Craps Buy Bet Calculator

Calculate house edge, commission costs, and optimal strategies for Buy bets in craps. Compare Buy vs Place bets to find the best value.

Formula:House Edge = Commission% × P(win)

House Edge

1.59%

True Payout

2:1

$40.00 win

Commission

$2.00

On win

vs Place Bet

Buy Better

5.08% difference

Buy 4 and 10 for best value

$

Larger bets reduce vig impact

Ask your casino's rules

Buy vs Place Comparison

NumberTrue OddsBuy Edge*Place EdgeBetter Bet
42:11.59%6.67%BUY
51.5:11.90%4%BUY
61.2:12.16%1.52%PLACE
81.2:12.16%1.52%PLACE
91.5:11.90%4%BUY
102:11.59%6.67%BUY

*Buy edge assumes 5% commission on wins only

Optimal Strategy

  • • Buy 4 and 10 when commission is on wins only
  • • Place 5, 6, 8, 9 - Place bets have lower edge
  • • Ask if casino offers reduced vig ($1 per $25)
  • • Avoid upfront commission - it nearly doubles the effective edge

Key Facts

  • •Buy bets pay true odds minus a 5% commission
  • •Buy 4 and 10 (4.76%) is better than Place 4 and 10 (6.67%)
  • •For 6 and 8, Place bets (1.52%) beat Buy bets
  • •Commission on wins only reduces effective house edge
  • •Some casinos offer reduced vig - always ask!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Buy bet in craps?

A Buy bet is like a Place bet but pays true odds (2:1 on 4/10, 3:2 on 5/9, 6:5 on 6/8) instead of reduced odds. In exchange, you pay a 5% commission (vigorish). This makes it better than Place bets for 4 and 10.

When should I Buy instead of Place?

Buy 4 and 10 when commission is charged on wins only (4.76% vs 6.67% Place edge). For 5, 6, 8, and 9, Place bets are usually better. If commission is charged upfront, Place bets may be better for all numbers.

What is the house edge on Buy bets?

With 5% commission on wins only: 4.76% for all numbers. With upfront commission: 4.76% flat. With reduced commission ($1 per $25), the edge can be as low as 1.67% on larger bets.

How is the 5% commission calculated?

Standard is 5% of the bet amount. Some casinos round down ($1 min), charge on wins only, or offer $1 per $25 wagered. Always ask about commission rules - they significantly affect the house edge.