The answer to this question is a little more complicated than a simple “yes” or “no”. There are a number of factors that can come into play when trying to decide whether or not 5 cards beats 21 in blackjack, including the rules of the game, the specific blackjack table you’re playing at, and your personal playing style.
Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on the specific situation and context.
In general, it’s true that 5 cards usually beats 21 in blackjack. This is because the house edge (the amount by which casino operators profit from each bet) is significantly higher for 21 than for 5 cards. For example, at a typical blackjack table with a house edge of 2.1%, a player who bets $10 on a hand with an initial wager of $2 would lose $0.71 per hand (or $7.40 in total).
However, if that same player bets $5 on a hand with an initial wager of $2, they would lose only $0.40 per hand (or $4.80 in total). This is because the house edge for 21 is significantly higher than it is for 5 cards.
In some cases, however, players may be able to beat the house even if they only have 5 cards. This is because some casinos allow players to double down on any hand, including hands with only 5 cards.
In other words, if you have 5 cards and want to bet $10 on a hand with an initial wager of $2, you can actually bet $20 and hope to win. If you get dealt a 6 or 7 card starting hand (which would not be eligible for doubling down), your chances of winning would decrease but you would still be able to make a profit by playing five-card strategy against the house (assuming you don’t hit on all your hands).
Ultimately, it’s important to understand the rules of the game and your own personal playing style before making any decisions about whether or not 5 cards beats 21 in blackjack. If you’re unsure about whether or not this is true for your specific situation, consult with a casino professional or online blackjack guide.
