How does the casino house edge work?

casino house edge work

Casinos all have a built-in advantage that works in their favor. This advantage is called the house edge. Without the house edge, casinos wouldn’t be able to make a profit which is essential for any business to succeed. The house edge is not set by casinos but is built into every game. Casinos don’t have to beat players every time. They just must ensure that they remain profitable over the long term.

What does the house edge tell you?

The house edge tells you how much each game will pay out on average over its entire lifetime. It also tells you which games will offer you the best returns on your bet. When using a casino games app, you can use this information to your advantage. You can avoid games that give the casino more of a house edge and choose the ones that will be most profitable for you to play.

The house edge in table games

Table games like blackjack and baccarat require skills and strategies to play. The house edge will vary depending on the game.

  • Classic blackjack has a low house edge of 0.5%. How many decks you play with, and the rules of different blackjack games can affect the house edge. In blackjack, using the right strategy can help protect your bankroll and minimize the house edge.
  • Baccarat has a house edge of 1.01-15.75%. It differs when betting on the banker, player, or a tie.
  • In Craps, the house edge is 0-16.67% depending on individual betting possibilities.
  • American roulette has a house edge of 5.26%. This is due to the inclusion of a double 00 pocket on the wheel. French or European roulette has a lower house edge.

The house edge in video poker

Video poker is based on five-card draw poker and you play it on a console much like that of a slot machine. The paytables and side bets on each poker machine can affect the house edge. There are many variations to choose from with differing house edges. When you have more understanding of poker, you can make better decisions in video poker and minimize the house edge.

The house edge in slots

Playing slots requires no skill and results are random so it’s not one of the best ideas to make money. If a slot pays out a return to player (RTP) of 95%, the machine’s house edge is 5%. You need to choose slot games with the highest RTP and the lowest house edge. Playing the total number of paylines will maximize your chance of winning. Bonus games are where you will make the most money when playing slots.