You can only split in blackjack when your cards match each other, but you should not split every time they are the same. Like doubling down, splitting in blackjack is often misunderstood and misused. To simplify this, here are some general guidelines to follow:
1. Always split Aces and 8's
2. Never Split 5's and 10's (10's include face cards)
3. Always Split 2's and 3's when the dealer shows 4, 5, 6, or 7
4. Always Split 6's when the dealer shows 3, 4, 5, or 6
5. Always Split 7's when the dealer shows 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7
6. Always Split 9's when the dealer shows 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 or 9 (NOT 7)
If you could double after you split, then you can add the following:
1. Split 2's and 3's if the dealer is showing a 2 or 3
2. Split 4's if the dealer is showing a 5 or 6
3. Split 6's if the dealer is showing a 2
Splitting when playing online blackjack is the same as splitting live at a casino. The same rules apply.