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 | Hybrid | 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, rarer 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.
Goes with this. Run Monte Carlo sims of Fibonacci, D'Alembert, Labouchere, Paroli, 1-3-2-6 and Oscar's Grind side by side on the same bankroll and edge.
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