Single-Deck vs Multi-Decks : Do the Number of Decks in Blackjack Matter?

The number of decks in blackjack plays a crucial role in odds, strategy, and house edge. While single deck blackjack was once the standard, most casinos now favor multi-deck games—such as double deck, 6-deck, or 8-deck blackjack—to reduce card counting advantages. But does the deck count really matter? And which version gives you the best chance to win? In this guide, we’ll break down single deck vs multi-deck blackjack, their differences, and the best strategies for each.

Does the Number of Decks in Blackjack Matter?

If you're new to blackjack, you might be wondering: how many decks are used in blackjack, and does it affect your odds? The short answer is yes—the number of decks plays a significant role in the game’s strategy and house edge.

Traditionally, single deck blackjack was the standard in casinos. However, as players discovered strategies to lower the house edge—such as card counting—casinos introduced multi-deck blackjack, using two, four, six, or even eight decks to make it harder to track cards. This shift increased the house advantage, making blackjack less favorable for players.

So, which version is better? Should you play single deck blackjack or a 6-deck blackjack game? Let’s break it down.

Single Deck Blackjack: Is It Worth Playing?

In single deck blackjack, only one deck of 52 cards is used. The goal remains the same: beat the dealer without exceeding 21.

Advantages of Single Deck Blackjack

• Lower house edge: A blackjack strategy for single deck games is more effective due to better odds. The house edge can be as low as 0.15%, assuming standard 3:2 payouts.
• Easier to count cards: With fewer cards in play, card counting becomes more effective—although most casinos monitor for this strategy.

Why Many Casinos No Longer Offer True Single Deck Blackjack

• 6:5 payout on blackjack: Many casinos that claim to offer single deck blackjack reduce payouts from the traditional 3:2 to 6:5, which increases the house edge to around 1.45%—making it worse than some multi-deck games.
• Frequent shuffling: Casinos shuffle more often to disrupt card counting, limiting any strategic advantage.

Pro Tip: Always check the payout rules. If the game offers 3:2 payouts, it’s worth considering. If it’s 6:5, it’s best to avoid it.

Multi-Deck Blackjack: Double Deck vs 6 Deck Blackjack

Casinos introduced multi-deck blackjack to minimize card counting and increase their advantage. The most common formats are double-deck, 4-deck, 6-deck, and 8-deck blackjack games.

House Edge in Multi-Deck Blackjack

• Double deck blackjack: House edge 0.46%
• 4-deck blackjack: House edge 0.60%
• 6-deck blackjack: House edge 0.64%
• 8-deck blackjack: House edge 0.65%

While the difference seems small, the increased number of decks slightly lowers the effectiveness of card counting and blackjack strategy. However, double deck vs 6 deck blackjack is a key debate—double deck games tend to offer better odds but are still harder to find in casinos.

Which Blackjack Game Should You Play?

• If you find a 3:2 single deck blackjack game, it’s a great choice due to the lower house edge.
• Double deck blackjack is a solid alternative with relatively favorable odds.
• 6 deck blackjack and 8 deck blackjack are more common and still offer decent odds if you use proper strategy.

Conclusion: Blackjack Strategy and Deck Count

The number of decks in blackjack significantly affects the game’s odds, with single deck blackjack offering the best theoretical advantage—but only when it pays 3:2. If you can’t find one, double deck or 6-deck blackjack games provide a balance between fair odds and availability.

For the best results, always check the payout rules, apply single deck blackjack strategy when applicable, and avoid games with 6:5 payouts.