Best Bets in the Casino


The best bet in a casino is 'don't gamble'. But lets face it....most of us go to Vegas or Atlantic City for a little action, not just the shows and buffets. Here's a little primer on which games and bets to avoid, and which to look for. This might let the fun last a little longer. Roulette: Roulette is one of the worst table games as far as house edge is concerned, with the casino getting over a 5% advantage. If you happen to be vacationing in Europe or Australia, look for 'single 0' games. This cuts the house advantage in half compared to the U.S. '0, 00' games. Baccarat: This game for high rollers puts those who bet 'banker' at only a little over 1% disadvantage, even after paying the 'commission'. Blackjack: The house generally enjoys an advantage of under 2% in blackjack depending on the number of decks used and rules regarding splitting, surrendering, and other differences. Of course to get the bet odds available, you must have the basic blackjack strategy down pat. Every time I go to a casino, I'm amazed how often I see people split 10's, or even 5's! Craps: Craps is one of the best bets for the player, with house advantages in the 1% range for many bets. Look for numbers like 10X or larger. This lets you back up your pass bet to get the best overall odds. Don't pass is another fairly safe, but somewhat boring bet. Avoid sucker bets like hard-ways and big 6/8. Keno: Keno is like the lottery. The house has a huge advantage overall of something like 25%. Make a bet or two if you must, in hopes of making a big score. Poker: Poker gives you the best odds in the casino, if you're a good player. Poker gives you the worst odds, if you're a bad player. If you're the best player at home in Podunk, Indiana then you might not be the best player at the Mirage, in Las Vegas. It's just something to consider. Caribbean Stud Poker: This table game gives the house an advantage of over 5%. Better hit the big payout quickly or leave. The Big Wheel: Avoid the Big Wheel. Video Poker: Casinos love video poker. The basic setup gives them about a 5% advantage. If you must play, look for machines with progressives and better payouts. The better machines are often located in little 'hole in the wall' casinos. Slots: Casinos love to advertise their slot payout percentage. Some advertise a 99% payout or more. Keep in mind how many times you can play a slot in an hour vs. hands of blackjack or rolls of the dice in craps. Casinos count on this factor to 'wear down' the player. If you don't hit a huge jackpot in slots, you're likely going to go home that night a loser.