Discover how to understand and calculate craps odds in this beginner’s guide. Master strategies for online games and boost your confidence at the table.
A Beginner’s Guide to Online Games
Craps is one of the most exciting and fast-paced online games in the casino world, both in physical venues and on digital platforms. However, its fast action and multiple betting options can feel overwhelming for beginners. The key to enjoying and succeeding at craps is understanding the odds—knowing which bets offer better returns and which ones carry higher risk.
This AW8 Pro guide will walk you through the fundamentals of craps odds, how the house edge works, and which bets to prioritize if you want to improve your chances of winning.
1. What Are Craps Odds?
In simple terms, odds in craps represent the probability of a certain outcome occurring. Craps is played with two dice, meaning there are 36 possible combinations in each roll. Understanding the likelihood of each outcome can help you make smarter bets.
For example:
- Rolling a 7 has 6 combinations (1-6, 2-5, 3-4, 4-3, 5-2, 6-1), giving it a probability of 6/36 or 16.67%.
- Rolling a 2 or 12 has only one combination each, giving them a 2.78% probability.
2. The House Edge in Craps
The house edge is the statistical advantage the casino holds over players. In craps, the house edge varies depending on the type of bet you make.
Examples:
- Pass Line Bet: House edge of about 1.41%
- Don’t Pass Bet: House edge of about 1.36%
- Proposition Bets (e.g., Any 7): House edge can exceed 16%
The lower the house edge, the better your chances of winning over the long term.
3. Basic Bets for Beginners
If you’re new to craps, stick with the simplest bets until you get more comfortable with the game.
Pass Line Bet
This is the most common bet in craps. You win if the first roll (come-out roll) is 7 or 11 and lose if it’s 2, 3, or 12.
Don’t Pass Bet
This is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet—you win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12.
Come Bet
Similar to the Pass Line, but it can be placed after the come-out roll.
4. Odds Bets: The Best Bet in Craps
One of the most unique aspects of craps is the Odds Bet, which can be made after a point is established on the Pass or Don’t Pass line. The best part? It has no house edge.
You can back up your Pass Line bet with additional money that pays out at true odds:
- 4 or 10: Pays 2 to 1
- 5 or 9: Pays 3 to 2
- 6 or 8: Pays 6 to 5
Because there’s no house edge, this is one of the smartest bets you can make in craps.
5. Risky Bets to Avoid
While craps offers exciting side bets, they often have high house edges, making them poor choices for beginners:
- Any 7 – House edge around 16.67%
- Hard Ways – Around 9-11% house edge
- Horn Bets – Around 12.5% house edge
These bets can be thrilling but will drain your bankroll faster over time.
6. Strategy Tips for Beginners
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
- Start with Pass Line and Odds Bets – They’re simple and offer the best winning chances.
- Avoid Proposition Bets – The high house edge makes them risky.
- Manage Your Bankroll – Decide on a loss limit before you play.
- Practice in Free Online Games – This allows you to learn the rules without financial pressure.
7. Why Understanding Odds Improves Your Gameplay
Craps is not purely about luck—betting with knowledge of the odds gives you a statistical edge. While you can’t control the dice, you can control your wagers. Over time, smart betting decisions mean your bankroll lasts longer, and you’ll have more opportunities for big wins.
Conclusion
Craps might look complex at first, but once you understand the odds, it becomes an incredibly fun and rewarding online game. By focusing on low-house-edge bets like Pass Line and Odds Bets, you give yourself the best chance of enjoying both the excitement and potential payouts of the game.
So next time you step up to a craps table or log in to your favorite online platform, remember—it’s not just about the roll of the dice, but also the bets you choose.
Join the excitement and support your favorite league of players—your strategy and skills could make all the difference in the world of online games!