Dive into our comprehensive guide to darts betting in the UK. We have looked at the darts betting services of plenty of bookmakers across the nation, comparing their offerings in detail, and, after a thorough analysis, we have come up with a top 10 list. The top 10 list highlights the frontrunners in this sport. Discover the ideal bookmaker for your darts betting requirements.
The Ultimate Guide to Darts Betting Sites in the UK
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out in the world of darts betting, selecting the best betting site is really important.
On this page you will find the result of our extensive review of the top bookmakers to curate a list of our favourites, tailored to meet your needs for darts betting. Read on to explore our top recommendations for the best darts bookmakers.
The Best Darts Betting Sites and Why
These are the best bookmakers in the country for darts betting. We’ve thoroughly evaluated each option, ensuring you don’t have to after tests carried out by our experts.
1 – Bet365
Bet365 Group Ltd, a British online gambling company established by Denise Coates, is renowned as a leading bookmaker for darts betting, thanks to its extensive market offerings, innovative betting features, and attractive bonuses.
The platform offers abundant markets, featuring excellent in-play and live betting options, and superior live streaming for numerous darts events throughout the year. While Bet365’s odds may not always top those of other bookmakers, the breadth of event coverage and market options significantly compensates for this. Bet365 stands out particularly for its darts betting service.
Here are some reasons why our team prefers Bet365 for darts betting:
- Bet365 covers a vast array of notable darts competitions.
- The site is well-established and highly reliable.
- Customer support is robust, and Bet365 holds a UK license.
- The sportsbook includes betting lines on premier PDC events such as the World Matchplay, Grand Slam of Darts, Premier League of Darts, and many others. Bet365 allows you to place bets on top darts players like Peter Wright, Michael Van Gerwen, and Gary Anderson directly from its platform.
2 – Unibet
Unibet Review: A Premier Choice for Darts Betting Enthusiasts
Unibet has emerged as a leading destination for darts betting, especially for in-play betting enthusiasts. As the proud sponsor of the Premier League of Darts, Unibet backs up its involvement in the sport with extensive coverage, particularly strong in live betting scenarios.
Both their website and mobile app are designed for quick responsiveness to live sports dynamics, ensuring bettors can act swiftly as the game unfolds. With high-quality live streaming and a broad selection of real-time betting markets, Unibet stands out in the digital betting landscape.
Unibet Review Summary The expert team from the BettingTips4You has thoroughly examined Unibet’s online gambling platform, covering essential aspects such as the welcome bonus, features, and overall product offerings.
Although Unibet might not carry the historical weight of some long-standing sportsbooks, it excels in providing a contemporary betting experience that caters to today’s dynamic sports betting needs, especially when darts is concerned. The team’s findings confirm that Unibet operates as a legal, trustworthy, and transparent bookmaker, ensuring your personal information is kept secure and private.
From the analysis, it’s clear that not all bookmakers are deserving of patronage, but Unibet stands out for its commendable services and areas where there is room for enhancement. If you’re convinced that Unibet meets your betting needs, below you will find a banner where you can secure the welcome bonus when you sign up.
Unibet’s Mobile and Web Experience Unibet’s mobile app provides a seamless and efficient betting experience, allowing users to place bets swiftly and with ease. The app supports all the features available on the website but is optimised for speed and ease of use.
Conversely, the Unibet website offers a more in-depth exploration of betting options. It is ideal for those who prefer to immerse themselves in detailed research before placing bets. The website also provides an enhanced live streaming experience thanks to the larger display size compared to mobile devices.
John Pentin’s Prediction on Darts Betting John Pentin, the darts betting expert at bettingtips4you.com, offers his insights specifically on darts betting at Unibet: “When it comes to darts, you can’t overlook Unibet’s offerings. The live streaming quality and the array of in-play betting markets make it a top choice for any darts enthusiast.”
Quote from John Pentin: “Darts betting at Unibet is unparalleled, especially during major events like the Premier League of Darts. Their quick-response platform and comprehensive market coverage provide everything a darts bettor needs for an engaging betting experience,” said John Pentin.
3 – Betfred
For those deeply engaged in the darts betting community, Betfred stands out as a cornerstone of the gambling world. Founded in 1967 by Fred Done, who remains chairman, Betfred has evolved into a multi-billion pound entity, continuously innovating while maintaining a strong legacy in the UK and Irish markets.
Betfred is not just a historical name; it’s a trusted platform where punters can manage their darts betting with confidence. Known for offering competitive odds and distinctive promotions, Betfred keeps its rivals on their toes, ensuring that it remains a top choice for both novice and seasoned bettors.
Betfred Review Summary: A Premier Choice for Darts Betting
For those deeply engaged in the darts betting community, Betfred stands out as a cornerstone of the gambling world. Founded in 1967 by Fred Done, who remains chairman, Betfred has evolved into a multi-billion pound entity, continuously innovating while maintaining a strong legacy in the UK and Irish markets.
