Round Robin Calculator: Multiple Parlay Combos

A round robin calculator helps you see exactly what you are betting before you place a multi-leg wager. Instead of guessing how many parlays you are creating or being surprised by the total cost, you can model every combination, view projected payouts, and run what-if scenarios to understand your risk.

Whether you are building a Sunday NFL slate, a March Madness bracket, or a handful of NBA player props, the round robin calculator shows you every underlying parlay, the total stake required, and what happens if one or more legs lose. This is the tool to use before you tap that bet button in your sportsbook app.

If you are new to parlays, start with our complete parlay betting guide to understand the basics. Once you are comfortable with standard parlays, round robins offer a way to spread your risk across multiple combinations rather than putting everything on a single ticket.

Important: Round robins can multiply your total stake quickly. The calculator helps you understand this risk, but it does not guarantee profits or beat the house. Always bet responsibly and only wager what you can afford to lose.

Round Robin Calculator: Build Multiple Parlay Combos in Seconds

The round robin calculator takes the guesswork out of multi-leg betting. Instead of manually calculating how many 2-leg, 3-leg, or 4-leg parlays you can create from a set of picks, the tool does the math instantly and shows you:

• Total number of underlying parlays in your round robin
• Total cost based on your stake per bet or total budget
• Every individual parlay with its specific legs, odds, and potential payout
• Combined payout if all legs win
• What-if scenarios showing profit or loss when some legs win and others lose

The calculator is designed for bettors who already understand what parlay betting is and want a more flexible way to cover multiple outcomes. If you have ever stared at a sportsbook betslip wondering why your round robin costs so much or whether you still make money if one leg loses, this tool answers those questions before you commit real money.

Most online round robin calculators give you a single number and expect you to trust it. This calculator goes further by showing the complete picture. You see every underlying parlay with its specific legs, the odds for each combination, and the potential payout if that parlay wins. This transparency helps you understand exactly what you are betting on and why the numbers look the way they do.

The two most common questions bettors have about round robins are "Why does this cost so much?" and "What happens if one of my picks loses?" Both questions stem from the same issue: round robins create multiple bets from your picks, and that structure is not always intuitive. A 5-team round robin by 2s creates 10 separate parlays. If you enter $10 per bet, your total cost is $100, not $10. The calculator makes this explicit so you never get surprised at checkout.

The what-if scenario feature addresses the second question directly. Instead of just showing you the best-case outcome where all legs win, you can simulate what happens when one, two, or more legs lose. You might discover that going 3-2 on a 5-team round robin still leaves you with a small loss, or that the same record with different odds produces a profit. This kind of pre-bet modeling is exactly what separates informed bettors from those who are gambling blind.

Key features that set this calculator apart from simpler tools:

• Ticket breakdown view: See every underlying parlay listed individually, not just a summary number. This helps you understand exactly what you are betting on.
• Stake mode toggle: Choose between setting your stake per bet (the amount for each underlying parlay) or your total budget (which the calculator divides across all parlays).
• Scenario simulation: Adjust the number of winning legs to see how your profit or loss changes. This is the best way to answer questions like "Do I still win if one leg loses?"
• US sportsbook terminology: The calculator uses the same language you see in DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars, so you can easily replicate your model in the app.

Whether you are building a Sunday NFL card, putting together a March Madness upset special, or combining NBA player props across multiple games, the calculator handles the complexity so you can focus on your picks. Use it to compare different structures (by 2s vs by 3s, for example) and find the setup that matches your risk tolerance and bankroll.

Ready to model your first round robin? Use the calculator below, then read on for step-by-step instructions and strategy tips.

What Is a Round Robin Bet? Quick Definition

A round robin bet is a collection of smaller parlays created from a larger set of picks. Instead of placing one parlay with all your selections, you break them into every possible combination of a specified size.

For example, if you have three picks (Team A, Team B, and Team C) and select "by 2s," you create three separate 2-leg parlays:

• Parlay 1: Team A + Team B
• Parlay 2: Team A + Team C
• Parlay 3: Team B + Team C

Each of these parlays is an independent bet. If all three teams win, all three parlays pay out. If one team loses, the parlays containing that team lose, but the one parlay without that team can still win.

The terminology "by 2s" or "by 3s" refers to the size of each underlying parlay. A 4-team round robin "by 3s" would create four 3-leg parlays (one for each combination of three teams from your four picks). A 5-team round robin "by 2s" would create ten 2-leg parlays.

This page focuses on using the calculator to model these bets. For a deeper explanation of the rules, math, and theory behind round robins, see our round robin betting explained guide.

How to Use the Round Robin Calculator

The round robin calculator is straightforward once you understand each input. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough to help you model your first bet.

Before you start entering numbers, take a moment to gather the information you need. Open your sportsbook app and find the selections you want to include in your round robin. Note the American odds for each pick, as you will need to enter these exactly as shown. Odds change frequently, especially close to game time, so using current numbers gives you the most accurate projection.

The calculator works with any combination of bet types that your sportsbook allows in parlays. You can mix moneylines, point spreads, totals, and player props in the same round robin, as long as your book permits it. Some sportsbooks restrict certain combinations, particularly correlated bets from the same game, so keep that in mind when planning your structure.

