Baccarat Side Bets
Baccarat is well-known for its simple rules, but players looking for more excitement can try side bets. These optional bets add more excitement to each round and offer bigger payouts than just the standard Player, Banker, and Tie bets. While side bets are riskier, they also add thrill and variety that many players like. In this guide, we’ll look at the most popular baccarat side bets, how they work, their payouts, and if they should be part of your overall strategy.
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What Are Side Bets in Baccarat?
Side bets in baccarat are additional wagers that allow players to bet on specific outcomes beyond simply predicting whether the Player or Banker hand will win. These bets cover events like the first two cards forming a pair, a hand winning with a large margin, or the round ending in a rare draw. Side bets typically offer much higher payouts than the main game bets — sometimes as high as 25:1 or 40:1 — but they also come with a significantly higher house edge. They are designed to add extra excitement and reward players willing to take greater risks. Although not necessary to enjoy baccarat, side bets provide an entertaining way to spice up the gameplay, especially for those looking to chase bigger, less frequent wins.
List of Popular Baccarat Side Bets
Baccarat offers a range of side bets that have become standard across most casinos, both online and land-based. These bets add variety and excitement to the game, offering chances for bigger payouts with specific outcomes like pairs, large winning margins, or exact card totals. Below, we cover the most popular and widely recognized side bets that players will frequently encounter.
Player Pair
The Player Pair side bet wins if the first two cards dealt to the Player hand form a pair, such as two Kings or two 5s. This bet usually pays 11:1 and is a popular choice for players who enjoy betting on quick, visual outcomes. The house edge varies but is generally higher than main bets.
Banker Pair
Similar to the Player Pair, the Banker Pair wins if the Banker’s first two cards form a matching pair. It also typically pays 11:1 and adds extra excitement when watching the initial card reveal. While entertaining, it carries a house edge of around 10%–11%.
Perfect Pair
The Perfect Pair side bet pays if the first two cards dealt to either the Player or Banker are identical both in rank and suit (e.g., two Queen of Hearts). This rare event typically pays 25:1, and while the payouts are large, the probability of success is quite low.
Either Pair
The Either Pair side bet wins if either the Player or Banker hand forms a pair with its first two cards. It pays around 5:1, offering a slightly higher chance of winning compared to Player Pair or Banker Pair bets, though with a lower payout.
Big
The Big side bet predicts that the total number of cards dealt between Player and Banker will be five or six. It usually pays 2:1, providing a relatively frequent win condition. This bet focuses on the overall flow of the game rather than specific hand results.
Small
The Small side bet wins if the total number of cards dealt is exactly four — meaning both Player and Banker stand after receiving just two cards each. It typically pays 3:2 but occurs less often, adding a calculated risk to the game.
Dragon Bonus
Dragon Bonus bets are placed on either the Player or Banker hand to win by a large margin. The bigger the winning difference (such as winning by 8 or 9 points), the bigger the payout. Payouts vary but can reach 30:1 depending on the margin. Dragon Bonus bets add an exciting layer of competitive betting.
Lucky 6
Available mainly in Asian-facing baccarat tables, the Lucky 6 side bet pays when the Banker wins with a total of six points. Depending on how many cards are used, the payout is often 12:1 for two cards and 20:1 for three cards.
Super 6
Super 6 is a variant of No Commission Baccarat where the Banker winning with a total of six points triggers a special payout of 0.5:1 instead of 1:1. Players can also find side bets related to Super 6 wins, though the odds are adjusted compared to standard baccarat.
Panda 8
The Panda 8 side bet wins if the Player hand wins with a three-card total of 8. It typically pays 25:1. This bet is similar to Dragon 7 but focuses on the Player side rather than Banker, offering another thrilling high-payout opportunity.
Dragon 7
The Dragon 7 side bet wins when the Banker hand wins with a three-card total of 7. It usually pays 40:1 and is featured prominently in EZ Baccarat. This side bet creates a lot of excitement due to its rare but lucrative payout.
Progressive Jackpot
Some baccarat tables feature Progressive Jackpot side bets where rare hand combinations — often suited pairs or very specific tie conditions — trigger large progressive payouts. Jackpots can reach tens of thousands or even millions, depending on the networked casino system.
Other Less Common Side Bets
In addition to the popular side bets, some baccarat tables feature rarer, more specialized options. These less common side bets can offer even higher payouts but are typically found only in specific baccarat variants or exclusive high-limit rooms. While not always available, they provide unique ways to enhance your gameplay and chase bigger rewards when you spot them.
Royal Match
The Royal Match side bet wins if the first two cards dealt to either the Player or Banker hand are a King and Queen, regardless of the suit. Some versions pay even higher if the King and Queen are suited. While it’s a rare occurrence, the payout is attractive, often ranging from 20:1 to 75:1 depending on the variation. This bet adds an elegant, thematic touch to the game, fitting baccarat’s luxurious image.
