Craps is a high-energy, action-packed casino game that presents a combination of strategy and luck, which makes it one of the most thrilling casino experiences for players. Whether playing in a live casino or online craps, knowing the rules of the game, bets, and payout rates is vital to have the best possible chances of winning. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the mechanics of craps dice, bets, and potential payouts so that you can be a more confident player.
Getting to Understand the Basics of Craps
How Does Craps Work
Craps is a dice game that is played at a large table with multiple betting sections. The game revolves around the shooter (the dice roller) and the different bets placed on the outcome of each roll. Bank craps is the most common form, and it is given in casinos worldwide.
A round begins with the come-out roll, where the shooter rolls two dice. The result of this roll determines the next stage of the game:
- A 7 or 11 on the come-out roll is an instant win for Pass Line bets.
- A 2, 3, or 12 (craps) is an instant loss for Pass Line bets.
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) establishes a point, and the game continues until the shooter rolls the point number again (win) or rolls a 7 (lose, “sevening out”).
The Role of the Shooter
The shooter continues to roll the dice until he either rolls the point number or a 7. A new shooter then replaces him, and a new round begins. Players have the opportunity to bet on various outcomes before and during the shooter’s roll, which makes craps a lively and engaging game.
Craps Bets: Understanding the Betting Opportunities
Craps gives a vast array of betting possibilities, which are divided into simple bets, complex bets, and proposition bets.
Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets
The Pass Line bet is the most common in craps and has a low house edge (1.41%). You will win if the come-out roll is 7 or 11 and lose if it is 2, 3, or 12. If a point is established, the bet is still on, and you win if the shooter rolls the point again before he rolls a 7.
The Don’t Pass Line bet is the opposite — you win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12. If a point is established, you win if a 7 appears before the point number.
Come and Don’t Come Bets
As with Pass and Don’t Pass bets, Come and Don’t Come bets can be placed after the come-out roll. They are subject to the same rules but are applied to the next roll after their placement.
Odds Bets: Reducing the House Edge
One of the best bets in craps is the Odds Bet, which is placed behind a Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bet already on the table. The house has no advantage on this bet, and it pays true odds based on probability:
- 4 or 10 pays 2:1
- 5 or 9 pays 3:2
- 6 or 8 pays 6:5
Most casinos suggest double, triple, or even 100x odds bets, so they are a good strategic choice to reduce the overall house edge.
Proposition Bets: High Risk, High Reward
Proposition bets are single-roll bets that pay high but carry a high house edge. Some of the more popular ones include:
- Any 7 – Wins if a 7 is rolled (pays 4:1).
- Any Craps – Wins if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled (pays 7:1).
- Hard Ways (4, 6, 8, 10) – Wins if the number is rolled as a pair (for instance, two 3s for a hard 6) before a 7 or an easy version of the number is rolled.
Payouts in Craps: What You Need to Know
The payout structure is relevant to learn for strategic bankroll management. Here’s a summary of some key bets and their payouts:
| Bet Type | Payout | House Edge |
| Pass Line | 1:1 | 1.41% |
| Don’t Pass | 1:1 | 1.36% |
| Odds on 4/10 | 2:1 | 0% (True Odds) |
| Odds on 5/9 | 3:2 | 0% (True Odds) |
| Odds on 6/8 | 6:5 | 0% (True Odds) |
| Any 7 | 4:1 | 16.67% |
| Any Craps | 7:1 | 11.11% |
| Hard 6/8 | 9:1 | 9.09% |
| Hard 4/10 | 7:1 | 11.11% |
As is evident from the table, the most favorable bets in craps are the Pass Line, Don’t Pass, and Odds bets because they have the lowest house edge.
Craps Strategies for Improved Play
Stick to Low-House-Edge Bets
Avoid risky proposition bets and remain confined to Pass/Don’t Pass bets with odds, as these offer the best long-term value.
Use a Conservative Betting Approach
Bankroll management is most important, so wager small and gradually increase wagers when on a hot streak. One common system is the 3-Point Molly System, in which you place Come bets with odds to cover several numbers.
Know When to Walk Away
Craps is a fun and fast-paced game, but it’s also important to set win/loss limits to avoid emotional decisions. Responsible gaming guarantees a fun and sustainable experience.
Craps is an extremely dynamic and engaging casino game with diverse betting options, exciting dice action, and strong strategic elements. By understanding the rules, bets, and payout structures, players can maximize their winning chances while reducing the house edge. Whether played in a live casino or online, a well-planned strategy can make craps a fun and profitable experience.
