Quick Answer: How Do Casinos Calculate Comps In Craps?
Most casinos estimate your comps using a simple idea:
Theo = Average Bet × Time Played × Decisions Per Hour × House Edge
They don’t need exact math for every roll. They estimate your action using:
- your average bet level
- the time you play
- and a standard expected cost (house edge) for the bet types you’re making
Then comps are usually a percentage of that theo.
If you want the full big-picture guide first, start here: The Complete Guide To Craps.
What “Theo” Means (The Core Of Comps)
Theo is the casino’s best estimate of:
- “How much this player is expected to lose over time?”
It’s not personal. It’s just math and averages.
That’s why you can:
- win big and still get comps
or - lose big and get fewer comps than you expected
Because comps are tied to expected value, not the result of tonight’s session.
If you want to know expected losses explained, read How Table Speed Impacts Expected Losses.
How Craps Players Get Rated At The Table
Craps is different from slots because:
- your bets move around
- your amount changes
- and multiple bets can be working at once
So table rating is usually an estimate done by:
- floor supervisors
- pit bosses
- or the boxman
They look at what you’re betting and assign an average bet.
Your Rating Usually Depends On
- how much you’re betting on core line bets
- how much you’re placing
- how often you’re making center action
- and how long you’re playing
What Counts Toward Your “Average Bet” In Craps?
This is where many players get confused.
In craps, you might have:
- Pass Line bet
- odds behind it
- place bets on 6/8
- hardways
- prop bets
- bonus bets
Casinos may rate different parts differently.
Important Idea
Odds bets may not be rated the same way as other bets, because the odds portion has no house edge.
Some casinos:
- count odds less
- or don’t count them fully
because they don’t earn as much from that portion.
If you want to know why odds are special, read Free Odds In Craps Explained: What It Means.
What Increases Your Theo (And Your Comps)
If your goal is more comps, casinos generally value:
1) More Time Played
Time is huge.
Playing longer often matters more than one short burst of big bets.
2) Higher Average Bet
If your average bet is higher, your theo rises.
But note: casinos look at your average, not your max.
3) Higher Decision Rate (Table Speed)
Faster tables create more decisions per hour.
That can raise theo because you’re cycling more action.
That’s also why fast tables can cost more per hour.
4) Higher House Edge Bets (Often Rated Higher)
This is the sneaky part.
Higher house edge bets (like repeated props) can increase theo because:
- the casino expects to earn more from them
That doesn’t mean it’s “smart” to play them for comps.
It usually means:
- you’re paying more to earn those comps
If you want the cost of bets explained, read Understanding The House Edge Across All Craps Bets.
What Lowers Your Rating (Common Mistakes)
Mistake 1: Not Using Your Player Card
If you don’t get rated, you don’t get credit.
Always hand your card early, and make sure they log you in.
Mistake 2: Betting In A Way That Looks Smaller Than It Is
Craps bets can be hard to track.
If you’re spreading bets in a messy way:
- the staff might underestimate your average bet
Clean betting (consistent chips, consistent placement) is easier to rate.
Mistake 3: Short Sessions
A short session might not register well, especially if:
- you’re in and out
- changing tables
- or taking long breaks without being clocked out properly
Mistake 4: Mostly Odds With Small Base Bets
Odds are great for lowering cost, but since odds may be rated less, your comps might be lower than expected if your base bets are tiny.
This is one reason comp chasers sometimes make higher-edge bets, but again, that can be a bad trade.
The “Comp Value” Reality Check
Comps aren’t free money.
They’re a rebate based on your expected loss.
So even if you “earn” a free room, you likely paid for it over time through:
- house edge
- and volume of play
A healthy way to see comps:
- nice perks
- not a reason to gamble more than you planned
Practical Tips To Make Sure You Get Proper Credit
These are simple, legit tips that help your rating be accurate (not inflated, just accurate).
- Use your player card every time
- Ask politely if you’re being rated
- Keep your base bets consistent (easier to estimate)
- Avoid constantly hopping in and out of action
- If you take a long break, check if they’re clocking you out
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Get More Comps If I Win Or Lose?
Comps are based on expected loss (theo), not your actual result. Winning doesn’t usually reduce comps for that session.
Do Odds Bets Count For Comps In Craps?
Sometimes yes, but often less than other bets because the odds portion has no house edge. Policies vary by casino.
Are Prop Bets Good For Earning Comps?
They can increase theo because they often have higher house edge, but they also cost more. It’s usually not worth chasing comps that way.
How Much Of Theo Comes Back As Comps?
It depends on the casino, but comps are typically a fraction of theo. The exact percentage varies by property and player tier.
What’s The Best Way To Earn Comps Without Overspending?
Play within your bankroll, keep bets consistent, use your card, and view comps as a bonus—not a goal.
Where To Go Next
You now understand how craps comps work: casinos estimate your theoretical loss using your average bet, time played, decisions per hour, and the house edge of the bets you’re making. That’s why odds bets may count less, why fast tables can rate higher, and why chasing comps with expensive bets usually isn’t worth it.
Next, we’ll switch to the operational side of live craps: how dealers manage large betting crowds, how payouts stay organized, and why table teamwork matters when the action gets busy.
Continue with How Craps Dealers Manage Large Betting Crowds.
