Is online baccarat legal in Canada?
It is legal to gamble on fully licensed and regulated sites in Canada. Online casinos that want to operate in Canada must be in possession of a valid license. This can be the European MGA license from Malta or Kahnawake Gaming Commission from Quebec, for example.
Due to the freedom of movement within the European Union, companies with registered offices within the EU can legally offer their services in all member states. But there are also licensed casinos that are based outside the EU, for example in Curacao.
On our website we only offer games from casinos with licenses in the appropriate countries, so you can be sure that any website we link to is legal and safe. We also regularly review all our partners.
There are a variety of casinos in Canada that offer variants of online baccarat. Let our experts give you an in-depth overview to learn more about the different games. To do this, we will give you recommendations on the best casinos where you can enjoy the game.
Is Online Baccarat Rigged?
We’ve all blamed a slot for our losses at some point, but there’s no way to manipulate the outcome of an online baccarat game. This section explains this in detail.
Regulatory bodies place strict conditions on casinos operating in Canada, including the fairness of random number generators (RNGs or Random Number Generators). This is used to determine the results of each hand in baccarat. The RNG is also the mathematical algorithm behind a virtual die or the spinning of the reels of a slot game.
From the perspective of a traditional video game, you could also think of it similar to the chance of hitting a sword in Final Fantasy, or how likely you are to catch a Pokemon on the first try.
The RNG must be verified as fair by a recognized testing agency such as eCOGRA or Trisigma before the regulators will offer a license to a gambling website. Verified online casinos usually display the verification at the bottom of their website.
The fairness of online casinos has continued to increase with the introduction of live dealer games. Here a human croupier is streamed live and you can follow the progress of the game such as the dealing of cards in baccarat in real-time. We will cover this popular form of online gambling later in this baccarat guide.
Why play Baccarat online?
Online baccarat games are designed to replicate the feel of playing in a real casino at home. They all have the same rules as the table version, but special variants can include brand-new game modes, different jackpot types, side bets and a range of other improvements.
Unlike physical casinos, online baccarat games can often be found for free on the internet or you can earn extra hands by using casino bonuses. Practice games and full game rules are also much more accessible to players when playing online baccarat.
Baccarat is one of the easiest casino games to play. It’s a comparison game with a twist. Let’s take a quick look at the differences between online baccarat and baccarat in a land-based casino.
Online baccarat vs baccarat in land-based casinos
Baccarat type |
Play from home |
Bonus |
Promotions |
Online Baccarat |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
Baccarat in land-based casinos |
✖ |
✖ |
✖ |
- Playing baccarat on a mobile, tablet or PC is easy and convenient – ideal for the digital generation. However, if you want to play at a land-based casino, you’ll need to travel a bit to find the best options.
- Bonuses are always available for online baccarat players, we at our website even do the work for you to pass the bonuses on to you. Accessing bonuses for land-based baccarat tables can be difficult or impossible.
- Promotions or tournaments are constantly available to online players in the best baccarat casinos. Land-based casinos usually only offer promotions to high rollers and VIPs.
Live Baccarat – online experience of a classic game
Live Baccarat is a version of the classic table game that takes place in front of a webcam and at a real table. When you play Live Baccarat you can chat with your croupier and watch him deal your hand and place your bets in real-time.
Difference between RNG (virtual) baccarat and live dealer baccarat
RNG Baccarat |
Live dealer baccarat |
The outcome of each hand is determined by the random number generator |
The outcome is decided by drawing real cards |
No dealer or CGI version |
Human croupier on webcam |
Games are played alone |
Contains a chat function |
Exercise modes are available |
No demo modes or free spins |
Live Baccarat Games
Live baccarat games are the closest you can get to playing the “real baccarat table” without leaving your home. Try it once:
- Live Speed Baccarat
- Live Dragon Tiger
- Live bet on baccarat
Virtual Online Baccarat Games
The classics, on the other hand, i.e. virtual baccarat games, benefit from more variants and quieter lobbies. Some of our top offers are:
- No Commission Baccarat
- Point Banco Baccarat
- Mini Baccarat
How to Play Live Baccarat?
Playing live dealer baccarat is as easy as playing any other casino game. However, for players who are new to this, here is a quick step-by-step guide:
- Sign up at a casino site. Check out our recommendations on bonuses and the latest promotions at the top of this page.
- Make a deposit or play with bonus money. Very few casinos allow players to enter the live lobbies without a deposit.
- Choose a table. Below we recommend the best Baccarat variants.
- Here we go!
Note that when you sign up at a casino site you should make sure that you enter any bonus codes that you have been given. Promotions and other benefits are not always granted automatically.
The best online baccarat variants in online casinos
If you are a fan of the older James Bond films, you will already be familiar with baccarat. But not only 007 likes to play a round, but the game is also offered in international casinos, as well as different online baccarat variations. How exactly does this exciting game actually work? What are the different types of baccarat and how do they suit you as a player?
Today we took the time to present and explain the most popular baccarat variants. Of course, we also go into the basic rules of the game and the associated strategies.
What are the most popular Baccarat variants?
