casino, though.
Can I use some strategy with the 21+3 side bet?
Not really. This side bet is based on luck, so no strategy can actually change the outcome.
Do all blackjack games offer the 21+3 side bet?
No. Some do, so don’t. Check the game’s info box before you play.
Can I use the 21+3 side bet and still play regular blackjack?
Sure. You can bet on it every hand once in a while. It’s absolutely optional.
How to place a 21+3 side bet?
Right before cards are dealt, you’ll see a separate betting box labelled 21+3 next to the main blackjack bet. Drop a chip there, and you’re in.
This article is written by Mary, a seasoned professional with a rich background as a casino croupier now transitioned into a digital publisher with a keen focus on the online casino scene. With years of firsthand experience on the casino floor, Mary offers her unique perspective to the digital world of gambling.
Latest posts by Mary Henderson (see all)
- How the James Bond Roulette Strategy Works - August 13, 2025
- 7 Best Medium Volatility Slots - August 13, 2025
- These Best Egypt-themed Slots Hit Different - August 5, 2025
