Side bets in live dealer baccarat can be fun, but they require careful bankroll management
Side bets in live dealer baccarat add an extra layer of excitement for players looking to increase their potential winnings. While they can make the game more engaging, they also come with risks that players should carefully consider.
One of the biggest advantages of side bets is the chance for higher payouts. Standard baccarat bets offer relatively low payouts, with banker and player bets typically paying 1:1 and a tie offering 8:1 or 9:1. Side bets, on the other hand, can deliver significantly larger rewards. Bets like “Perfect Pair,” “Either Pair,” or “Big and Small” can result in payouts as high as 25:1 or more. This added potential makes the game more thrilling for those who enjoy chasing big wins.
Side bets also enhance the entertainment factor. With more betting options available, players have additional ways to stay engaged, especially if they are looking for something beyond the usual banker, player, and tie wagers. These bets can make each round more dynamic, adding anticipation beyond the main game.
However, side bets come with downsides, primarily in the form of higher house edges. While the banker bet carries one of the lowest house edges in casino games at around 1.06%, side bets often have much higher edges, sometimes exceeding 10%. This means that over time, players are more likely to lose money compared to sticking with the main game bets.
Another drawback is the increased variance. While the payouts for side bets can be substantial, they are less likely to hit frequently. Players chasing these bets may experience long losing streaks, making it riskier for those with limited bankrolls.