Baccarat is played between two sides, the player and the bank. Who wins or loses is decided by the particular hand that side receives. The side with the highest total wins the round. Usually, a hand consists of two cards. Depending on the variant, these can be dealt with face-up or face-down. Cards 2 through 9 are worth their face value. Aces count as one point, face cards and 10 counts as 0 points. The maximum is 9. If the total exceeds 9, the last digit of the number counts as the total. Accordingly, a hand of 6 and 7 counts as a 3 since that is the last digit of the total of 13.
However, if you are interested in baccarat, you should definitely familiarize yourself with the different strategies, for example, the Martingale strategy or the Trend Switch Combat strategy. The aim is not to win a single game, but to earn a profit over a longer period of time.
- Chemin de Fer
Chemin de Fer is the variant of baccarat actually played in several James Bond novels. 6 decks of cards are used. The player and the bank each receive two cards face down. Then the player can decide whether he wants to take another open card. The bank then has the same opportunity. The house edge in this variant is 1.06% for the banker’s hand and 1.24% for the player’s hand. The win rate is 1:1 and the payout rate is 98.94% on the banker’s hand and 98.76% on the player’s hand.
- Punto Banco
In this version, the bank always represents the casino, so players cannot assume the role of the bank. 6 to 8 decks of cards are used here. Both sides receive two open cards. If a side has a value of 8 or 9, it wins immediately and the round is over. If the player has a total of 5 or fewer, he is dealt a third card. For the bank, there is a complex table of rules on what outcomes a third card is possible. In a regular game with no side bets, the house edge is 1.06% in favor of the banker’s side and 1.24% in favor of the player’s hand. The win percentage is 1:1 and the payout percentage is 98.94% for the bank side and 98.76% for the player side.
- Baccarat Banque
Three decks of cards are used in Baccarat Banque. A player assumes the role of banker until he retires from the game or relinquishes the role. The croupier deals three cards, one to the left, one to the right and one to himself. Up to five players on either side can be represented by the card. In theory, two games take place at the same time. Each side receives another card and can then decide whether they want a third one. The odds are identical to the two previous versions.
- No Commission Baccarat
In this exciting variant, players do not have to pay any commission if they bet on the bank to win and win. Usually, this would be 5%. The rest of the rules are based on the Punto Banco variant. The house edge is 1.454% in a 6-deck game and 1.458% in an 8-deck game. The payout percentage is 98.94%. In general, the win rate is 1:1, only if the bank has a total value of 6, the rate is 2:1.
- EZ Baccarat
As with the previous variant, there is no commission at EZ Baccarat. A special combination is added here, namely the 7 with three cards. If the bank has this combination, it automatically wins. That sounds like a disadvantage at first. But you can also bet on this event and look forward to incredible 40:1 odds. This also results in a low house edge of 1.02%. The payout ratio is accordingly 98.98%.
- European Baccarat
As the name suggests, this variant is particularly popular in Europe. The special feature is that the player does not have to take a card with a total value of 5. Also, the bank can always take a card if they want. When playing with no side bets, the house edge is 1.06% in favor of the bank and 1.24% in favor of the player. As a result, the win ratio is 1:1 and the payout ratio is 98.94% for the bank and 98.76% for the player.
- American Baccarat
The odds of the American version are the same as the previous variants, such as European Baccarat or Chemin de Fer. Both sides receive two open cards. If the total is more than 5, the player gets another card. The bank may also receive another card, depending on the player’s outcome.
- Baccarat Squeeze
This variant is particularly popular in Macau and can be found in many films from Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. The game itself is identical to the classic variants. The payout percentages, house edge and win percentages also remain the same. The highlight of this baccarat variant is that the cards are pressed together after being dealt with. The fingers cover the actual card value. So you only see part of the pattern and whether it is a face card. Of course, this increases the fun of the game a lot, especially for the spectators.
- Dragon Tiger
The dragon and the tiger represent a simplified version of baccarat and thus a very pure gambling experience. Each side is only dealt one card and you must bet which is higher. There are no combinations or additional cards. The house edge in this variant is 3.73% and the payout percentage is 96.27%. The odds of winning for a regular bet are 1:1. Of course, side bets have other odds, but that is beyond the scope of this article.
Types of Baccarat Tables
There are not only differences in the rules and statistics between the different types of baccarat. In fact, different-sized tables are used, each with its own merits. We present the three different models.
- Large baccarat table
The largest tables in baccarat seat up to 14 players. Most casinos reserve these tables for the VIP area, so you won’t see them in the public part of the casino. Not only the size of these tables is impressive. They are also usually associated with a very high minimum bet and an even higher table limit. Due to a large number of players, using this type of table is relatively complicated. As a result, dealers often need to be specially trained to handle large tables.
- Small baccarat table
The small table is the variant that probably looks the most familiar to you. There is space for a dealer and up to 7 players. This table is the most common version used in casinos around the world. Management of this table size is relatively easy, so the casino does not require any specially trained dealers. The table limits and minimum bets are lower than the other variants. This table is best suited for beginners.
- Middle Table/Midi Baccarat
This variant does not differ in rules or arrangement. However, all cards are dealt by the player who placed the highest bet. Up to 9 players can sit at the table. The flow of the game is generally a bit faster than at the big table.
