Craps is one of the most exhilarating and complex games in the casino world. With its rapid pace, energetic table environment, and numerous betting options, it has attracted players for generations. For newcomers, the vast array of betting choices can feel overwhelming. However, understanding these bets and their associated odds is key to enjoying the game and improving your chances of success.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the various craps bets, their odds, and when it’s best to use them. Whether you're an experienced player or just rolling the dice for the first time, this article will arm you with the knowledge you need to make informed bets and enjoy a better gaming experience.

The Basics of Craps: How It Works

Craps revolves around the roll of two dice. Players bet on the outcome of these rolls, with a wide range of betting options available. Each bet comes with specific rules, payouts, and house edges.

Here’s a quick overview of key craps terms to understand:

• Shooter: The player rolling the dice.
• Come-Out Roll: The first roll of a new betting round.
• Point: A number established on the come-out roll that must be rolled again before a 7 for some bets to win.

Types of Bets in Craps

1. Pass Line Bet

The Pass Line bet is the most common and beginner-friendly wager in craps.

• How It Works:
  • Wins if the come-out roll is 7 or 11.
  • Loses if the roll is 2, 3, or 12.
  • If a point is established, the bet wins if the point is rolled again before a 7.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.41%.
• Best For: New players looking for simplicity and low risk.

2. Don’t Pass Line Bet

This is the opposite of the Pass Line bet, where you’re essentially betting against the shooter.

• How It Works:
  • Wins if the come-out roll is 2 or 3.
  • Loses on 7 or 11.
  • If the point is established, the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 with a slightly lower house edge of 1.36%.
• Best For: Players who prefer conservative strategies and betting against the majority.

3. Odds Bets (Free Odds)

Odds bets are supplementary bets placed behind a Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line bet.

• How It Works:
  • Placed after a point is established.
  • Pays true odds with no house edge, making it one of the most favorable bets in the casino.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pass Line Odds:
    • 2:1 for 4 or 10.
    • 3:2 for 5 or 9.
    • 6:5 for 6 or 8.
  • Don’t Pass Odds:
    • 1:2 for 4 or 10.
    • 2:3 for 5 or 9.
    • 5:6 for 6 or 8.
• Best For: Players looking to maximize winnings on low-edge bets.

4. Come Bet

The Come bet is similar to the Pass Line bet but can be placed after the come-out roll.

• How It Works:
  • Wins on 7 or 11.
  • Loses on 2, 3, or 12.
  • Establishes its own point if other numbers are rolled, and wins if the point is hit before a 7.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.41%.
• Best For: Experienced players looking to diversify their bets.

5. Don’t Come Bet

The Don’t Come bet is the opposite of the Come bet.

• How It Works:
  • Wins on 2 or 3.
  • Loses on 7 or 11.
  • If a point is established, wins if a 7 is rolled before the point.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 with a house edge of 1.36%.
• Best For: Players who prefer betting against the shooter mid-round.

6. Place Bets

Place bets allow players to wager on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7.

• How It Works:
  • Select a number and bet that it will appear before a 7.
• Odds and Payout:
  • 7:6 for 6 or 8.
  • 7:5 for 5 or 9.
  • 9:5 for 4 or 10.
  • House edge ranges from 1.52% to 6.67%.
• Best For: Players looking for specific number-based bets.

7. Field Bet

Field bets are one-roll bets placed on specific numbers (2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12).

• How It Works:
  • Wins if the next roll matches one of the chosen numbers.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 for most numbers and 2:1 for 2 or 12.
  • House edge varies between 2.78% and 5.56%.
• Best For: Players who enjoy quick, high-reward bets.

8. Proposition Bets

These high-risk, high-reward bets are placed on specific outcomes of the next roll.

• How It Works:
  • Examples include betting on a 2, 3, 7, 11, or 12 being rolled.
• Odds and Payout:
  • Payouts range from 4:1 to 30:1, but the house edge can be as high as 16.67%.
• Best For: Players willing to take risks for big payouts.

9. Big 6 and Big 8 Bets

These bets are placed on a 6 or 8 being rolled before a 7.

• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 1:1 with a house edge of 9.09%.
• Best For: Avoid these bets and instead use Place bets on 6 or 8 for better odds.

10. Hardways Bets

A Hardways bet is placed on specific doubles (e.g., 2-2 for 4) being rolled before a 7 or an easy way (non-double of the same total).

• Odds and Payout:
  • Pays 7:1 for hard 4 or 10.
  • Pays 9:1 for hard 6 or 8.
  • House edge is 9.09% to 11.11%.
• Best For: Players who enjoy high-risk bets with thematic appeal.

Craps Odds and House Edge Overview

How to Choose the Best Online Casino for Craps in Ontario

If you’re looking to play craps online, finding a top-notch platform is essential. Here’s what to look for:

• Licensing and Regulation: Ensure the casino is regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
• Game Variety: Opt for casinos offering multiple craps variations and live dealer options.
• Bonuses: Look for welcome bonuses and promotions that can be used for craps.
• User Experience: Prioritize sites with intuitive navigation and seamless gameplay.

Conclusion

Craps offers a thrilling mix of strategy and luck, with a wide array of betting options to suit every player’s preferences. By understanding the different bets and their odds, you can make smarter choices and enjoy the game to its fullest. Whether you prefer low-risk strategies or high-stakes wagers, craps has something for everyone.

Visit our comparison site to find the best online casinos in Ontario for playing craps. Roll the dice, place your bets, and experience the excitement of this timeless game!