No matter how skilled you are, the reality is that the odds will always slightly favour the house. After all, this “house edge” is how casinos make money and remain profitable.
Even though the casino always has a better chance of winning, not all games are equal. Some are known to offer players better odds and a chance to walk away with a big prize.
Casino Games with Best Odds for the Player
Here’s a list of seven casino games with the best odds and lowest house edges:
1. Blackjack – The Best Odds in the House
Average House Edge: 0.5% or less, if you follow a good strategy.
Blackjack stays at the top for one reason – players’ skill can impact the outcome of the game. With the right moves, you can bring the house edge down to half a percent.
Tips to keep your edge low:
- Always choose games paying 3:2.
- Prefer tables where the dealer stands on soft 17.
- Fewer decks = better odds.
- Use a free Blackjack Strategy Chart to guide your decisions.
Even a small rule change, like a 6:5 payout, can significantly increase the edge.
2. Craps – Great Odds If You Keep It Simple
Average House Edge: 0.36%–1.41% (depending on the bet)
Craps can look intimidating, but it’s one of the fairest casino games when you stick to the right bets.
Best bets for players:
- Don’t Pass / Don’t Come: ~0.36%
- Pass Line / Come: ~1.41%
Skip the fancy bets in the middle of the table, since they carry edges of more than 5%. If you add free odds bets, you can cut the overall house edge even further.
3. Baccarat – Simple, Elegant, and Safe
Average House Edge:
- Banker Bet:06%
- Player Bet:24%
- Tie Bet:36% (avoid this one!)
If you prefer simple games and choices, baccarat is the game for you. The Banker bet tends to win slightly more often than the Player bet, even with a small commission on Banker wins. Ultimately, there’s not that much strategising here, but it’s one of the few games where luck alone can still give you decent odds.
4. Video Poker – The Smart Player’s Machine Game
Average House Edge: As low as 0.46% on full-pay Jacks or Better
Video poker gives skilled players some of the best returns of any machine-based game.
To get those odds, you must pick the right machine and apply the correct strategy.
Pro tip: Look for 9/6 Jacks or Better machines – that means 9 coins for a full house, 6 for a flush.
Anything lower (like 8/5 or 7/5) gives the house a stronger edge. Learn the optimal play charts online and avoid side bets that reduce your RTP.
5. European Roulette – Stick to One Zero
Average House Edge: 2.70%
The roulette wheel is a casino classic, but be aware that there are various versions of this game.
- European Roulette (single zero) = 2.70% edge
- American Roulette (double zero) = 5.26% edge
That extra zero nearly doubles the house’s advantage! If you can, find a wheel that offers La Partage or En Prison rules. These refund half your even-money bets when zero lands, lowering the edge to about 1.35%.
6. Pai Gow Poker – Slow and Steady Wins the Game
Average House Edge: Around 1.5%
Pai Gow Poker originated in China and is more laid-back than some other variants of this game. Yet, it still requires a bit of strategising, plus it’s full of ties, which means your money should last longer.
Players create two poker hands from seven cards: a five-card hand and a two-card hand. If both beat the dealer’s hand, you win. Pai Gow poker is a low-pressure, low-risk version of the game that is perfect for casual play. And, if you learn how to set your hands strategically, you can bring the edge down even further.
7. Three Card Poker – Quick and Easy Fun
Average House Edge: 2%–3%
This is a much more faster-paced style of poker that offers two basic bets: Ante/Play and Pair Plus.
Keep it simple:
- Only play hands with Q-6-4 or better.
- Avoid side bets and bonus wagers.
The house edge is higher than in blackjack or baccarat, but it’s still fair and beginner-friendly.
Quick Comparison Table: Casino Games with the Lowest House Edge
| Game | Average House Edge | Skill Level Needed | Strategy Difficulty | Best Tip for Lower Edge |
| Blackjack | ~0.5% (with basic strategy) | Moderate | Medium | Always play 3:2 blackjack and use strategy charts |
| Craps | 0.36%–1.41% | Low | Easy | Stick to Pass/Don’t Pass and take free odds |
| Baccarat | 1.06% (Banker bet) | Very Low | None | Always bet on the Banker |
| Video Poker | ~0.46% (full-pay Jacks or Better) | Moderate | High | Choose 9/6 Jacks or Better machines |
| European Roulette | 2.70% | Low | None | Play single-zero wheels only |
| Pai Gow Poker | ~1.5% | Low | Easy | Learn to set hands correctly |
| Three Card Poker | 2–3% | Very Low | Very Easy | Avoid bonus and side bets |
Skill, Strategy & Bankroll Tips
Even low-edge games can drain your budget if you lack player discipline. Here are a few smart habits to follow:
- Learn the basics – analyse strategy charts for blackjack and video poker.
- Avoid side bets – they almost always favour the house.
- Set limits – winners know when to stop.
- Play slower – take breaks.
- Stay calm – emotional and impulsive decisions result in poor choices.
How Rules Affect Your Chances
Small rule changes can greatly affect your odds. Here’s how:
| Game | Bad Rule Example | Effect on Edge |
| Blackjack | 6:5 payout instead of 3:2 | Adds up to +1.4% |
| Roulette | Double-zero wheel | Adds +2.56% |
| Baccarat | No commission Banker bet | May sound better, but usually offsets the odds |
| Craps | No free odds bets | Raises combined edge |
| Video Poker | 8/5 instead of 9/6 pay table | Adds +1% or more |
There isn’t a single casino game that doesn’t give the house an edge, whether this be substantial or slight. The onus is on you to identify a game that will extend your gameplay the furthest while offering you a fun experience in return.
If you prefer strategy and control, stick with Blackjack, Video Poker, or Baccarat. If you enjoy a laid-back vibe, try Pai Gow Poker or Craps. And remember, smart players play for fun – the wins are just a bonus.