Which Baccarat variations are right for you?
Which of the types of baccarat we have presented today you should choose is ultimately down to your taste. It also depends on whether you would like to play online or in a physical casino and how experienced you are. You should definitely familiarize yourself with the rules. Know the terms house edge, payout percentage and win percentage well. This will help you assess the risk of the game. When it comes to strategy, you should also do your own research. It’s a good idea to start with a simple strategy and then work your way up.
Baccarat variations with the lowest house edge
Most baccarat variations don’t differ much when it comes to the house edge. Baccarat is generally a game with a low house edge. The main difference comes from the type of bet you make. If you bet on the player’s hand, the house edge is 1.24%. In Hand der Bank, on the other hand, it is 1.06%. Bets on a tie have a comparatively high house edge of around 14%.
Baccarat bet type and house edge
Bet type |
House edge % |
Bet on the bank’s hand |
1.06% |
Bet on the player’s hand |
1.24% |
Bet on a tie |
14% |
Baccarat variants with the highest payout percentages
It’s a similar story with payout percentages, it’s less about the specific variant of the game and more about what bets you’re making. In general, the payout percentages in baccarat are relatively favorable for the player. Especially if you stick to a solid strategy, your money is pretty safe here.
The highest payout percentages in baccarat:
- Banker Bet – 98.95%
- Bank Pair Bet – 89.64%
- Player pair bet – 89.64%
- Perfect pair bet – 91.95%
- Pair bet – 86.29%
Which Baccarat variations are good for beginners?
Baccarat is fairly easy to understand in terms of gameplay, as the entire gameplay is clearly dictated by the rules. It is therefore purely a game of chance. It becomes more complex with possible side bets or very large numbers of players. Therefore, it is recommended that you first concentrate on the very classic variants such as Chemin en Fer and Punto Banco. Once you have a good grasp of the rules, gameplay and odds involved, you can venture into newer realms.
The best types of Baccarat for beginners:
- Point Banco
- Chemin de Fer
- Baccarat Banque
- European Baccarat
- American Baccarat
Baccarat variations popular with professionals
The pros actually focus on similar baccarat variations as the players. Since the different versions do not differ much in terms of odds and winnings, the profit comes more from a good feeling about the flow of the game and the use of side bets.
The most popular Baccarat variations for professionals:
- Point Banco
- Chemin de Fer
- Baccarat Squeeze
- No Commission Baccarat
You should stay away from these types of baccarat
In terms of risk, the different live and online baccarat variations are very close. Therefore, be careful not to play a game whose rules you do not fully understand. Likewise, you should avoid bets that you don’t know the risk of, even if the winning options seem high. Also, don’t be afraid to bet against yourself if the gameplay suggests it. It’s not about beating the bank, it’s about taking home profits instead.
You should avoid these bets:
- Bet on a tie as the house edge is very high here.
- A bet on yourself.
- Wagering on unknown odds or probabilities.
- Betting against your own strategy.
- A doubling of the bet if you lose, as this strategy is constrained by the table limit.
The best online baccarat strategies in the casino
How to Get the Most Out of Your Online Casino Baccarat Play? Baccarat is one of the most famous games in the casino world. The card game has become firmly entrenched in the minds of gambling fans, particularly as James Bond’s game of choice.
Today you can still find the classic in most physical casinos. And there are also countless offers on the Internet to play online baccarat and interested users should take their time to choose the right provider. Irrespective of this, it is definitely recommended to deal with the well-known strategies in baccarat. This way you can increase your chances of winning.
Although baccarat is generally a game of chance, with a solid strategy you can get a better result. Much like poker, experienced players don’t play by chance or gut instinct. They plan their bets and actions during the game very carefully. Also, the goal here isn’t winning a single game, but making a profit at the end of the day. We took our time and put the most popular baccarat strategies through their paces. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the matter at your leisure. Our mission is for you to step into your next round at the baccarat table well-armed and confident.
Important tips on starting play Baccarat online
- Learn all the rules, odds, bets and payouts. Before you even play a game, you should know exactly how baccarat is played. This includes not only the basic gameplay. How and when you place your bets is also crucial.
- Take the time to choose the right baccarat version for you. Different versions of baccarat have different house edges, and of course, the payout and win percentages vary as well. However, a low house edge is not necessarily the all-important component. Also, check how the specific rules align with your strategy.
- Set yourself a budget. As with almost all gambling, it is very important that you keep a close eye on your money and set yourself an upper and lower limit. The total budget should be an amount that you can spare. If you lose this amount you should quit the game. On the other hand, it is recommended to stop when you have reached your set profit. Otherwise, there is a risk of losing your money again.
- Also, set yourself a time limit. Not only money but also time is an important resource. You cannot stay fully focused for hours, after a while your perception and judgment will suffer. Plan breaks.
Popular Baccarat Strategies
There are almost as many Baccarat strategies as there are Baccarat versions. Whether the Baccarat strategy 1-2-3-4 or the Martingale strategy, there is a right approach for almost every type of player. So check what your goal is and what kind of method you prefer. We have collected the most popular strategies for you to make your decision easier.
