How to Play Craps

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Getting Started playing Craps

If you’re completely new to craps, you can quickly learn how to play craps. Here are the basics of the game. Learn these and you can jump into the action immediately.

The Craps Table Layout

The craps table has a distinct and eye-catching design. It’s a long, rectangular table with high sides to keep the dice in play. The surface is covered with a layout that displays various betting areas, each clearly labeled for players.

The main betting areas include:

• Pass Line
• Don’t Pass Line
• Come
• Don’t Come
• Field
• Place Bets

Each area corresponds to specific bets, with its own set of rules and payout rates.

The table is large enough to accommodate multiple players at once, creating a lively and social environment. Dealers are positioned around the table to manage wagers, handle payouts, and ensure the game runs smoothly.

Understanding the Dice

Craps is played using two six-sided dice, each numbered from 1 to 6. Players roll both dice together, such that the outcomes can range from 2 to 12. However, not all numbers have the same probability of appearing. For example, 7 is the most common outcome because it can be achieved with the most combinations of dice rolls (1+6, 2+5, 3+4, and so on).

The player responsible for rolling the dice is called the “shooter”. At the start of a round, the shooter makes the “come-out roll”, which determines the direction of the game. The excitement builds as other players bet on the outcome of the shooter’s roll, creating a shared anticipation around the table.

The Role of the Shooter

The shooter is the player who rolls the dice. Players take turns being the shooter, moving clockwise around the table. To become the shooter, a player must place a bet on the pass line or don’t pass line.

The shooter uses two dice and must throw the dice at the same time, using one hand.A key rule in craps is dice control. To ensure fairness and randomness, the shooter must roll the dice hard enough to hit the far wall of the table. This prevents any attempts to influence the dice and keeps the game fair for everyone.

Other players can bet on the shooter’s rolls. They don’t have to wait for their turn to be the shooter to place bets.

The Comeout Roll

The come-out roll is the first roll of the dice in a new round of craps, and it’s crucial because it sets the foundation for the rest of the game. 

For players betting on the Pass Line (one of the most popular bets in craps) the rules are:

• If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, these are called natural numbers, and Pass Line bets win instantly.
• If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, known as craps numbers, Pass Line bets lose immediately.

The opposite happens for those betting on the Don’t Pass Line:

• A roll of 2 or 3 means a win for Don’t Pass bets.
• A roll of 7 or 11 results in an immediate loss.
• If the shooter rolls a 12, it’s a tie (or “push”), meaning the bet neither wins nor loses.

Establishing the Point Number

If the shooter rolls any number other than a 2, 3, 7, 11, or 12, (so any of these numbers, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), then this number becomes the point number. The dealer marks the point on the table, and the dynamic of the game changes. 

After establishing the point, the shooter keeps rolling, and their goal now is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7.

Pass line bets win if the point is rolled before a 7. They lose if a 7 comes up first. Don’t pass bets work in reverse.

This simple yet thrilling sequence keeps the energy high around the craps table. Whether you’re hoping for a natural win, betting against the shooter, or watching for the point number, the come-out roll marks the start of the excitement that makes craps one of the most dynamic games in the casino.

Craps Betting Basics

In Crap, the main bets are Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come, however players can also place Odds bets and make Field or Proposition bets.Let’s explain each craps betting option in more detail.

Pass Line and Don’t Pass Bets

Pass Line bets are the most common in craps. Players bet on the shooter to win. If the first dice roll (come-out roll) is 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win. If it’s 2, 3, or 12, they lose. Any other number becomes the point.

Don’t Pass bets are the opposite. They win on 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and tie on 12. After the point is set, Don’t Pass bets win if 7 comes before the point.

These bets have low house edges. Pass Line has a 1.41% edge, while Don’t Pass has 1.36%.

Come and Don’t Come Bets

Come bets are similar to Pass Line bets, but there’s one key difference. Players can only place Come bets after the point has already been established during a round.

• If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 immediately after you place a Come bet, you win. 
• If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, the Come bet loses instantly. 
• If any other number is rolled, like a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the Come point for your bet. At this point, the Come bet “travels” to that number on the table. From here, the goal is for the shooter to roll the Come point again before rolling a 7 for your bet to win.

