2 Jun 2025
A long-time favourite among casino enthusiasts, blackjack has been bringing excitement to players for centuries. As the years went by, skilled players in modern casinos used card counting methods to gain a better chance at winning.
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Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Card counting is not permitted at our casino, and any attempt to engage in such practices may result in a ban or permanent exclusion. We do not encourage or condone card counting in any form. Always play responsibly! |
However, if you’re looking to dive into this concept to make your experience more exciting, knowing the different card counting systems is a great way to do this. This guide will take you through the different card counting systems available, such as:
- Hi-Lo
- K-O
- Hi-Opt I and Hi-Opt II
- Halves
- Omega II
- Red Seven; and,
- Zen
At the very end, we will also go through some frequently asked questions about card counting.
Most Well Known Card Counting Systems
While there are many card counting systems available in the world, we’ll be tackling the most well known of these in this article.
Hi-Lo System
One of the most widely used card counting systems, the Hi-Lo system, is a straightforward card counting method that is ideal for beginners. This system requires the player to keep a running count of the cards being dealt.
Based on Edward Thorp’s Ten-Count system, the cards are marked with values as follows:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 to 6 |
+1 |
|
7 to 9 |
0 |
|
10, Face Cards, Ace |
-1 |
Knock-Out (K-O) System
The Knock-Out system of card counting is an unbalanced method, which eliminates the need for true count conversion. While this makes the KO system more accessible to players, it is also less accurate. Players who prefer a hassle-free method may prefer this over the Hi-Lo system.
In this system, the cards are marked with the following values:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 to 7 |
+1 |
|
8 to 9 |
0 |
|
10, Face Cards, Ace |
-1 |
Hi-Op I and Hi-Opt II System
These are the Highly Optimum card counting systems that come in two variations: I and II. While both of these use the same principles, the Hi-Opt II system is a more advanced strategy.
To compare the two systems in terms of card values, you may check out this table:
|
Hi-Opt I |
Hi-Opt II | ||
|
Card Rank |
Value |
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 |
0 |
2 to 3 |
+1 |
|
3 to 6 |
+1 |
4 to 5 |
+2 |
|
7 to 9 |
0 |
6 to 7 |
+1 |
|
10, Face Cards |
-1 |
8 to 9 |
0 |
|
Ace |
0 |
10, Face Cards |
-2 |
|
. |
. |
Ace |
0 |
In the Hi-Opt II system, the running count and the true count of the cards are kept in the same way. However, due to its complexity, only expert card counters may use this technique.
The Halves System
As one of the most complex and complicated card counting systems, the Halves is a three-level blackjack card counting technique that may only be used by advanced and expert counters. This system follows the following card values:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 |
+0.5 |
|
3 to 4 |
+1 |
|
5 |
+1.5 |
|
6 |
+1 |
|
7 |
+0.5 |
|
8 |
0 |
|
9 |
-0.5 |
|
10, Face Cards, Ace |
-1 |
Omega II
Suitable for intermediate card counters, the Omega II system is a complex multi-level system where some cards add 2 points, while some only add 1 point for the count. The values of the cards in this system are as follows:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 to 3 |
+1 |
|
4 to 6 |
+2 |
|
7 |
+1 |
|
8 |
0 |
|
9 |
-1 |
|
10, Face Cards |
-2 |
|
Ace |
0 |
The Red Sevens
Another beginner-friendly card counting technique, the Red Seven card counting system, uses the principle of high vs low cards to its advantage. What sets this card counting technique apart from the rest is that Red 7’s and Black 7’s come with different values.
In this system, the cards come with the following values:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 to 6 |
-1 |
|
7 Red |
+1 |
|
7 Black |
0 |
|
8 to 9 |
0 |
|
10, Face Cards, Ace |
-1 |
The Zen Count
As a two-level card counting system, the Zen Count is a balanced blackjack card counting technique that is optimised for betting. This technique was designed to compromise between single-deck and multi-deck strategies. The card values in this system are as follows:
|
Card Rank |
Value |
|
2 to 3 |
+1 |
|
4 to 6 |
+2 |
|
7 |
+1 |
|
8 to 9 |
0 |
|
10, Face Cards |
-2 |
|
Ace |
-1 |
Which Card Counting System is the One for Me?
Selecting the appropriate card counting system depends on your experience with the game, as well as your dedication to learn your preferred system. Novices may want to start with the Hi-Lo or KO systems, while veteran players may opt for the more advanced counting systems.
Is Card Counting Illegal?
When performed without the help of any external device, card counting is perfectly legal, as it is not considered cheating. However, if the casino identifies you as an advantage player, you may politely be asked to leave the table.
Licensed live dealers are also known to be able to spot card counters. Though no legal action may be taken against you, card counting is not encouraged in any land-based or online casino.
Final Thoughts on Card Counting in Blackjack
Blackjack enthusiasts that are willing to invest some time and effort may want to give card counting a go. If you decide to dive into this, we suggest starting from the basics before moving on to the more advanced systems.
While card counting may get you a better chance as a player, it does not guarantee success. Casinos, such as Genting Casino, are also adept at spotting advantage players and countering such strategies.
