Blackjack Strategy: When to Double Down
Whether playing in a land-based or online casino, Doubling Down is one of the most thrilling moves in Blackjack. It allows you to double your bet in the middle of a hand in exchange for one extra card. It's a risky gamble, as it usually ends your betting - if you receive a particularly low second card you can't hit again.
This can lead to a more timid blackjack player avoiding the double bet, and more adventurous players making it far too often. It's important to try and strike a balance between sensible safe play, such as using a basic strategy, and risky double downs to maximise your potential winnings.
When to Double Down
Fortunately, basic strategies for blackjack have been meticulously mapped using mathematical probability, designed to tell you exactly when it is best (in the long run) to double down. There are three situations when it's best to double down, explained below.
In all of these situations, you can't go bust and are in the most likely position to finish with a high hand, while statistics indicate that the dealer is in the most likely position to lose the hand.
100% Welcome Bonus & Up to £200 On Your First deposit + 50 Bonus Spins
Hard 9 Against the Dealer's Low Cards
When you are dealt a total of 9, double down when the dealer's upcard shows something between 2 and 6 (any card below 7, not including the Ace). This must be a hard 9; meaning there is no Ace in your hand - so the combinations could be 2-7, 3-6 or 4-5. If you have A-8 (a soft 9), it's best to stand, regardless of what the dealer shows.
Soft 16 To 18 Against the Dealer's Low Cards
If you have an Ace and either a 5, 6 or 7 giving you a 'soft' total of 16 to 18 and the dealer shows a card from 2 to 6, this is a great time to double your bet. With an Ace and a lower card (2 to 4), it is better to just hit, as you are less likely to end with a high hand.
Hard 10 Or 11 Against Any Lower Dealer Card
A hard 10 or 11 puts you in a powerful position - that is, with any two cards, not including an ace, that makes 10 or 11 (2-8, 2-9, 3-7, 3-8, 4-6, 4-7, 5-6). If the dealer has a lower total, it's time to double down.
Splitting in Blackjack
Another popular and basic blackjack strategy is 'splitting'. You are offered the chance to split your two hole cards if they form a pair. The only time you can split a pair occurs after you receive your cards. If you choose to split your pair, your cards will be split into two standard hands as you match the original bet with a second wager. As a result, you now have the chance to double your winnings - or your losses if it does not work out.
While splitting raises the stakes and always provides a little more excitement, you must learn when it is advisable and when it is not. It is best to split in live blackjack and online blackjack if you have a pair of aces or a pair of eights.
Because there are more 10-value cards than any other card in the deck (16 in total), there is a statistical chance of hitting at least one 21 when splitting aces. Also, two separate hands of eight are much easier to play with than one hand of 16, which will very rarely win.
If dealt a pair of 10s, be sure to stick - you are not likely to improve on your hand with anything else. From here on down (in terms of hand value), it's important to note what the dealer has. This is because, statistically, for any given pair, there is a 'right' and 'wrong' option to split when faced with certain cards.
If dealt a pair of nines, the statistically best option is to split if the dealer has a two, three, four, five, six, eight or nine. However, if the dealer has a seven, 10 or ace it makes more sense to stand.
Similarly, if you have a pair of sixes and the dealer has a card between two and six, you should split. Otherwise, take another card. If you have sevens and the dealer has a card between two and seven, you should split - otherwise, you should twist on the original pair.
Similarly, if you have a pair of sixes and the dealer has a card between two and six, you should split - otherwise, take another card. If you have fours and the dealer has a five or six, then split - in any other situation, take another card. If you have either a pair of twos or threes, split if the dealer has any card between two and seven - if not, hit.
100% Welcome Bonus & Up to £200 On Your First deposit + 50 Bonus Spins
Pay Attention to the Rules
In almost every Blackjack game these strategies for doubling down and splitting should stay true. However, be aware that the rules of Blackjack do vary between casinos, which can affect your decision making. If it's possible to double with three or more cards, then you may find additional hands when you could double down, so pay attention to your total.
On the other hand, you might find situations where the rules say you can't double when the strategy says you should - such as on soft hands (those with an Ace). If you cannot double down when you'd like, be sure to hit instead. To try this double down strategy out in a cash game before hitting a real-life casino, check out the best sites for playing online blackjack!
FAQs - Doubling Down in Blackjack 101
Doubling down in Blackjack allows the player an option to double their wager following receipt of their original two cards. You then get dealt one - and only one - additional card. Then it's you versus the dealer to decide who wins. One major advantage to doubling down in blackjack, is the positive impact it can have on lowering the house edge.
