Betting Strategy Progression Calculators
Step-by-step bet escalation tables for every major betting system. Pick a strategy to see exactly how bets grow, when you'll bust, and the real risk-reward math.
Martingale
Double after each loss. The most famous and most dangerous system.
Fibonacci
Follow the Fibonacci sequence. Slower than Martingale, but still escalates.
D'Alembert
Add 1 unit per loss. The gentlest negative progression.
Labouchere
Cancellation system targeting specific profit. Moderate escalation.
Paroli
Double after wins, 3-step max. Risk is always just 1 base bet per cycle.
1-3-2-6
Elegant 4-step win sequence. Losing at step 3+ still profits.
Oscar's Grind
Hold on loss, +1 unit on win. Targets 1-unit profit per cycle.
How Do They Compare?
| Strategy | Type | Escalation | Losses Until $10K at Risk ($10 base) | Risk Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martingale | Negative | Exponential (2ⁿ) | 10 steps | Extreme: rare but catastrophic busts |
| Fibonacci | Negative | Fibonacci (~1.618ⁿ) | 15 steps | High: slower escalation, deeper recovery |
| D'Alembert | Negative | Linear (+1 unit) | 45 steps | Moderate: survives much longer streaks |
| Labouchere | Negative | Linear (+1 unit) | ~42 steps | Moderate: configurable sequence |
| Paroli | Positive | Exponential (wins only) | N/A (flat on loss) | Low: max loss is 1 base bet |
| 1-3-2-6 | Positive | Fixed 4-step | N/A (flat on loss) | Very low: max loss is 2 units |
| Oscar's Grind | Negative | Flat (on losses) | 1,000 steps | Very low: most conservative system |
The Truth About Betting Progressions
No Strategy Beats the Edge
Every betting system has the same expected value as flat betting. Progressions reshape the distribution of outcomes — more frequent small wins vs. rare catastrophic losses — but don't change the math.
Negative vs Positive
Negative progressions (Martingale, Fibonacci) chase losses with bigger bets. Positive progressions (Paroli, 1-3-2-6) ride winning streaks. Positive systems cap your downside but limit upside.
Why These Tables Matter
The progression table shows you the exact moment your strategy fails — the step where you hit the table limit, bust your bankroll, or can no longer recover. Know your limits before you play.