Darts Betting 101 – How to Bet on Darts For Maximum Success
Darts Betting 101 introduces you to the exciting world of wagering on one of the most fast-paced precision sports.
Darts matches are typically played in sets and legs, with players aiming to reach zero by finishing on a double. Popular betting markets include match winner, correct score, and handicap betting, while prop bets like most 180s, highest checkout, and first to X legs add extra excitement.
For tournament betting, you can wager on outright winners, each-way bets, and stage of elimination for top players.
Whether it’s the PDC World Championship, Premier League Darts, or the UK Open, there are plenty of opportunities to bet on darts throughout the year.
This guide will break down the essentials of darts betting, helping both beginners and seasoned bettors make informed decisions while enjoying the sport responsibly. Darts betting expert Andy Lang shares the basic, intermediate and expert tactics for maximum success!
How Darts Matches Work
In professional darts, two players alternate turns throwing three darts per visit at a standard dartboard.
– The board is divided into 20 numbered sections (1 to 20).
– There are two rings that double or triple the point value of each segment.
– The bullseye is worth 50 (inner) or 25 (outer).
Most matches use the 501 scoring system-each player starts with 501 points and races to zero, ending on a double.
Match Formats:
– Legs-Based Format: Each leg is a single 501 game. Best of a set number of legs wins the match.
– Sets-Based Format: Win multiple legs to take a set. Then win a set number of sets to win the match.
– Some formats require a two-leg cushion or special rules for final sets.
Most Popular Darts Betting Markets
Darts offers a wide variety of betting options that go well beyond just picking winners. Here’s a breakdown of the most common (and profitable) ones:
Darts Moneyline and Match Betting
Bet on which player will win the match. Just like any other sport.
Note: In some formats like the Premier League, draws are possible-so check the format before betting.
Darts Correct Score
Predict the exact final score in legs or sets. For example, betting on a 10-6 win.
This market offers bigger odds but requires precision.
Set or Leg Handicap
The favorite starts with a deficit. For example:
– -2.5 handicap means your player must win by 3+ legs or sets.
– Common in early-round mismatches where favorites are heavily favored on the moneyline.
Over/Under Total Legs or Sets
Bet on how long a match will go-regardless of the winner. Example: Over 9.5 total legs in a best-of-14 match.
Most 180s
Bet on which player will hit the most 180s (three treble 20s = 180).
– Great for aggressive scorers.
– Some markets also offer total 180s in a match or across a tournament.
Highest Checkout
Which player will hit the highest checkout (e.g., finishing a leg with 170, the max)?
– A fun bet that rewards sharp finishers.
– Common in both match and tournament props.
170 Checkout
Bet specifically on whether anyone hits a 170 checkout, the highest possible finish.
Nine-Dart Finish
Bet on whether a player will complete a nine-darter-finishing 501 in only 9 darts.
– Rare, but increasingly seen at the top level.
– Available in both match and tournament markets.
Darts Tournament Betting Options
Outright Winner: Bet on who will win the entire tournament.
Name the Finalists: A longer-odds prop where you pick both players to reach the final.
Darts Live Betting
Darts is perfect for live betting, thanks to its fast pace and momentum swings.
Common in-play bets include:
– Who will win the next leg or set
– Over/under on total legs
– Live handicaps and updated moneylines
Tip: Use betting exchanges like Betfair or Smarkets for in-play darts betting-they often offer better liquidity and odds.
Tips for Betting on Darts
1. Know the Format – Draws are possible in some formats like Premier League. Always double-check before betting.
2. Track Player Form – Who’s in rhythm? Who’s struggling on doubles? Darts is a momentum game.
3. Understand Playing Styles – Some players are 180 machines but inconsistent finishers. Others play more methodically.
4. Shop for Value – Markets like Most 180s or Highest Checkout can offer better value than the match winner.
5. Use Handicaps Smartly – Especially in early rounds with mismatches. You’ll get better odds on favorites via spread betting.
6. Manage Your Bankroll – Stick to a consistent staking strategy. Darts is unpredictable and variance can swing fast.
Major Darts Tournaments to Watch
– PDC World Championship
– Premier League Darts
– UK Open
– World Matchplay
– Grand Slam of Darts
Darts Betting 101: Final Thoughts
Darts might seem like a niche betting market, but it’s one of the most profitable for those who put in the time to understand the format, form, and playing styles.
From value on handicap markets to the drama of nine-dart finishes, darts offers a wide range of ways to find edges-and cash tickets.
Get premium darts picks from Andy Lang, one of the industry’s best using the button below!
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