Craps: The Complete Dice Game Guide
Craps is the most exciting and social casino dice game, full of cheers and fast-paced betting action. This guide explains how to play craps, all the bet types, odds, strategies, etiquette, and the best ways to play online and with live dealers.
Best Craps Casinos
Craps Rules
Craps is played with two dice on a unique table layout. The main action focuses on the 'Pass Line,' with the objective of rolling a 7 or 11 to win on the first roll ('come out roll') or establishing a 'point' and hitting it again before rolling a 7.
- Players bet on the Pass Line or Don't Pass before the shooter rolls.
- If the come out roll is 7 or 11, Pass Line wins. If 2, 3, or 12, Pass Line loses (Don't Pass wins on 2 or 3; 12 is a push).
- Any other number (4,5,6,8,9,10) becomes the 'point.'
- The shooter rolls again until hitting the point (win) or a 7 (lose).
How to Play Craps - Step by Step
- Place your bet on Pass Line (bet with the shooter) or Don't Pass (against the shooter).
- Shooter rolls the dice ('come out roll').
- Win or lose immediately, or establish a point number.
- If a point is set, keep rolling until the point or a 7 ('seven out') is rolled.
- Collect winnings or place new bets for the next shooter.
Types of Craps Bets
Main Bets
- Pass Line: Win on come out 7/11 or by hitting point again. House edge: 1.41%.
- Don't Pass: Win on come out 2/3, or if 7 before point is hit. House edge: 1.36%.
- Come/Don't Come: Like Pass/Don't Pass, but after the point is set.
- Odds: Extra bet backing up Pass/Don't Pass, with no house edge!
Other Bets
- Place Bets: Bet a number will roll before a 7.
- Field: Bet next roll is 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Proposition Bets: One-roll bets (e.g., Any 7, Any Craps, Hardways).
- Big 6/8: Bet a 6 or 8 before 7 (worst odds, avoid).
Craps Odds & Payouts
| Bet | Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line | 1:1 | 1.41% |
| Don't Pass | 1:1 | 1.36% |
| Come/Don't Come | 1:1 | 1.41% / 1.36% |
| Odds | Varies (True Odds) | 0.00% |
| Place 6/8 | 7:6 | 1.52% |
| Place 5/9 | 7:5 | 4.00% |
| Place 4/10 | 9:5 | 6.67% |
| Big 6/8 | 1:1 | 9.09% |
Tip: Stick to Pass/Don't Pass and take Odds for best returns!
Craps Strategy & Tips
- Best Bets: Pass Line or Don't Pass with maximum Odds.
- Avoid: Proposition bets and Big 6/8 - they have high house edges.
- Manage your bankroll: Fast-paced action can eat your chips quickly.
- Know the table: Watch a few rounds to observe betting and etiquette before joining.
Craps Table Etiquette
- Handle the dice with one hand only.
- Don't throw dice off the table or hit chips/dealers.
- Wait for the stickman to push dice to you before rolling.
- Call your bets if placing late; don't touch chips after the dice are out.
- Encourage and cheer - craps is a social game!
How to Play Craps Online
- Choose a trusted online casino (see our list above).
- Create your account and deposit.
- Select a craps game - RNG or live dealer.
- Place bets and roll the virtual dice!
Online craps uses certified RNGs for fair results. Live dealer craps offers real dice action streamed to your device!
Live Dealer Craps
Live craps lets you play with real dealers and dice - just like Vegas! Interact with the table, ask questions, and enjoy extra features like side bets and statistics.
- Streamed from studio or casino with real dice
- Chat and interact with dealers and players
- All main bets and odds available
- Fast, immersive action - available 24/7
Craps FAQs
Pass Line or Don't Pass with Odds. Lowest house edge.
Yes, most sites offer demo/RNG craps for practice.
Yes, dice rolls are random, but smart betting reduces losses.
Many exist, but none beat the house edge in the long run.
The player rolling the dice - everyone can take turns!
Want more tips or have questions about craps? Contact Casino Beacon here!
Responsible Gambling: Always play within your limits and for fun.