How to Play Baccarat:
Rules, Odds & Strategy
Baccarat has a reputation as a high-roller game, but it is one of the simplest casino games to play. You choose one bet, the cards are dealt automatically, and you either win or lose. This guide explains everything — including the one bet that gives you the best odds.
The Three Bets — and Which to Choose
There are only three bets in baccarat: Player, Banker, and Tie. The math is clear on which to pick.
Banker
Best betPlayer
Good betTie
AvoidKey Takeaway
Always bet Banker. Despite the 5% commission on wins, it still has the lowest house edge at 1.06%. The Tie bet may look tempting at 8:1, but a 14.36% house edge makes it one of the worst bets in any casino game.
Card Values in Baccarat
Baccarat uses its own scoring system. The goal is for a hand to total as close to 9 as possible. If a hand totals more than 9, only the second digit counts (e.g. 15 = 5, 17 = 7).
| Cards | Point Value |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 |
| 2 – 9 | Face value |
| 10, J, Q, K | 0 |
Example hand:
King (0) + 7 (7) = 7
8 (8) + 6 (6) = 14 → 4 (drop the tens digit)
Ace (1) + 5 (5) = 6
How a Round of Baccarat Works
Place your bet
Before any cards are dealt, choose to bet on Player, Banker, or Tie. That is your only decision in baccarat.
Two cards dealt to each side
The dealer deals two cards face-up to both the Player hand and the Banker hand. Nothing to do — just watch.
Natural win check
If either hand totals 8 or 9 (a 'natural'), the hand ends immediately and bets are settled. No third card is drawn.
Third card rules (automatic)
If neither hand is a natural, a third card may be drawn based on fixed rules. Player draws if their total is 0–5. Banker's draw depends on the Banker total and the Player's third card. The dealer handles all of this — you do nothing.
Closest to 9 wins
Whichever hand is closest to 9 wins. Banker wins are paid at 1:1 minus 5% commission. Player wins pay 1:1. A tied score pays the Tie bet 8:1.
Third Card Drawing Rules (Simplified)
You never need to apply these yourself — the software or dealer does it automatically. But here is a plain-language summary for reference.
Player Hand
- ▸Total 0–5: Draw a third card
- ▸Total 6–7: Stand (no draw)
- ▸Total 8–9: Natural — hand ends
Banker Hand
- ▸Total 0–2: Always draws
- ▸Total 3–6: Draws based on Player's third card
- ▸Total 7: Stands
- ▸Total 8–9: Natural — hand ends
Baccarat Strategy Tips
✅ Always bet Banker
1.06% house edge is among the lowest in any casino game. The commission is worth it.
✅ Set a session loss limit and stick to it
Baccarat hands move fast. Decide before you sit down how much you are willing to lose, and walk away when you hit it.
❌ Ignore scorecards and streak tracking
Casinos hand out scorecards showing previous results. They are meaningless — each hand is independent. Past Banker wins do not make Player more or less likely to win next.
❌ Never chase the Tie bet payout
8:1 sounds great until you see the 14.36% house edge. In practical terms, for every $100 you bet on Tie, you can expect to lose $14.36 on average. Stick to Banker.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bet in baccarat?
The Banker bet has the lowest house edge at 1.06% (after the 5% commission on wins). Always bet Banker for the best long-term odds. Avoid the Tie bet — its 14.36% house edge makes it one of the worst bets at any casino.
Do I need to know the drawing rules to play baccarat?
No. The third-card drawing rules are automatic — the dealer or software handles them. Your only decision is which bet to place before each hand.
Is baccarat available at sweepstakes casinos?
Yes, most major sweepstakes casinos offer baccarat in both standard and live dealer formats. You can play using Gold Coins for free or Sweep Coins for prize-eligible play.
Try Baccarat for Free
Practice baccarat at sweepstakes casinos with no financial risk. Build your confidence before playing competitively.
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