Key Reasons Why You Should Never Count Cards

Many players dream of finding a way to beat the casino. Card counting seems like a clever trick to achieve that. It involves keeping track of the cards dealt to predict which cards are left in the deck.

Despite popular belief, card counting is not illegal. However, casinos dislike card counting and will ask you to leave if they suspect you of using this blackjack strategy.

Some see card counting as a way to win big, but let's explore why this strategy might not be the best choice for your next blackjack game.

1. Small Profits

The idea of winning big by counting cards is appealing, but the truth is, most players don’t make huge profits. The advantage gained from counting cards is small. While it’s possible to win some money, it’s also very easy to lose.

One night you might win a bit, and the next you could lose it all. The reality is that profits from card counting are typically thin, and this long-term blackjack strategy doesn't guarantee quick gains.

2. It's Not Exciting

Many people go to casinos to have fun. Counting cards, however, can turn into a tedious task. It requires constant attention and mental effort.

You’ll spend hours trying to keep track of the cards, which means you won’t have much time to chat with friends or enjoy a drink. The fun of playing can quickly disappear when you’re focused on counting cards.

3. It’s Hard To Learn

Card counting isn’t something you can pick up quickly. First, you need to master basic blackjack strategy, which is more complex than it sounds. Then, you have to learn a card counting system and practice it until you’re perfect. Even after you’ve learned how to count cards in blackjack, you need to keep your actions secret. Casinos have many ways to spot card counters, and if they catch you, they’ll kick you out.

4. You Need a Big Bankroll

People often think that counting cards will make them rich quickly, but this is not true. Counting cards can give you a small advantage, but it doesn’t guarantee immediate winnings. It’s a long-term strategy, and you need a lot of money to start. If you don’t have enough money, you might run out before you win anything. The famous MIT blackjack team started with $89,000. If you only have $200, it’s unlikely you’ll succeed, even at the cheapest tables.

5. Getting Caught is Likely

If you are not sure whether counting cards is legal or not, let us tell you that it’s not against the law, but casinos don’t like it. If a casino catches you counting cards, they will ask you to leave right away. You won’t be able to cash in your chips, so you’ll lose your money and feel embarrassed. Plus, if you enjoy that casino, it won’t matter because you’ll be banned and never allowed back.

6. Banned from Multiple Casinos

Once you’re caught counting cards at one casino, you might get banned from others in the area too. Casinos share information, and your picture could be circulated to other casinos. This means you won’t be able to enter any local casinos for a long time. You might miss out on playing slot machines or attending events at the casino. Until you’re allowed back, your only option might be to play at online casinos.

The Takeaway? Card Counting is Best Left to the Movies

Learning to count cards in blackjack is tough and takes a lot of practice. You need to understand how to count cards in blackjack before trying it in a casino.

Even if you get really good at it you will probably get caught sooner or later.

Making big money from counting cards is rare. You have to ask yourself, "Is it worth the chance of getting kicked out and banned from casinos?"

Think carefully about the risks and rewards before you decide to try it.