Think about your total budget before you start. Round robins can get expensive quickly because you are placing multiple bets. Deciding how much you are willing to spend in total helps you work backward to determine the appropriate stake per bet. The calculator supports both approaches, letting you set either a per-bet stake or a total budget that gets divided across all parlays.

The workflow follows four main steps: entering your picks with odds, choosing your combination structure (by 2s, by 3s, etc.), setting your stake or budget, and running what-if scenarios to understand your outcomes. Each step builds on the previous one, so take your time and verify your inputs before moving forward. A small error in odds entry, for example, can significantly change your projected payouts.

One common mistake is entering odds in the wrong format. The calculator uses American odds, which is the standard in US sportsbooks. Positive odds like +150 mean you win $150 on a $100 bet. Negative odds like -110 mean you need to bet $110 to win $100. If you accidentally enter decimal odds or swap positive and negative signs, your projections will be wrong.

Another tip: model your bet before you place it, not after. The calculator is most valuable as a planning tool. Once you understand the cost, structure, and potential outcomes, you can decide whether the bet makes sense for your situation. If the numbers do not look right, adjust your structure or stake until they do. This is much better than discovering problems after you have already committed real money.

The following steps walk you through each part of the calculator in detail.

Step 1: Enter Your Picks and Odds

Start by adding each selection you want to include in your round robin. For each pick, enter:

• The selection name (optional but helpful for tracking)
• The American odds for that pick (e.g., -110, +150, -200)

You can include any combination of bet types that your sportsbook allows in parlays: moneylines, point spreads, totals (over/under), and certain player props. Just make sure the odds you enter match what you see in your sportsbook app, as odds can change quickly.

Most sportsbooks allow round robins with 3 to 8 legs, though some may have different limits. The calculator supports a wide range of combinations, but remember that more legs means more underlying parlays and higher total cost.

Tip: Start with the exact odds from your sportsbook. Even small differences between the calculator and your app can lead to different payout projections.

Step 2: Choose By 2s, By 3s, and Other Combinations

After entering your picks, select the round robin type. The options depend on how many legs you have entered:

• By 2s: Every possible 2-leg parlay from your picks
• By 3s: Every possible 3-leg parlay from your picks
• By 4s, By 5s, etc.: Larger combination sizes

You can also select multiple combination sizes. For example, a 4-team round robin "by 2s and 3s" would include all six 2-leg parlays plus all four 3-leg parlays, for a total of ten bets.

Here is a quick reference for how many parlays are created based on your picks and combination size:

Number of Picks	By 2s	By 3s	By 4s	By 5s
3 picks	3 bets	1 bet	-	-
4 picks	6 bets	4 bets	1 bet	-
5 picks	10 bets	10 bets	5 bets	1 bet
6 picks	15 bets	20 bets	15 bets	6 bets
7 picks	21 bets	35 bets	35 bets	21 bets
8 picks	28 bets	56 bets	70 bets	56 bets

As you can see, the number of bets grows quickly. An 8-team round robin by 3s involves 56 separate parlays. This is why the calculator is essential—it helps you understand the true scope of your wager before you place it.

Step 3: Set Stake Per Bet vs Total Budget

One of the most common sources of confusion with round robins is understanding how your stake is applied. The calculator offers two modes:

Stake Per Bet: The amount you enter applies to each underlying parlay. If you set a $10 stake and have a 4-team round robin by 2s (6 parlays), your total cost is $60 (6 x $10).

Total Budget: The amount you enter is your maximum total spend. The calculator divides this evenly across all parlays. If you enter $60 total budget for the same 4-team by 2s round robin, each parlay gets $10.

This distinction matters because sportsbook apps handle it differently:

• DraftKings typically shows "wager per bet" as the default, which is stake per bet.
• FanDuel may present options differently depending on the market.
• BetMGM and Caesars have their own labeling conventions.

Always double-check what your sportsbook means before confirming your bet. Use the calculator to figure out your ideal stake structure, then carefully match it in the app.

Step 4: Run What-If Scenarios

The scenario simulation feature is where the round robin calculator truly shines. Instead of just showing you the best-case outcome (all legs win), it lets you explore what happens when things do not go perfectly.

Adjust the number of winning legs and see:

• Total payout for that scenario
• Net profit or loss after subtracting your total stake
• Which parlays win and which lose

This is the best way to answer the question every round robin bettor asks: "If one leg loses, do I still make money?"

The answer depends on your odds and structure. Sometimes going 3-1 on a 4-team round robin by 2s still results in a small loss. Other times it produces a modest profit. The calculator shows you exactly where you stand.

Round Robin Cost, Payouts, and Combinations Explained

Understanding how round robin costs and payouts work helps you make smarter decisions about when these bets make sense. This section walks through the math in plain terms so you can verify calculator outputs and understand why certain structures produce the results they do.

The cost of a round robin depends on two factors: the number of underlying parlays and your stake per bet. These two numbers multiplied together give you your total investment. A 4-team round robin by 2s creates 6 parlays. At $10 per bet, that is $60 total. The same 4 teams structured by 3s creates only 4 parlays, costing $40 total at the same per-bet stake. Choosing your structure wisely can significantly impact your total outlay.

