Sic Bo Betting Guide: From Basics to Strategy

Sic Bo, also known as “Big-Small,” is one of the most popular dice games in Asia. It looks simple, but the wide range of betting options and payouts (from 1:1 to 150:1) can easily overwhelm players who do not understand probability and house edge. This guide explains the main bet types, their odds, and practical betting strategies to help you play more effectively.

1. Understanding Bet Types and House Edge

Sic Bo uses three dice. Common bet types include:

  1. Big/Small (1:1, House Edge 2.78%)
  • Small: total 4–10
  • Big: total 11–17
  • Excludes triples.
  • Lowest house edge in Sic Bo, best long-term choice.
  1. Odd/Even (1:1, House Edge 2.78%)
  • Similar to Big/Small, also a safe option.
  1. Total Sum (6:1 to 60:1, House Edge 9–15%)
  • Betting on an exact total, such as 10 or 11.
  • Higher payout, but higher risk.
  1. Double (10:1, House Edge 18%)
  • Betting that two dice show the same number (for example, two 4s).
  1. Triple (150:1, House Edge 30%+)
  • Specific triple, such as 5-5-5. Very low probability (1 in 216).
  • Any triple pays 24:1 with a house edge of about 14%.
  1. Combination (5:1, House Edge 16.7%)
  • Betting on two specific different numbers (for example, 3 and 4).

2. Betting Strategies

Conservative: Big/Small Strategy

  • Only bet on Big or Small.
  • Lowest house edge, best for steady play.
  • Use small bet sizes to survive losing streaks.

Balanced: Combination + Big/Small

  • Place most of your bet on Big/Small, with a smaller side bet on a combination or total.
  • Helps reduce risk when one part loses.

Aggressive: Totals or Doubles

  • Focus on totals such as 9, 10, or 11 (relatively better odds).
  • Higher volatility, not suitable for long sessions.

Entertainment: Triples

  • Very high payout, but almost impossible to win consistently.
  • Suitable only as a small “fun” bet.

3. Money Management

  1. Set stop-loss and stop-win limits
  • Stop if you lose 30% of your bankroll.
  • Lock in profit if you reach 50% gain.
  1. Divide bankroll into units
  • Example: with 1,000 bankroll, use 20 units of 50 each.
  • This allows survival through losing streaks.
  1. Avoid Martingale (doubling after losses)
  • Sic Bo variance is high, and Martingale can quickly drain your bankroll.

4. Practical Tips

  • Stick to bets with low house edge (Big/Small, Odd/Even).
  • Use combination bets for balance.
  • Do not chase losses emotionally.
  • Adjust bet size depending on winning or losing streaks.
  • Remember that the casino has the long-term edge. Your goal is to win small and play longer, not to chase jackpots.

5. Example Strategy

Bankroll: 1,000

  • Unit size: 50
  • Bet plan per round:
    • Big/Small: 100 (2 units)
    • Total 9 or 10: 50 (1 unit)
  • Total bet: 150
  • This provides steady results with a chance to recover losses when totals hit.

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