Walking into a casino can be overwhelming. Between the flashing lights of the slot machines and the cheering at the craps tables, it’s hard to know where your money is safest. If your goal is to make your bankroll last as long as possible—or to give yourself the best mathematical chance of walking out a winner—you need to look at the House Edge.
The house edge is the mathematical advantage the casino has over the player. The lower the percentage, the better your odds. Here are the games with the best odds in the casino.
1. Blackjack (House Edge: ~0.5% with strategy)
Blackjack is widely considered the game with the best odds for players. If you use Basic Strategy (a mathematically proven system for when to hit, stand, or double down), you can whittle the house edge down to about 0.5%.
- The Catch: If you play purely on “gut feeling,” the house edge rises to 2% or higher.
- Pro Tip: Look for tables that pay 3:2 for Blackjack rather than 6:5; the latter significantly increases the house advantage.
2. Craps (House Edge: ~1.4% to 0%)
Craps looks intimidating because of the complex table layout, but the basic bets offer some of the best odds in the building.
- Pass Line / Don’t Pass Line: These bets have a house edge of roughly 1.4%.
- The “Odds” Bet: Once a “point” is established, you can place an “Odds” bet behind your original wager. This is the only bet in the casino with a 0% house edge. The casino pays out at true mathematical odds.
3. Baccarat (House Edge: ~1.06%)
Baccarat is the go-to game for high rollers because it is simple and has a very low house edge. You only have three choices: Bet on the Banker, the Player, or a Tie.
- Banker: 1.06% house edge (the best bet).
- Player: 1.24% house edge.
- Tie: ~14.4% house edge. Avoid this bet at all costs.
4. Video Poker (House Edge: 0.5% to 5%)
Unlike slot machines, video poker allows you to use skill to influence the outcome. If you find a “Full Pay” machine (usually labeled 9/6 for Jacks or Better) and play with a perfect strategy, the house edge is nearly non-existent.
- Note: Always play the “Max Bet” (5 coins) to ensure you get the bonus payout for a Royal Flush.
5. Roulette (House Edge: 2.7% to 5.26%)
Roulette odds depend entirely on the wheel you choose:
- European Roulette (Single Zero): 2.7% house edge.
- American Roulette (Double Zero – ‘0’ and ’00’): 5.26% house edge.
- Strategy: Always look for a single-zero wheel to nearly double your chances of winning.
The Games with the Worst Odds
If you want to keep your money, you should generally stay away from:
- Slot Machines: The house edge can range from 5% to 15%. While they offer the chance for a massive jackpot, your “burn rate” (how fast you lose money) is much higher.
- The “Big Six” Wheel / Wheel of Fortune: The house edge is often 11% to 24%.
- Keno: This is essentially a lottery with a house edge that can exceed 25%.
Summary Table
| Game | House Edge | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Blackjack | ~0.5% (with strategy) | Moderate |
| Video Poker | 0.5% – 2% | Moderate |
| Baccarat | 1.06% (Banker bet) | Very Easy |
| Craps | 1.41% (Pass Line) | Moderate/Hard |
| Roulette (Euro) | 2.70% | Easy |
| Slot Machines | 5% – 15% | Very Easy |
Final Advice
To get the best odds, stick to the tables. Table games involve more social interaction and a slower pace of play than slots, which allows your money to last longer. Most importantly, remember that the house edge ensures that, over a long enough time, the casino will always win—so play for entertainment and set a strict budget.
Disclaimer: Gambling involves risk. Only bet what you can afford to lose. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call or text the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.