The number of combinations follows mathematical rules that are worth understanding at a high level. When you select "by 2s," the calculator creates every possible unique pair from your picks. With 4 picks (call them A, B, C, D), the pairs are: AB, AC, AD, BC, BD, CD. That is 6 combinations. With 5 picks, you get 10 pairs. With 6 picks, you get 15 pairs. The growth is not linear, which is why adding one more pick can substantially increase your cost.

The pattern holds for larger combination sizes. By 3s from 4 picks gives you 4 combinations (ABC, ABD, ACD, BCD). By 3s from 5 picks gives you 10 combinations. By 3s from 6 picks gives you 20 combinations. If you select multiple combination sizes, like "by 2s and 3s," you add the totals together. A 5-pick round robin by 2s and 3s creates 10 + 10 = 20 parlays.

Payouts work the same way as standard parlays. Each underlying parlay in your round robin is calculated independently. The odds for each leg are converted to decimal format and multiplied together, then multiplied by your stake. If a parlay wins, you receive that payout. If it loses, you lose the stake for that parlay. Your total return is the sum of all winning parlays minus your total cost.

What makes round robin payouts tricky to estimate is that the outcome depends not just on how many legs win, but on which specific legs win. If you have picks at different odds, losing your longest shot has a different impact than losing a heavy favorite. Two bettors with the same record (say, 3-1) can have very different outcomes depending on which pick lost. The calculator handles this complexity by showing you the exact payout for each scenario.

One counterintuitive aspect of round robin payouts is that partial wins do not always mean profit. Going 4-1 on a 5-team round robin sounds good, but if your one loss was a heavy favorite that appeared in most of your parlays, you might still end up in the red. The calculator's scenario feature helps you understand these dynamics before you bet.

The relationship between cost and potential return is also worth considering. Round robins cost more than single parlays because you are placing multiple bets. This additional investment buys you protection against one or two picks failing, but it also means your return on investment (ROI) is typically lower when everything hits. A single 4-leg parlay pays more per dollar wagered than a 4-team round robin when all legs win. The trade-off is that the parlay pays nothing if even one leg loses.

The following subsections break down payout calculations with specific examples and show you why costs can escalate quickly as you add complexity.

How to Calculate Round Robin Payouts

Each underlying parlay in a round robin is calculated the same way as a standard parlay:

1. Convert each American odds to decimal odds.

   • Positive odds: Divide by 100 and add 1. Example: +150 becomes 2.50.
   • Negative odds: Divide 100 by the absolute value and add 1. Example: -110 becomes 1.909.

2. Multiply the decimal odds of all legs in that parlay.

   • Example: A 2-leg parlay at -110 and +150 would be 1.909 x 2.50 = 4.773.

3. Multiply by your stake to get the potential payout.

   • Example: $10 stake x 4.773 = $47.73 payout (which includes your original $10 stake).

4. Repeat for every parlay in your round robin.

5. Add up all winning parlays to get your total payout.

The round robin calculator automates all of this, but understanding the process helps you spot-check results and understand why payouts vary based on odds.

Note: Real-world payouts may differ slightly from calculator projections due to sportsbook rounding rules, odds changes between the time you check and the time you bet, and specific book policies.

3-Team Round Robin Payout Example

Let us walk through a concrete example using a common scenario: three NFL sides, all at -110, structured as a 3-team round robin by 2s with $10 stake per bet.

Your picks:

• Chiefs -3.5 (-110)
• Bills -2.5 (-110)
• Eagles -1 (-110)

Round robin structure: By 2s creates 3 parlays

Parlay	Legs	Decimal Odds	Stake	Potential Payout
1	Chiefs + Bills	3.646	$10	$36.46
2	Chiefs + Eagles	3.646	$10	$36.46
3	Bills + Eagles	3.646	$10	$36.46

Total cost: $30 (3 parlays x $10 each)

Scenario outcomes:

Outcome	Parlays Won	Total Payout	Net Profit/Loss
All 3 win	3	$109.38	+$79.38
2 of 3 win	1	$36.46	+$6.46
1 of 3 wins	0	$0	-$30.00
0 of 3 win	0	$0	-$30.00

Notice that going 2-1 results in a small profit (+$6.46). This is one of the appeals of round robins—you can still come out ahead even when not all legs hit. However, going 1-2 or worse means losing your entire stake.

Why Round Robins Get Expensive Fast

The cost of a round robin grows quickly as you add more picks or select larger combination sizes. This is because the number of possible combinations increases exponentially.

The formula for combinations is: n! / (k! x (n-k)!)

Where n is your total number of picks and k is the size of each parlay. You do not need to memorize this, but it explains why adding just one extra pick can dramatically increase your total number of bets.

Consider this progression with a $10 stake per bet:

Round Robin	Number of Bets	Total Cost
4 picks by 2s	6	$60
5 picks by 2s	10	$100
6 picks by 2s	15	$150
6 picks by 3s	20	$200
6 picks by 2s and 3s	35	$350

Think of it as a "risk multiplier." Every additional leg or combination level multiplies your exposure. The calculator helps you see this before you commit, so you can adjust your stake or structure to stay within your bankroll limits.

Break-Even Scenarios: Do You Still Win if One Leg Loses?

