Canada’s best casinos for live dealer blackjack 2023
Looking for the best live blackjack in Canada? Here you'll find the best sites chosen by our dedicated industry experts. We'll also go into detail on live dealer blackjack, making it easy for you to start playing today! Written by Ziv Chen.
Top live dealer blackjack casinos in Canada
Live dealer blackjack casinos to avoid in Canada
While we want to connect you with the best live blackjack in Canada, it's also essential to avoid the not-so-good blackjack sites. There are many reasons why we might determine a casino to be untrustworthy. Maybe the operator doesn't match our strict quality control standards or it may even have a less-than-stellar reputation for safety.
Learn more about live dealer games
What the best live blackjack casinos offer
Choosing a great live dealer blackjack casino in Canada doesn’t have to be difficult. Any live blackjack casino that makes it to our shortlist will be rated for the following criteria by one of our experts:
Why you should play live dealer blackjack in Canada
If you want to experience the most authentic online blackjack, live dealer games are a perfect option. For players who want more excitement and realism, there are plenty of benefits to choosing live blackjack online in Canada:
Play with real dealers in real time
Virtual online blackjack games can be fun, but they are also a lonely experience. Many players want a splash of authenticity without needing to visit a land-based casino. Live dealer blackjack delivers those real vibes by connecting you with a human dealer and a game table. All this is viewable through a high-quality live stream that showcases games as they unfold.
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Live chat
As well as experiencing a game as it happens in real time, you can also interact with dealers and other players. A live chat feature is available on most online blackjack live dealer games. By leveraging modern technology, game providers can offer a more personal experience. Dealers are friendly and helpful and will even encourage conversation if appropriate.
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Transparency
While reputable virtual blackjack games are fair, some players do not trust RNG software. Live casino blackjack is different because you are actually watching the action unfold. You can see the dealer handling the cards, see the game table, and you know what cards are in the hand. Live dealer blackjack removes concerns about games being rigged.
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Play anywhere and whenever you want
Online casinos are open 24/7, and live dealer game providers have studios worldwide. This means there are always live blackjack tables open and ready. You can play whenever you want! Also, because you are online, you can play wherever you choose. All you need is an internet connection.
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Flexible game choices
Virtual blackjack options are declining at online casinos, while land-based casinos will always have a limited number of blackjack tables. At an online live casino in Canada, you can choose between multiple tables for all types of players. Casinos cater to high rollers and budget players alike, and you can also pick between multiple popular online blackjack variants.
How to play live dealer blackjack, step by step
Blackjack is a unique game in the casino realm – it is simple to start playing but can be very complex. The basic rules of blackjack are easy to learn, but there are strategies and betting options to understand before becoming a good blackjack player. Of course, you need to start at the beginning, so let’s take a look at the standard live dealer blackjack rules:
Step 1
Place your bets
Firstly, the game will start with you placing a bet on who will win. Move your virtual chips into the betting area, which shows how much you want to wager.
Step 2
One face up card
The human dealer will now deal out one face up card to each player and one to themselves (known as the up card).
Step 3
The dealer’s left
The dealing will now commence, starting with the player to the dealer’s left.
Step 4
Second card
The dealer will now deal a second card to all players face up. They will also deal themselves a second card, but this will be face down.
Step 5
Card values
Check the hand value of your two cards and decide your next move. There are several actions you can take.
Step 6
Blackjack
Firstly, if you hold a total of 21, you have a blackjack. This means you win.
Step 7
Another card
From the card values, choose what you want to do with your hand: ‘double down’ (double your bet and add another card to your hand), ‘hit’ (receive another card from the dealer), or ‘stand’ (stick with the two cards). Looking at the dealer’s up card will help inform your decision as you can guess the quality of their hand.
Step 8
Splitting
If your initial hand has two cards of the same value, you can ‘split’ them to make two separate hands. Each will have their own bet equal to your original bet. You can then double down, hit, or stand with each hand.
Step 9
Win or lose?
Once all the betting decisions are made, the round will play through. Potential outcomes are:
- If your hand is 21 or lower and the dealer’s hand has less value = you win.