Unilateral baccarat strategy
Baccarat is a comparison game, the outcome is decided by both sides comparing their card values. The side with the highest value wins. The one-sided strategy is now this: You always bet on the same side, either the player or the dealer. The theory behind this is that a baccarat shoe, i.e. all the cards used in a game, are shuffled at the beginning. So there is a high probability that one side will have an advantage at some point.
How does the strategy work?
- Put to one side.
- If the side loses more than three times, stop betting.
- Resume bet if the side wins again.
What are the advantages?
- A simple strategy with a high probability.
- With three shoes the chance of profit is 3:1.
- The chance of no loss is 4:1.
What are the disadvantages?
- The strategy is based in part on your instincts.
- Winnings are not guaranteed.
Trend switch combat strategy
In general, there are two trends in baccarat. Either the win alternates frequently between the two sides, or one side has an extended winning streak. The Trend Switch Combat strategy tries to combine these. If it becomes apparent that the other trend is in line, change your betting strategy.
How does the strategy work?
- You are betting on a trend, either a continuous winner or an alternate winner.
- As soon as you lose twice, you bet on the other trend.
What are the advantages?
- The strategy is suitable for beginners as it is not very complicated.
- It can be combined with other strategies.
What are the disadvantages?
- The rhythm of the strategy can cause you to miss opportunities.
- The frequent changes can make you lose track.
Baccarat strategy for breaking doubles
With this strategy, you always bet on the other side, i.e. alternating between the bank and the player. If you lose, double your bet.
How does the strategy work?
- After each round, you bet on the other side, i.e. after the player on banker and vice versa.
- If you lose, double your bet.
What are the advantages?
- You don’t have to focus on the flow of the game.
- Statistically, you win back your stake.
What are the disadvantages?
- The strategy is limited by the table limit.
- The stakes can quickly become very high.
Card counting in baccarat
The background to card counting is that the player tries to remember which cards have already been played and which are still in the shoe. A betting strategy can then be derived from this.
How does the strategy work?
- With a fresh shoe, start counting from 0.
- Ace, 2 and 3 – count as one point.
- 4 – count as two points.
- 5, 7 and 8 – count as 1.
- 6 – count as 2.
- If the total is positive, you bet on the player.
- If the total is negative, you bet on the dealer.
What are the advantages?
- The system is relatively reliable.
- You don’t have to memorize all the cards.
What are the disadvantages?
- Knowing the odds of winning doesn’t mean you will win.
- The strategy only works with a fresh deck.
1-3-2-4 baccarat strategy
This strategy is similar to the Baccarat strategy 1-2-3-4. In this strategy, if you win, you follow the sequence of numbers 1-3-2-4.
How does the strategy work?
- If you win, you increase the bet to 3 units, then by 2, and finally by 4.
- If you lose, start over.
What are the advantages?
- If you complete a sequence, you have multiplied your bet tenfold.
- Even if you lose 3 and 4, you still have 2 units of profit.
What are the disadvantages?
- The strategy is limited by the house edge.
- If you bet on the dealer, you usually have to pay a commission of 5%.
The Martingale System
The Martingale system is not only popular with baccarat, but also with roulette or blackjack. You increase your bet if you lose.
How does the strategy work?
- You bet on the side of your choice.
- If you lose, repeat the bet with a double stake.
- This is how you win back your losses.
What are the advantages?
- The strategy is very simple.
- Statistically, the strategy is always successful in the long run.
What are the disadvantages?
- You need infinite money to make the strategy 100% successful.
- Many casinos limit strategy by table limits.
The Fibonacci strategy
The Fibonacci sequence is well-known in science and entertainment. It is a series of numbers made up of the sum of the current number and the previous number: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc. A popular gambling strategy is based on it. You increase your bets according to this sequence.
How does the strategy work?
- You play with the minimum bet.
- With each spin, you increase your bet by that number in the sequence.
What are the advantages?
- Even with just a few wins, you can make a profit.
- The strategy is applicable to many variants and games.
What are the disadvantages?
- To use the strategy, you need a relatively large amount of seed capital.
- You have to keep the sequence in mind.
The Paroli strategy
The Paroli system is basically the reverse of the Martingale strategy. You double your bet if you win.
How does the system work?
- You repeat your bet with double the stake if you win.
- After a maximum of three wins, you should end the game.
What are the advantages?
- The system uses winning streaks.
- The profits are very high.
What are the disadvantages?
- One bet too many can cost you all your winnings.
- The temptation is great to keep betting.
The Labouchere system
Here you decide how high your desired profit is. Then you split that number into several individual numbers and derive your bets from that.
How does the strategy work?
- As an example, you want to win $40.
- You split 50 into five numbers, e.g. B. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
- Your first bet is the first number plus the last number, in this case, 16.
- If you lose, add the 16 to the end like this: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 16. Your next bet is then 6 + 16, which is 22.
- If you win, cross out the two numbers, leaving 7, 8, and 9.
- You keep doing this until all the numbers are gone.
What are the advantages?
- The system is very easy to understand.
- You can quickly get your desired profit.
What are the disadvantages?
- In the event of a losing streak, the bets quickly become very large.