This is the question at the heart of round robin betting: what happens when things do not go perfectly? Understanding break-even points helps you set realistic expectations and avoid the disappointment of thinking you won when the math says otherwise.

The short answer is: it depends on your odds and structure. Round robins can help you recover some money when one or two legs lose, but they do not guarantee profits in partial-win scenarios. The specific break-even point varies based on your combination structure, the odds of each pick, and which picks win or lose.

The intuition behind round robins is that they provide insurance. If one pick fails, you lose only the parlays containing that pick, not your entire bet. This is true, but the insurance has a cost: you are funding multiple bets instead of one. Whether that insurance pays off depends on the math of your specific situation.

To find your break-even point, you need to compare your total cost against the payout from the parlays that win. If you bet $100 total on a round robin, you need at least $100 in payouts to break even. The question is: how many legs need to win to generate that $100? The answer varies dramatically based on structure.

With "by 2s" structures, you need fewer legs to win for some parlays to pay out. In a 5-team round robin by 2s, going 2-3 still gives you one winning parlay (the one containing your two winners). That single parlay might not cover your total cost, but you get something back. With "by 3s" or "by 4s" structures, you need more legs to win before any parlay pays out.

The odds of your picks also matter significantly. Underdog parlays pay more per winning combination, which means fewer winning parlays are needed to reach break-even. Favorite-heavy parlays pay less per winning combination, requiring more winners to break even. A round robin with three +200 underdogs has a very different break-even profile than one with three -150 favorites.

Another factor is which specific legs lose. Not all losses are equal. If you have picks at +200, +100, and -150, losing the +200 pick eliminates your highest-paying parlays. Losing the -150 pick eliminates your lowest-paying parlays. Same record, different outcome. The calculator's scenario feature accounts for this by letting you specify which legs win or lose.

Let us examine a 4-team round robin by 3s to illustrate:

Your picks:

• Chiefs -110
• Bills -110
• Eagles +100
• Cowboys -105

Structure: By 3s creates 4 parlays (each containing 3 of your 4 picks)

Total cost: $40 (4 parlays x $10 each)

Outcome	Parlays Won	Approx Payout	Net Result
All 4 win	4	$280	+$240 profit
3 of 4 win	1	$65-75	+$25-35 profit
2 of 4 win	0	$0	-$40 loss
1 or 0 win	0	$0	-$40 loss

With by 3s, you need at least 3 of 4 legs to win for any parlay to pay out. Going 2-2 means every parlay has at least one losing leg, resulting in a total loss.

Compare this to a 5-team round robin by 2s:

Outcome	Parlays Won	Approx Result at -110 Odds
All 5 win	10 of 10	Strong profit
4 of 5 win	6 of 10	Moderate profit
3 of 5 win	3 of 10	Near break-even or small loss
2 of 5 win	1 of 10	Significant loss
1 or 0 win	0 of 10	Total loss

By 2s structures give you more chances to win something even with multiple losing legs, but the trade-off is that you have more bets to fund and your potential payout per winning parlay is smaller.

Key insight: Round robins can soften the blow compared to a single large parlay, but they do not eliminate risk. You can still lose money even when you "win more legs than you lose" depending on the exact odds and structure. Use the calculator to model your specific scenario before betting.

For deeper analysis of expected value and break-even math, see our round robin betting strategy guide.

How to Place Round Robins on DraftKings, FanDuel and Other Sportsbooks

Every major US sportsbook offers round robin betting, but the interface and terminology vary. Understanding how each platform handles round robins helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures the bet you place matches the bet you modeled in the calculator.

The biggest source of confusion across platforms is stake handling. Some apps show "wager per bet" as the default, meaning your entered amount applies to each underlying parlay. Others show "total wager" or let you choose between the two. If you enter $50 thinking it is your total spend but the app treats it as per-bet, you could end up wagering several hundred dollars. Always verify how the sportsbook interprets your stake before confirming.

Another common issue is terminology differences. DraftKings might call it "Round Robin" while FanDuel uses "Combos" or "Multi-Bet." The combination sizes might be labeled "By 2s" in one app and "2-Leg Parlays" in another. These are the same thing, but the different labels can cause confusion if you are switching between platforms.

Market eligibility also varies. Not all bet types can be included in round robins. Most sportsbooks allow moneylines, spreads, and totals, but some restrict certain player props or live bets. If you try to build a round robin and a selection is grayed out or unavailable, it usually means that market cannot be combined with others. The calculator cannot know these restrictions, so you may need to adjust your picks when you move to the app.

Minimum and maximum limits differ as well. Some books require at least 3 selections for a round robin. Others cap the number of legs at 8 or 10. There may also be maximum payouts that affect very large round robins. These limits are usually documented in the sportsbook's house rules or help section.

The general workflow is the same across platforms:

1. Add your selections to your betslip
2. Look for a "Round Robin" or "RR" option (usually near the parlay option)
3. Select your combination sizes (by 2s, by 3s, etc.)
4. Enter your stake (pay attention to whether it is per bet or total)
5. Confirm and place your bet

Before you confirm, always verify three things: the number of bets matches what you expected, the total cost matches what you calculated, and the potential payout is in the range you modeled. If any of these seem off, stop and figure out why before proceeding.

