Which Casino Game Has the Lowest House Edge?

When it comes to casino gaming, one of the most crucial factors for players is the house edge—the mathematical advantage the casino has over the player in the long run. The lower the house edge, the better the player’s chances of winning. If you’re looking to maximize your odds while enjoying your favourite casino games, knowing which games offer the lowest house edge can make a significant difference.

Understanding House Edge

The house edge is the built-in advantage a casino has over players, expressed as a percentage. For example, if a game has a house edge of 2%, it means that over time, the casino is expected to keep £2 for every £100 wagered.

While luck plays a role in every game, selecting those with a lower house edge allows players to stretch their bankroll and potentially secure more wins in the long run.

Top Casino Games with the Lowest House Edge

1. Blackjack – House Edge: 0.5% (With Optimal Strategy)

Blackjack is widely recognized as one of the best games for players in terms of odds. The house edge can be as low as 0.5% when using the correct basic strategy—a mathematically proven method of playing based on the dealer’s upcard.

Why Blackjack Has a Low House Edge:

• Players can make strategic decisions (hit, stand, double down, split).

• Card counting (where allowed) can further reduce the edge.

• Certain rule variations can improve player odds.

2. Baccarat – House Edge: 1.06% (Banker Bet)

Baccarat is a straightforward game that attracts both high-rollers and casual players. The best bet in the game is on the Banker, which has a house edge of just 1.06%. Betting on the Player has a slightly higher edge of 1.24%, while the Tie bet is risky with a house edge over 14%.

Why Baccarat is Player-Friendly:

• No complex strategy needed.

• Simply choosing the Banker bet gives players a great chance of winning.

3. Craps – House Edge: 1.36% (Pass Line Bet)

Craps can seem intimidating to beginners, but it offers some of the best odds in the casino. The Pass Line bet has a 1.36% house edge, while the Don’t Pass bet is slightly better at 1.36%.

Best Way to Reduce House Edge in Craps:

• Stick to Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets.

• Avoid risky proposition bets, which have a much higher house edge.

4. Video Poker – House Edge: 0.5% (Depending on Variation)

Video Poker, particularly Jacks or Better, can offer a house edge as low as 0.5% when played with optimal strategy. Unlike slot machines, Video Poker requires skill and decision-making.

Why Video Poker is a Smart Choice:

• The return-to-player (RTP) percentage can be as high as 99.5%.

• Proper strategy significantly improves winning chances.

5. European Roulette – House Edge: 2.7%

Roulette is a classic casino game, but the version you play matters. European Roulette has a house edge of 2.7%, while American Roulette (with its extra double zero) has a much higher edge of 5.26%.

How to Maximize Your Roulette Odds:

• Always choose European Roulette over American Roulette.

• Stick to even-money bets like red/black or odd/even for more consistent wins.

Final Thoughts

If you want the best odds in the casino, Blackjack (with basic strategy), Baccarat’s Banker bet, and Video Poker are your top choices. Games like Craps and European Roulette also offer favourable odds when played wisely.

While no casino game guarantees a win, understanding the house edge allows players to make smarter choices and enjoy a more rewarding gaming experience. Always remember to gamble responsibly and have fun!

By ML Staff