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**Introduction**
Baccarat is best known for its simplicity—Banker, Player, or Tie. But many versions of the game now include optional side bets that promise higher payouts and added excitement. While side bets can spice up the gameplay, they also come with increased risk. This article explores the most popular baccarat side bets, their odds and payouts, and whether or not they’re worth placing your money on.
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**What Are Side Bets in Baccarat?**
Side bets are optional wagers players can make in addition to the standard main bets. They allow you to predict specific outcomes like pairs, point totals, or patterns, often with bigger payouts.
- Available in both live dealer and RNG versions
- Not all tables offer all side bets
- Can be placed alongside or instead of main bets
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**Common Baccarat Side Bets**
1. **Player Pair / Banker Pair**
- Bet that the first two cards dealt to either the Player or Banker will be a pair.
- **Payout:** Typically 11:1
- **House Edge:** Around 10–11%
- **Worth it?** Occasionally, for fun—but high house edge makes it risky.
2. **Perfect Pair**
- Bet that a pair will be formed with the same suit and value (e.g., two King of Hearts).
- **Payout:** Up to 25:1
- **House Edge:** Around 17%
- **Worth it?** High reward but very rare—better for entertainment than strategy.
3. **Either Pair**
- Bet that either the Player or Banker hand will be a pair.
- **Payout:** 5:1
- **House Edge:** ~14%
- **Worth it?** Easier to hit than Perfect Pair, but still a long shot.
4. **Big and Small**
- **Small:** Bet that total cards dealt will be 4 (no third card drawn)
- **Big:** Bet that total cards will be 5 or 6 (a third card is drawn)
- **Payouts:** Small = 1.5:1; Big = 0.54:1
- **House Edge:** Small = ~5.27%; Big = ~4.35%
- **Worth it?** Low returns—less risky, but not popular.
5. **Tie Bonus / Suited Tie**
- Bet that the Player and Banker tie, with or without suited cards.
- **Payouts:** Range from 50:1 to 200:1 for suited ties
- **House Edge:** High
- **Worth it?** Fun but extremely risky—use sparingly.
6. **Dragon Bonus**
- Bet on a hand to win by a natural or by a large margin (e.g., by 4+ points).
- **Payouts:** Scale from 1:1 to 30:1 depending on margin
- **House Edge:** ~2.3% (Banker), ~2.7% (Player)
- **Worth it?** Among the better-valued side bets
7. **Lucky Six**
- Bet that Banker will win with a total of 6.
- **Payouts:** 12:1 or 20:1 depending on number of cards
- **House Edge:** ~13%
- **Worth it?** Only for thrill-seekers
8. **Royal Match**
- Bet that first two cards are King and Queen of same suit.
- **Payout:** 75:1 or more
- **Worth it?** Very rare—more of a novelty.
9. **Egalité Bets**
- Bets on specific tied point totals (e.g., 6–6 tie).
- **Payouts:** 35:1 to 200:1
- **Worth it?** Fascinating odds, but extremely rare.
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**Side Bets vs. Main Bets**
| Bet Type | House Edge | Payout | Risk Level | Frequency |
|--------------|--------------|--------------|------------|-----------|
| Banker | ~1.06% | 1:1 (minus 5%)| Low | High |
| Player | ~1.24% | 1:1 | Low | High |
| Tie | ~14.36% | 8:1 or 9:1 | High | Rare |
| Side Bets | 5% – 17% | 1.5:1–200:1 | Very High | Rare–Occasional |
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**Pros of Baccarat Side Bets**
- Adds excitement and variety
- Potential for big wins
- Great for short-term fun or casual play
**Cons of Side Bets**
- High house edge
- Rarely hit—can drain bankroll quickly
- Can distract from solid betting strategy
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**Tips for Using Side Bets Wisely**
1. **Set a Side Bet Budget**
- Use a separate bankroll for side bets to control risk.
2. **Limit Frequency**
- Avoid placing side bets every hand—wait for specific situations.
3. **Combine with Bonuses**
- Use bonus funds to explore side bets without risking your main bankroll.
4. **Understand the Odds**
- Don’t bet blindly—know the probabilities and payouts.
5. **Don’t Chase Side Bet Losses**
- They’re meant for fun, not for consistent profit.
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**Who Should Try Side Bets?**
- ** RPG168 :** Looking for excitement beyond standard bets
- **High Rollers:** Willing to take big risks for big rewards
- **Bonus Players:** Using promotional money to explore game features
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**Alternatives to Side Bets**
- Increase main bet units during streaks
- Use positive progression strategies
- Explore different baccarat variants (e.g., Lightning Baccarat)
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**Conclusion**
Baccarat side bets can be fun and lucrative, but they come at a cost. High house edges and low hit frequencies mean they should be used with caution. For strategic players, side bets are best treated as a spice—not the main course. Add them occasionally for variety, but always keep your core bankroll and primary strategy intact.
In the next article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to playing baccarat for beginners—from placing your first bet to recognizing winning patterns.