Push and void rules are another area where sportsbooks differ. If one of your legs results in a push (tie) or gets voided (game canceled, player injured before tip-off, etc.), sportsbooks typically reduce the affected parlays to fewer legs. A 3-leg parlay with one push becomes a 2-leg parlay. But the exact handling varies, and some books have specific rules for certain situations. Check your sportsbook's house rules if you are unsure.

Use the round robin calculator first to understand your bet, then replicate those settings in your sportsbook app. The calculator gives you the ideal scenario; the app shows you what you can actually bet.

How to Round Robin on DraftKings

DraftKings makes round robins accessible from the main betslip:

1. Add 3 or more selections to your betslip.
2. Tap the betslip icon to open your pending bets.
3. Look for "Round Robin" below the standard parlay option. DraftKings displays this automatically when you have enough legs.
4. Select your combination sizes. Options appear as "3 Pick RR," "By 2s," "By 3s," etc., depending on your number of selections.
5. Enter your stake. DraftKings defaults to "Wager Per Bet," which means your amount applies to each underlying parlay. A $10 wager on a 4-team by 2s (6 parlays) costs $60 total.
6. Review the total cost and potential payout before placing your bet.

Common DraftKings confusion: The "Per Bet" label means your stake multiplied by the number of parlays. If you want to spend exactly $60 total, divide by the number of parlays first (e.g., $60 / 6 = $10 per bet).

FanDuel Round Robin Explained

FanDuel's round robin feature works similarly to DraftKings but with some interface differences worth noting:

1. Add your selections to the betslip. FanDuel requires at least 3 selections to enable round robin options.
2. Open the betslip and scroll to find round robin options. FanDuel may label these as "Round Robin" or show specific combination sizes.
3. Select "Round Robin" or specific combination sizes like "2-Pick Combos" or "3-Pick Combos." You can select multiple sizes to combine them.
4. Enter your wager amount. FanDuel may display total wager differently than DraftKings, so check whether the amount shown is per bet or total. The betslip should show both the per-bet amount and the total cost.
5. Confirm the number of bets and total stake before placing. FanDuel displays a summary showing how many individual parlays are created.

FanDuel also shows you the number of combinations created and the total wager amount. Take a moment to verify this matches what you calculated in the calculator. If the numbers differ, double-check your odds entries and combination selections.

One area where FanDuel sometimes differs from competitors is in how it handles same-game combinations. FanDuel was an early leader in same-game parlays, and their round robin options may or may not include SGP-eligible markets depending on the specific selections. If you want to include multiple picks from the same game, check whether FanDuel allows that combination in a round robin structure.

Push and void handling: If one leg pushes (ties) or is voided, FanDuel typically reduces the parlay to the remaining legs. A 3-leg parlay becomes a 2-leg parlay. If a 2-leg parlay has one push, it becomes a straight bet at the remaining leg's odds. Check FanDuel's house rules for specifics, as handling can vary by market type.

Round Robins on BetMGM and Caesars

BetMGM: Access round robins through the betslip after adding 3+ selections. BetMGM labels options clearly (e.g., "Round Robin 2s," "Round Robin 3s"). The stake entry is typically per combination, meaning the amount you enter applies to each underlying parlay.

BetMGM's interface tends to be straightforward, showing you the number of bets and total cost before you confirm. One thing to watch for is that BetMGM may have different maximum payout limits for round robins compared to single parlays. If you are building a large round robin with high-odds picks, check whether any limits affect your potential payout.

BetMGM also offers "One Game Parlay" (their version of same-game parlays), and these can sometimes be included in round robin structures. However, the rules around combining OGPs with traditional picks in a round robin can be complex. If you are trying to mix these bet types, verify the app allows your specific combination.

Caesars: Similar process—add selections, open betslip, and look for round robin options. Caesars may use slightly different terminology but the concept is the same. Caesars often labels the options clearly, showing "2-Way," "3-Way," and so on to indicate the combination sizes.

Caesars has a robust mobile app and typically displays all the information you need: number of bets, stake per bet, total cost, and potential payout range. The app also tends to show push and void rules prominently, which is helpful for understanding exactly what happens in edge cases.

Both books may have minimum and maximum leg limits for round robins. If you do not see the option, check that you have the required number of selections and that all markets are eligible for parlay/round robin. Certain bet types, like first-basket props or live betting markets, may be excluded.

For any sportsbook: When in doubt, use the calculator to plan your bet, then carefully review the betslip summary before confirming. The few seconds spent double-checking can save you from costly mistakes. If the numbers in the app do not match your calculator projection, stop and figure out why before placing the bet.

Round Robin vs Parlay: Which Is Better for Your Bet Slip?

Round robins and standard parlays both combine multiple selections, but they serve different purposes and carry different risk profiles. Choosing between them depends on your confidence level, risk tolerance, and bankroll management approach.

A standard parlay puts all your eggs in one basket. You select multiple outcomes, and all of them must win for you to get paid. The upside is a potentially large payout from a small stake. The downside is that one missed pick means you lose everything. Parlays are high-variance bets that can produce big wins but also long losing streaks.

A round robin spreads your risk across multiple smaller parlays. You still need multiple picks to win, but you do not need all of them to win for every parlay to pay out. This reduces your maximum payout but also reduces your variance. You are less likely to hit a massive win, but you are also less likely to walk away with nothing.

