Choosing an Online Casino to Play Blackjack

You may think that one Blackjack table is the same as any other, but there are some subtle and not so subtle differences between the WagerWorks, Playtech, Microgaming and Cryptologic Blackjack software that various online casinos use. All of the casinos that we recommend offer a free version of the game and they all give you the option of playing one hand or several hands. Most offer Classic Blackjack as well as the two most popular variations, European and Atlantic City but some just have the basic game. Not all host Blackjack tournaments, but some do. And, as with all online casino games, some casinos only offer games that have to be downloaded and installed, some offer only instant-play games, and some offer both.

Blackjack tables all have the same elements – chips, cards and game controls – but each software provider has its own unique look and feel.  Unless you’re looking for a type of Blackjack that’s only available at certain casinos, or you have a strong preference for instant-play over download, or you’re looking for a tournament to join, let your eyes and ears be the judge.

Online Blackjack Comparison Checklist

Just like in Las Vegas where some players always head to Caesars Palace while others wouldn’t play anywhere but the Bellagio, online casino table design is a very personal preference. Here are some snapshots of various popular Blackjack tables. I’ll give you my personal opinion but your own opinion is what really counts.

Playtech Blackjack

Playtech tables are very crisp and sharp. It’s easy to read the felt. The game controls are simple and easy to use. Plays are called in a very clear voice. Appreciated being asked if I was “sure” when I inadvertently hit on 17.

Microgaming Blackjack

The lighting is softer and somehow more relaxed at a Microgaming table. The writing on the felt is more discrete. Game controls are very basic. Microgaming has many more variations of Blackjack than most software providers. Ladbrokes, for instance, has 62 variations with single and multi-hand and single and multi-player versions of Atlantic City, Vegas and European Blackjack plus several other varieties. I found the free games at Ladbrokes just too slow to be bothered with and there’s only 2 Blackjack’s available anyway.

Cryptologic Blackjack

While most casinos open in a partial screen window, Cryptologic games (at Intercasino) fill the whole screen. Big, easy to read/use. Simple control firth at the table for controlling game speed. Encouraging comments like “Good hand!” and seems genuinely sorry when you bust. “Blackjack! Ace and a face and you win the race!” Options like whether or not you want to be offered insurance always or never and whether or not you want to be prompted to double down, hit or stand. Set your Autobet preferences to increase or decrease your bet depending on conditions you set, like decrease your next bet if you just lost a hand.

WagerWorks Blackjack

WagerWorks casino don’t offer the usual variations but they do offer various unique versions of their own, each with its own twist on the classic game and special bonus possibilities such as Blackjack with 20+ Bonus, Blackjack with Hot Streak Bonus and Power Blackjack.