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Guide · Craps Updated 27 Oct 2026

Online craps tips for beginners

Craps looks complicated but needs only two bets to play well: pass line, at a 1.41% house edge, and the free odds behind it, which carry no edge at all.

Most of the other bets on the table cost far more. The proposition bets in the middle are the most expensive in the casino.

By Chloe O'Sullivan | Games

How a round works

  1. The come-out roll: 7 or 11 wins for pass line, 2, 3 or 12 loses.
  2. Any other total (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10) becomes the point.
  3. The shooter keeps rolling: the point wins for pass line, a 7 loses.

Bets compared

BetHouse edge
Pass line1.41%
Don't pass1.36%
Free odds0%
Place 6 or 81.52%
FieldAbout 2.8% to 5.6%
Any seven16.67%

Back a pass line bet with odds once the point is set. The more of your stake sits in the odds, the lower your overall edge.

Beginner mistakes

  • Spreading chips over proposition bets.
  • Betting systems that raise stakes after losses.
  • Playing fast RNG craps without a session limit.
  • Ignoring how little craps counts towards bonus wagering.

Try a free demo first if the casino has one, then read our table game tips.

Questions

Craps for beginners: questions

What are the basic rules of craps?

On the come-out roll, 7 or 11 wins for pass line and 2, 3 or 12 loses. Any other number becomes the point, which must be rolled again before a 7.

What is the best bet for beginners?

Pass line, then free odds behind it once a point is set.

Can I play craps for free?

RNG craps often has a demo mode; live craps is real money only.

What should beginners avoid?

The proposition bets in the middle of the table, such as any seven, which carry edges above 10%.

Responsible gaming

Play only if you are 18+ and it stays fun

These rules apply on every page of this site. A young casino has less history to judge it by, so the limits matter more.

18+ only

Adults only, everywhere

You must be 18 or older, and older in some countries. A casino can ask for ID before your first withdrawal, and new casinos often do.

Responsible gaming
New brands

Start small with an unknown casino

Deposit an amount you would accept losing to a failed withdrawal, and request a small cash-out early to see how the casino handles it.

How we review new casinos
Limits

Set limits before the welcome offer

Bonus wagering keeps you playing longer. Set a deposit limit and a time limit in the account before you claim.

Set your limits
Help

Free, confidential support

If playing stops being fun, talk to someone. Gambling Therapy offers free support in many languages.

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