The mathematical trade-off is straightforward: round robins cost more for the same set of picks, but they give you more chances to win something. Whether that trade-off makes sense depends on your goals. If you are playing for entertainment and want to maximize your chance of cashing something, round robins can be appealing. If you are hunting for a life-changing payout from a small stake, a single parlay is more efficient.

Think of round robins as paying for insurance. The extra bets are your premium. In exchange for that premium, you get protection against one or two picks failing. Like all insurance, it has a cost, and whether that cost is worth it depends on your situation.

One common mistake is assuming that round robins are "safer" in an absolute sense. They reduce variance, but they do not reduce the house edge. The sportsbook still has an advantage on every parlay in your round robin. You are just spreading that edge across more bets. In the long run, the expected loss from a round robin is actually higher than from a single parlay with the same picks because you are exposing more money to the house edge.

That said, "long run" thinking does not always apply to recreational bettors. If you are betting for fun with a fixed bankroll, reducing variance can extend your entertainment and keep you in action longer. The key is understanding the trade-offs and making an informed choice.

Factor	Single Parlay	Round Robin
Number of bets	1	Multiple (varies by structure)
Total cost	Your stake	Stake x number of parlays
If one leg loses	Entire bet loses	Only parlays with that leg lose
Potential max payout	Highest (all legs in one bet)	Lower (spread across multiple bets)
Variance	High (all or nothing)	Lower (partial wins possible)
Best for	High confidence in all picks	Hedging risk across picks

When a single parlay makes sense:

• You are highly confident in all your selections
• You want maximum payout potential from a small stake
• You are comfortable with all-or-nothing outcomes

When a round robin makes sense:

• You like several picks but acknowledge some uncertainty
• You want to reduce variance and increase chances of some return
• You are willing to pay more for that reduced risk

The cost trade-off: A round robin always costs more than a single parlay with the same picks because you are placing multiple bets. You are essentially paying for insurance against one or two picks failing.

For a detailed comparison including break-even analysis, see our round robin vs parlay guide.

You can also model both options using our parlay calculator alongside the round robin calculator to compare outcomes side by side.

Round Robin Betting Strategy Basics

While this page focuses on the calculator, understanding some basic strategy helps you use the tool more effectively. For advanced tactics, see our round robin betting strategy guide.

The first strategic question is whether a round robin makes sense for your situation at all. Round robins are not always the right choice. They cost more than single parlays and have a higher expected loss in the long run. The benefit is reduced variance, which matters more to some bettors than others.

If you are a recreational bettor with a fixed entertainment budget, round robins can help you stay in action longer and experience more wins (even if smaller). If you are trying to maximize expected value or grow a bankroll efficiently, single bets or carefully selected parlays are usually better.

When round robins tend to make sense:

1. Underdog clusters. If you have several underdog picks you believe in, a round robin lets you profit if most (but not all) hit. The higher odds on underdogs can help offset the losses from parlays that include the one underdog that misses. This is particularly relevant for March Madness first-round underdogs or NFL upset picks.

2. Correlated opinions. If your picks are thematically related (e.g., you think the Chiefs offense will dominate, leading to both a Chiefs win and the over hitting), round robins let you spread that thesis across combinations. Note: some sportsbooks restrict truly correlated parlays within the same game. Cross-game correlations (like betting on run-heavy teams in bad weather across multiple games) are usually allowed.

3. Medium-confidence slates. When you feel good about a group of picks but not great about any single one, round robins reduce the penalty for being wrong once or twice. This is the "hedge your bets" approach, spreading risk across scenarios.

4. Large slates with good value. If you have identified several picks that you believe have positive expected value, a round robin lets you capture some of that value even if not every pick comes through. This requires genuine edge-finding, not just optimism.

Bankroll management tips:

• Set a total budget first. Decide how much you want to spend on this round robin, then work backward to your stake per bet. The calculator helps with this. Do not let the excitement of building a round robin lead you to bet more than you intended.
• Limit your legs. More legs means exponentially more parlays and higher cost. Consider keeping round robins to 3-5 picks unless you have a specific reason to go larger. A 6-pick round robin by 2s and 3s creates 35 bets, which is a lot to fund and track.
• Model before you bet. Use the calculator to see break-even points. If you need 4 of 5 legs to break even and you are only 60% confident in each, the math may not favor the bet. Be honest with yourself about your actual confidence levels.
• Track your results. Keep records of your round robin bets over time. This helps you see whether the strategy is working for your situation and identify patterns in your winning and losing bets.

Avoid over-complicating:

It is easy to get carried away combining by 2s, by 3s, and by 4s all in one bet. More complexity means more bets to track and more ways to lose money. Start simple and add complexity only when it serves a clear purpose. A 3-pick round robin by 2s is easy to understand and manage. A 7-pick round robin by 2s, 3s, and 4s is a sprawling mess that is hard to follow and expensive to fund.

Simplicity also helps with post-game analysis. When you can clearly see which parlays won and lost, you learn more about your betting patterns and can adjust accordingly. Complex round robins make this analysis much harder.

Round Robin Examples by Sport

Seeing round robins in action across different sports helps illustrate when they work well. Different sports have different characteristics that affect how round robins perform, from the typical odds ranges to the frequency of upsets to the number of games available on a given day.