- The sequence can be very long.
- You need a lot of start-up capital.
The D’Alembert System
In this system, you increase your bet by 1 after each loss and decrease it by 1 after each win.
How does the strategy work?
- You increase your bet by one unit if you lose.
- If you win, decrease the bet by 1.
What are the advantages?
- The strategy is possible with a relatively small budget.
- There are no strong fluctuations.
What are the disadvantages?
- The strategy is defensive, i.e. more geared toward avoiding losses.
- Profits are rather small.
Which Baccarat strategy is best for you?
Which baccarat strategy you should resort to depends a good deal on your goal. Would you like to get to know the game? Or is it about profit? It is of course also important to clarify which version of baccarat you would like to play. Are you interested in Baccarat Punto Banco, Baccarat Chemin de Fer or Baccarat Banque? Get to know the different versions here.
The best baccarat strategy if you are new to the casino
If you’re new to the rules, you can use these strategies to take a few test steps.
- D’Alembert System – This strategy is suitable for beginners as the fluctuations are small and your budget is relatively safe.
- Martingale strategy – simple and known from other games.
- One-sided strategy – you don’t have to follow the flow of the game.
The best baccarat gambling strategy for professionals
Professional players are particularly enthusiastic about the following strategies:
- Card counting – almost no pro will ignore the probabilities spread throughout the shoe.
- Labouchere system – this system is popular because it allows you to get the profit you want relatively quickly.
- Trend Switch Combat – this strategy is particularly flexible and can be easily combined with other strategies.
The Most Successful Baccarat Strategies
- The Greek Syndicate, a group of gamblers active in the 1920s and 1930s, used card counting for big wins, especially in Paris.
- Tommy Renzoni originally brought baccarat to America. He used a trend-switch combat strategy and was very good at spotting trends.
Beginner mistakes that are easy to avoid
- In any case, you should be familiar with the odds and probabilities in order not to make any avoidable wrong decisions.
- No system is perfect or can beat the house edge.
- As players, we have a tendency to bet against the bank. Resist this tendency and pay attention to the in-game trend instead.
- Card counting is only for absolute professionals and can not be used in online versions.
- Be sure to set a limit, both in terms of your budget and your time.
Online Baccarat rules, betting and odds
Have you ever visited a casino? If so, then you’ve probably seen a baccarat game before, even if you didn’t realize it at the time. Baccarat is one of the most popular and widespread casino games, along with roulette, blackjack and poker. From Europe to America to Asia, the card game is represented in almost every casino in one form or another.
We would like to bring you closer to the exciting game of baccarat today. We explain in detail the rules of the game, the possible bets that you can place, the probabilities and, most importantly, what the payouts look like.
Master the rules of baccarat
At its core, baccarat is a game of chance. You cannot directly influence the gameplay. The complete process is precisely defined by the rules of the game, which we will explain in more detail at a later date. This means that you ultimately have to rely on your intuition and, of course, your luck when playing this game. Still, there’s a whole lot of information you can learn to go home with a positive gaming experience.
What is the goal of the game?
There are two sides to the baccarat card game, the player and the bank. The game is commonly played with multiple decks of cards shuffled together. The dealer deals two cards to each side. Depending on the version of the game, these cards are face-up or face-down. After that, the regulations decide whether each side gets another card or not. At the start of the round, you place a bet on which side will get the higher total. It is completely up to you which side you choose. However, if you bet on the bank and win, you’ll have to pay a commission of 5% on most versions. You can also place various side bets to make the game more lucrative.
The different card values
In baccarat, the cards count as much as the number value depicted on the card. This applies to cards 2 to 9. The card 10 and the face cards, on the other hand, count as zero points. Aces count as one point and jokers are not commonly used in this game. The maximum value is 9, which you can reach with your own hand of cards. If a side gets the value 9 directly with the first two cards, this is called a natural in technical jargon. Should the total value of the cards exceed 9, the first digit is discarded and the second digit counts as the total. Accordingly, a total of 14 counts as 4.
What does baccarat actually mean?
There are several theories as to why exactly the game is called baccarat. A very popular variant says that the game was invented in Italy in the 15th century. The word baccara means zero in Italian and since the majority of the cards in the game are zero, namely all 10s and face cards, the word came to be used to describe the game.
What are the bets in baccarat?
Basically, in the baccarat card game, you only bet on the victory of one side, that of the player or that of the bank. So far the game is relatively simple. However, gamblers are usually not satisfied with pure gameplay. Therefore, in addition to the basic baccarat bet, in most casinos, you can still place a whole series of baccarat side bets, some of which are very creative. These change from casino to casino. You should therefore find out beforehand which bets are permitted by the respective provider. Also, some baccarat strategies are based on the choice of bets.
1. Bet on the player
When you bet on the player, this is probably the most well-known and popular bet in the baccarat card game. We all have a tendency to side with the underdog. However, remember that even if you are the player yourself, you can bet on either side. Accordingly, you can even place a bet against yourself if the gameplay should suggest it. In most versions of baccarat, the house edge for a bet on the player’s side is 1.24%. This means you can access a 98.76% RTP.
