Baccarat isn’t just a game; it’s a tradition, a ritual, a brush with the opulence of high-stakes glamour—now available to anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection. Once tucked away in velvet-roped rooms of Monte Carlo, baccarat has quietly become a fan-favourite in online casinos across the globe.

Our guide shows you how to play baccarat in an online casino—step by step. Whether you’ve never played before or are transitioning from offline tables to digital gameplay, The Casino Count will help you learn everything from the rules to strategies, the types of baccarat games online, and how to keep your gambling safe and responsible.

Table of Contents

Highlights:

Card Values Simplified: In baccarat, Aces are worth 1 point, cards 2-9 retain their face value, and 10s and face cards are valued at 0 points.
Betting on the Banker: Statistically, the Banker’s hand has a slightly higher chance of winning, making it a favourable bet despite the standard 5% commission on winnings.
Responsible Gambling Emphasis: Always set time and monetary limits before playing, avoid chasing losses, and seek support if you suspect a gambling problem.

What Is Baccarat?

At its heart, baccarat is a simple betting game with three possible outcomes: the Player wins, the Banker wins, or it’s a Tie. Unlike poker or blackjack, you don’t control how the cards are played—you bet on the outcome.

The goal is to guess which hand will come closest to a total of 9.

The Basics – Card Values and Scoring:

Aces are worth 1 point
2 through 9 are worth face value
10s, Jacks, Queens and Kings are worth 0

If a hand totals over 9, only the second digit counts. So, a 7 and an 8 (totalling 15) become 5. The highest possible score is a ‘natural’ 9.

Step-By-Step: How To Play Baccarat Online

If you’re brand new or just haven’t played online before, here’s a full walkthrough:

1. Choose Your Online Casino

Start by choosing a reputable online casino. We recommend using licensed sites that offer transparency in their payout percentages.

“Before placing a single bet, make sure the casino is legitimate—look for licenses, player reviews, and secure payment options.”

— Michael Brown, Co-Owner of The Casino Count

2. Sign Up and Deposit

Create an account, confirm your details and deposit funds. Most sites also offer a welcome bonus—just make sure you understand the wagering requirements before you accept.

3. Select Baccarat from the Game Lobby

You’ll usually see two types:

Standard Baccarat (animated, fast-paced)
Live Baccarat (with a real dealer, streamed in real-time)

4. Place Your Bet

You have three options:

Banker
Player
Tie

Statistically, betting on the Banker offers the best odds, even with the standard 5% commission.

5. Watch the Cards Play Out

Two cards are dealt to both the Player and Banker. Sometimes, a third card is drawn based on pre-set rules (you don’t make this decision—the system handles it automatically).

Understanding the Third Card Rule

It’s not essential to memorise this, but knowing it can enhance your game. The Player’s hand draws a third card if their total is 0-5. The Banker’s draw depends on their hand and whether the Player drew a third card.

Baccarat Variations You Will Find Online

Variations include:

Punto Banco – The most common online version; the house handles everything.
Chemin de Fer – Rare online; players take turns being the Banker.
Mini Baccarat – A faster, lower-stakes version of Punto Banco.
Live Speed Baccarat – Cards are dealt faster than standard live games—great for experienced players.

Strategy Tips for Beginners

While baccarat is luck-driven, some tactical play can improve your odds:

Bet on Banker: Always your best shot—the Banker wins slightly more often than the Player.
Avoid Tie Bets: They may offer high payouts, but the odds are low. They’re a classic rookie trap.
Stick to One Bet Type: Switching constantly can lead to chaotic, emotional betting. Keep it consistent.
Use Betting Systems Cautiously: Martingale and Paroli’s strategies can help with structure, but they don’t change your odds. Don’t chase losses.

Online Vs Offline Baccarat

Playing online is quicker, quieter, and more flexible. Offline baccarat has the charm of atmosphere, real chips, and tuxedos—but online baccarat removes the pressure, lowers the stakes, and offers bonus features you won’t find in a physical casino.

“Online baccarat gives players freedom to play at their own pace—whether you’re betting £1 or £100. That’s part of what makes it such a strong entry point for new players.”

— Michael Brown, Co-Owner of The Casino Count

Responsible Gambling

Gambling can be exciting—but it should never be overwhelming. Here’s how to play responsibly:

Set time and money limits before you start
Never chase your losses
Avoid playing when emotional, tired, or under the influence
Use self-exclusion tools or deposit caps offered by your casino
Reach out for help—services like BeGambleAware.org offer support 24/7

Remember: the casino is entertainment, not income.

Continue Your Learning Journey

If you enjoyed learning baccarat, you’ll love the rest of our how-to guides:

You can also find bonus guides, safety tips, and exclusive offers on The Casino Count Blog.

Final Thoughts

Baccarat may look intimidating at first glance, but once you get past the glossy surface, it’s one of the simplest and most thrilling games online. No complicated decisions. No learning curves like poker. Just you, the cards, and the chance to predict the outcome.

Play sensibly and stay within your limits, and baccarat offers a rich and rewarding experience—especially online.

The Casino Count

How To Play Baccarat In An Online Casino