The examples below use the calculator to model realistic scenarios you might encounter during a typical betting weekend. Each example shows the structure, cost, and potential outcomes so you can see the full picture before trying something similar yourself.

Why sport context matters:

Round robins work differently depending on the sport because odds and variance differ. NFL spreads are typically -110 on both sides, creating similar payouts across parlays. NBA spreads can vary more, especially for big favorites or underdogs. March Madness has predictable upset patterns (12 seeds over 5 seeds happen regularly) that make underdog-focused round robins appealing. MLB has run lines and moneylines that behave differently from football spreads.

The number of available games also matters. NFL Sundays offer 13-16 games to choose from, making it easy to build a 4-5 leg round robin from different matchups. Weekday NBA or MLB slates might have only 5-8 games, limiting your options. Same-game parlays have opened up new possibilities, but those come with correlation restrictions that can affect round robin structures.

Seasonal considerations:

Round robin opportunities change throughout the year. NFL regular season offers the most consistent slate of games with well-established betting markets. March Madness brings a surge of interest in underdog-focused betting, and the first-round format (64 teams, lots of games) is ideal for round robins. NBA playoffs feature fewer games but more attention per game, which can move lines quickly.

If you are building a round robin for a big event like the Super Bowl or NBA Finals, you are likely limited to same-game combinations from a single matchup. This changes the dynamics significantly compared to cross-game round robins.

Reading the examples:

Each example below shows a specific scenario with realistic picks and odds. We walk through the structure (by 2s, by 3s, etc.), the cost, and the range of outcomes. These are illustrative examples, not betting advice. Odds change constantly, and past results do not predict future performance.

The goal is to help you see how the calculator applies to real situations so you can model your own bets with confidence. Once you understand the patterns, you can adapt them to your own picks and preferences.

NFL Round Robin Example

Scenario: It is NFL Sunday and you have five sides you like:

• Chiefs -3.5 (-110)
• Bills -2.5 (-110)
• Eagles -1 (-110)
• Dolphins -4 (-110)
• Lions +3 (+100)

Structure: 5-team round robin by 2s with $5 stake per bet

Number of bets: 10 parlays Total cost: $50

Outcomes modeled:

• All 5 win: ~$132 total payout, +$82 profit
• 4 of 5 win: ~$66 payout, +$16 profit
• 3 of 5 win: ~$33 payout, -$17 loss
• 2 or fewer win: $0 payout, -$50 loss

Going 4-1 on your Sunday slate still delivers a profit, and even going 3-2 limits your loss to about a third of your stake. Compare this to a single 5-leg parlay where going 4-1 means losing everything.

March Madness Round Robin Example

Scenario: First round of March Madness and you are backing several underdogs:

• 12 seed over 5 seed (+150)
• 11 seed over 6 seed (+130)
• 10 seed over 7 seed (+115)
• 9 seed over 8 seed (-105)

Structure: 4-team round robin by 2s with $10 stake per bet

Number of bets: 6 parlays Total cost: $60

With underdog odds, a 2-2 or 3-1 result can still be profitable:

• All 4 win: ~$310 payout, +$250 profit
• 3 of 4 win: ~$75-95 payout (varies by which 3), +$15-35 profit
• 2 of 4 win: ~$25-35 payout, -$25-35 loss
• 1 or 0 win: $0 payout, -$60 loss

March Madness upsets are common enough that spreading risk across multiple combinations can be a smart approach. The calculator helps you see exactly which 2-of-4 scenarios are profitable based on your specific odds.

NBA Player Prop Round Robin Example

Scenario: You have strong opinions on three player props for tonight's games:

• LeBron over 25.5 points (-120)
• Steph Curry over 5.5 threes (-115)
• Luka Doncic over 8.5 assists (-110)

Structure: 3-team round robin by 2s with $10 stake per bet

Number of bets: 3 parlays Total cost: $30

• All 3 hit: ~$97 payout, +$67 profit
• 2 of 3 hit: ~$33 payout, +$3 profit
• 1 or 0 hit: $0 payout, -$30 loss

Caveat: Some sportsbooks limit or exclude certain props from parlays and round robins. Player props may also have lower maximum bet limits. Always check your sportsbook's rules before building a player prop round robin.

Common Round Robin Mistakes (and How the Calculator Helps You Avoid Them)

Round robins are more complex than single parlays, which means more opportunities for costly errors. Here are the most common mistakes and how to prevent them.

Mistake 1: Overestimating profits from partial wins

Many bettors assume that going 3-1 or 4-2 on a round robin will be highly profitable. In reality, partial wins can sometimes result in break-even or even small losses depending on the odds and structure.

How the calculator helps: Model your specific scenario with the what-if feature. See exactly what each outcome produces before you bet.

Mistake 2: Underestimating total cost

Adding one more leg or selecting an additional combination size can double or triple your number of bets. A casual "$10 bet" can quickly become $150 or more.

How the calculator helps: The total cost is displayed clearly. You can also use the total budget mode to cap your spending.

Mistake 3: Misreading stake type in sportsbook apps

Entering "$50" in a DraftKings round robin betslip when it says "Per Bet" means you are wagering $50 on each underlying parlay, not $50 total. This is a very common and expensive mistake.