- When your hand is 21 or lower, but the dealer’s hand is a higher value (under 21) = you lose.
- If your hand is 21 or lower and the dealer has higher than 21 (a bust) = you win.
- If you go higher than 21 and bust = you lose.
- Both you and the dealer have the same hand value (a push) = returned bet.
Objective of live dealer blackjack
If the dealer’s cards add up to 16 or fewer, they must hit. Therefore, a value of 17 or more means the dealer must stand. Because blackjack is a card counting game, knowing the card values is essential. This information can help you make the correct decisions when betting. Each card contributes to the overall goal of creating a hand that is less than or equal to 21. That is why we recommend knowing the card values of live dealer blackjack when you start playing.
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
Ace | 1 or 11 |
2 | 2 |
3 | 3 |
4 | 4 |
5 | 5 |
6 | 6 |
7 | 7 |
8 | 8 |
9 | 9 |
10 | 10 |
Jack | 10 |
Queen | 10 |
King | 10 |
Live blackjack Vs. Online casino blackjack
Which is better: online casino blackjack or live blackjack in Canada? It all comes down to personal preference. One is played with a live dealer and streamed via video, and the other is played virtually using random number generators (RNGs). When playing at a real money casino in Canada, there are plenty of benefits to each. Check out our table below to work out which is right for you!
| Live blackjack | You can play with a live dealer for a more immersive experience. | You can interact with the dealer directly using a live chat. | Live blackjack rooms offer a relaxed and friendly space to play. | There’s a limited number of ‘seats’ per live blackjack game. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online casino blackjack | You can set your own pace with no time limit between hands. | You can always find a game to join, with a huge variety of options. | Online blackjack can be found at most online casinos in Canada. | The experience can be less sociable than live blackjack. |
| Live blackjack | Online casino blackjack |
|---|---|
| You can play with a live dealer for a more immersive experience. | You can set your own pace with no time limit between hands. |
| You can interact with the dealer directly using a live chat. | You can always find a game to join, with a huge variety of options. |
| Live blackjack rooms offer a relaxed and friendly space to play. | Online blackjack can be found at most online casinos in Canada. |
| There’s a limited number of ‘seats’ per live blackjack game. | The experience can be less sociable than live blackjack. |
Live dealer blackjack terminology
To become comfortable playing live dealer blackjack online, we recommend learning the basic terms of gameplay:
Blackjack terms
| Word/Phrase | Definition |
|---|---|
Stand | Stick with two cards in your hand |
Hit | Take another card from the dealer |
Bust | Your hand value is over 21 |
Hole card | The dealer’s card facing down |
Up card | The dealer’s visible card |
Hard hand | A hand that does not contain an Ace |
Soft hand | A hand that has an Ace |
Double down | Double your bet |
Split | Split equal-value cards into two hands |
Surrender | Surrender claims back half your bet |
Live dealer blackjack games and rules variants
Blackjack is a diverse game that comes in a number of different variants. While these games share the same core mechanics, they each put a unique twist on the standard live dealer blackjack game:
Live blackjack casino software
Live blackjack casinos are powered by specific game providers. Below are the top four software providers for live blackjack in Canada. Any developer listed below guarantees high-quality live blackjack games that are streamed in HD.
Evolution Gaming
Evolution Gaming is one of the world’s best-known live casino providers. The brand has a strong reputation for innovation and new games. Top games from Evolution Gaming include Live Blackjack, Speed Blackjack, Infinite Blackjack and Lightning Blackjack.
Microgaming
Microgaming is a household name and one of the oldest live casino providers. The provider is known for going that extra mile with fun features like ‘Bet behind’ a seated player. Notable blackjack games from Microgaming include Classic Live Blackjack plus single and multi-handed variants. Head to our Microgaming casinos guide to learn more
NetEnt
NetEnt, also known as NetEntertainment, has been around for more than 20 years. The provider launched its first live casino in 2013 and has gone from strength to strength since. NetEnt’s blackjack options include Blitz Blackjack, 7 Seat Blackjack, Perfect Blackjack and more. Head to our NetEnt casinos guide to learn more
Playtech
Founded back in 1999, Playtech has a great reputation in the iGaming industry. They promise a ‘best in class’ experience with high-end dealers that know their stuff. You might already be aware of their standard Live Blackjack or Ultimate Blackjack, which is played with eight decks of cards. Head to our Playtech casinos guide to learn more
Play live blackjack on mobile in Canada
Many Canadians prefer to play blackjack on the move from a mobile device. Modern online casinos cater to mobile users either by optimizing their desktop sites or by offering a dedicated casino app. Both options are fine, although a bespoke app does offer unique benefits like notifications and a mobile-ready UI.
