The chat box at a live table is how you talk to the dealer, and at many tables to other players too. Studios run it to keep the game friendly and moving, which is why the rules below are much the same at every provider. For games where the social side matters most, see live games for players who love chat.

How table chat works

Your messages appear on a screen in front of the dealer, who may reply out loud. At some tables the chat is shared with other players; at others only the dealer sees it. Messages pass through a filter, and studio staff can remove messages and block users. The chat is separate from the casino's customer support, which handles your account.

What to do

  • Greet the dealer and keep messages short; dealers handle a game and the chat at the same time.
  • Ask about the game: rules, a bet type, how a side bet works.
  • Make your decisions within the timer, especially at blackjack tables where others wait for you.
  • Congratulate other players if you like; most tables are friendly.
  • Use the language of the table. Many studios run tables in specific languages.

What not to do

  • Insult, harass or blame the dealer for results. Dealers don't decide outcomes.
  • Ask the dealer about your balance, withdrawals or bonuses. They can't see your account.
  • Post personal details, phone numbers or links. Filters block them and scammers watch busy chats.
  • Advertise, spam or coach other players aggressively.
  • Ask for dates or private contact; dealers are at work and on camera.

What happens if you break the rules

Filtered messages simply don't appear. Repeated or serious breaches usually lead to a chat block for that table or all of a studio's tables, and the casino can be informed. Chat rules are part of the game's terms, which you can read in the game's help screen.

Chat at different games

Blackjack

Seats are limited and each player acts in turn, so slow decisions hold up the table. Advice to other players is fine if asked for; criticism of how they play is not. On games with unlimited seats, such as Infinite Blackjack, everyone plays the same hand, so these issues fall away.

Roulette and baccarat

Rounds are quick and the dealer has little time for long conversations. Keep messages brief.

Game shows

Hosts talk to the whole audience and pick up messages between rounds. The chat moves fast; a short reaction is enough.

How to report abuse

Use the report or mute option in the chat if there is one. Otherwise, contact the casino's support with the table name and time, and they pass it to the studio. If the chat or a dealer makes you uncomfortable, you can turn the chat off and keep playing.

Tipping and chat

Some tables have a tip button that sends a small amount to the dealer or the studio's staff pool, depending on the casino's terms. Tipping is optional and doesn't affect the game. See tipping live dealers.

When the chat is a warning sign

If you notice yourself chatting to stay at a table after you meant to stop, or other players urge you to bet more, take a break. Licensed casinos offer session reminders and time-outs; see responsible gaming.