A player doubles down because the situation looks positive so they risk more to win more. As you can control when to double down, this is a powerful tool for the player who can spot the perfect opportunity. Here are a few specific instances where it pays to know where you stand.
Can you Double Down after Hitting?
A player cannot hit and then choose to double down, the double down option occurs only after the initial two cards are dealt by the dealer and the player must then decide whether to go for the double down at that moment or not. The opportunity to double down is limited to this point in a hand.
Can you Split and Double Down?
The player must understand the optimal situations to split and double down. The player can split their cards if dealt a matching pair e.g. 5-5, 7-7, J-J.
The player must cover the second hand with the bet size of their first bet and the dealer deals a second card to complete both hands. A further double down is not usually permitted. Always check the casino rules whether playing live or online, as there are often incentives hidden within the rules designed to encourage players to play.
Should you Always Double Down on 11?
As the player and dealer aim to get as close to 21 as possible to win the hand, the player is in a strong position when holding 11 after being dealt two cards. If the dealer shows a lower card than a 10, it is a good strategy to double down.
If the casino rules dictate the dealer must hit soft 17, you should always double down on 11 no matter what the dealer's up card.
How do you Signal a Double Down?
When looking to double down, there are several things you need to consider. The primary signal of intent is to place a bet or push a stack of chips next to your initial bet. You must ensure this stack equates to the value of this initial bet. When playing with a live dealer, if the addition of chips doesn't prove effective, you can point one finger. This hand signal indicates your intention to double down.
Recommended Casino Sites



- New members only, must opt in. Min £10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit.18+. Extra Spins: on MONOPOLY Paradise Mansion. 1p coin size, max lines. Bingo: Advertised ticket value based on £1 tickets. Game availability & restrictions apply.Awarded ‘Operator of the Year’ 2020Various Exclusive Monopoly Slot GamesFree-To-Play 'Monopoly Daily Free Parking' Gamenot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
10xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2100Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
26Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
67Monopoly Casino is built around the family favourite board game, but it’s not just Monopoly-themed slots you’ll find here - register to pass Go and take a Chance on over 2000 casino games. - New players only • No Deposit Offer: Claim in 48 hrs • 14 day expiry • FP wins are credited as bonus and capped at £10, exc. JP win • 50x wagering • Deposit Bonus Offer: £20 min deposit • Valid for selected games • Bonus wins capped at £500 • 30x wagering – req. vary by game • Bonus expires within 90 days • Withdrawal terms, No Deposit Offer terms & Deposit Bonus Offer terms apply. - Full Terms Apply'Best Casino Operator' 2015, 2019 & 2021Listed on London Stock Exchange Since 2005Exclusive In-House Live Casino Tablesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
50xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-3 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1312Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
207Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
71888casino is a multiple award-winning online casino that boasts a huge range of top games, including over 1000 online slots, plus exclusive in-house games. - 18+. UK players only. New customers only. Minimal initial deposit £10. Once the offer is claimed players have 30 days to release equivalent to initial deposit as a cash reward up to £250. 50x wagering requirement before cash rewards applied. Certain deposit options are excluded. T&Cs applyAwarded ‘Casino of the Year’ 2017 & 2018Win Prizes in Daily Slots TournamentsOfficial Partner of F1 McLaren Racing Teamnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
50xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-2 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1535Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
248Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
74Part of the multinational gaming group Entain, Party Casino offers a huge range of progressive jackpots and exclusive slots tournaments, with 24/7 support. - 18+. New UK customers only. Opt-in required. 20 Bonus Spins on "Book of Dead" and 100% Deposit Bonus up to £100 on first deposit. Min deposit £10. 30x wagering requirement for Bonus Spins and 30x wagering requirement for Deposit Bonus (game weighting applies). Max £5/spin or £0.50/line or £10/round (live casino). 30 days expiry. T&C's Apply. Please gamble responsibly • www.begambleaware.org - Full Terms Apply'Online Casino Operator of the Year' 2019 & 2020Reel Races - Daily Slots TournamentsLoyalty Rewards Scheme & Progress Barnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
30xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-7 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2169Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
53Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
