Baccarat House Edge
Before diving in, we want to express how important it is to have a firm grasp of the house edge before committing any real money to gameplay. Apart from the house edge, other terms you might encounter include return to player (RTP) and return on investment (ROI). All of these terms refer to the odds of a specific game or bet within the game. The RTP and ROI are essentially an inverse of the house edge.
A house edge of 5% corresponds to an RTP of 95%. Both values add up to 100%. While the house edge focuses on the loss, the RTP and ROI focus on the return. If a game or bet has an RTP of 95%, you can expect to receive a return of €95 for every €100 over an extended period of playtime. This equates to the same as a house edge of 5%, as the house is expected to gain that €5 out of the €100 wagered. It is however important to keep in mind that these are all based on average and some may win more and others less.
Virtual Baccarat vs Live Dealer Baccarat
Baccarat games online are offered up in two formats; virtual and live dealer baccarat. There are pros and cons to playing both, most of which are purely subjective. The most important thing is finding which one is right for you. Different formats and rule-sets can appeal to different play styles and knowing what you like is an important part of having fun. You don’t have to stick to your decision either, as it is incredibly easy to hop from game to game. Whatever you choose, there is no wrong answer.
Virtual Baccarat
Virtual baccarat functions much in the same way as other virtual casino games that employ random number generator (RNG) algorithms to generate game results. These algorithms are third-party verified and ensure that players can enjoy a truly random and fair gameplay experience. This allows players to pit themselves against the computer in a solo environment. As there are no other players seated, you are free to set your own pace. This definitely caters to newer players, who are free to explore the user interface and game elements without concern for any peer pressure.
The demo/free-play mode featured in most virtual games gives another great reason for newer players to check it out. The game can be played using a fake balance of unlimited funds to test out any bets, rules or strategies. This doesn’t necessarily mean that there is nothing here for veteran players. The more relaxed environment can appeal to more solitary players and the demo mode is great for testing out new baccarat strategies without immediate financial risk.
Live Dealer Baccarat
Playing live baccarat online is done through live-streaming technology giving players direct interactions with professional dealers. The dealer presents the game from a studio that features authentic tables, which are streamed to the players in real time. Live chat functionality is also provided so that players can interact with the dealer and one another. User interface elements can be interacted with to change your bets and game options, as well as the table’s rules and results history. All of this blends seamlessly together to provide authentic and immersive baccarat live casino experience from the comfort of your own home. This usually favors more experienced players, as the pace of the game is set by the dealer.
Moreover, players can explore a variety of live baccarat versions, each offering distinct twists and rule variations. A notable example is Lightning Baccarat, an intriguing variant that infuses the classic game with excitement by incorporating random multipliers, enhancing potential winnings. This innovative gameplay feature, in accordance with the Lightning Baccarat rules, introduces an electrifying dimension to the traditional baccarat experience, appealing to both seasoned players and newcomers alike.
Online Baccarat Variants
With so many online baccarat tables to choose from, it’s not always easy finding the right one. Below we have listed a few examples of tables by different providers with some of the highest RTP in the industry.
Baccarat - Microgaming
Don’t expect to find any higher RTP than the incredible 98.99% offered by Microgaming’s Baccarat. This virtual table provides a very clear user interface making it easy to read, especially for newer players. The main highlight is the high RTP, as there are no extra special features present. Microgaming has created a very user-friendly virtual baccarat game that doesn’t see the need to add any extra flare. Microgaming is one of the industry’s biggest casino games providers and has a huge catalog of games. If you are looking for a table with a little something extra you can be sure to find it with them. However, we prefer this back-to-basics version with a low house edge.
Baccarat Pro - NetEnt
Baccarat Pro by NetEnt also features an excellent RTP. At 98.56% it is only a fraction lower than Microgaming’s iteration. This version makes up for it with some nice quality of life features. The graphics are a lot nicer and do a better job of invoking that casino feel. You also have a few extra options to change your betting ranges. You can choose between being a low roller, high roller or standard player. This affects your minimum and maximum bet amounts with the high roller option allowing you to bet up to €1,000.
Baccarat Punto Banco - iSoftBet
If you’re looking for something a little different than regular baccarat then iSoftBet’s Baccarat Punto Banco is a solid choice. With an RTP of 98.94%, it does slightly better than NetEnt’s Baccarat Pro. Similar to Microgaming’s Baccarat, this version doesn’t add in any extra side bets or special rules. Again, the RTP is one of the best things about this iteration. You can therefore expect a very classic punto banco experience with this one.
Why Play Online Baccarat for Real Money?
Ever go to a land-based casino and all the tables you’ve wanted to play at are full? Maybe they don’t even have the space to provide your favorite games. That’s not something you need to worry about when playing online. With virtually unlimited space for games, no queues, and instant access, it’s hard to go back to a regular casino. All of this from the comfort at home on your desktop. Or you can take it on the go with your mobile device. Most games these days are developed with mobile in mind. This means you have lots of mobile baccarat games that are optimized for playing on smaller touch-screen devices. Add in all of the promotional content, loyalty programs, alongside good customer services and it’s easy to see why more and more gamblers are choosing to play online.
Where To Play Online Baccarat for Real Money
Just like how finding the right table can be difficult the same can be said for finding the right online casino. Plenty of sites offer up great game selections, but that doesn’t necessarily make them the best online baccarat casino. You’ve got to take the quality of the casino’s licensing, promotional material, and customer support into account, just to name a few. That’s a lot of homework when taking into account the sheer amount of sites operating. Our casino reviews here at GoodLuckMate take all that hassle away. We have countless casino reviews written by industry veterans and with your interest at heart. Check them out to find your new favorite baccarat casino online.