2. Bet on the bank
Even if it doesn’t sound very intuitive at first, betting on the bank is not only possible in the baccarat card game, it is even necessary for long-term success. Most of the strategies that have been established over the years include the possibility or even the explicit goal of including the house in your own bets. What makes this bet special is the extremely low house edge that comes with betting on the bank side. It is an incredible 1.06% and thus offers a payout rate of 98.98%. Baccarat is definitely one of the casino games with the lowest house edge. However, keep in mind that if you bet on the bank and win, you have to factor in a commission with most providers. This is usually 5% of your profit.
3. Couple
In addition to the main bets, there are a number of other variations. One of the most popular is betting on the appearance of a pair, of two cards that are in some way identical. This can be the number, the picture, the color or the symbol. The following variants are very typical.
- Player couple
Here you are betting that the player has a pair in his hand, regardless of whether he wins or not. So if two of the same cards appear in the player’s hand, you win. The probability of this happening is 7.47% and the win ratio is 11:1. A house edge of 10.36%, therefore, results in a payout ratio of 89.64%.
- Bank couple
On the other hand, in the baccarat card game you can of course also bet on the bank getting a pair. The odds are identical to the player pairs. Since you are not betting on the bank winning in this case, there is no commission here either.
- Perfect pair
In Baccarat, the perfect pair means that the two cards are completely identical, i.e. in color, value, picture and symbol. With this bet, you are not betting on the player or the bank getting the pair. If it appears on either side, the bet is considered successful. With a probability of 3.34% and a win ratio of 25:1, the payout ratio is 91.95%. The house edge is 13.03%.
4. Draw
Here you are betting that the player and the bank have the same total value in their hands. The draw bet is very popular with new players. This is due to the relatively high win ratio of 8:1. However, you should keep in mind that the house edge is very high, namely 14.36%. The probability is 9.52% and the payout percentage is 85.64%.
5. Big hand
When betting on a big hand, you are betting that more than 4 cards will come into play. This can happen if certain conditions are met. It depends, among other things, on the total value of the player and that of the bank, whether each side gets another card. The odds of winning this bet are 1.5:1.
6. Small hand
On the other hand, there is a bet on the small hand. This means that no more cards land on the table than the first 4. However, the odds of winning this bet are only 0.54:1 as it is relatively likely.
7. Minimum/Maximum Bet
These values each determine the minimum bet required to play at a table and the maximum bet allowed. If you are in a casino, you will notice that baccarat tables vary in size. The smaller the table, the lower the minimum and maximum bets usually are. These tables typically seat up to 7 players. They are suitable for beginners and players on a moderate budget. On the other side, you will find large tables with up to 14 seats. These are usually in a side section of the casino, as they are usually explicitly aimed at VIP customers and so-called high rollers. These are customers who play the baccarat card game for very large amounts. The table limits usually ensure that the game is only accessible to very wealthy customers. Interestingly, you will never find seat number 13 at such tables. It is considered a bad luck symbol in gambling circles.
8. Side bets
Regardless of the direct outcome of the game, there are a variety of side bets in baccarat. These relate to various aspects of the game, from card values to numbers and special combinations. Many players use them to make the game more lucrative, as the odds of a regular 1:1 bet are rather modest. We have taken the time to introduce you to the most important representatives of this subcategory.
- 3 card victory
In the Baccarat card game, you are betting that the winning side will bring home the win with three cards in their hand. But you have to decide for the bank or the player. Here you can see how side bets are structured. You’re betting on one side winning anyway. Therefore, it makes sense to also bet that the side will receive 3 cards. The house edge on this type of bet is 5.69%. The odds for a 3-card win for the player are 4:1 and for the bank 5:1.
- 3 gives 8
This bet is a bit more complicated. If the player has a card value between 0 and 5 and the bank has 3, the player draws a third card. If the player’s total after the third card is 8, the bet is successful. The house edge on this exotic bet is 8.68%. However, this is offset by a high win rate of 200:1.
- 4-5-6
With this bet, you are betting on the baccarat card game that there will be 4, 5 or 6 cards on the table at the end. If you are playing with 6 decks of cards, the house edge here is 4.73%. If a total of 8 decks are used, the advantage decreases marginally to 4.69%. The payout for 4 cards is 3:2 and for 5 and 6 it is 2:1.
- 5 treasures
This bet is a combination of a total of 5 different bets. Fortune 7 means that the dealer with 3 cards and a total of 7 wins. In Golden 8, the player with 3 cards and a total of 8 wins. Heavenly 9 states that the bank or player with 3 cards and a total of 9 points wins. In Blazing 7s, both the player and the bank are worth 7s with the same number of cards. Coverall, on the other hand, includes all bets. Coverall has a 6:1 win rate and a 2.97% house edge.
- Red/Black only
Here you are betting that the player’s side will have all red or all black cards in their hand. Red pays 22:1, black pays 24:1.
- Bench series
Here, in the baccarat card game, the player bets on the bank winning more than three times in a row. Depending on the amount of the winning streak, the odds and the house edge change. With four wins, however, the odds are 2.39% and the win ratio is 10:1.
