Kelly Criterion Calculator


Calculate optimal bet sizes using the Kelly Criterion formula. This calculator helps determine the percentage of your bankroll to wager to maximise long-term growth while managing risk.

Betting Parameters

$

Bet Information

%

Advanced Options

(1 = full Kelly)

Understanding the Kelly Criterion Calculator

If you're into betting, you've probably heard about the Kelly Criterion. This tool helps you figure out how much of your bankroll to wager. By using this calculator, you aim to grow your funds while keeping risks in check. It’s designed for anyone wanting to make smarter bets, whether you're a newbie or a seasoned bettor.

Key Features of the Calculator

The Kelly Criterion Calculator comes loaded with features that make it user-friendly and effective. Here are some highlights:

  • Bankroll Input: You can easily enter your current bankroll amount.
  • Multiple Odds Formats: Choose between American, Decimal, Fractional, or Probability formats.
  • Win Probability: Estimate your chances of winning, expressed as a percentage.
  • Advanced Options: Adjust the Kelly fraction and decimal places for more customized results.

How to Use the Calculator Effectively

Using the Kelly Criterion Calculator is pretty straightforward. Start by entering your current bankroll and selecting the odds format you prefer. Next, you’ll need to input the betting odds and your estimated win probability. If you want to take a more cautious approach, you can set a Kelly fraction to less than 1, which adjusts your recommended bet size.

The Benefits of Using the Kelly Criterion

There are several advantages to applying the Kelly Criterion when placing bets:

  • Maximize Growth: It aims to boost the long-term growth of your bankroll.
  • Risk Management: Automatically adjusts your bet size based on your edge.
  • Systematic Betting: Offers a structured way to choose how much to bet, rather than guessing.

A Closer Look at the Results Section

After you input your data, the results section provides valuable insights. You’ll see the recommended bet size as a percentage of your bankroll, as well as the dollar amount. Other key metrics include the edge and expected value, helping you understand your betting scenario better. This section is crucial for visualizing how your decisions translate into potential profits.

Exploring the Bankroll Growth Simulation

One of the standout features of the calculator is the bankroll growth simulation. This graph visualises how different betting strategies might affect your bankroll over time. You can see the potential outcomes of using full Kelly, half Kelly, or fixed percentage betting. It’s a practical way to grasp how your betting strategy could play out in the long run.

Understanding the Formula Behind the Criterion

Central to the Kelly Criterion Calculator is the formula that underpins its calculations:

[ \text{Kelly %} = \frac{(bp - q)}{b} ]

Here, ( b ) represents the decimal odds minus one, ( p ) is the probability of winning, and ( q ) is the probability of losing. Knowing this formula can deepen your understanding of your results and help you make more informed betting decisions.

Knowing the Limitations of the Kelly Criterion

While the Kelly Criterion offers many benefits, it also has limitations to consider:

  • Volatility: Betting full Kelly can lead to big swings in your bankroll.
  • Estimation Challenges: You need to know the true winning probability, which can be tough.
  • Fractional Kelly: Many bettors prefer to use fractional Kelly to minimize risk.

Being aware of these factors allows you to make more informed decisions when using the calculator and betting in general.