How the calculator helps: Plan your bet in the calculator first, noting both your stake per bet and total cost. Then carefully match these in your sportsbook app.

Mistake 4: Using round robins for truly correlated markets

Some bettors try to round robin correlated outcomes (e.g., a team to win and cover the spread, or a player to score touchdowns and their team to win). Sportsbooks often block these combinations or reduce the odds.

How the calculator helps: If you cannot replicate your calculator model in the app, it may indicate a correlation restriction. The calculator shows you the ideal math; the sportsbook enforces its rules.

Mistake 5: Too many legs, too much complexity

A 7-team round robin by 2s, 3s, and 4s involves 56 separate parlays. This is difficult to track, expensive to fund, and dilutes your edge on any individual pick.

How the calculator helps: The breakdown view shows every parlay. If the list is overwhelming, consider simplifying your structure.

Mistake 6: Betting without modeling break-even first

Placing a round robin without understanding where break-even falls is gambling blind. You might discover too late that you needed 4 of 5 legs to profit.

How the calculator helps: The scenario slider shows you exactly how many legs need to win for various profit/loss outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common round robin questions. For deeper explanations with worked examples, see the relevant sections above.

How does a round robin bet work?

A round robin bet takes your selected picks and creates every possible parlay of a specified size. For example, if you select 4 teams and choose "by 2s," the sportsbook creates all 6 possible 2-leg parlays from those 4 teams. Each parlay is a separate bet with its own stake and payout. If all 4 teams win, all 6 parlays pay out. If one team loses, only the parlays containing that team lose.

How many bets are in a 3 team round robin?

A 3-team round robin by 2s contains 3 bets (AB, AC, BC). A 3-team round robin by 3s contains 1 bet (ABC - which is just a standard 3-leg parlay). If you select both by 2s and by 3s, you have 4 total bets. The round robin calculator shows you exactly how many bets are created for any combination.

What does by 2s mean in a round robin?

"By 2s" means each underlying parlay contains 2 legs. If you have 5 picks and select by 2s, the calculator creates every possible 2-leg parlay from those 5 picks, which equals 10 separate parlays. "By 3s" means 3-leg parlays, "by 4s" means 4-leg parlays, and so on. Larger combination sizes mean fewer bets but require more legs to win for each parlay to pay out.

Why is my round robin bet so expensive?

Round robin cost equals your stake per bet multiplied by the number of underlying parlays. The number of parlays grows quickly as you add picks or increase combination sizes. A 6-team round robin by 2s and 3s creates 35 bets. At $10 per bet, that is $350 total. Use the calculator to understand your true cost before placing the bet, and consider reducing legs or sticking to one combination size to keep costs manageable.

Do you still win money if one leg loses?

It depends on your structure and odds. In a round robin, only the parlays containing the losing leg are affected. The parlays that do not include that leg can still win. However, winning money overall depends on whether the winning parlays generate enough to cover your total stake. For example, going 2-1 on a 3-team by 2s often produces a small profit, but going 1-2 results in a total loss. Use the what-if scenario feature in the calculator to see your exact outcomes.

What happens if one leg pushes in a round robin?

Most sportsbooks treat a push (tie) or voided leg by reducing the parlay to its remaining legs. If a 2-leg parlay has one push, it becomes a single-leg bet at that single selection's odds. If a 3-leg parlay has one push, it becomes a 2-leg parlay. Check your specific sportsbook's rules, as handling can vary. The payout will be lower than originally projected since you have fewer legs multiplying the odds.

Can you do a round robin on DraftKings or FanDuel?

Yes. Both DraftKings and FanDuel offer round robin betting. Add 3 or more selections to your betslip, then look for the round robin option below the standard parlay. You can select which combination sizes to include (by 2s, by 3s, etc.) and enter your stake. Other major sportsbooks like BetMGM and Caesars also offer round robins. The terminology and interface may differ slightly, but the concept is the same across platforms.

Responsible Gambling and Key Takeaways

Round robin calculators are powerful tools for understanding your bets before you place them. Here are the key lessons to remember:

Key takeaways:

1. Round robins multiply your stake. Every additional pick or combination size increases the number of underlying parlays and your total cost. The calculator shows you this clearly.

2. Partial wins do not always mean profit. Use the what-if scenarios to understand exactly how many legs need to win for you to break even or profit.

3. Model before you bet. The calculator exists to help you make informed decisions. Do not place a round robin without first understanding its cost, structure, and potential outcomes.

4. Match your sportsbook settings carefully. Pay attention to whether your stake is per bet or total budget. A mismatch can lead to betting far more than intended.

5. Simpler is often better. More legs and more combination levels create complexity that is hard to track and expensive to fund. Start with smaller, cleaner round robins.

Responsible gambling reminder:

The round robin calculator helps you understand risk—it does not eliminate it. Sports betting always involves the possibility of loss, and no tool or strategy can guarantee profits.

• Only bet what you can afford to lose.
• Set a budget before you start and stick to it.
• Never chase losses with larger bets.
• If gambling is causing stress or financial problems, seek help.

Sports betting is legal only in certain US states and typically requires you to be 21 years of age or older. Know your local laws and bet within regulated, licensed sportsbooks only.