Kelly Criterion Calculator – Bet Smarter, Maximize Value

Use our free Kelly Criterion Calculator to determine the optimal stake size for your bets. Based on your estimated probability and current odds, this tool tells you how much of your bankroll to risk – so you don't overbet or leave value on the table.

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Kelly Criterion Calculator

American
American
Decimal
Fractional

Results

Kelly Percentage: -
Kelly Fraction: -
Optimal Bet (Full Kelly): -
Conservative (Half Kelly): -
Very Conservative (Quarter Kelly): -
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What Is the Kelly Criterion?

The Kelly Criterion is a staking formula that helps bettors determine the ideal amount to wager based on their edge and bankroll. It aims to maximize long-term growth by calculating the optimal bet size where the expected value is highest without risking too much of your bankroll.

Unlike flat betting or gut-feel staking, the Kelly strategy uses a mathematical formula that takes into account:

  • Your perceived probability of winning
  • The odds offered by the sportsbook
  • Your current bankroll

The result is a recommended stake percentage that scales your wager according to your perceived edge.

How the Kelly Criterion Calculator Works

Our Kelly Criterion Calculator simplifies the math for you. Here’s how it works:

  1. Enter your bankroll – the total amount you're willing to bet with.
  2. Input the odds – use decimal, fractional, or moneyline formats.
  3. Estimate your win probability – your true probability, not the bookmaker's implied odds.
  4. Adjust fractional Kelly – fine-tune your risk level by using a portion of the recommended stake (e.g., 0.5 for 50% Kelly).

The calculator will instantly return:

  • Optimal stake as a percentage of bankroll
  • Expected value of the bet
  • Adjusted bet amount for fractional Kelly strategies

Kelly Criterion Calculation Example

Let’s say you have a $1,000 bankroll and believe a team has a 60% chance of winning at odds of +150:

  • The full Kelly formula might suggest a 14.16% bet, or $141.60
  • If you use a fractional Kelly of 0.5 (more conservative), your stake would be $70.80
  • The expected value is positive, indicating a good value bet

But if your win probability is below the break-even point, the Kelly Criterion might recommend no bet at all, helping you avoid -EV wagers.

Why Use the GambleSpot Kelly Calculator?

Traditional betting strategies often overlook the importance of bankroll management. The Kelly Criterion helps you avoid overbetting while ensuring you take full advantage of +EV opportunities.

With our Kelly Criterion Calculator:

  • You get instant, accurate staking advice
  • It adapts to your risk profile (via fractional Kelly)
  • It helps you sustain and grow your bankroll over time

Use it before each wager to ensure your betting decisions are backed by math—not just intuition.

Questions You May Have

What does the Kelly Criterion Calculator do?

It calculates the ideal percentage of your bankroll to stake on a bet, based on your odds and perceived edge, to maximize long-term returns.

How do I calculate Kelly Criterion manually?

The basic formula is: f = (b * p - q), divided by b. Where f = fraction of bankroll to bet, b = odds - 1, p = win probability, and q = 1 - p.

Is the Kelly Criterion safe to use?

It's widely accepted by professionals for managing risk, but using full Kelly can be aggressive. Many bettors prefer fractional Kelly (like 50%) for more conservative staking.

What happens if my edge is negative?

If the calculator returns a negative value, it means the bet has no value - you should skip it. This is one of the biggest benefits of using the Kelly system.

Author
Author: Paul Daniel Flores
Updated: 4 hours ago
Author: Paul Daniel Flores
Writer l Sports and Esports Expert
Updated: 4 hours ago

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