Every casino game is built with a mathematical advantage for the house. That advantage is called the house edge. It tells you, on average, how much of each bet the casino keeps over time. The lower the edge, the better your odds as a player.
Understanding house edge helps you choose games wisely. It won't guarantee wins, but it changes how long your bankroll lasts. Here's how every major casino game stacks up.
The Lowest House Edge Games
These games give players the best statistical chance of winning. If you want to stretch your money, start here.
Blackjack
Basic strategy blackjack has a house edge as low as 0.5%. That's among the best odds in any casino. You need to learn basic strategy to reach that number. Without it, the edge climbs toward 2% or more. Many top online casinos offer multiple blackjack variants. Some versions carry higher edges due to rule changes, like 6:5 payouts on blackjack instead of 3:2. Always check the rules before you sit down.
Baccarat
The banker bet in baccarat carries a house edge of around 1.06%. The player bet sits at roughly 1.24%. The tie bet? Avoid it. It carries an edge of over 14%. Baccarat is simple and fast. It requires no strategy beyond picking your bet. That makes it popular with high rollers and casual players alike.
Video Poker
Certain video poker variants, like Jacks or Better with full pay tables, can have a house edge under 0.5%. Some versions even approach 100% RTP with perfect play. You do need to learn the correct strategy for each variant. It takes some practice, but the payoff is real.
Mid-Range House Edge Games
These games are entertaining and widely played. The odds are still reasonable compared to slots.
Roulette
European roulette has a house edge of 2.7%. It uses a single zero wheel. American roulette adds a double zero, pushing the edge to 5.26%. Stick to European or French roulette whenever possible. French roulette also offers the La Partage rule, which cuts the edge to 1.35% on even-money bets.
Craps
The pass line bet in craps carries a house edge of 1.41%. Adding free odds behind your pass line bet lowers the combined edge further. Craps has some of the best bets on the table. It also has some of the worst. Avoid proposition bets. Their edges can exceed 10%.
High House Edge Games
These games are fun. They can also drain your bankroll quickly. Go in with realistic expectations.
Slots
Online slots typically return between 94% and 97% to players. That means a house edge of 3% to 6%. Some slots run lower. Branded or jackpot slots often have higher edges. Always check the RTP before you play. You can try slots for free to get a feel for a game without spending anything. For a curated list of high-RTP games, Bitstarz is a strong option with a wide slot library.
Keno and Scratch Cards
Keno is one of the worst games for players. The house edge can range from 20% to 35%. Scratch cards vary wildly but often sit in the 10% to 25% range. These games are purely luck-based and fast. They work better as occasional entertainment than as regular play.
- Video Poker (full pay): under 0.5%
- Blackjack (basic strategy): ~0.5%
- Baccarat (banker): ~1.06%
- Craps (pass line): ~1.41%
- European Roulette: ~2.7%
- Slots: 3% to 6% average
- American Roulette: ~5.26%
- Keno: 20% to 35%
How to Use This Information
Knowing house edge doesn't mean you'll always win. It means you'll lose less, on average, over time. Pair low-edge games with a solid bonus offer to give yourself the best start. Check our casino bonuses page for the latest promotions. Some WinAMPM specials are designed specifically for table game players.
If you prefer crypto gambling, many platforms offer provably fair games with transparent RTPs. Our Bitcoin casino guide covers the best options. Players at sites like LeoVegas and McLuck can also find low-edge games alongside generous welcome offers.
Play the games you enjoy. Just know the math behind them before you bet.