- Big and small
With a Big or Small bet, you are betting on whether more than 4 cards will come into play. The high outcome bet has a house edge of 4.35% and odds of 0.54 to 1. The low outcome bet has a house edge of 5.26% and odds of 3:2.
- Big tiger
This baccarat bet is successful if the bank has a total of 6 with 3 cards. The win ratio is 55:1.
- Bad beat
Various side bets are possible in this variant. The condition is victory by one point. The house edge is 6.88%, the win rate differs between the exact results.
- Contrast Bonus
The bet here is that all of the player’s cards are the same suit and the bank’s cards are the exact opposite suit. Different casinos use different payment structures and the house edge varies between 4.96% and 6.96%.
- Even odd
This is where you are betting on whether one of the sides will have an even or odd total. This results in 4 possible bets. The player’s even bet has an odds of 0.9:1, all other bets are 0.86:1. The house edge ranges from 5.31% to 7.07%.
- Golden Frog
The golden frog in a baccarat card game is a collection of 4 side bets: 8 beats 6 with a house edge of 21.79% and odds of 25:1, then 9 with 2 cards beats 7 and odds 50:1 plus house edge 8.1% when Next a 3 card 9 defeats a 3 card 1 at odds of 100:1 and a house edge of 13.87% and finally a 9 with 3 cards defeating a 7 with 3 cards. Here the odds are 200:1 and the house edge is 11.89%.
- Hit the ox/tiger
This bet means that either the player with 3 cards and a total of 6 loses or ties, or the bank with 3 cards and a 7. The odds are 30:1 and the house edge is 13.76%.
- Ox 6
Here, the player with 3 cards and a total of 6 wins. With a win rate of 40:1, the house edge is 10.34%.
- Little tiger
The odds of 22:1 make this bet popular in the baccarat card game where you win with a result of 6 and two cards.
- Royal 9
This bet wins if the player, the banker or even both sides have a 9 and a picture card. There are many combinations that differ in odds and house edge.
- Subtotals
Here you can bet on how high the total value of the player or the bank is in the baccarat card game. The different results also have different statistics.
- Tiger
This variant of baccarat pays a payout of 1:2 if the dealer has a total of 6.
- Tiger couple
If the player or the banker can make a pair with the first two cards in the baccarat card game, you win. The different combinations are paid differently.
- Dragon bonus
The Dragon Bonus is particularly popular in Mini Baccarat. You bet on the overall result of a page and receive different odds and odds for the different values.
- Dragon Bonus Progressive
In this variant, you bet on the total result between the player and the bank.
- Duo bao
This variant brings side bets into play that are based on poker combinations.
- Equals
The Equalities are a series of side bets where you predict the exact outcome of a tie.
- Any pair
If either the player or the banker is dealt a pair directly in the baccarat card game, you win.
- The first two banker/player cards of the same suit
Here the object of the bet is whether the first two cards of the player or the bank will be of the same suit.
- Jackpot Baccarat
In this variant, you bet on whether the first 4 cards contain a combination from the poker.
- Lucky 6
Here, in the baccarat card game, the bet is successful if the bank wins with a 6.
- Lucky 9s
This bet places a bet on the number, color and symbol of the player and banker’s natural 9.
- Lucky 99
In the Lucky 99 bet, you only bet on the number of natural 9s in the game.
- Pandas 8
If the player wins with 3 cards and a total of 8, the bet is successful.
Baccarat odds and payouts
Here is a selection of possible outcomes with the various statistics that can occur in baccarat:
Baccarat possible outcomes and house edge
Outcome |
Probability |
Payout |
House edge |
The bank wins |
45.85% |
1:0.95 |
1.06% |
Player wins |
44.62% |
1:1 |
1.24% |
Draw |
9.51% |
8:1 |
14.36% |
Couple on the bench hand |
7.46% |
11:1 |
10.36% |
A pair for the player |
7.46% |
11:1 |
10.36% |
Perfect pair |
3.34% |
25:1 |
13.03% |
Big hand |
61.1% |
0.54:1 |
4.35% |
Small hand |
37.89% |
1.5:1 |
5.27% |
At this point, we would like to say a few words about the house edge. The question often arises as to whether this can be overcome. This is unfortunately impossible, the house edge is firmly factored into casino games. There is no wager in the baccarat card game where odds favor the player. The reason is that casinos want to make a profit in the long term. Therefore, the advantage is built in such that the casino statistically wins more than it loses over a long period of time. However, there are strategies to increase your chances of making a profit.
Variations on Baccarat Rules
Depending on the casino and variant of the game, the rules may differ slightly. The three main variants are baccarat punto banco, Chemin en fer and baccarat Banque. There are also a wide variety of special variants, which are particularly popular in the online sector. Often the differences are not too big, for example, whether the hand cards are dealt face up or face down. However, these rules are sometimes reflected in the odds and probabilities.
Rules for drawing cards
Whether the player gets a third card is derived from their total value. If he gets an 8 or 9 in his hand, the round is over. If the total is 0-5 the player draws another card, if the total is 6-7 not, instead, the bank draws a card if the total is 0-5. The rest of the rules are as follows:
Bank draws on total:
- 0-2: automatic,
- 3: when the player draws a third card, as long as it is not an 8,
- 4: if the player draws a 2-7,
- 5: 4-7,
- 6: 6-7,
- 7–9: no card.
