Hi-Low System- Most Popular Card Counting Blackjack System

Different blackjack players and enthusiasts have their own likes and preferences when it comes to the counting systems they use to beat the dealer. But of the many systems use, the Hi-Low system is considered by most as the most popular and effective on the table. This card counting blackjack system works by assigning a value worth +1, 0 or -1 to the card given to the players on the table. Each card on the deck will assume a specific value. For example, the 10s (from King to Queen) including the Aces will assume a value of -1. The cards with face value of 7, 8 and 9 will assume a counting of 0. And the cards with face value of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 will get a count of +1. In hi lo counting, the idea is for the player is to mentally keep a running total of all the cards that have been dealt in the table. Based on the running total, the player will then make the necessary adjustments on the wager.


Pointers to Remember in Hi Lo Counting

The kind of wagering decision and the amount to be risked will depend on the actual running total. If there is a high plus count, then this means that there is a high concentration of aces and ten-point cards waiting to be dealt. This will work for the player, thus a player should move to increase the bet on the blackjack table.
If the running total for the card counting blackjack system is zero, then this reflects a neutral score. This means that the player and the dealer are of equal footing, and no one carries the advantage.
But if the running count is on the minus side, then the dealer holds the advantage.  This means that there is a high concentration of ‘stiff cards’ left in the table. If the player is faced with this scenario, then there’s two popular options available- reduce the wager or leave the table.

Following table shows various ranking system for counting cards using hi lo method, though many other system exists:

The main advantage of hi lo counting is that this becomes more credible as the card counting progresses, thus a player can easily change the wager depending on the predicted cards available on the deck. For many experienced counters, a count of at least +2 then it’s best to increase the wager. Also, when using the system it’s best to still learn the basic strategy in the game of blackjack. Remember, the counting system should only serve as a complement to the basic blackjack strategy.

Video Tutorial on Hi-Lo Card Counting

Further Reading:

1. Card Counting at Wikipedia.org [Click Here]
2. Hi-Lo Card Counting at Wikipedia.org [Click Here]