Top 6 Darts Betting Strategies
Darts is no longer just a pub game, and the pros of the modern era battle for eye-watering sums of money at the oche.
Bettors also want a slice of the action, so oddsmakers have responded with more darts markets and promotions than ever before, as the sport continues to surge in popularity.
We've compiled our top darts betting tips to help you beat the bookies. Read on to improve your darts betting strategy and learn how to approach live darts betting while matches are in-play.
No. 1: Use Darts Statistics Wisely
While statistics like average scores and checkout percentages are helpful, they don’t always tell the whole story.
Contextualising these stats—and considering how a player performs under pressure or against certain opponents—can provide a more accurate picture.
The best way to combine context with stats is to watch plenty of darts throughout the year so that you can use the “eye test” and the numbers to help place winning bets.
No. 2: Know the Darts Calendar
Players might peak during specific periods and will usually prioritise some tournaments over others. Knowing the context of different events during the year can be crucial when placing bets.
The venue and crowd can influence player performance. Some players thrive in specific atmospheres or struggle in others.
A relative rookie might struggle in the World Darts Championship in front of a raucous Ally Pally crowd, for example, when up against an experienced veteran of the oche.
No. 3: Take Darts Formats into Account
Darts matches can vary significantly in format, with the more prestigious tournaments generally consisting of longer matches.
The best players have more time to recover from a bad start in longer formats. Conversely, underdogs have a better chance of causing an upset in shorter formats.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial for informed darts betting.
No. 4: Research Form
Understanding how form affects performance in darts is a key darts betting tip.
Research recent results, head-to-head records, and a player's history in specific tournaments for valuable insights.
The official PDC website has a detailed results database if you're looking for historical head-to-head results.
No. 5: Specialise in a Market
There are dozens of darts betting markets to choose from—from match winners to highest checkouts, correct scores, total 180s, and much more.
But narrow your focus to just one or two markets as part of your darts betting strategy, to become an expert in those areas.
You can identify value more easily by specialising in this way.
No. 6: Take Advantage of Live Darts Betting
The most important of our darts betting tips is to take full advantage of in-play (live) betting.
The best darts betting sites have many live betting options while matches are ongoing.
For example, if you bet on a particular player to win after they happen to go a few legs down, you'll get much better odds than you would from a pre-match bet. If they surge back to win the match, you're sitting pretty.
Big upsets are common in darts, and often the favourite can play poorly due to nerves. Alternatively, the underdog might catch a streak of form and turn the game around. You can sniff out these opportunities by watching the beginning of a match before you place a bet.
Sometimes, you can capitalise on final score odds if you think a losing player is giving up. Some pros may mentally check out or lose motivation if things aren’t going their way, if, for example, they are two sets down in a five-set match, especially if they’ve been playing poorly.
Similarly, when watching live darts, you can determine the player who will land the most 180s in a game. If the favourite struggles to find triple-20s easily, you can get a favorable price on the underdog.
“Highest Checkout” betting also comes with clues once play has started. Before you bet, note who is finishing well and who isn't. The player finishing best will take the highest checkout, allowing you to find value in the live odds.
Final Thoughts on Darts Betting Tips
Successful darts betting hinges on a deep understanding of the game, the players, and the dynamics of different tournaments.
Consider the players' current form, head-to-head history, and performance in similar conditions or stages. It's also crucial to factor in the tournament format and the psychological aspects of the game, as they can significantly influence outcomes.
While statistical analysis is invaluable, the unpredictable nature of sports, including darts, means there is no guaranteed darts betting strategy. Bet responsibly, set limits, and enjoy the thrill and excitement that darts betting brings.