37Casumo is a distinctive and innovative casino site which keeps things as simple as possible with a savvy user interface. They are the official online casino partner of English Championship football club Reading FC. - Valid for 1st depositors only • Deposit £20 min. with code •Extra Spins (FS) & bonus for selected games only • FS expire in 14 days • FS wins capped at £10, excl. JP wins • FS wins credited as bonus • Bonus wins capped at £500, excl. JP wins • Wager bonus x30 -req. vary by game • Bonus expires in 90 days • Payment method & country restrictions apply • Withdrawal terms & T&Cs applyNostalgic 1950's Americana Inspired LobbyLarge Variety of Exclusive In-House SlotsPart of Leading Global 888 Holdings GroupGET777Bonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
30xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
2-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
1900Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
60Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
134777 Casino offers a 'Retro Vegas Casino Experience' with a stylish games lobby brought to you by the global 888 Casino group. - New members only, must opt in. Min £10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit.18+. Extra Spins: on Rainbow Riches. 1p coin size, max lines. Bingo: Advertised ticket value based on £1 tickets. Game availability & restrictions apply. **£10 lifetime deposit for Daily Free Game., must opt in. Min £10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit.18+. Extra Spins: on Rainbow Riches. 1p coin size, max lines. Bingo: Advertised ticket value based on £1 tickets. Game availability & restrictions apply. **£10 lifetime deposit for Daily Free Game.Popular Rainbow Riches Slot Game SeriesRegular Free Spins PromotionsStylish & Uncomplicated Games Lobbynot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
10xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-3 Working DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
150Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
8Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
14Rainbow Riches Casino is named after the popular Irish themed Rainbow Riches slot game from Barcrest. But you’ll also find many other casino games, plus live casino and bingo. - Min. deposit £10 with code ‘BONUS200’. Debit card only. Wagering requirements apply. Selected Slots only. 5 redemption points per £1 to clear bonus. Game contributions vary. 7-day expiry.Official Partner of the Red Bull F1 Team$10,000 Daily Casino Race LeaderboardsPokerStars Rewards: Exchange StarsCoin for CashBONUS200Bonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
10xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
3-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
641Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
14Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
58PokerStars Casino is bought to you by the world renowned poker operator which is part of the global gaming group Flutter Entertainment, who also own the likes of Paddy Power Betfair. - New members only, must opt in. Min £10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit. Extra Spins: on Secrets of the Phoenix Megaways. Spins value: 20p each. Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware.org. 18+. £10 lifetime deposit for Daily Free Game. Full T&Cs apply.Official Megaways™ Slot Games PartnerExclusive Games such as Tiki Totems MegawaysTrial Megaways Games for Free in Demo Modenot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
1xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
24 HoursCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
520Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
17Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
22Megaways Casino offers a wide selection of the popular Megaways™ slots with progressive jackpots, unlimited multipliers and extra win lines. They also offer traditional table games and a live casino. - New members only, must opt in. Min £10 deposit & wager. 30 day expiry from deposit. 18+. Extra Spins: on Double Bubble. 1p coin size, max lines. Bingo: Advertised ticket value based on £1 tickets. Game availability & restrictions apply. **£10 lifetime deposit for Daily Free Games.Virgin Red Rewards: Redeem Points for CashFamous Brand & Fast Withdrawal Processing'The Vault' - Daily Free Games & Promotionsnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
10xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
24 HoursCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
600Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
36Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
18Virgin Games is part of the world-renowned Virgin Group, which also includes the likes of Virgin Active, Virgin Media & Virgin Airlines. As you would expect from this brand, customer service and prompt payouts are a priority. - 18+ | Play Responsibly | BeGambleAware.org | T&Cs apply. New reg only. Claim 10 extra spins x10p each on Book of Dead (no deposit needed) within 3 days. Opt in & deposit £10, £25 or £50 within 7 days & further 7 days to wager cash stakes 35x to unlock reward (£50 on 2 deposits). 3 day exp. Wagering/game contributions vary. 10 wager-extra spins x10p to added to Book of Dead with each qualifying deposit, 3 day expiry. 18+ BeGambleAware.org. | Terms and conditions applies - Full Terms ApplyAwarded 'Online Casino of the Year' 2018-2022'Mobile Casino Product of the Year' 2021Exclusive 'LeoJackpot' Slot Gamesnot requiredBonus Code
The code required to claim this sign-up bonus (if any)
Bonus WageringThe number of times you have to play though your bonus before you are able to withdraw any winnings
35xPayout TimeThe usual withdrawal processing time
1-5 DaysCasino GamesThe total number of casino games available
2700Jackpot SlotsThe number of jackpot slot games available
92Live Casino GamesThe number of live casino games available
127Leo Vegas Casino has won multiple industry awards, including 'Online Casino of the Year' at the Global Gaming Awards five years in a row.
Stay In The Loop With New Casino Sites & Offers!
Free Spins. Exclusive Bonuses. Sent Weekly.