Master the art of pair splitting with our comprehensive guide. Learn when to split every pair, when never to split, and the mathematical reasoning behind optimal splitting strategy.
Master splitting decisions with interactive training
Train Splitting DecisionsThese are mathematical certainties. Split Aces for two chances at blackjack. Split 8s to escape the dreaded 16.
A pair of 5s gives you 10 (great for doubling). A pair of 10s gives you 20 (already excellent).
| Your Pair | vs 2 | vs 3 | vs 4 | vs 5 | vs 6 | vs 7 | vs 8 | vs 9 | vs 10 | vs A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A,A | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split |
| 8,8 | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split |
| 7,7 | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit |
| 6,6 | Split | Split | Split | Split | Split | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit | Hit |
Splitting Aces gives you two chances to make 21. Each Ace can potentially pair with a 10-value card for blackjack. The mathematical advantage is enormous.
A hard 16 is the worst hand in blackjack. Splitting 8s gives you two hands starting with 8, which is much better than trying to improve 16.
20 wins about 85% of the time. Splitting tens means giving up this strong position for two uncertain hands starting with 10.
A pair of fives gives you 10, which is perfect for doubling down. Splitting creates two weak hands starting with 5.
If allowed, this rule makes splitting more profitable on certain pairs against dealer weak cards.
Some casinos allow re-splitting pairs. This generally favors the player and affects optimal strategy.
Most casinos only allow one card per split Ace and don't count Ace-10 as blackjack.
Perfect splitting strategy requires practice and instant recognition. Our interactive trainer helps you master these decisions until they become automatic.