Don’t Come bets, on the other hand, are essentially the opposite of Come bets. Like Don’t Pass bets, they are for players who are betting against the shooter. Don’t Come bets can only be placed after the point has been established.

• A roll of 2 or 3 on the next dice throw means an immediate win for the Don’t Come bet.
• A roll of 7 or 11 results in a loss.
• A roll of 12 creates a push (a tie), where the bet neither wins nor loses.
• If any other number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes the Don’t Come point. Your bet “travels” to that number on the table, and now you’re hoping the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the Don’t Come point for your bet to win.

Odds Bets

Odds bets are a unique and popular feature in craps because they are the only bets in the casino with no house edge. This means the odds of winning are purely based on the true probabilities of the dice roll, making them one of the best bets a player can make.

However, odds bets can only be placed after a point has been established during a Pass Line, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bet. 

Once the point is set players can back up their original bet by placing an additional wager known as an Odds Bet. The odds bet pays out at true odds based on the probability of rolling the point versus a 7.

Here’s how it works:

• For Pass Line and Come Bets:
  You’re betting that the point number (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7 appears.
• For Don’t Pass and Don’t Come Bets:
  You’re betting that a 7 will be rolled before the point number appears.

The payouts for Odds bets are as follows:

• 4 or 10: Pays 2 to 1
• 5 or 9: Pays 3 to 2
• 6 or 8: Pays 6 to 5

For example: If the point is 4 and you place a $10 odds bet, you’ll win $20 (2 to 1) if the shooter rolls a 4 before a 7.

Casinos typically set limits on the size of Odds bets relative to your original bet. The most common limits are 3x, 4x, or 5x your original wager.

This means if you placed a $10 Pass Line bet, you might be able to bet up to $30, $40, or $50 on odds, depending on the casino’s rules. 

Odds bets add flexibility and value to your wagers because of their zero house edge. By combining your original bet (with a slight house edge) and an Odds bet (with no house edge), you reduce the overall house advantage.

For example a Pass Line bet backed with 3x odds bet reduces the house edge to about 0.47%. With 5x odds bet, the edge drops further to around 0.33%.

Field Bets and Proposition Bets

In craps, both Field bets and Proposition bets are one-roll bets, meaning they are resolved in a single roll of the dice. While these bets can be exciting due to their quick outcomes and high payouts, they come with significantly higher house edges compared to other bets on the table.

Field Bets

A Field bet wins if the next roll results in 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. If any of these numbers appear, you win even money (1:1 payout), with special bonuses for specific numbers:

Rolling a 2 often pays 2 to 1 (double your bet).

Rolling a 12 often pays 3 to 1 (triple your bet).

The Field bet is popular because it’s simple, fast, and offers the potential for bigger payouts on the 2 and 12. However, the house edge for Field bets is relatively high, typically around 5.56%, making it riskier in the long run.

Proposition Bets (Prop Bets)

Proposition bets are more varied, covering specific outcomes or combinations on the next roll of the dice. They offer high payouts, but this comes at a steep cost, since the house edge on some of these bets can be extremely high, reaching up to 16.67%.

Here are the most common Proposition bets:

Any 7

• You win if the next roll is a 7.
• Pays 4 to 1 (four times your bet).
• This bet has one of the highest house edges at 16.67%.

Any Craps

• You win if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled.
• Pays 7 to 1 (seven times your bet).
• The house edge is also steep, around 11.11%.

Horn Bet:

• A Horn bet combines four numbers: 2, 3, 11, and 12.
• If any of these numbers appear on the next roll, you win.
  • Rolling a 2 or 12 typically pays 30 to 1.
  • Rolling a 3 or 11 usually pays 15 to 1.
• If none of the four numbers appear, the bet loses.

Experienced craps players often avoid these types of bets or use them sparingly as part of a larger strategy. They’re fun for a quick thrill, but relying on them can deplete your bankroll quickly.

Place Bets and Buy Bets

In craps, Place bets and Buy bets allow you to wager on specific numbers. These bets do not require the point to be set and can be made at any time after the come-out roll. While they appear similar, there are key differences in their payouts and costs.

Place Bets

Place bets let you bet that a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 will be rolled before a 7. If your chosen number hits first, you win a payout based on the following odds:

• 4 and 10: Pays 9 to 5
• 5 and 9: Pays 7 to 5
• 6 and 8: Pays 7 to 6

For example, if you place a $10 bet on the 6, you’ll win $11 (7:6 payout) if the shooter rolls a 6 before rolling a 7.

Place bets remain “live” until the shooter rolls a 7, at which point you lose the bet, or until you decide to remove it. You can increase, decrease, or remove them at any time during the round.

Buy Bets

Buy bets are similar to Place bets because they allow you to bet on the same numbers, that is, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, but with one critical difference. Buy bets pay true odds, which reflect the actual probability of winning the bet. To access these true odds, players must pay a 5% commission (also called a “vig”) on the amount of the bet.

True Odds Payouts for Buy Bets:

• 4 and 10: Pays 2 to 1
• 5 and 9: Pays 3 to 2
• 6 and 8: Pays 6 to 5

Buy bets are particularly advantageous for numbers like 4 and 10. While Place bets on 4 and 10 pay only 9 to 5, Buy bets pay the true odds of 2 to 1.For example: If you place a $20 Buy bet on the 4, you’ll win $40 (2 to 1 payout), minus the 5% commission ($1 in this case).

Place vs. Buy Bets: Which to Choose?

Place Bets are better for numbers with smaller payouts like 6 and 8, where the house edge is low and the commission on Buy bets may not be worth it.

Buy Bets make more sense for numbers with larger payouts like 4 and 10, as the true odds (2 to 1) are significantly better than the 9:5 offered on Place bets.

Bet Type	Payout	Commission	Best For
Place Bet	Lower payouts	No commission	6 and 8 (lower house edge)
Buy Bet	True odds payouts	5% commission	4 and 10 (better odds)

Lay Bets 

Lay bets are essentially the opposite of Buy bets. Instead of betting that a specific number (like 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7, you’re betting that the shooter will roll a 7 before that number appears. This makes Lay bets a popular choice for players who want to bet against the shooter’s success.

Lay bets pay true odds, which reflect the actual likelihood of a 7 being rolled before the chosen number. Like Buy bets, a 5% commission is charged on the potential winnings.

True Odds Payouts for Lay Bets:

• 4 and 10: Pays 1 to 2 (because 7 is twice as likely as a 4 or 10).
• 5 and 9: Pays 2 to 3.
• 6 and 8: Pays 5 to 6.

For example, if you place a $40 Lay bet on 4, you’ll win $20 (1 to 2 payout) if the shooter rolls a 7 before a 4, minus a 5% commission on the $20 winnings ($1).

Lay bets are a smart choice for players who prefer lower-risk bets since the house edge is relatively low (typically 2.44% on 4 and 10). Apart from this, players looking to hedge against other bets can use Lay bets as a strategic tool.

Understanding these bets allows you to take advantage of the best odds on the craps table while building a more strategic approach to the game.

Hardways Bets

In craps, Hardways bets are alternative betting options for players looking for higher payouts and quick results. While these bets offer large rewards, they come with significantly higher house edges, making them riskier for long-term play.

Hardways Bets

Hardways bets involve wagering that a specific pair of dice will appear before a 7 or the same total rolled in an “easy way” (any other combination).

For example, a Hard 8 wins if the shooter rolls 4 + 4 (two 4s), before rolling a 7 or any other combination of 8 (like 5 + 3 or 6 + 2). A Hard 6 wins if the shooter rolls 3 + 3 before rolling a 7 or any other 6 (like 4 + 2 or 5 + 1).

Payouts for Hardways Bets:

• Hard 6 or Hard 8: Pays 9 to 1
• Hard 4 or Hard 10: Pays 7 to 1

Hardways bets are exciting because of their higher payouts, but they come with a substantial house edge, which is often around 9% to 11%, depending on the casino. 

Craps Betting Strategy

A solid craps betting strategy is all about balancing risk and reward, making smart decisions, and managing your bankroll effectively. By understanding the game’s mechanics and applying time-tested strategies, players can enjoy a better experience at the craps table.

Understanding the House Edge

The house edge in craps varies significantly across different bets, which is why understanding it is essential to a successful strategy. While low-edge bets like Pass Line, Come, and Odds bets form the backbone of a smart strategy, it’s also useful to understand how the house edge impacts more advanced bets:

• Lay Bets: These allow you to bet that a 7 will roll before a point number like 4 or 10. With a house edge of just 2.44% on 4 or 10, they can be a reasonable choice for more conservative players.
• Free Odds Bets: Adding Odds bets to Pass Line, Don’t Pass, or Come bets is the only way to completely eliminate the house edge, as these bets pay true odds. Always max out Odds bets if your budget allows, as this minimizes the casino’s overall advantage.
• Place Bets on Numbers 6 and 8: These bets offer an attractive 1.52% house edge, making them one of the best alternative bets if you’re looking to diversify.
• Avoid sucker bets like Any 7, which has a high 16.67% house edge. Field bets and Hard Ways also have poor odds for players.

Managing Your Bankroll

Bankroll management is the foundation of any successful gambling strategy. In craps, the fast pace and potential for big swings in fortune make it especially important to plan your spending carefully.

Here are some tips for effective bankroll management:

1. Define Your Session Goals: Instead of simply playing until you run out of money or time, set clear win and loss limits. For example, decide to stop playing once you’ve won 25% of your starting bankroll or lost 20%.
2. Use Betting Units: Divide your bankroll into units (example 1% or 2% of your total bankroll per unit). This helps keep bets consistent and ensures you don’t overextend during hot streaks or unlucky runs.
3. Use the 5% rule: Don’t bet more than 5% of your bankroll on a single roll. This protects you from big losses.
4. Reserve Winnings: If you’ve had a winning streak, set aside a portion of your profits. This way, you’ll leave the table with some money even if you lose the rest of your bankroll during the session.
5. Stay Disciplined: Emotional betting is one of the quickest ways to lose money. Whether you’re chasing losses or riding a winning streak, sticking to your pre-set limits is critical. Also, remember to take breaks to review your spending. Walk away if you hit your loss limit.

Common Strategic Approaches

For those players who are ready to try out some strategies beyond the basics, here are 4 approaches you might want to consider:

1. Iron Cross Strategy:
   • Cover multiple numbers by placing bets on 5, 6, and 8, and add a Field bet. This way, almost every number rolled (except 7) results in a win. However, the house edge on the Field bet still makes this a higher-risk strategy.
2. Regression Betting:
   • Start with higher bets and reduce them after a win. For instance, place $30 on 6 or 8, and once you win, drop your bet to $12. This allows you to lock in some profit while reducing your exposure to risk.
3. Hedging Bets:
   • Use hedging to reduce your losses on high-risk bets. For example, if you place a large bet on the Pass Line, you can hedge it with a smaller Any Craps bet. While this reduces potential winnings, it also minimizes the risk of losing everything on a single roll.
4. Hybrid Strategies:
   • Combine Don’t Pass with Place bets on 6 and 8. This strategy mixes conservative and aggressive elements, allowing you to capitalize on multiple outcomes while managing risk.

Playing Craps Online

Online craps lets you enjoy the excitement of the game from home. It offers convenience and unique features compared to land-based casinos.

Choosing Online Casinos

Pick reputable online casinos with good reviews and proper licenses. Look for sites that offer fair craps games using random number generators. Check the casino’s security measures to protect your personal and financial info.

Compare game selection, bonuses, and payment options. Make sure the casino accepts players from your country.

Try out free craps games to test the software before playing for real money. This helps you get comfortable with the interface and controls.

Online Craps Variations

Most online casinos offer standard craps games. Some sites also have unique variants with special rules or side bets.

Popular online craps variations include:

• Crapless Craps: No 7 or 11 on the come-out roll
• High Point Craps: 11 or 12 on come-out establishes the point
• Simplified Craps: Uses just one roll to determine winners

Live dealer craps is also available at most online casinos nowadays. These use real dealers and physical dice streamed via video to give a more authentic casino feel.

