How to Play a Pair of 2s in Blackjack?

Blackjack is a game that needs no introduction. For hundreds of years, people have flocked to blackjack tables for a few different reasons. First, the game is simple on the surface. The goal is to reach 21, or as close as you can get to it. If you go over 21, you lose the game. That’s it! However, the game is actually much more complex than this. It’s the perfect choice for players who want to sink their teeth into a game and learn advanced strategies that actually impact their chances of winning. In this article, we’ll explore how to play a pair of twos in blackjack.

What is a pair of twos in blackjack? A pair of twos, also known as deuces, refers to two ‘2’ cards. There are a few different ways that players can move forward with a pair of deuces. You can keep them in your hand and complete the round normally, or you can split them. Both options have their pros and cons.

When should I split a pair of twos?

Let’s discuss what to do with a pair of 2s in blackjack. The first factor to consider when planning your strategy is the dealer’s upcard. In general, the blackjack pair of 2s strategy works best when the dealer has an upcard between four and seven. If the dealer’s upcard is a two or three, splitting is also an option, albeit a slightly less favourable one. Your odds will be reduced, but not substantially – if you have no other option, it might be worth a consideration.

Can I split and then double down with a pair of twos?

In blackjack, splitting 2s doesn’t preclude you from doubling down after the split (DAS). This is because there are two kinds of blackjack tables. One game allows players to double down after the split, and the other does not allow doubling down after splitting (NDAS). In Evolution and OnAir Entertainment live casino games, for example, players cannot double down after splitting.

Playtech games such as All Bets Blackjack, on the other hand, do allow players to double down. At LeoVegas, we have plenty of each game to offer.

Note that DAS vs. NDAS doesn’t make too much of a difference to games where the player has a pair of twos available, but games allowing DAS do give the player slightly better chances of winning when the dealer’s upcard is a two.

When should I not split a pair of twos?

You may be wondering, ‘Do I split a pair of 2s in blackjack?’ If so, you aren’t alone! There is a lot to consider when deciding whether to split or not, but as we discussed above, the dealer’s upcard is probably the most important factor.

In general, the higher the dealer’s upcard, the better their hand. This means that players need an increasingly strong hand as the upcard value increases. Consider hitting rather than splitting if the dealer has an eight or higher because that’s indicative of a strong hand (closer to 21). Splitting your pair in this instance only weakens your hand and lowers your chances of winning. Above all else, a blackjack pair of 2s should not be split when the dealer’s upcard is an ace! An ace means that the dealer has a strong chance of an extremely strong hand, potentially even a 21. Keep your pair and hit instead.

Probabilities of success when hitting with a pair of twos

Now that we’ve discussed the basics, let’s focus on the most important elements. Here are some blackjack 2s tips to give you the highest chances of winning. Remember that on a seven or above, and especially on an eight or above, consider hitting instead of splitting so that you don’t weaken your hand. If the dealer has an ace as the upcard, you only have a roughly 25% chance of winning the table game.

Note that splitting requires double the player stakes. If your initial stake is £100, for example, and you decide to split your deuces, you must add an additional £100 for a total stake of £200. That’s why you want to split only when your chances of winning are highest. When the dealer shows a five or six, especially, your chances of winning with a split are the highest – roughly 41%.

Blackjack Strategy Table