Baccarat Side Bets Explained: Odds, Strategy & Payouts
If you’re new to baccarat, you may have come across additional betting options at the table known as side bets. These offer alternative ways to take part in the game alongside the usual Player, Banker, or Tie bets.
This guide sets out the basics of baccarat side bets, explains how odds and payouts are generally determined, and outlines what each type involves. Read on to learn more.
What Are Side Bets In Baccarat?
Side bets in baccarat are optional wagers that sit alongside the main Player, Banker, or Tie bets. They are based on particular outcomes or card combinations that may occur during a round.
For instance, you might see a side bet that involves predicting whether the first two cards dealt to the Player or Banker will form a pair. Other options might focus on the total number of cards dealt or the value of those cards.
Each type of side bet comes with its own set of rules and payout rates. While some offer higher potential returns compared to standard bets, they are typically based on outcomes that occur less frequently. The odds and payouts can vary depending on the version of baccarat and the operator providing the game.
If you’re playing online, the selection of side bets can differ between game providers. You can usually find details by checking the paytable or reading through the game’s rules. As with all forms of the game, each round is determined at random, and results cannot be predicted.
Baccarat Side Bets Odds & Payouts
Each side bet in baccarat comes with its own set of odds and payout structures, which may be higher or lower than those of the main bets, depending on the version of the game being played. These figures are determined by the casino or software provider, so it might be a good idea to review the game’s information section before choosing to place a side bet.
The “Player Pair” and “Banker Pair” side bets win if the first two cards dealt to the selected hand are of the same rank—for example, two Jacks. This type of bet typically pays out at odds of 11 to 1, with an estimated probability of around 7.47% in a standard eight-deck game.
The “Perfect Pair” side bet is based on two cards of the same rank and suit, such as two 9 of Diamonds. This usually pays 25 to 1. Some versions of the game also include additional pair types within the same bet: a “Coloured Pair” (same rank and colour, but different suits) may pay 12 to 1, and a “Mixed Pair” (same rank, different colours) may pay 6 to 1. The chance of a perfect pair occurring is approximately 3.34% in an eight-deck shoe.
The “Big” and “Small” side bets are determined by the total number of cards drawn in a hand. A “Big” bet often pays 0.54 to 1 when five or six cards are dealt, while a “Small” bet typically pays 1.5 to 1 if exactly four cards are dealt. These bets reflect the natural flow of the game under standard baccarat dealing rules.
Some other side bets are based on factors like the point difference between hands or particular card combinations. Each variation will be explained in the paytable, and both rules and returns may differ between games.
As with all aspects of baccarat, side bet outcomes are produced randomly. They cannot be forecast or influenced by strategies or previous results.
Are Baccarat Side Bets Worth It?
Side bets can add variety to the game of baccarat, offering additional options beyond the standard Player or Banker wagers. These bets usually come with higher potential payouts, but the likelihood of a win is generally lower compared to the main bets.
An important factor to consider is the house edge, which reflects the statistical advantage the casino holds over time. For instance, the “Perfect Pair” side bet can have a house edge exceeding 17% in some versions of the game. In comparison, the main Player and Banker bets typically carry lower house edges, at around 1.24% and 1.06%, respectively.
Not all baccarat games include the same side bets, and both odds and payout structures can differ by provider. Reviewing the game rules or paytable in advance could help clarify what to expect before deciding whether to use a side bet.
There is no strategy that can predict or influence the result. Whether or not side bets are worth considering is ultimately a personal decision, depending on individual preferences and how you choose to experience the game.
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**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.