Baccarat Variants

Most popular Baccarat variants

The game of Baccarat Baccarat is available in countless varieties. Although it likely has its roots in Italy, some argue it comes from France, the most widely played variation today is North American Baccarat , commonly referred to as Punto Banco .

In Asia, Baccarat reigns as the most beloved casino card game, and this popularity has led to the incorporation of rich oriental influences in its variants, especially in the side bets.

Baccarat's global appeal is largely due to its straightforward rules and ease of play. This game boasts some of the best odds against the house found in casinos.

Although Baccarat primarily relies on luck, experienced players often implement various betting strategies to make the game more dynamic and potentially profitable. The fundamental rules remain consistent among all Baccarat variants, including those played online.

1. Chemin de Fer

Colloquially known as “Chemmy,” Chemin de Fer is the Baccarat variation frequently enjoyed in Monte Carlo and other parts of France, famously played by characters such as James Bond.

Translating to “Railway,” Chemin de Fer represents the traditional form of Baccarat, featuring a unique rotation of the Banker (Dealer) role among players. Key features of Chemin de Fer include:

• The casino doesn’t play as the bank in this game. Instead, it merely officiates and collects a five percent (5%) commission on successful Banker bets.
• The Banker (Dealer) determines the maximum bet value
• The individual placing the highest bet, or one closest to it, is designated as the Player, the only person besides the Banker allowed to receive cards
• Six or eight decks of cards are used
• Winning bets from the Banker are paid out at 1:1, minus the commission
• Players cannot wager on the Banker, and vice versa.

2. Punto Banco

The most played Baccarat variation, Punto Banco (Player/Banker), is synonymous with modern Baccarat and is available in casinos globally, including online platforms.

In this setup, the Casino acts as the Banker (Dealer) and competes against a chosen “Player.” Participants can place bets on whether the Banker or the Player will win, or if it will end in a Tie. Key aspects of Punto Banco:

• Punto Banco is equal to Baccarat, also known as North American Baccarat.
• Punto Banco stands as the most favored version of Baccarat
• The rules are simple and easy to learn
• Punto Banco features a minimal house edge, among the lowest of all casino games
• Player wins are paid at 1:1, while Banker victories yield 1:1 minus a 5% commission
• Punto Banco is customarily played using eight decks of cards

3. Baccarat Banque 

Baccarat Banque, also referred to as Baccarat à Deux Tableaux (Two-table Baccarat), closely resembles Chemin de Fer among Baccarat variants. In this version, a player is designated as the Banker, primarily the one staking the largest bet.

Additionally, this Banker has the exclusive privilege to bet on their own hand, while other players must wager on the opponent's hand unless they place an equal bet to challenge. The appointed Banker retains their status until the Shoe is empty, can no longer support their bets, or decides to relinquish their role. Notable characteristics of Baccarat Banque include:

• This variation of Baccarat is more prevalent in Europe, especially in France, sharing several traits with Chemin de Fer
• Baccarat Banque is generally played using three decks of cards
• In Baccarat Banque, three hands of cards are dealt: two for the Players (one for each table) and one for the Banker.
• Bets can only be placed on the two Player hands.
• The Banker determines the maximum bet limit and must compete against two Player hands.
• Baccarat Banque typically pays 1:1 on Player wins and 1:1 on Banker victories, less a 5% commission
• In Banque Baccarat, the cards are usually dealt face-down

4. No Commission Baccarat

As its name implies, No Commission Baccarat removes the 5% House charge imposed on winning Banker bets, but this often comes at a cost. Instead of paying odds of 1:1 , the House generally assigns a specific number that pays out only 0.5:1 when the Banker achieves that total.

For instance, if the designated number is six, winning Banker bets that do not equal six points will still pay at 1:1. In every other aspect, No Commission Baccarat operates exactly like Punto Banco – North American Baccarat. Key details about No Commission Baccarat include:

• The No Commission version eliminates the annoying 5% commission on winning Banker hands
• This serves as a marketing tactic aimed at attracting players. Overall, No Commission Baccarat has less favorable odds than other Baccarat variants
• No Commission Baccarat is typically aligned with Punto Banco
• No Commission Baccarat ranks among the most sought-after online Baccarat variations
• This variant usually offers payouts of 1:1 for winning bets on both the Banker and Player hands
• A specific value of a Banker hand indicated by the casino will payout at 0.5:1 to compensate for the lost commission revenue

5. EZ Baccarat

Another variation that removes the 5% commission on winning Banker hands is EZ Baccarat. Unlike No Commission Baccarat, EZ Baccarat generally provides more favorable odds compared to traditional Baccarat (Punto Banco).

