The Hi-Lo bet in craps is a one-roll proposition bet that the next roll will be either a 2 (the lowest possible total, “snake eyes”) or a 12 (the highest possible total, “boxcars”). It pays 15:1 and carries an 11.11% house edge.
It’s called “Hi-Lo” because you’re betting on both extremes of the dice — the highest and lowest possible outcomes. Some tables mark it as “High-Low” or simply show the 2 and 12 together in the proposition area.
Hi-Lo Bet Calculator
How the Hi-Lo Bet Works
- You WIN if the next roll is a 2 (1+1) or 12 (6+6) — pays 15:1
- You LOSE if any other number rolls
- It’s a one-roll bet — resolved immediately on the next throw
To place it, toss your chips to the stickman and call “Hi-Lo”. The minimum is typically $1 or $2 depending on the table.
Hi-Lo Odds and Payouts
| Outcome | Ways to Roll | Probability | Payout |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 (snake eyes: 1+1) | 1 | 2.78% | 15:1 |
| 12 (boxcars: 6+6) | 1 | 2.78% | |
| Combined (2 or 12) | 2 | 5.56% | 15:1 |
| Any other number (lose) | 34 | 94.44% | Lose bet |
House edge: 11.11%
The true odds of rolling a 2 or 12 combined are 17:1 (34 losing outcomes vs 2 winning). The casino pays 15:1, keeping the difference as their edge.
Hi-Lo vs. Betting 2 and 12 Separately
You could bet on 2 and 12 individually (each pays 30:1 with a 13.89% house edge). The Hi-Lo combines them into one bet at 15:1 with a lower 11.11% edge. Here’s the comparison on a $2 total wager:
| Approach | Cost | If 2 rolls | If 12 rolls | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2 Hi-Lo | $2 | Win $30 | Win $30 | 11.11% |
| $1 on 2 + $1 on 12 | $2 | Win $30, lose $1 on 12 = net $29 | Win $30, lose $1 on 2 = net $29 | 13.89% |
The Hi-Lo is slightly better mathematically because you don’t lose the other half when one hits. It’s a cleaner bet with a lower edge.
Hi-Lo FAQs
What is a Hi-Lo bet in craps?
A one-roll bet that the next roll will be either 2 (snake eyes) or 12 (boxcars). It pays 15:1 with an 11.11% house edge.
Is Hi-Lo the same as a Horn bet?
No — the Horn bet covers 2, 3, 11, AND 12 (four numbers). Hi-Lo only covers 2 and 12 (two numbers). The Horn has a higher house edge (12.5%) but covers more outcomes.
When would you bet Hi-Lo?
It’s purely an entertainment bet. Some players use it on come-out rolls hoping for a quick 15:1 hit. There’s no strategic advantage — the 11.11% house edge makes it expensive long-term. Keep it small and occasional.
Final Thoughts
The Hi-Lo is a straightforward proposition bet — you’re betting on the two rarest outcomes (2 and 12) at 15:1. It’s slightly better than betting them separately, but still carries a steep 11.11% house edge. Use it for fun, not as a strategy. For better odds, stick to Pass Line with Odds or Place 6/8.
Check our craps payout calculator for exact Hi-Lo payouts at any bet amount.
