Free Bet Blackjack by Evolution Gaming offers a unique twist on the classic game with free double down and split bets, making it a favourite among Australian players.
Free bet blackjack offers players a chance to make bold moves without the extra risk, all while enjoying stunning HD streaming and live dealers.
Here, we’ve rounded up the top Australian sites where you can play Free Bet Blackjack. Discover how to play, explore our top picks, and get expert tips for your next hand.
Key Takeaways
-
Free Doubles & Splits: You get free double downs on 9, 10, or 11, and free splits on most pairs — the house covers the extra bet.
-
Dealer Pushes on 22: If the dealer hits exactly 22, your hand pushes instead of winning — unless you’ve busted or hit blackjack.
-
Faster-Paced Gameplay: Fewer chips and more auto-bets make this variant ideal for casual, action-focused players.
-
Higher House Edge: RTP is slightly lower than classic blackjack (around 98.45%–98.76%) due to the Push 22 rule.
-
Strategy Differs from Classic: You’ll need a modified basic strategy — playing standard blackjack strategy can cost you money.
-
Know the Version You’re Playing: Rules can vary depending on the provider (e.g. Evolution vs ShuffleMaster), so always check the table info before you start.
Play Free Bet Blackjack At The Following Casinos
What is Free Bet Blackjack
Crafted by the clever Geoff Hall back in 2012 and refined by Evolution Gaming, Free Bet Blackjack is a popular variant of traditional blackjack among Australian players.
It offers an exciting twist on the classic blackjack game with a unique feature that allows players to double down and split hands for free, making it a favourite for those looking to maximize their winning potential without additional risk.
How We Rate Free Bet Blackjack Casinos
When we pick the best Free Bet Blackjack casinos, we use strict criteria to ensure you get the best experience above and beyond our normal rating criteria.
Features We Look For
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Live Streaming | HD, seamless streaming that ensures a real-time, glitch-free viewing experience, capturing every moment of the game. |
| Professional Dealers | Knowledgeable, engaging dealers who bring expertise and a friendly atmosphere to the game, enhancing the live experience. |
| Multi-Angle Cameras | Multiple camera angles offering a comprehensive, transparent view of the game, adding depth and authenticity to the online experience. |
| Mobile Compatibility | Optimised for mobile play, allowing for a high-quality game experience on any device, ensuring you can play anytime, anywhere without compromise. |
| Side Bets and Variants | A variety of game options including side bets and different game variants, providing more ways to win and explore different strategies. |
| Interactive Chat Features | The ability to communicate with dealers and other players, adding a social dimension to the game that mirrors the camaraderie of a real casino floor. |
| Quick Bet Features | Features that speed up the betting process, keeping the game exciting and allowing for more rounds to be played in a session. |
| Responsible Gaming Tools | Tools like self-exclusion, deposit limits, and reality checks that help maintain a safe and fun gaming environment, emphasising player well-being. |
Our Top Free Bet Blackjack Casino Picks
We give you the lowdown on our top picks for live Free Bet Blackjack casinos and exactly what to look for.
| Free Bet Blackjack Variety | Recommended Casino |
|---|---|
| Best Dealers | ilucky Casino |
| Best Live Experience | Dolly Casino |
| Mobile Compatibility and App Availability | Wolf Winner |
| Bonuses and Promotions for Free Bet Blackjack | Rabona Casino |
| Fast Payout Casino | Bizzo Casino |
| Licensing and Security Measures | Rooli Casino |
How to Play Free Bet Blackjack
If you’ve pulled up a virtual seat at a Free Bet Blackjack table, Your aim is to beat the dealer by getting a hand closer to 21 without busting.
Place Your Bet
- Choose your bet amount and place your chips before the timer runs out.
- You may also choose side bets (if offered), like 21+3 or Perfect Pairs.
Cards Are Dealt
- You and the dealer each get two cards.
- Your cards are face up; the dealer shows one card face up and keeps one face down.
Take Action
You can:
- Stand
– keep your hand. - Hit
– take another card. - Double
– double your bet for one extra card. - Split
– if dealt a pair, split into two hands.
Free Bets Apply When:
- You have a
9, 10, or 11
→ you get a
Free Double
. - You have a
pair (except 10s and 4s)
→ you get a
Free Split
. - The casino matches your bet
for free
on those hands.
Dealer’s Turn
After you finish, the dealer reveals their second card and plays their hand according to standard blackjack rules (usually hits on soft 17).
Resolution & Payouts
- If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win.
- If the
dealer makes 22
, it’s a
push
(you get your bet back) — except for busted hands or blackjack. - All other payouts follow traditional blackjack rules.
Free Bet Blackjack Rules: What’s Different?
- Play uses eight decks of 52 cards.
- The dealer stands on all 17s.
- No Surrender
- Split any pair you get. Re-splitting is allowed (up to four hands).
- Get a free double down on initial cards totaling 9, 10, or 11.
- Enjoy a free split bet on all split pairs.