How exactly do you actually play Baccarat? A typical round
Now, in case you are wondering what a baccarat game looks like in practice, here is regular gameplay.
- Fund your account
Whether in the physical casino or in the online casino, you must be liquid in any case. To do this, choose the most convenient deposit method for you and place a sufficiently high amount in your account.
- Place your bet
After letting the dealer know that you want to join the game, you can place your bet. You do this by placing them on the playing field, or the dealer places the bet for you. The bet can move freely between the minimum amount and the upper table limit. However, consider your overall budget and how much a single round can affect your funds. If you are already familiar with baccarat, the rules and the flow of the game, you can also place one or more side bets. These can relate to different elements of the game. You should also find out in advance which bets the respective provider allows.
- The dealer deals the cards
Now we come to the actual game. The dealer now deals two cards to both sides, the player and the bank. In different variants of the game, the cards can be placed either face down, face up, or a mixture of both. In Baccarat Squeeze, the cards are even bent in such a way that you can guess which card it could be. “My side has a natural!” A natural in baccarat means that a hand’s two hand cards directly add up to a total of 8 or 9. This is equivalent to 21 in blackjack. In this case, the side with the natural immediately wins and the round is over. Further activities no longer have to take place. Instead, it goes straight to the payout.
- The dealer counts the cards dealt
If there is no natural that round, the dealer counts the cards in the baccarat deck. In the event that no more cards are drawn, the dealer can determine the winner and the round is now over. The side with the higher total value wins. Under certain circumstances, however, one additional card per side will be drawn. To do this, the dealer consults the table of card drawing rules. Eventually, one side may take another card, or sometimes both sides. Nothing changes after the third card is drawn and the player counts the total. The winner is certain and thus also which bets were successful.
- Withdrawals
Now for the favorite part of most gamblers: the payout at the baccarat card game. The dealer determines which bets have won and distributes the payouts according to the winning odds. Then he collects all bets that could not win this time. Once the process is complete, the next round begins and you can place your bets again. Remember that the dealer also gets a commission. If you were lucky and made a winning bet on the bank, then a commission is added, which is 5%. This somewhat offsets the extremely low house edge of a bet on the bank.
How to improve your baccarat game?
- Read our game and casino reviews
The right software provider and the right casino can make a huge difference in your experience at the online baccarat table. On our website, we’ve played more rounds of online baccarat than we can remember, so we know how to find the best (and worst) tables out there. Our detailed comparisons and reviews should contribute to a lasting positive gaming experience for you.
- Play baccarat for free
Playing free games online can be tricky. Not all casinos allow new players to test a game before making a deposit. This can be an instant turn-off for newbies or players who just want to practice without risking their bankroll. Although there are exceptions to the rule, most casino sites require the player to create an account before playing free games.
- Watch streamers to discover new tips
Twitch is probably one of the most important developments in media consumption in recent decades. Although it started as a platform for streaming video games, today it has expanded into almost every aspect of daily life. Casino games have been a part of Twitch history since the very beginning, so it should be a perfect way for fans of the streaming site to learn more about baccarat online – or so one would think. Unfortunately, the game isn’t well represented at all on Twitch, with slots taking much more of the spotlight. However, there are a number of casino streamers who also play baccarat. For example, LetsGiveItASpin is one of the most popular players on Twitch. David Labowsky, another casino player, is also popular but mostly found on slots.
Play baccarat on your mobile
When casinos went mobile, baccarat went with it. A game with simple rules, it has been available in one digital format or another since the home console systems of the early 1980s. However, the competition for modern mobile players has forced the developers to continuously improve their offerings, which always benefits the players.
Online baccarat comes in two different forms on Android devices and iPhones, casino games or video games. The difference is in the money. Video games are not usually played for cash.
Mobile baccarat has some special advantages that set it apart from PC or laptop-based gaming. For example:
- Learn or play online baccarat even when you are not close to home or a casino.
- Benefit from the latest software developments. Many providers are now prioritizing mobile gaming over desktop.
- Play baccarat in landscape or portrait mode on your phone and place your bets with a tap.
Try it.
Popular providers of live baccarat tables
As mentioned, the casino sector can feel a bit crowded. Good providers know this and so only the most impressive graphics and most exciting game modes come into play. There are many different providers of live baccarat tables, but Playtech and Pragmatic Play are two of the most widely used online providers.
Playtech’s products usually revolve around faster modes or games that are optimized for multiplayer. Prestige Roulette Lite and Speed Roulette are two good examples of the former, while Baccarat 7 Seat and VIP Baccarat aim to create a more competitive environment for players.
Live and Speed Baccarat make up Pragmatic Play’s catalog of relevant games. It might not sound like much, but the addition of a stats feature that tracks the outcome of bets and other elements of the game ensures that Pragmatic Play offers fans something new.
Last but not least, Evolution offers a number of top-notch Live Baccarat tables and variants, including Speed Baccarat and the exciting Lightning Baccarat, a variant with RNG-based Lightning Card multipliers that reward the lucky winner with extra payouts!