What does the dealer do in blackjack (H17 vs S17)?
QUICK ANSWER
The dealer follows fixed rules. They must hit until reaching 17 or higher, then stand. On H17 tables the dealer hits soft 17 (Ace-6); on S17 tables they stand on all 17s. S17 is better for the player — the house edge is about 0.2% lower.
Dealer has no choices
Every dealer decision is dictated by the table rules — no strategy, no bluffing.
H17 vs S17
- S17 (stand on all 17): dealer stands on soft 17. Player-friendly.
- H17 (hit soft 17): dealer hits A-6 hoping to improve. House edge ~0.2% higher.
Impact
On H17 tables you should double more aggressively vs Ace, and take insurance/deviations shift slightly. See Deviations.
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