- If the dealer busts with 22, all winning hands push, no payout.
Pros and Cons of Free Bet Blackjack
Pros
- Spend less, play more.
- Fewer Decisions, Higher Volatility
- Great for beginners.
Cons
- Payouts aren’t as good as other table games.
- A dealer’s 22 means nobody wins.
- You’ll need to learn new strategies
Free Bet Blackjack Special Features
Let’s dig deeper to find out exactly what options players have when it comes to free bets and side bets.
Free Bets
Free Double Down
Nothing is sweeter than striking the chance to double down! When your initial hand totals 9, 10, or 11, you’re given a chance to double down without placing an additional bet. Think of it like the game is lending you the chips for the double down. If you win, you get double your original bet, all without risking more of your own money!
For example, if your wager was $20, and you win, you will get back:
Your wager + (your wager x 2) In this case, you will have a total of $60 to take to the bank.
Free Splits
If you’re dealt a pair (two cards of the same value), you can split them into two separate hands with a “free split”. Normally, splitting requires you to place an additional bet equal to your original. However, in Free Bet Blackjack, the casino covers this for you. You play two hands and have double the chance to win, without the extra cost.
Side Bets
21+3 Side Bet
This bet focuses on your first two cards and the dealer’s up card forming a poker hand.
- Example: If you have a 7♦ and 8♦, and the dealer’s up card is 9♦, you’ve got a straight flush.
- Payout: Flushes pay 5:1, straights 10:1, three-of-a-kind 30:1, straight flushes 40:1, and suited triples 100:1.
Hot 3 Side Bet
Bet on the total of your two cards and the dealer’s up card is 19, 20, 21, making a suited 21, or hitting a 7-7-7.
- Example: Your cards are 6♠ and a King♠, and the dealer’s up card is 5♠, making a total of 21.
- Payout: Totals of 19 pay 1:1, 20 pay 2:1, unsuited 21s pay 4:1, suited 21s pay 20:1, and 7-7-7 pays 100:1.
Bust It Side Bet
This wager wins if the dealer busts with three or more cards.
- Example: The dealer goes over 21 with a five-card hand.
- Payout: Three cards pay 1:1, four cards 2:1, five cards 9:1, six cards 50:1, seven cards 100:1, and eight or more cards 250:1.
Any Pair Side Bet
You win if your initial two cards are a pair.
- Example: Your first two cards are both Queens.
- Payout: Mixed pairs (different suits) pay 5:1, coloured pairs (same colour, different suits) 10:1, and perfect pairs (same suit) 30:1.
What Makes Free Bet Blackjack Standout?
Free Bet Blackjack shakes things up by offering free double down and split bets on certain hands. This means you can make these bold moves without risking extra money, adding tons of excitement and new strategies to the game.
Here is a look at how it compares to regular blackjack
Free Bet Blackjack vs Classic Blackjack: Rule Comparison
| Rule | Free Bet Blackjack | Classic Blackjack |
|---|---|---|
| Free Double Down | Offered for free on hard 9, 10, or 11 (house covers extra bet) | Player must place own chips to double down |
| Free Split | Free on most pairs (except 10s and 4s); house pays for second hand | Player pays again to split hands |
| Push on Dealer 22 | Dealer total of 22 results in a push (tie) for all non-busted player hands | Dealer 22 is a bust – player wins if still in play |
| Surrender Option | ❌ Not available | ✅ Often available (player forfeits half their bet) |
| Dealer Hits on Soft 17 | ✅ Yes (dealer hits soft 17 in most versions) | Varies – may stand or hit, depending on house rules |
| Split Aces Rules | Usually one card only per split Ace, no re-hits | Often one card only, some allow more depending on table |
| Re-Splitting | ❓ Varies by table, often limited to 3–4 hands total | ✅ Commonly allowed, though max splits depend on the casino |
| House Edge / RTP | Typically 1.00%–1.20% (due to Push 22) | Typically 0.50% or lower |
Popular Online Free Bet Blackjack Variants Explained
Unlike standard blackjack, these variants offer all the perks of Free Bet plus additional twists.
Infinite Blackjack
Brought to you by Evolution Gaming, Infinite Blackjack eliminates the wait for a spot at the table and includes a fun Four Card Charlie rule to boost your chances of winning unexpectedly. It’s like your favourite local hangout, always ready to fit one more at the blackjack party.
Power Blackjack
Meet Power Blackjack, the beefed-up version of the classic game also crafted by Evolution Gaming. Here, the stakes are higher as you can double, triple, or even quadruple your bet on a hand. It’s blackjack with a turbo boost, allowing an endless number of players to join and increase their bets for potentially massive wins.
Expert Tips to Win Real Money with Free Bet Blackjack
- Be Selective with Splits: Generally, avoid splitting 9s or 10-value cards. These hands are strong on their own and splitting them could lead to less favuorable outcomes. However, the strategy you choose can vary based on the game situation.
