The formula behind pot odds
pot odds = (pot + bet) : bet
required equity = bet / (pot + 2 × bet)
If your equity against the opponent’s range is higher than the required equity, calling makes money in the long run. If it is lower, folding (or raising as a bluff) is better. The calculator turns outs into equity for you: 9 outs on the flop are 35.0% to the river or 19.1% for the next card only.
Worked example
The pot is $80 on the turn and your opponent bets $40. You hold a flush draw with 9 outs.
- Pot odds: (80 + 40) : 40 = 3 : 1
- Required equity: 40 / 160 = 25%
- Your equity for one card: 9 / 46 = 19.6%
- Verdict: fold, unless implied odds add roughly $45 in future winnings.
On the flop with two cards to come the same draw has 35% equity and the call is correct.
Pot odds quick reference
| Bet size | Pot odds | Required equity |
|---|---|---|
| ¼ pot | 5 : 1 | 16.7% |
| ⅓ pot | 4 : 1 | 20% |
| ½ pot | 3 : 1 | 25% |
| ⅔ pot | 2.5 : 1 | 28.6% |
| ¾ pot | 2.33 : 1 | 30% |
| Pot | 2 : 1 | 33.3% |
| 1.5 × pot | 1.67 : 1 | 37.5% |
| 2 × pot | 1.5 : 1 | 40% |
Pair this with the outs calculator for draw probabilities and the EV calculator when you want the result in money rather than a yes/no.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate pot odds by hand?
Divide what is in the pot (including the bet you face) by the amount you must call. A $100 pot and a $50 bet give (100 + 50) : 50 = 3 : 1. Your required equity is the call divided by the final pot: 50 / 200 = 25%.
What are good pot odds?
There is no universal good number; it depends on your equity. A flush draw with about 35% equity to the river needs better than 1.9 : 1, so calling a pot-sized bet (2 : 1) is fine on the flop if you close the action, but a two-thirds pot bet on the turn (2.5 : 1 against 19.6% equity) is not.
Should I include my own bet in the pot?
Include everything already in the middle before the bet you face, including your earlier bets. Then add the opponent’s bet. Do not add your own call; the calculator adds it for you when computing required equity.
What is the difference between pot odds and implied odds?
Pot odds only count money that is in the pot right now. Implied odds add the money you expect to win on later streets when you hit. Use the implied odds calculator when you are drawing and the opponent still has chips behind.