The Hi-Opt I card counting system
Hi-Opt I (Highly Optimum I) is a balanced single-level count that values only 3–6 as +1 and the tens as −1, leaving the 2, 7, 8, 9 and the Ace neutral. By ignoring the ace in the main count it gains a little playing efficiency over Hi-Lo. Serious players keep a separate ace side count to recover the betting information the main count leaves out.
Hi-Opt I tag values
Every rank's count value in Hi-Opt I, straight from the trainer's engine:
| A | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | J | Q | K |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | +1 | +1 | +1 | +1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | -1 | -1 | -1 |
Because it's balanced, a full deck counts to zero — divide the running count by the decks remaining to get the true count you bet and deviate on.
Strengths
- Higher playing efficiency than Hi-Lo for strategy decisions
- Still a simple single-level (+1 / 0 / −1) count to run
- Balanced, so it converts cleanly to a true count
What to watch out for
Aces are neutral in the main count, so you should keep an ace side count for the strongest betting decisions.
Who it's best for
Hi-Opt I is best for players who already run Hi-Lo and want more playing accuracy. Whatever system you choose, the edge only shows up on top of perfect basic strategy, so drill your decisions alongside the count.
Practice Hi-Opt I free
The counting trainer streams a live shoe and grades your running and true count at timed checkpoints. Hi-Lo and KO are available from the start; Hi-Opt I and Omega II unlock as you level up.
Other counting systems
- Hi-Lo — beginners and the vast majority of players.
- KO (Knock-Out) — players who want strong results with the least table-side math.
- Omega II — advanced counters who want maximum power.