Quick Answer: What Is A Buy Bet?
A buy bet is like a place bet, but it often pays closer to true odds and charges a small commission (vig).
You can buy bet:
- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
You win if:
- your number hits before a 7
You lose if:
- a 7 hits first
If you want the full big-picture guide first, start here: The Complete Guide To Craps.
Quick Answer: What Is A Lay Bet?
A lay bet is the opposite side.
You’re betting against a number.
You can lay bet:
- 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
You win if:
- a 7 hits before your number
You lose if:
- your number hits before a 7
Because 7 is the most common total, lay bets can feel “safer,” but the payout is smaller and commission rules matter.
Why Do Buy And Lay Bets Exist?
Buy and lay bets exist because they:
- give you a direct way to bet specific numbers
- offer a payout structure different from place bets
- let casinos charge a commission instead of baking edge into the payout
They’re also common in higher-limit rooms where players want cleaner math.
Buy Bets Vs Place Bets (The Common Confusion)
A buy bet is similar to a place bet, but the main difference is:
- Place bet payouts are standardized and include an edge in the payout
- Buy bets often pay closer to true odds, but the vig creates the cost
In real play, most people buy:
- 4 and 10
Why?
Because buying 4/10 can be a better deal than placing 4/10, depending on the casino’s commission rules.
If you want to know more about place bets first, read Place Bets Explained: How They Work On Each Number.
Buy And Lay Payouts (Mini Table)
These are the common payout ratios you’ll see. The commission is usually taken as a small percentage (often 5%), either on the win or upfront depending on the casino.
Buy Bet Payouts (You Want The Number Before 7)
- Buy 4 or 10: 2 to 1 (minus vig)
- Buy 5 or 9: 3 to 2 (minus vig)
- Buy 6 or 8: 6 to 5 (minus vig)
Lay Bet Payouts (You Want 7 Before The Number)
- Lay 4 or 10: 1 to 2 (minus vig)
- Lay 5 or 9: 2 to 3 (minus vig)
- Lay 6 or 8: 5 to 6 (minus vig)
Quick translation:
- buy bets pay more when they hit because they’re harder
- lay bets pay less because you’re backing the more likely side (7 first)
The Commission Rule (The Part That Changes Everything)
The biggest detail with buy and lay bets is when the commission is charged.
Some casinos charge commission:
- only when you win
Others charge: - upfront when you place the bet
This matters a lot.
Always ask the dealer:
- “Is the vig on the win or upfront?”
That one question changes the true cost of the bet.
A Simple Example: Buy 4 Vs Lay 4
Buy 4
You win if:
- 4 rolls before 7
Harder task, bigger payout.
Lay 4
You win if:
- 7 rolls before 4
Easier task, smaller payout.
Same numbers. Different side.
When Buy Bets Make Sense
The most common practical use:
Buying 4 Or 10
Players buy 4 or 10 because:
- the payout is closer to true odds than place bets
- it can be more efficient, especially when vig is charged on the win
But again, it depends on the casino’s vig rules.
When Lay Bets Make Sense
Lay bets are often used by:
- players who like “don’t” style betting
- players who want to bet against a specific number
- players who want structured risk without center props
Just don’t confuse “more likely” with “safe.” A number can still hit fast.
Common Mistakes With Buy And Lay Bets
Mistake 1: Not Asking About Vig Rules
Upfront vs on-win changes value.
Mistake 2: Treating Lay Bets Like A Guarantee
Lay bets can lose quickly if the number hits early.
Mistake 3: Using Random Bet Amounts
Commission and payouts work cleaner at certain chip amounts.
Mistake 4: Mixing Too Many Bet Types At Once
Buy and lay bets are easier when you add them slowly, not all at once.
Beginner Shortcut: What To Do If You’re Not Sure
If you’re unsure:
- use place bets for now
- learn line bets + odds first
- add buy bets later, starting with 4/10 only once you understand the vig
That’s the simplest path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Buy Bets Better Than Place Bets?
Sometimes, especially on 4 and 10, but it depends on the casino’s vig rules.
What Is A Lay Bet In Craps?
A lay bet is betting that a 7 will roll before the chosen number.
Do Buy Bets Have A House Edge?
Yes, because of the vig. The payout may be closer to true odds, but the commission creates cost.
Do Lay Bets Pay Less Because They’re Easier To Win?
Yes. You’re betting on a more likely outcome (7 before the number), so the payout is smaller.
Should Beginners Use Buy And Lay Bets?
Not immediately. Most beginners do better learning Pass Line, odds, and simple place bets first.
Where To Go Next
You now understand buy bets vs lay bets: what each bet means, how payouts work, and why commission rules matter more than most people realize.
Next, we’ll cover field bets: how they work, when they pay extra, and why they can be riskier than they look.
Continue with Field Bets Explained: Payouts, Risks & Strategy.
