The Hi-Lo (or ‘High-Low’) card counting system in blackjack is a popular topic, with numerous articles and videos dedicated to it online. But if you’re new to this technique or blackjack generally, the hi-lo system can seem daunting.
However, understanding how it works and what benefits it offers will help you make an informed decision about whether to try the Hi-Lo system. We’ll take a closer look at the key steps and the potential benefits below.
What is Card Counting in Blackjack?
Card counting systems are designed to help players make strategic decisions while they play blackjack. The aim is to give you an advantage and beat the house edge (usually around 2%), increasing your chances of hitting, sticking, and taking other actions at the right point in a game.
The concept behind card counting is that cards with a high number (9, 10, and ace) are more beneficial to players, while low cards (2 - 7) are better for dealers and casinos.
High cards give you a better chance of getting a blackjack and enable you to split. Low cards, on the other hand, reduce the risk of dealers busting when adding to their hand.
How Does the Hi-Lo Card Counting System Work?
The Hi-Lo system is considered one of the most accessible card counting methods. It involves several steps:
1. Applying Values to Cards
The first step is to separate the cards of a blackjack deck into three groups:
- Low cards - 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
- Non-counting cards - 7, 8, 9
- High cards - 10, jack, queen, king, ace
Now, apply a value to each group:
- Low cards - +1
- Non-counting cards - 0
- High cards - -1
Understanding the cards and values for each group is crucial to the rest of the system.
Jack and Ace Card
2. Counting Cards
When the game begins, you have to look at each card dealt from the deck and apply the relevant value to every one. This is known as keeping a ‘running count’: adding the low cards, taking the high cards away, and noting the neutral cards.
Let’s say the first seven cards dealt from the deck were: 4, 7, 2, 3, Q, A, 0. The running count would be +1 +0 +1 +1 -1 -1 +0 = +1.
3. Calculating the True Count
The next step in the Hi-Lo card counting system involves working out the ‘true count’. To do this, divide the running count by the estimated amount of decks remaining.
For example, if the running count is +4 and you estimate there are two decks left, the true count will be 4/2 = +2. You may need to round numbers up or down to reach the true count in some cases.
4. Making Your Bet
Finally, if the true count is positive, the system dictates that you should raise your bet. You should set a bet unit size before you start playing that enables you to calculate your raises quickly and easily.
If a table’s minimum stake is $5.00, for instance, you could set that as your bet unit size. You would then add $5.00 for each +1 number in the true count (e.g. a $20.00 bet for a +4 true count).
However, you need to consider your bet limit and the potential for exceeding that before you start using the Hi-Lo card counting system in blackjack. Always gamble responsibly and be aware of your limits.
The best blackjack sites inform you of the minimum bet, maximum bet, and other key information about the game (e.g. RTP) to help you choose the right one for your budget. Check these details carefully before you pick a blackjack game.
What are the Benefits of the Hi-Lo Card Counting System?
The system is popular with players for the following reasons:
- It’s simple: Even newcomers to blackjack can grasp the hi-lo system more easily than they might learn other methods.
- Make informed decisions: By counting the cards, players may have a better idea of what their next action should be.
- Gain an advantage over casinos: Some players believe that the system can give them an edge over the house.
- Plenty of resources available: There are many resources online covering the hi-lo card counting system in detail, so players can study it carefully before they decide whether to try it.
If you want to play blackjack online, whether against software or live dealers, you can find plenty of reputable sites offering a variety of blackjack games. Read Gambling Zone’s guide to the best online blackjack sites to get started!
