Sic Bo Rules, Table Sections and Probability

Sic Bo is a three-dice game in which the table groups outcomes such as totals, individual numbers, pairs and triples. This guide explains the layout and probability terminology for adult readers in Canada. WinnerOnline provides information and does not host dice games or accept bets.

Three Dice and One-Round Outcomes

Each round produces a result from three six-sided dice. Unlike the point phase in craps, the common Sic Bo categories settle on that round’s result. Physical shakers and software-generated presentations differ, and a game’s rules define the precise procedure.

How the Game is Played

In a physical version, three six-sided dice are placed inside a glass dome or a wooden chest. The dealer (or the software in a digital version) activates the shaker. Before the result is revealed, players place their chips on a diverse betting layout that features dozens of different potential outcomes. Once the dice come to rest, the winning combinations are lit up on the table, and payouts are distributed.

Understanding the Betting Layout

The labels identify covered outcomes. Box size, colour and position do not establish safety or expected return. See the Sic Bo table-layout explanation.

Even-Money Bets: Small and Big

Under common rules, these categories pay 1:1 but exclude every triple.

Small: You bet that the total sum of the three dice will be between 4 and 10.
Big: You bet that the total sum will be between 11 and 17.
Triple exclusion: Both Small and Big bets lose if a Triple (three of the same number) appears. This gives the house its 2.78% edge on these specific bets.

Sum Bets

You can wager on the exact total of the three dice, ranging from 4 to 17. The probability and payout are separate quantities. Payout schedules vary; the following figures are examples rather than universal rules:

Sums of 4 or 17: Among totals 4 through 17, these are the least frequent; an example payout is 60:1.
Sums of 9, 10, 11, or 12: These are central totals, but 9 and 12 are less frequent than 10 and 11. Check each number’s actual payout label rather than assuming they all pay the same.

Single Number Bets

This category concerns whether a specific number (1 through 6) appears on at least one die. A common payout schedule is shown below; versions can differ.

If it appears on one die, you are paid 1:1.
If it appears on two dice, you are paid 2:1.
If it appears on all three dice, you are paid 3:1.

Double and Triple Bets

These categories cover matching faces. The stated payouts are examples and must be checked against the game’s rules.

Double: You bet that at least two of the three dice will show a specific number (e.g., two 5s). This typically pays 10:1.
Any Triple: You win if all three dice show the same number (any number from 1-6). This pays 30:1.
Specific Triple: A specific triplet means all three dice show the nominated face (e.g., three 4s). An example payout is 180:1.

Probability and the House Edge

With three independent fair six-sided dice there are 216 equally likely ordered outcomes. The table below calculates house edge using the example payouts shown. “6:1” means six units of net winnings for one unit staked, with the stake returned on a win.

Bet Type	Probability	Typical Payout	House Edge
Small / Big	48.61%	1:1	2.78%
Two Dice Combo	13.89%	6:1	2.78%
Sum of 10 or 11	12.50%	6:1	12.50%
Any Triple	2.78%	30:1	13.89%
Specific Triple	0.46%	180:1	16.20%

House edge equals one minus the probability-weighted total return under the specified rules. A lower house edge remains an expected cost, and a larger payout does not imply a positive return.

Common Betting Claims and Their Limits

A staking system does not change the dice distribution. The following distinctions prevent common misinterpretations:

Frequent Outcomes Are Not Safe Outcomes

Small and Big can still lose, including when a triple appears. Their frequency does not guarantee a steady balance or a minimum session length. Increasing stakes after losses does not remove their house edge.

Combined Bets and Shared Exposure

Different bets can be exposed to the same roll. Combining a broad category with a rare triple does not guarantee that either wins or that any payout covers the combined stake.

Covering Several Totals

Covering additional totals generally requires additional stakes. The correct comparison includes all amounts wagered and every payout, rather than counting only the occasions when one component wins.

Sic Bo Etiquette and Digital Play

Live interfaces commonly close entries before the result is revealed; digital versions follow their own timing and settlement procedures. Touch controls, colour coding and a video stream do not guarantee error-free input, fairness or payment.

Sources and Related Information

The published rules of the specific Canadian venue or authorised service determine the applicable paytable and settlement conditions. See also Sic Bo odds and payouts and Canadian gambling-support resources.

Explore the full section: casino game guides.

More Guides in This Section

Sic Bo rules and betting options · Sic Bo odds and betting-system claims · live Sic Bo and multiplier variants.