All winning Banker hands offer a payout of 1:1, with one significant exception: when a three-card Banker hand equals seven, it results in a push on the Banker’s bet. By streamlining the process of commission payouts, EZ Baccarat allows for a faster gameplay experience than most other Baccarat variations. Key points regarding EZ Baccarat include:

• EZ Baccarat features a House edge of 1.02% per hand, which is lower than the traditional 1.06% House advantage in Baccarat
• The House Edge for Player Hands (1.24%) and the Tie (14.36%) remains the same as traditional Baccarat, with payouts at 1:1 and 8:1 respectively.
• EZ Baccarat is commonly played with either six or eight decks of cards.

6. European Baccarat

Returning to the roots of the game, this variant resembles the original Baccarat, thus having fewer regulations, especially concerning third card drawing rules.

In European Baccarat, if the Player has a five-point hand, they can choose whether or not to draw a third card. After the Player makes a decision, the Banker has the freedom to also draw a third card, irrespective of their hand's value. Important points about European Baccarat:

• Players can draw a third card if their hand totals five points.
• In European Baccarat, the Banker has the option to choose a third card at any time.
• A winning hand for the Player pays out at 1:1, while the winning Banker pays out at 1:1, minus a 5% commission
• In European Baccarat, the House typically backs the Banker financially
• The Banker sets the maximum bet limits

7. American Baccarat

American Baccarat is synonymous with the game itself. The version played today hails from Las Vegas, originally adapted from Havana, Cuba, and is often referred to as Punto Banco due to its Spanish linguistic roots.

Originally targeted at high-stakes players in exclusive areas, American Baccarat has gained widespread popularity globally, maintaining its status as one of the most favored Baccarat types. Key takeaways about American Baccarat include:

• American Baccarat is simply another name for Baccarat, also called Punto Banco
• The game is straightforward to learn and grasp
• Three primary bets are available: the Banker bet, the Player bet, and the Tie bet
• American Baccarat typically employs eight decks of cards
• Winning Banker bets incur a 5% commission charged by the House.

8. Baccarat Squeeze

Baccarat Squeeze, an online variant introduced in 2016, utilizes high-resolution footage and can be accessed via desktop or mobile devices. While adhering to the fundamental rules of traditional Baccarat, this version features cards dealt face down.

To enhance the thrill, highly trained dealers perform a “squeeze” on the cards, allowing bettors to catch a glimpse, thus elevating the drama of the game. Notable characteristics of Baccarat Squeeze:

• An extremely popular online variant of Baccarat
• Baccarat Squeeze follows the same rules as traditional Baccarat
• The way dealers handle the cards doesn't influence the results of the game
• Payouts for winning Player hands are at even money, while winning hands for the Banker yield even money minus a 5% House cut  

9. Dragon Tiger

Among the various Baccarat games, Dragon Tiger stands out for its simplicity as it boils the game down to just two cards—Dragon and Tiger.

In this game, players place bets on whether the Dragon or the Tiger card will hold the greater value. Although not commonly recognized outside of Asia, Dragon Tiger offers numerous side bets that closely resemble those found in traditional Baccarat. Key highlights of Dragon Tiger include:

• Multiple decks of cards can be used when playing Dragon Tiger
• Bets revolve around which card—Dragon or Tiger—will have a higher value 
• Ties lose half (50%) of the bet value
• Traditional Baccarat presents significantly better odds

  10. Mini Baccarat 

Mini Baccarat is a popular variant that many players are familiar with. Derived from Punto Banco, it adheres to the same gameplay rules but features lower table limits, allowing a broader audience to participate in the game.

Mini Baccarat is the most commonly available type in both physical casinos and online platforms. It is played at a smaller table, and one notable difference is that players are not permitted to handle the cards. Some important aspects of Mini Baccarat include:

• This version of Baccarat is a form of Punto Banco with reduced minimum betting requirements.
• Mini Baccarat ranks as the most frequently offered variation of the game on online platforms.
• The odds and payouts in this Baccarat variant are identical to those in Punto Banco.

Baccarat tables

All forms of Baccarat, including online versions, are played on a specialized table. Once a game reserved for High Rollers, Baccarat tables were usually located in exclusive gaming rooms or VIP sections of the casino.

While this historical context adds to Baccarat's allure, players today have the option to choose from various tables that provide their desired gaming experience.

• Big Table Baccarat

Big Table Baccarat represents the classic High Roller atmosphere, still maintaining a special area in casinos for select players. Be prepared for high minimum bets and substantial table limits , along with possible dress code expectations.

The Big Baccarat Table generally features an oval design, sometimes including a central well, and prominently displays numbers ranging from one to as high as fifteen (1-15) to accommodate fourteen players.

Out of superstition, the number thirteen (13) is often skipped, and occasionally the number four (4) is omitted as well. Each numbered seating spot is marked with a designated box that features three betting areas: Player, Banker, and Tie.