- Leverage Side Bets: Adding side bets like 21+3 or Any Pair can significantly increase your potential payouts. While they do introduce a higher house edge, they also offer the chance for substantial wins, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game.
- Utilise Resources: Don’t overlook the wealth of tips and strategies available in our online casino guide. These resources are designed to refine your approach and enhance your overall gameplay in Free Bet Blackjack.
- Watch for the Dealer’s Upcard: The dealer’s upcard is a big indicator of their potential hand strength. Adjust your decisions based on their likelihood to bust or hit a strong hand.
- Know When to Stand: If the dealer shows a weak upcard (4, 5, or 6), it’s often a good idea to stand and let the dealer risk busting, especially if you have a hard 13 or higher.
- Prepare for Pushes: Remember that if the dealer busts with 22, it’s a push. Adjust your strategy and risk level knowing that a 22 can negate your wins.
Look for bonuses that will generally be applicable to live casino games like the following…
Maximising Bonuses
To make the most of these bonuses:
- Read the Terms:
Understand the
wagering requirements
and game restrictions to ensure Free Bet Blackjack is eligible. - Plan Your Bankroll:
Use bonuses during sessions where you can play more hands and experiment with different strategies. - Keep an Eye on Promotions
: Regularly check the promotions page of your chosen casino for any game specific bonuses or time-limited offers.
How to Sign Up and Start Playing at a Free Bet Blackjack Casino
Here’s a straightforward, four-step guide to get you started with Free Bet Blackjack online, focusing on secure sign-up, deposit, and play:
Select from our recommended list of trustworthy online casinos that feature Free Bet Blackjack. Complete your sign-up by providing your details and undergo the necessary ID verification process.
Odds and Payouts Explained
Return to Player (RTP)
The RTP (Return to Player) in Free Bet Blackjack typically ranges from 98.45% to 98.76%, depending on the exact rules and game provider (such as Evolution Gaming or ShuffleMaster). That means, on average, players can expect to receive back $98.50–$98.75 for every $100 wagered over the long term.
Why Is It Lower Than Classic Blackjack?
Classic blackjack, when played with optimal strategy, can offer RTPs above 99.5% — among the best in the casino. Free Bet Blackjack introduces “free” doubles and splits, but the dealer 22 push rule offsets this player advantage.
Here’s the trade-off:
-
✅ You don’t pay for certain doubles and splits.
-
❌ But you lose wins when the dealer hits exactly 22 — even strong hands only push.
These tweaks increase volatility and raise the house edge to around 1.00%–1.20%, depending on how often the player benefits from free bets.
Tip: If you want the best RTP possible, always play with basic strategy tailored to Free Bet Blackjack. Using the standard blackjack chart will lead to costly mistakes due to the unique rule set.
| Bet | Outcomes | Payouts |
|---|---|---|
| Any Pair | Suited Pair, Pair | 25:1, 8:1 |
| 21+3 | Suited Trips, Straight Flush, Three of a Kind, Straight, Flush | 100:1, 40:1, 30:1, 10:1, 5:1 |
| Hot 3 | 7-7-7, Total 21 suited, Total 21 unsuited, Total 20, Total 19 | 100:1, 20:1, 4:1, 2:1, 1:1 |
| Bust It | Bust with 8+ cards, Bust with 7 cards, Bust with 6 cards, Bust with 5 cards, Bust with 4 cards, Bust with 3 cards | 250:1, 100:1, 50:1, 9:1, 2:1, 1:1 |
Check out some other popular live casino games you might enjoy.
Lightning Roulette
Dream Catcher
Infinite Blackjack
Lightning Baccarat
Lightning Dice
Monopoly Live
Crazy Time
Conclusion
Choosing the right online site for Free Bet Blackjack is crucial. Our top-rated selections ensure you play at secure and reputable casinos. Free Bet Blackjack isn’t just about fun; it’s about making smart plays with free splits and doubles to tip the odds in your favour.
Follow our expert tips, enjoy those exciting side bets, and maximise your chances of winning. Pick a site and start your Free Bet Blackjack adventure today!
Free Bet Blackjack FAQ
The legality of playing online blackjack, including Free Bet Blackjack, depends on your country or region’s gambling laws. Always check local regulations before engaging in online gambling.
Look for online casinos that are licensed and regulated by respected authorities. Check for positive reviews, fair play certifications, and strong security measures to ensure a safe gaming experience.
Prioritise bonuses with clear terms and low wagering requirements. Ensure the bonuses apply to Free Bet Blackjack, as some promotions may be restricted to slots or other games.
Yes, many online casinos offer mobile versions of Free Bet Blackjack either through web browsers or dedicated apps, allowing you to play from anywhere on your smartphone or tablet.
Wagering requirements can vary but typically range from 20x to 50x the bonus amount. Always read the bonus terms to understand how much you need to play before withdrawing bonus winnings.
Loyalty programs reward you with points for playing games like Free Bet Blackjack. These points can often be exchanged for cash, bonuses, or other rewards, providing additional value the more you play.