If you're new to craps and want to play using smaller amounts, this guide is for you. It explains the basics of the game, outlines how different betting options work, and introduces some strategies that may help you make more informed choices. You’ll also find useful tips for keeping your budget in check while you play.
Since craps is a game of chance, no approach guarantees a win—but understanding your options can help you play with more confidence. What works for one player might not suit another, so you’ll get a balanced look at different styles and how they might fit, depending on your preferences and budget. Let’s explore what makes this dice game so popular and how to get started.
Why Do So Many People Love Craps?
Craps is a dice game where the outcome of each round is based on the roll of two six-sided dice. Many people enjoy it because it’s fast-moving and easy to follow once you know the basics. The game typically involves one player, known as the "shooter", rolling the dice while others place bets on the outcome.
Even when playing online, you might notice a sense of shared experience. Craps is often played with other people betting on the same rolls. This can make it more interactive than games where you’re only playing against the house.
Players also like the range of bets available. Some options are straightforward, such as betting that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the first roll. Others are more complex and involve multiple steps. Whether you prefer simple bets or more detailed ones, there’s flexibility in how you choose to play.
Can You Win at Craps With a Small Bankroll?
It’s possible to play craps with a small amount of money, and understanding how the different bets work may potentially help you get more playing time from your budget. However, as craps is a game of chance, nothing is ever guaranteed.
In this context, your bankroll refers to the amount of money you've set aside to spend. That could be £10, £20, or £100—it depends on what you're comfortable with.
Each online casino sets its own minimum and maximum bet sizes. You’ll find this information within the game rules or paytable. For example, one game might have a minimum bet of £0.50, while another might set it at £1. This can affect how long your money might last.
Some bets in craps come with a lower house edge, which means they can potentially offer better long-term value compared to others. The house edge is the built-in advantage that allows the casino to make a profit over time. One well-known example is the “Pass Line” bet, which has a house edge of about 1.41%. This means that, on average, for every £100 bet, the expected long-term loss is £1.41.
Still, no outcome in craps is predictable. The result of each roll is random, and results can vary a lot. Choosing lower-stakes bets, pacing your play, and learning about bet types before playing can help you stay within your budget.
Best Craps Strategies
Here are three betting approaches that some players use to bring more structure to their game. They won’t change the odds or guarantee a result, but they can help you make more considered decisions. Whether one of these suits you will depend on your personal preferences and playing style.
The Don’t Pass System
With this strategy, you’re placing a “Don’t Pass” bet, which is essentially the opposite of a “Pass Line” bet. This means you’re betting that the shooter won’t succeed. On the first roll (called the “come-out roll”), you win if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3. You lose if they roll a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a draw, so your stake is returned.
If a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled, that number becomes the “point.” You then win the bet if a 7 comes up before the shooter rolls that same point again. This type of bet has a similar house edge to the Pass Line and might suit players who prefer a less common betting position.
Iron Cross in Brief
The Iron Cross involves covering a wide range of numbers. You place one bet on the “Field,” which pays out if the next roll is a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 or 12. You then place separate bets on the numbers 5, 6, and 8. This setup means almost every number, except 7, may result in a payout of some kind.
However, 7 is the most commonly rolled number in craps, appearing once every six rolls on average. That means the Iron Cross often loses despite covering many numbers. Also, because you’re placing multiple bets at once, you’re risking more per round. This approach may potentially offer frequent wins, but it may not necessarily favour those looking to try and stretch a limited budget.
Martingale Strategy
The Martingale is a staking system, not specific to craps. The idea is to double your bet after each loss, so if you eventually win, you recover any previous losses and make a small profit. For example, if you bet £0.20 and lose, your next bet is £0.40. If you lose again, the next is £0.80, then £1.60, and so on.
This can quickly use up your funds, especially with a small bankroll. It also assumes you won’t hit a casino’s maximum bet limit, which varies depending on the game and site.
Because of how quickly bet amounts can increase, this method is usually not considered a good fit for players aiming to try and keep their spending low. There’s also no certainty that a win will occur before you reach your budget limit, or the game's maximum bet.
Do Craps Strategies Actually Make a Difference?
A strategy can help you decide how much to bet and which types of bets to focus on. It can also guide you to play more steadily, rather than placing bets at random. However, no strategy changes the fact that craps outcomes are based on chance.
Each roll is independent, and the odds remain the same regardless of previous results. While some bets carry lower house edges, none of them remove the element of randomness. That’s why no strategy can ensure consistent success.
Some players enjoy having a structure, such as using the same bet amount or playing for a set time before taking a break. What’s considered the “best” way to play will vary from person to person, based on comfort level, risk tolerance, and how much they want to spend.
Before placing any bets, it may be useful to check the specific rules of the craps game you're playing. Possible payouts, minimum bets and available bet types can vary between online casinos.
Play Low Stakes Casino Games Online
If you’re keen to try low stakes games online, No Deposit Slots has plenty of options. While craps itself isn’t offered, you’ll find a large range of online slot games with clear themes and features. Simply log in or sign up to see the full list and find what suits your preferences.
No Deposit Slots is operated according to UKGC standards, so you can play confidently, knowing fair play and safety come first.
Remember to set your limits, take breaks, and keep your spending comfortable.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.