• Mini Baccarat

Familiar to most gamblers, the Mini Baccarat Table is standard in nearly every casino and serves as the prototype for online virtual Baccarat tables. Its size is about half that of a Big Baccarat table, catering to seven (7) players at a semi-circular setup opposite the dealer.

Clearly defined betting sections are established for Banker, Player, and Tie bets . The Mini Baccarat table’s popularity stems from its accessible betting limits, making it an enjoyable experience for gamblers of all types.

• Midi Baccarat

Midi Baccarat tables aim to find a middle ground. While Big tables comfortably fit fourteen players and Mini tables accommodate seven, Midi Baccarat tables can host nine players and may allow them to touch the cards in certain situations.

You can find Midi tables where Live-Action Baccarat is streamed across the internet through online casinos.

Which variation of Baccarat is the right choice for you?

After exploring various facets of Baccarat, it's time to discuss how to enhance your overall experience. For many players, the ultimate thrill of Baccarat is the joy of winning! To enhance your enjoyment, it's crucial to learn about the rules, odds, and payouts. You can discover the finest details about Baccarat on our Baccarat Rules page .

Understanding the various strategies that seasoned players leverage to increase their chances of winning is an essential addition to your knowledge base. For comprehensive insights into Baccarat Strategies , feel free to visit our specialized page .

Baccarat variants with the least house advantage

A significant factor contributing to Baccarat's global popularity is its low house edge compared to other casino games. Although there are minor discrepancies in the house edge across different Baccarat variants, players should consider these when selecting their preferred game.

Baccarat variations with the most substantial payouts

Baccarat is renowned for enticing numerous side bets that offer a wide array of payouts. Among the primary bets in Baccarat—Banker, Player, Tie—the Tie bet yields the highest returns. However, players should keep in mind that this bet also has the least favorable odds.

However, for those who crave excitement and are willing to embrace the risks, the following Baccarat variations are known for their generous payouts:

The top game variations for newbies at the casino

Baccarat is remarkably easy to understand and play. Most variations of Baccarat are rooted in the same fundamental rules. One of the simplest ways for newcomers to get acquainted with the gameplay is by watching live streams of Baccarat games or experimenting with free-to-play demos available online.

• Punto Banco

Punto Banco is the quintessential and most straightforward version of Baccarat, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to grasp the game's fundamentals in an enjoyable and approachable manner.

• EZ Baccarat

The name speaks for itself. EZ Baccarat is easy to learn and play, making it a great entry point to the game. This variation also boasts the best odds and allows players to learn from the comfort of home, which significantly enhances the experience as they become accustomed to making bets and understanding the game’s procedures.

Types of Baccarat to play if you’re a pro

For those who are already well-acquainted with Baccarat but seek more excitement, there are several variations to explore.

• Dragon Tiger Baccarat

Simplifying the game down to its essence, Dragon Tiger Baccarat involves betting on the outcome of two cards, but it’s the lucrative side bets that enhance the thrill. Skilled players adopt strategic betting methods and seek out high-payout opportunities, such as the Dragon 7 side bet that can pay 40:1. The Panda 8 side bet is safer, offering a more modest payout of 25:1.

• Chemin de Fer

The French version of Baccarat has a unique appeal for High Rollers. Beyond the mystique and elegant settings tied to “Chemmy,” experienced players recognize that high-stakes tables can lead to substantial rewards. Chemin de Fer is a Baccarat variant that requires players to possess a strong resolve, nerves of steel, and a hefty bankroll.

Baccarat variations to steer clear of

Baccarat, in nearly all its forms, is a straightforward game to learn and play. When considering which variants of Baccarat to avoid, players should first assess their current skill levels and choose games that are most suitable for them.

• Beginners should think twice before trying Chemin de Fer, European, and French Baccarat until they have a firm grasp of the added complexities involved, such as the management of Bankers, and how the House position functions strictly as an officiating role. While these variations aren’t particularly difficult to conquer, it’s advisable to first learn the basics via playing Punto Banco.

• Dragon Tiger Baccarat, despite only involving two cards in play, typically features a higher house edge than many other Baccarat variations and includes side bets that may require time and attention to master. While the side bets are an intriguing and rewarding part of all Baccarat games, it's wise to first become comfortable with these concepts while playing Punto Banco or EZ Baccarat.

Author

Maria Louisa

Casino Content Writer

Louisa dedicates a considerable amount of her time to pursuing a mischievous little monkey that seems to be maturing too rapidly. When she finds a free moment, you'll often spot her with a paintbrush in one hand or engrossed in an engaging book. Over the last three years, she has taken pleasure in observing the growth and success of her industry, which she considers to be the most rewarding aspect of her role!