How to Play Blackjack Switch: Rules, Strategy & Odds Guide
Blackjack Switch is a blackjack variant where you play two hands simultaneously and can switch the second card dealt to each hand. This unique mechanic creates exciting strategic possibilities, though the casino compensates with modified rules that affect payouts.
Table of Contents
- What Is Blackjack Switch?
- How the Switch Works
- Rule Modifications
- Basic Strategy
- Odds and House Edge
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Blackjack Switch?
Blackjack Switch was invented by Geoff Hall and introduced in 2009. You must play two hands with equal bets, and after receiving your initial four cards, you can switch the second cards between your two hands.
Example Switch
Before Switch:
- Hand 1: 5-10 (15)
- Hand 2: 10-6 (16)
After Switch:
- Hand 1: 5-6 (11) - Great for doubling!
- Hand 2: 10-10 (20) - Strong hand!
How the Switch Works
The Deal
- Place two equal bets
- Receive two cards face up on each hand
- Decide whether to switch the second cards
- Play each hand normally (hit, stand, double, split)
Switch Rules
- You may only switch the second card of each hand
- Switching is optional—you can keep original hands
- The switch happens before any other action
- Both hands must be played out
Rule Modifications
The casino compensates for the switch advantage with rules that favor the house:
Blackjack Pays 1:1
Natural blackjacks pay even money, not 3:2. This is the biggest cost of the switch privilege.
Dealer 22 Pushes
If the dealer busts with exactly 22, all remaining player hands push instead of winning. This "Super Push" rule significantly benefits the house.
Other Common Rules
- Dealer hits soft 17 (typical)
- Double after split allowed
- Re-splitting allowed (varies)
- No surrender
Basic Strategy
Blackjack Switch strategy has two components: when to switch and how to play each hand.
Switch Strategy Principles
Always switch to create:
- A hand of 19, 20, or 21
- A hand of 11 (ideal for doubling)
- Two playable hands from two poor hands
Don't switch when:
- Both hands are already strong (18+)
- Switching creates one very weak hand for marginal gain
Playing Strategy Adjustments
Because dealer 22 pushes:
- Stand less on stiff hands: The downside of busting is relatively worse
- Double more liberally: You don't lose double when dealer hits 22
- Hit more against dealer 2-6: Dealer busting with 22 doesn't help you
Odds and House Edge
House Edge
With optimal strategy: 0.58%
This is competitive with standard blackjack despite the 1:1 blackjack payout, thanks to the switch advantage.
Impact of Rule Changes
| Rule | Effect on House Edge |
|---|---|
| Blackjack pays 1:1 | +2.27% |
| Dealer 22 pushes | +0.93% |
| Switch advantage | -2.65% |
| Net effect | ~0.58% |