Baccarat generates more casino revenue worldwide than any other table game. Its appeal lies in simplicity: bet on Player or Banker, and the cards decide the rest. With a Banker house edge of just 1.06%, it offers some of the best odds in the casino. This guide covers scoring, third-card rules, Punto Banco vs Chemin de Fer, and where to play.
Baccarat uses a unique scoring system where only the last digit of the hand total matters. The highest possible score is 9.
Example: A hand of 7 + 8 = 15 → the score is 5 (only the last digit counts). A hand of King + 5 = 5.
| Bet | Payout | Win Rate | House Edge | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banker | 0.95:1 (5% commission) | 45.86% | 1.06% | Best Bet |
| Player | 1:1 | 44.62% | 1.24% | Good |
| Tie | 8:1 | 9.52% | 14.36% | Avoid |
| Banker Pair | 11:1 | 7.47% | 10.36% | Avoid |
| Player Pair | 11:1 | 7.47% | 10.36% | Avoid |
These rules are applied automatically in Punto Banco. You do not need to memorise them, but understanding them helps you follow the game:
While Punto Banco dominates online, several baccarat variants exist with different rules and levels of player involvement:
The standard version found in virtually all online casinos. The dealing follows fixed third-card rules -- neither player nor banker makes any decisions. This is the version covered by our strategy guide below.
Player choice: None (fixed rules)
The original French version. Players take turns being the Banker, and both the Player and Banker can choose whether to draw a third card. Adds a skill element but is rarely offered online.
Player choice: Drawing decisions
Similar to Chemin de Fer but the Banker role is more permanent and the Banker hand plays against two Player hands simultaneously. Almost exclusively found in high-end European casinos.
Player choice: Banker drawing decisions
A lower-stakes, faster-paced version of Punto Banco. Same rules but with a single dealer and lower table minimums. The most accessible way to play baccarat both online and in land-based casinos.
Player choice: None (fixed rules)
An Evolution Gaming variant that completes each round in just 27 seconds. Cards are dealt face-up immediately. Ideal for experienced players who want more hands per hour.
Player choice: None (fixed rules)
Baccarat strategy is refreshingly simple because there are no playing decisions in Punto Banco. Your only choice is where to place your bet:
The Banker bet wins 50.68% of non-tie hands and has the lowest house edge despite the 5% commission.
The Tie bet has a 14.36% house edge. It occurs only 9.52% of the time and is one of the worst bets in the casino.
Bring at least 50 minimum bets per session. Set a loss limit and a win target, and stop when you hit either.
We evaluated baccarat variety (Punto Banco, Speed, Squeeze), betting limits, live dealer quality, and bonus terms:
