Whether you’re a beginner seeking to learn the basics or an experienced player looking to refine your strategy, this page offers all the information you need to become proficient at Craps.
Choose your Favorite Craps Game
Bank Craps
Also known as standard craps, where the shooter rolls two dice, with bets placed on the outcome. It’s known for its fast pace and multitude of betting options.
Crapless Craps
It eliminates the possibility of losing on a 2, 3, or 12 in the come-out roll. It’s ideal for players looking to avoid the initial disappointment that can come with standard craps.
High Point Craps
Here, getting an 11 or 12 is considered an automatic win, whereas a 2 or 3 is returned for another roll. Any other number rolled becomes the “point,” and you need a higher number to win.
New York Craps
This variant excludes come and Don’t Come bets. Instead, you can place bets on numbers 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. Popular in Eastern US casinos, it has a distinctive “double-end dealer” layout.
Simplified Craps
In this simplified version of craps, you win on rolls of 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, and 12 and lose on rolls of 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. It’s perfect for beginners due to its easy-to-understand betting system.
Die Rich Craps
The game uses a single die instead of the traditional two for a faster pace. You win on a roll of 6 and lose on a roll of 1. Rolling a 2, 3, 4, or 5 sets the “point.”
Best Online Craps Bonuses
Craps for Beginners: The Basics
Here’s a sharp, to-the-point guide to help you understand the basics of playing craps.
How to Play?
- Objective: You need to predict the outcome of the roll of two six-sided dice. Players bet on the results of these dice rolls.
- Place Your Bets: Before rolling the dice, you place your bets on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line.
- The Shooter: The game begins with the “shooter,” the player who rolls the dice. In online craps, the role of the shooter rotates among players, or the software may simulate it.
- The Come-Out Roll: The first roll of the dice is called the come-out roll. It determines the game’s flow.
- The shooter wins on the come-out roll if they roll a 7 or 11 (a “natural”).
- You lose if you roll a 2, 3, or 12 (known as “craps”).
- Any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) establishes the “point.”
- Establishing the Point: If the come-out roll results in a point, the game enters the next phase. The shooter continues to roll the dice until they either roll the point number again (a win) or roll a 7 (a loss, known as “seven out”).
Types of Craps Bets
Here’s a breakdown of the primary bets in craps and their respective house edge and payout:
| Bet Type | Description | House Edge | Payout |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass Line Bet | The most popular bet in Craps. Players win if the come-out roll is 7 or 11 and lose if it’s 2, 3, or 12. Any other number establishes a point. | 1.41% | 1.1 |
| Don’t Pass Line Bet | The opposite of the Pass Line Bet. You win if the come-out roll is 2 or 3 and lose if it’s 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a push. | 1.36% | 1.1 |
| Come Bet | Similar to the Pass Line Bet, but placed after the point is established. The first roll acts as a come-out roll for the come bet. | 1.41% | 1.1 |
| Don’t Come Bet | The opposite of the Come Bet. Wins on 2 or 3, loses on 7 or 11 and pushes on 12. | 1.36% | 1.1 |
| Odds Bet | A side bet that can be placed in addition to Pass Don’t Pass, Come, and Don’t Come bets. | True Odds, no house edge. | Pass/Come Odds: 2:1 on 4 or 10, 3:2 on 5 or 9, 6:5 on 6 or 8. Don’t Pass/Don’t Come Odds: 1:2 on 4 or 10, 2:3 on 5 or 9, 5:6 on 6 or 8 |
| Place Bets | Bets on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) to be rolled before a 7. | 1.52% to 6.67% | 7:6 for 6 and 8, 7:5 for 5 and 9, 9:5 for 4 and 10. |
| Field Bet | A one-roll bet that wins on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12, and loses on 5, 6, 7, or 8. | 2.78% | 1:1 for 3, 4, 9, 10, 11; 2:1 for 2, 12. |
| Big 6 and Big 8 | Betting that a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7. | 9.09% | 1.1 |
| Proposition Bets | One-roll bets on specific outcomes, such as any craps, any seven, or specific doubles. | Very high, often exceeding 11% | Varies significantly (e.g., 15:1 for rolling 2 or 12) |
Basic Tips
- Familiarize yourself with the basic rules and flow of craps. Know the different bets and their respective odds.
- Focus on the Pass Line Bet. Its low house edge of 1.41% makes it a solid choice to start with.
- Take odds on your Pass Line bet. This bet has no house edge, increasing your chances of winning.
- Avoid Proposition Bets, such as Any 7 or Hardways, which have a much higher house edge. They might seem tempting but are riskier.
- Use free online craps games to practice and get comfortable with the game mechanics and betting strategies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Betting on Every Roll: New players often feel compelled to bet on every roll. Stick to the main bets until you’re more comfortable with the game.
- Ignoring Odds Bets: Once the Point is established, you can make an odds bet behind your Pass Line bet. This has no house edge and can increase your winnings.
- Overcomplicating Bets: Avoid complex bets like hard ways and proposition bets until you fully understand how the game works. These bets have a higher house edge and can drain your bankroll quickly.
- Betting Too Much on Single Rolls: Avoid putting large amounts of money on single-roll bets like the “Field” or “Big 6/8.” These bets might seem appealing due to their immediate payout, but they often come with a higher house edge.
- Chasing Losses: Craps is a game of streaks. Chasing losses by increasing your bets can lead to bigger losses. Remember, it’s better to walk away and come back another day.
Popular Craps Terminology
Understanding the lingo is essential to grasping the game more quicker. Here’s a list of the most popular terms you’ll encounter at the craps table:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Shooter | The player who rolls the dice. |
| Point | The number established on the come-out roll if a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled. The shooter must roll this number again before rolling a 7 to win. |
| Seven Out | When a 7 is rolled before the point number. |
| Snake Eyes | Rolling a 2. It is considered an automatic loss on the come-out roll for Pass Line Bets and a win for Don’t Pass Bets. |
| Yo | Rolling an 11, called “Yo,” to avoid confusion with the number 7. |
| Hardway | Betting that a specific number (4, 6, 8, or 10) will be rolled as a pair (e.g., two 2s for a hard 4) before a 7 or the number rolled in any other combination. |
| Boxcars | Rolling a 12, also known as midnight. |
| Craps | Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll |
| Natural | Rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll |
| Inside Numbers | The numbers 5, 6, 8, and 9 |
| Outside Numbers | The numbers 4, 5, 9, and 10 |
| Lay Bet | A bet that a 7 will be rolled before a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). |
| Buy Bet | With a 5% commission paid to the house in exchange for true odds payouts. |
| Any Seven | A bet that the next roll will be a 7. |
| Any Craps | A bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, or 12. |
| Big Red | Another term for a bet on rolling a 7. |
| Hi-Lo | A one-roll bet on the next roll is a 2 or 12. |
| C & E | A one-roll bet on the next roll is a craps (2, 3, or 12) or an 11 (Yo). |
Craps for Advanced Player: Expert insights
These expert strategies will help you ace the game:
3-Point Molly Strategy:
This strategy involves making a pass-line bet and placing odds. Once a point is established, place two Come bets with odds. This covers multiple numbers and maximizes winning potential while minimizing risk.
Iron Cross Strategy:
Bet on the Field, and place bets on 5, 6, and 8. This strategy covers most numbers except 7, increasing the likelihood of a win. However, be cautious as it requires a larger bankroll.
The Hedge Strategy:
This involves placing multiple bets to cover various outcomes, such as a Place bet on 6 and a Lay bet against 7. This can reduce losses but also limit potential winnings.
The 5-Count Method:
This strategy aims to reduce the number of bets and, thus, the house edge. Observe the shooter for five rolls before placing any bets, which helps avoid cold streaks and increases the chances of betting on a hot shooter.
Bankroll Management in Craps
- Set a Budget: Determine your gambling budget before you start playing. Stick to this budget and avoid chasing losses.
- Use Unit Betting: Divide your bankroll into smaller units (e.g., 1% of your total bankroll per bet). This helps manage losses and extend your playtime.
- Set Win and Loss Limits: Decide on a win limit (e.g., 20% of your bankroll) and a loss limit (e.g., 50% of your bankroll). Once you reach either limit, stop playing. This prevents significant losses and helps lock in profits.
- Avoid Betting Systems: Systems like Martingale can be tempting, but they are risky and can quickly deplete your bankroll. Stick to strategies with a proven edge.
- Regular Breaks: Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and poor decision-making. This keeps your mind sharp and helps you stick to your strategy and limits.
Online Vs. Live Craps: Which is Better?
Deciding between online and live craps ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice.
| Feature | Online Craps | Live Craps |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience and Accessibility | You can play craps online anytime, anywhere; no need to travel | Requires travel to a physical casino |
| Game Variation | Offers multiple versions with unique features | Standard game variations, fewer unique features |
| Stakes | Lower minimum bets, suitable for beginners | Higher minimum bets, potentially larger payouts |
| Bonuses and Promotions | Attractive bonuses, free bets, and loyalty programs | Limited to in-casino promotions |
| Privacy | Complete privacy, no onlookers | Public setting, presence of other players and onlookers |
| Practice Modes | Free play/demo modes available | No practice modes; real money only. |
| Social Interaction | Limited to chat features, less social | High social interaction and engagement with other players |
| Authentic Experience | Virtual, lacks physical elements of the game | Physical dice rolls, authentic casino sounds, and atmosphere |
| Learning Curve | Easier for beginners with practice modes | Can learn through observation and interaction with experienced players |
| Ideal for | Those with tight schedules, beginners, budget-conscious gamblers, and solitary players. | Social gamblers, thrill seekers, high rollers, and individuals who prefer transparency. |
Real Money Vs. Free Craps
| Feature | Real Money Craps | Free Craps |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Stakes | You need to wager actual money on bets. | No real money is involved, no financial risk. |
| Winning Potential | Potential for substantial payouts. | No real money winnings, only in-game credits. |
| Bonuses and Promotions | You can get deposit bonuses, cashback, and loyalty rewards. | Typically, no bonuses or promotions. |
| Realistic Experience | High-quality graphics and realistic gameplay mimicking a physical casino. | Simplified graphics, focus on learning. |
| Commitment | Requires financial commitment and bankroll management. | No financial commitment is needed. |
| Skill Development | Offers a realistic environment to apply strategies for real stakes. You can also learn from experienced players. | Ideal for practicing and refining skills without pressure. |
| Accessibility | Requires a deposit to play. | Easily accessible, no deposit is needed. |
| Player Interaction | Often includes live dealer options and multiplayer modes. | Usually single-player with limited interaction. |
| Adrenaline and Excitement | Higher due to financial risk and potential rewards. | Lower, as there is no financial stake involved. |
| Learning Curve | Steeper, with real stakes influencing decisions. | Gentle, allowing players to learn at their own pace. |
| Availability | It can be restricted based on location and regulations. | Widely available without geographic restrictions. |
| Suitable for | Experienced gamblers who prefer thrilling gameplay. | Beginners and individuals who want to play risk-free. |
The Best Online Craps Mobile Apps in the US
Craps Apps for iOS
| Craps Master 3D | Has three modes ranked, practice, and leaderboards. |
| Aw Craps! | Great app for learning the game and practicing strategies. |
| Casino Craps Pro 3D | Known for polished graphics, animation, and sound effects. |
| Crapsee | It has craps coaches feature that helps you learn how to play the game. |
Craps Apps for Android
| Craps Trainer | The best app to learn how to play craps without ads. |
| Craps Lite | Simple design with effective gameplay. |
| Craps Casino Style | The complete casino-style craps game. |
| Vegas Craps by Pokerist | Play real craps in 3D, with realistic physics and multiplayer mode. |
The Top 10 Online Casinos for Craps
Here are the top ten online casinos offering real money craps for American players, with standout features and game highlights.
Is Craps a Game of Skill or Luck?
Craps is primarily a game of luck, as the outcome depends on the roll of the dice. However, understanding the bets and employing a good betting strategy can enhance your chances of winning.
How Does the Shooter Get Chosen?
The shooter is usually the player who volunteers or the next in line if there is an established order. The shooter continues to roll until they “seven out” (roll a 7 after a point has been established).
What Happens if the Shooter Sevens Out?
When the shooter sevens out, the dice are passed to the next player, and the new shooter will then start a new come-out roll.
Are There Betting Limits in Craps?
Yes, craps tables have minimum and maximum betting limits. These limits vary by casino and table. It’s important to check these limits before playing to ensure they fit your budget.
What is the Difference Between a Hot Table and a Cold Table?
A hot table is where players are consistently winning, and a cold table is where players are consistently losing.
Is Craps Considered Gambling?
Yes, craps is considered gambling. It involves betting money on the outcome of the roll of two dice, which is determined by chance.
Is Online Craps Rigged?
No, reputable online craps games are not rigged. Legitimate online casinos use Random Number Generators (RNGs), third-party audits, etc., to ensure fair and random outcomes of dice rolls.
Where Can I Legally Play Online Craps in the USA?
Legal online craps in the USA is available in states that have regulated online gambling. As of now, you can legally play online craps in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut and Rhode Island.