Baccarat is one of the simplest casino card games, but many people are unsure which bet to make. The main choices, Banker and Player, might look similar at a glance—but there are a few key differences that can affect your decisions over time.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what these bets mean, how they compare, and why one option is often considered to have a small edge. You’ll also find information on commission, results over time, and whether betting on both sides is allowed.
Read on to learn more.
What Are Banker and Player Bets in Baccarat?
If you’re just getting started with Baccarat, you’ll likely come across two main betting options: Banker and Player. Despite how they sound, you’re not betting on a person or the casino itself—you’re simply choosing between two hands that are dealt during each round.
Both the Banker and Player hands are given two cards to begin with, and in some cases, a third card is drawn based on set rules. Your goal is to predict which hand will come closest to a total of 9. The drawing rules are automatic, so once you place your bet, there’s nothing else you need to decide—everything plays out according to the game’s structure.
You might also notice a ‘Tie’ bet, which is a third option, though most people tend to stick with either Banker or Player when starting out, as they’re simpler to follow and more consistent over time.
If you’re new to the game, keeping your choices straightforward might help you get familiar with how Baccarat works. You might also find it beneficial to use budgeting tools or reminders to support a more balanced and enjoyable experience.
Should You Always Bet on the Banker in Baccarat?
You might come across advice suggesting that the Banker bet is the better option over time. There’s some truth to this—it does have a slightly higher likelihood of winning compared to the Player bet, which is why some people consider always backing Banker.
That said, there’s more to the story. Banker wins usually come with a small deduction, which can affect your overall returns if your bet is successful. This detail might not be obvious at first but plays a role in how the game balances out—and we’ll cover it in more depth shortly.
Of course, it’s not just about numbers. If you prefer a bet that feels more straightforward or you simply like the rhythm of the Player side, that could make more sense for how you enjoy playing. In the end, it often comes down to what fits your own style and comfort level.
Odds of Player vs Banker: How Do They Compare?
This is where we can dig into the numbers behind each bet. In a typical eight-deck shoe, the Banker hand wins about 45.86% of the time, while the Player hand wins around 44.62%. The remaining percentage goes to ties.
While that might sound like a clear win for the Banker side, remember the deduction mentioned earlier: Most casinos apply a 5% commission on Banker wins. This commission helps even things out between the two bets across many rounds.
Keeping these odds in mind can help you make more informed decisions if you’re considering which type of bet to place.
Can You Bet on Both Player and Banker?
In most cases, you can place bets on both the Player and Banker hands during the same round—many casinos and online platforms allow it. That said, it’s always worth checking the specific rules wherever you choose to play, just to be sure.
If you do decide to bet on both sides, it’s important to understand how this works. While it might seem like a way to cover your bases, the payouts, particularly when factoring in ties or commission on Banker wins, often mean any gains on one side are offset by losses on the other.
This approach doesn’t remove the house edge either, so the overall outcome tends to remain the same over time. If you're considering trying this method, you might want to weigh it up alongside your budget and style of play.
Why the Banker Bet Has a House Edge Advantage
So why does the Banker bet win slightly more often? It comes down to the way the drawing rules are structured. The Banker hand follows a slightly different set of rules than the Player hand, and over time, this gives it a small statistical advantage.
Because of this, casinos apply a 5% commission on Banker wins to keep the game fair. Without this adjustment, the Banker bet would offer a more significant edge, so the commission levels the playing field.
When Might the Player Bet Be a Better Choice?
While the Banker bet does have a slight statistical edge, you might find that the Player bet suits you better for a few reasons. One of the main advantages is that Player wins pay out even money without any commission deductions, which can make your returns a bit more straightforward.
Some players appreciate this simplicity, especially if they prefer not to worry about tracking commissions or calculating adjusted payouts. It can make the experience feel more transparent and easier to follow.
Additionally, personal strategies or promotions might influence your choice. Depending on any bonuses or special offers available, backing the Player could sometimes be more appealing or rewarding for you. Ultimately, it comes down to what fits your approach and comfort level when playing.
Understanding Commission on Banker Wins
If you decide to bet on the Banker, it’s important to remember that winning payouts usually come with a 5% commission. For example, if you place a £20 bet and win, you’d receive £19 rather than the full £20. While this might seem like a small difference each time, it can add up over multiple wins.
This commission is part of how the game stays balanced, since the Banker hand tends to win slightly more often overall. It’s one of the built-in features that helps keep Baccarat fair and competitive for all players.
How Bet Types Affect Long-Term Outcomes
If you choose to back either the Banker or Player bet, it’s good to keep in mind that both come with a house edge. Over time, this means a small portion of what you wager will be taken, which is how most casino games are designed to work.
The main difference between the two bets usually comes down to the commission. Betting on the Banker might result in wins a little more often, but you’ll see a 5% deduction on those winning bets. On the other hand, the Player bet doesn’t have this commission, though its win rate is slightly lower.
As with all casino games, it’s important to remember that the house edge can’t be eliminated entirely. So whichever bet you prefer, approaching the game with a focus on enjoyment and staying within your limits is always the best way to play.
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*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.