Whichever option you choose, it is possible to play live dealer blackjack online from your mobile device. In fact, thanks to the amazing screen resolution on modern smartphones and tablets, the live dealer game streams look fantastic on mobile.
Live dealer blackjack casinos in Canada
| Rank | Casino | Number of games | Payout speed | More about the casino |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1
| Spin Casino | 800+ | 1-2 days | |
#2
| Jackpot City Casino | 500+ | 1-2 days | |
#3
| PlayOJO | 3000 | 1-2 days |
FAQs
Where can I play live blackjack?
You can play live blackjack at any top Canadian online casino recommended above. Our dedicated gambling experts go to great lengths and leave no stone unturned in their in-depth reviews. So, as well as offering thrilling live games, these sites are safe and secure for Canadian bettors.
What is live dealer blackjack?
Live dealer blackjack is a version of online blackjack that uses a human dealer and video to stream a game in real time. It provides a more authentic casino experience than standard virtual casino blackjack games.
How does live dealer blackjack work?
Live dealer blackjack streams from a remote studio owned by the casino or game provider. A human dealer is in the studio, and the game plays out in real time on your screen.
Is live dealer blackjack online safe in Canada?
Yes, absolutely! We select only the most reputable online casinos to play live dealer blackjack in Canada. Each site we recommend is licensed and tested for fairness and security.
Is it possible to count cards with live blackjack?
In theory, yes, but in practice, this is very hard to do. Sure, blackjack is a card-counting game, but these days, there are multiple decks in play, and the casino will often shuffle decks.
Can I play live dealer blackjack for free in Canada?
It is unlikely. Online casinos do allow players to access other games – such as slots and virtual table games – in demo mode for free. However, because of the overhead of streaming live dealer games, they are not available for free.
Are the odds the same for live dealer blackjack?
Yes, if the variants are like for like. The odds of the game will depend on the type of live dealer blackjack game. Still, the odds should be the same as its non-live equivalent.
Can I enjoy live blackjack on my mobile device in Canada?
Absolutely! Live dealer games are compatible with mobile devices. Online casinos in Canada cater to mobile players either through an HTML5-optimized website or a dedicated mobile application.
Are there strategies I can use to increase my odds of winning?
Not really. While there are blackjack betting strategies, no system can increase your odds of success or guarantee wins. Even so, strategies are fun and can help you manage your bankroll.
Is live online blackjack rigged?
No. Our team selects the most reputable online casinos for Canadian players. Each site we highlight is licensed and regulated for fairness and security. You can also see the action unfold in live games, so they are more transparent than virtual games.
Is live dealer blackjack better?
The average return to player (RTP) of live dealer blackjack is around 99.5%. It's the same or very similar for most regular online blackjack games too. However, live dealer blackjack is often seen as better for the immersive experience.
Do all online casinos in Canada offer live blackjack?
No, some online casinos have still not adopted live casino games. Even so, most casinos do now support live dealer blackjack online. To make things a little easier, we’ve recommended the best sites to play live dealer games in Canada on this page.
Is live dealer blackjack legit?
Yes, live dealer blackjack is as legit as playing at a real casino. The game is hosted by a live dealer who deals the cards and manages the game. Live blackjack games are also audited by reputable bodies to ensure complete fairness.
Ziv Chen
Ziv Chen has worked in the online gambling industry for over two decades in various senior management roles before becoming a full-time writer. Combining his passions for gambling, sports, and writing, he is always on the lookout for the next innovative slots and live-dealer games in Canada. When it comes to sports, Ziv is a huge fan of College and Professional American football and Major League Soccer.
