Pairs - Blackjack Basic Strategy

A pair hand is basically getting two cards of the same value and rank. For example, two aces would mean a pair of aces or any ten card whether it is a face card or not is always a pair of tens.

The links in the navigation bar describe the basic blackjack strategy for when a player has a pair and what the correct move is.

There are a few major strategies for certain pairs. First, you should always split a pair of aces because this greatly improves your chances of getting a 21 blackjack. You do this regardless of the dealer's upcard. The second rule of thumb is to never split a pair of fives or a pair of tens. Click on the links above to learn the logic and reason behind all the pair hand basic strategies.