What is the Best Position at the Blackjack Table?
Knowing where to sit at a blackjack table may mean the difference between waiting for a seat at a packed table and being stuck at a less crowded one. For new players and counters, sitting at certain seats is essential for gameplay even though it does not have any mathematical advantage. Read this article to learn more about the best position at the blackjack table.
Blackjack Table Seating Positions
We should have the jargon of blackjack down before we move on to where to sit. Players are classified based on their positions and the advantages they claim to have. However, for the basic strategy player, all seats are equal, but they do have some advantages and disadvantages, despite having nothing to do with odds. There are typically only three positions prominently referred to at blackjack tables at brick-and-mortar casinos, two of them emphasized more than the other two. Lastly, blackjack tables don’t always stay full, so that these seats may become available from time to time.
Blackjack First Base
The first base position is located far to the right of the dealer. Since the dealer deals cards from the left player’s position to the right player’s position, the player in the first base position will get their cards first. And also has the most chances of hitting, standing, splitting, double down, or surrendering their hand first.
Blackjack Third Base
The third base seat is incorrectly referred to as the middle seat by many blackjack players. It is the seat to the left or the last seat to the right of the third base. The last player is sometimes called the anchor because they decide what to do with their hand last. Plus, they receive the first two cards from the dealer.
Shortstop position
The third one isn’t mentioned as often as the previous two since it’s not as demanding. The middle seat can stop other players to the left from joining the table since it is in the middle of the table.
Picking a Good Blackjack Table
Blackjack tables are available in most land-based casinos, however, some are busier than others. Choosing a good table from the many options available can be a challenge. When it comes to picking a good blackjack table, we have simplified the process for both new and experienced players.
1. Betting limits
On the signs next to the table, you can see the minimum and maximum table limits. If you are an experienced gambler, you can pick and choose your seat more easily and faster when you see a land-based casino that colours its signs. The colour of the chips corresponds to the minimum bet amount; red means $5, and black is $100, making it easier to remember. Divide your bankroll by 20 when determining your betting limits. A $100 bankroll, for example, should be played at a table with $5 minimum betting limits.
2. Blackjack Dealers
Whether you are a new blackjack player or an experienced one, blackjack dealers can affect your overall experience. Observing the dealers will give you a good idea of how fast they deal, how much help they offer (very important for a new player) or if they tell you how much money you have in a hand as they are dealt. As for what features you look for in a blackjack dealer, it depends on what level of expertise, as an experienced player doesn’t need the basics told to him, whereas a new player does.
3. Seating positions
Despite what we said about all blackjack seats being mathematically equal, they can differ from one to another in terms of players. Like we recommended, if a few players were seated, we suggest standing back from the table to observe their actions. After a loss, it might be better to switch tables if players are eyeing off the third baseman. The seating position is considered imperative if you intend to count cards when playing blackjack.
Online Blackjack Positions
The best place for new players is in this area. You might want to play online until you are confident enough to play at a land-based casino if you are new to the game and seem to get started at a lot at third base. When it comes to online blackjack, there is one exception: live dealer blackjack. We recommend signing up for a casino site that we’ve recommended because of its reputation.
When you make a deposit, you will be able to access the live dealer lobby, where you can play blackjack. If the table is not full, you can choose your seat. With this method, you can experience picking a seat and reading player reactions to where you are sitting if the chat feature is available. Our recommended online casinos do not tolerate offensive or inappropriate content, so it is ideal for practising sitting at third base.