Using Promotions and Bonuses

Take advantage of casino bonuses to boost your craps bankroll, however make sure to read the terms carefully before making any deposits and accepting the bonus. Many bonuses have wagering requirements before you can withdraw winnings. Some exclude certain bets or have time limits.

Craps Etiquette and Terminology

Knowing craps lingo and proper behavior is key to having fun at the table. Let’s look at some important terms and rules to follow.

Understanding Craps Jargon

Craps has its own vibrant language, with players, the stickman, and dealers using unique terms throughout the game. Knowing this terminology not only helps you follow the action but also ensures you can place bets confidently. 

Here are some of the most common and important terms to know:

General Terms

• “Coming Out”: The first roll of a new round, also known as the come-out roll.
• “Pass Line”: A bet that the shooter will win by rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll or by making the point.
• “Don’t Pass”: A bet against the shooter, winning if they roll a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll or fail to hit the point.
• “Snake Eyes”: A roll of two ones (total of 2).
• “Boxcars”: A roll of two sixes (total of 12).
• “Seven Out”: When the shooter rolls a 7 after the point is set, ending their turn.

Betting-Related Terms

• “Come Bet”: A wager similar to a Pass Line bet but placed after the come-out roll.
• “Don’t Come Bet”: Similar to a Don’t Pass bet but placed after the come-out roll.
• “Odds Bet”: An additional wager placed behind a Pass, Don’t Pass, Come, or Don’t Come bet, paying true odds.
• “Place Bet”: A bet on a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) to be rolled before a 7.
• “Hardway”: A bet that a specific pair (e.g., two 4s for a Hard 8) will be rolled before a 7 or any “easy” combination of that number.

Dice Roll Outcomes

• “Natural”: Rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, resulting in an instant win for Pass Line bets.
• “Craps”: Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, which is an automatic loss for Pass Line bets.
• “Yo”: A roll of 11. This term is used to avoid confusion with the number 7, which sounds similar.
• “Easy Way”: A number rolled as a combination that is not a pair (e.g., a 5 and 3 for an 8).
• “Big Red”: A nickname for the number 7, often used by players who avoid saying “7” during a game for superstitious reasons.

Table and Game Roles

• “Shooter”: The player rolling the dice.
• “Stickman”: The dealer who uses a stick to manage the dice and announce the results of each roll.
• “Boxman”: The dealer responsible for overseeing the game, ensuring payouts are accurate, and handling disputes.
• “Base Dealer”: The dealers on either side of the table who manage bets and payouts.

Special Bets

• “Horn Bet”: A single-roll bet that covers 2, 3, 11, and 12.
• “Hop Bet”: A single-roll bet on a specific combination of the dice (e.g., 2 and 3).
• “Field Bet”: A bet that the next roll will be 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12, with higher payouts for 2 and 12.

Other

• “Cold Table”: A table where shooters are consistently losing (e.g., rolling 7s too early).
• “Hot Table”: A table where shooters are on a winning streak, frequently hitting points.
• “Don’t Say the Seven”: A superstition where players avoid saying “7” at the table, believing it brings bad luck.
• “Roll to Win”: A phrase encouraging the shooter to roll the point or another winning number.

Behavior at the Craps Table

Good manners make the game fun for everyone. Here are key rules to follow:

1. Keep your hands above the rail when the dice are out
2. Don’t touch your chips after the “come out” roll
3. Throw the dice to hit the back wall
4. Be nice to other players and staff
5. Tip the dealers now and then
6. Don’t rest drinks on the table. 
7. Avoid loud or rude behavior. 
8. Follow the boxman’s instructions.

Conclusion

Craps is one of the most exhilarating games in the casino, offering a perfect mix of strategy, luck, and social interaction. By understanding the rules, learning the betting options, and applying smart strategies, you can confidently step up to the table and enjoy the thrill of the game.

Start with the basics, like Pass Line and Odds bets, and gradually explore other options as you become more comfortable with the flow of the game. Remember to manage your bankroll wisely and always stick to your limits.