This is an educational guide to how casino games work. House edge and payout figures are typical values and vary by game, rules and operator. No casino game can be beaten in the long run — play for entertainment, never as a way to make money, and only stake what you can afford to lose.
How to Play Baccarat
Baccarat has a reputation for glamour, but it’s actually one of the simplest casino games — you don’t even make decisions once you’ve bet. Here’s how it works.
The three bets
You simply bet on one of three outcomes: the Banker hand winning, the Player hand winning, or a Tie. Despite the names, you’re not the “Player” — you’re just backing which hand wins.
How it’s dealt
Both hands get two cards, and the one closest to 9 wins (tens and picture cards count as zero). A third card is sometimes drawn to fixed rules — but that’s automatic, so there’s nothing for you to decide.
The best bet
The Banker bet has the lowest house edge, about 1.06% (a 5% commission applies on Banker wins). The Player bet is about 1.24%. Avoid the Tie — despite its tempting payout, its house edge is around 14.36%. See blackjack vs baccarat, casino games with the best odds and what the house edge is.
Frequently asked questions
How do you play baccarat?
You bet on the Banker, the Player or a Tie — then the hands are dealt to fixed rules; closest to 9 wins.
Which bet is best?
The Banker bet, with the lowest house edge of about 1.06% (a 5% commission applies on wins).
Should I bet the Tie?
Best avoided — the Tie has a high house edge of around 14.36%.
Related guides: blackjack vs baccarat, casino games with the best odds and what the house edge is.