Golden Frog Bets
Golden Frog Bets are a set of side bets often found in certain Asian baccarat variations. They allow players to wager on very specific outcomes, such as the Player or Banker achieving totals of 7, 8, or 9. Each scenario has its own payout structure, with rewards that can climb as high as 40:1. These bets are more complex and less common, making them suited for players seeking more dynamic betting options.
Bellagio Match
The Bellagio Match side bet pays when a hand (either Player or Banker) receives three cards of the same rank — for example, three 5s or three Queens. This rare hand typically offers a high payout, often around 68:1. The Bellagio Match injects additional excitement, especially during games where multiple third cards are drawn, although its occurrence is quite infrequent.
Tiger Tie
The Tiger Tie is a special version of the Tie bet where both hands must tie at exactly six points. This makes it much rarer than a standard tie but offers enhanced payouts, typically around 50:1. The Tiger Tie is mainly found at special baccarat tables, offering a big-risk, big-reward proposition for adventurous players.
Three-Card Six
The Three-Card Six side bet wins if the Player or Banker ends the round with a total of exactly six points made up of three cards. This side bet is particularly exciting because it relies on the drawing of a third card to complete the hand. Payouts for this bet can be generous, often paying 8:1 or higher, depending on whether one or both sides meet the condition.
Lucky Tie
The Lucky Tie side bet is a variation of the standard Tie bet, but it focuses on the specific total of the tie rather than just any tie. For example, a tie of 6, 7, or 8 points may trigger enhanced payouts. Lucky Tie bets offer more targeted risks with better rewards compared to standard Tie bets, and they are sometimes included in baccarat tables aimed at high-action players.
📊 Is It Worth Betting on Side Bets in Baccarat?
While side bets in baccarat can deliver thrilling payouts, they generally come with higher house edges compared to the standard Player or Banker bets. Players should understand the odds and risks before including side bets in their strategy. Here's a detailed breakdown of the most common and less common baccarat side bets:
🎮 Practice Using the Variations of Bet Types
Want to see how different side bets feel in action? Practice by trying various baccarat games that include these side bets. Exploring different tables and formats will help you understand payout patterns, odds, and the real impact side bets can have on your gameplay.
FAQ's
What are side bets in baccarat?
Side bets in baccarat are optional wagers placed alongside the main Player, Banker, or Tie bets. They allow players to bet on specific outcomes like pairs, special point totals, or margin of victory. Side bets add extra excitement and offer higher payouts, but they also come with a higher house edge compared to the standard bets.
Are side bets available in all baccarat games?
Not always. While popular side bets like Player Pair, Banker Pair, and Dragon Bonus are common in many baccarat games, the availability of specific side bets depends on the casino, software provider, or baccarat variant. Some games, especially live dealer versions, offer an extended range of side bets, while classic land-based games may offer only a few.
Which side bet in baccarat has the best odds?
Among side bets, Big and Small generally offer the best odds, with house edges around 4%–5%, which is much lower compared to other side bets like Perfect Pair or Dragon 7. However, compared to the main bets (Player and Banker), even these side bets still carry a higher risk.
What is the highest-paying side bet in baccarat?
Side bets like Bellagio Match and Perfect Pair offer some of the highest payouts, reaching up to 68:1 or 25:1, respectively. Progressive Jackpot side bets can pay even higher if triggered, but those outcomes are extremely rare. The high payouts are balanced by very low probabilities of winning.
Are side bets in baccarat good for beginners?
Side bets are generally not recommended for beginners who are aiming to build consistent bankrolls. Because of their higher house edges and lower hit rates, side bets are better suited for players who prioritize entertainment and big win potential over steady play. Beginners should focus mainly on Banker and Player bets.
Can you win consistently with baccarat side bets?
No, side bets in baccarat are designed for entertainment and occasional big wins rather than consistent profits. Their high house edge makes them unfavorable for long-term winning strategies. Players who want to maximize their odds should use side bets sparingly and treat them as a fun addition rather than a main focus.
What is the difference between Player Pair and Perfect Pair side bets?
The Player Pair bet wins if the Player’s first two cards match in rank, such as two 8s or two Queens. The Perfect Pair bet, however, requires the two cards to match both in rank and suit (for example, two 7 of Hearts). Perfect Pair is much rarer but pays a higher reward, typically around 25:1.
Should I focus on side bets when playing baccarat?
If your goal is entertainment and chasing large payouts, side bets can add excitement to the game. However, if you are aiming for the best odds and long-term bankroll management, it’s wiser to focus on the main bets — especially Banker and Player — and treat side bets as occasional fun wagers rather than core strategy.
Aria Williams
writer
Aria Williams, New Zealand's prominent voice in online casino game localization, masterfully fuses the thrilling world of gaming with the rich Kiwi spirit. Their deft touch ensures every game not only entertains but resonates deeply with the locals.
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