Betfred is not just a historical name; it’s a trusted platform where punters can manage their darts betting with confidence. Known for offering competitive odds and distinctive promotions, Betfred keeps its rivals on their toes, ensuring that it remains a top choice for both novice and seasoned bettors.
Key Features of Betfred for Darts Enthusiasts
Betfred excels not just in traditional sports betting but shines brightly in its coverage of darts tournaments. From major championships like the PDC World Darts Championship to regional contests, Betfred offers comprehensive betting options. Here are some standout features:
- Live Streaming: Experience darts matches through HD live streaming, complete with expert commentary and instant betting options, available both on desktop and via the mobile app.
- Promotions: Betfred is known as ‘The Bonus King’ for good reason. Expect darts-specific promotions that enhance betting excitement and potential returns, such as odds boosts on selected matches and players.
- Customer Care: Dedication to customer satisfaction has been a pillar since Betfred’s inception. Their commitment extends to providing darts bettors with knowledgeable support and advantageous odds.
Which darts betting site offers the best odds?
Determining which bookmaker offers the best odds for darts is not straightforward, as it varies by the market you choose to bet on. Each of the top bookmakers we’ve highlighted provides competitive odds, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. For example, while bet365 might offer the most attractive odds on one player, Unibet could be the go-to for superior odds on another.
To ensure you’re getting the best value, it’s beneficial to use as many betting apps as possible. This approach allows you to leverage the unique offerings of each provider, securing the most advantageous darts betting odds. Moreover, joining multiple bookies not only enhances your betting experience but also allows you to take advantage of welcome bonuses and free bets specific to darts.
The importance of selecting a bookmaker with the best odds cannot be overstated, as your potential winnings are directly influenced by these odds. Most punters may not realise that better odds significantly boost their potential payout on successful bets.
When considering where to place your bets, remember that odds can vary widely, especially in popular tournaments like the PDC World Championship and UK Open, which draw large audiences and highly competitive markets. For bets on underdogs or favourites, the odds can differ greatly, so considering options like handicaps or spread bets might be more profitable.
For ease of use, select an odds format you’re familiar with—whether it’s European, American, Hong Kong, or Decimal. Always compare the odds with the best bookmakers before placing your bets to ensure you’re getting the best possible value. In our preview articles,we also suggest the best bookmaker that has the best price at the time of posting.
Our recommendations for top UK bookmakers with competitive darts betting odds include bet365, Unibet and Betfred, but always check the latest odds and compare across platforms to maximise your betting strategy.
Which bookmakers provide in-play darts betting?
The Excitement of In-Play Betting on Darts
Darts has become a major hit with TV audiences, especially during events like the PDC World Championship and the Premier League. Consequently, all major online bookmakers offer extensive in-play betting options for this thrilling sport.
Bet365 has long been renowned for its comprehensive range of in-play betting markets, but all the bookmakers on this page are worth considering for live darts betting.
Key Points for In-Play Darts Betting
One crucial aspect to remember when betting on darts in-play is to ensure your bet corresponds to the correct leg or set odds being offered. The dynamic nature of darts means that in-play bets can be placed or closed at any point during a leg or set. This flexibility allows you to secure profits or mitigate losses by closing your bets early.
How to Place In-Play Darts Bets
If you’ve never placed an in-play darts bet before, it’s straightforward. Simply visit any of the bookmaker websites on this page on your computer, tablet, or phone while watching a live match. You’ll see how the odds and prices change throughout the contest, reflecting the real-time action.
Trusting Your Instincts
In-play betting provides a unique opportunity to test your judgment against the bookmaker’s predictions. If you disagree with a trader’s prediction on a particular market at any time, that’s your chance to place an in-play bet and back your own insight. Whether you think a player is about to make a comeback or secure a decisive win, your in-play bet can capitalise on those moments.
By staying engaged with the match and keeping an eye on the odds, you can make informed decisions that enhance your betting experience. The fluid nature of darts means opportunities can arise quickly, so being prepared to act on your instincts is key to successful in-play betting.
Which Bookmaker Have the Best Darts Markets?
When it comes to darts betting, not all bookmakers are created equal. The depth and variety of markets available can vary significantly. Here’s a closer look at which bookmakers offer the best darts markets and what sets them apart.
Top Bookmakers for Darts Markets
Bet365:
Bet365 is a standout choice for darts betting. Known for its extensive market offerings, bet365 covers a wide array of options for both casual and dedicated bettors. For instance, during the PDC Premier League, bet365 provides over 40 markets on tournament specials alone, including:
- Game with Highest Checkout of the Week
- Match with Most 180s
- Player to Score Most 180s
- Total 180s
- Total Legs
- Handicap Legs Won
Additionally, for major events like the PDC World Championship, bet365 offers the Correct Set Score market, which is popular among darts fans.
Unibet:
Unibet also offers a strong selection of darts markets. Their platform is user-friendly and they provide competitive odds on a range of events, including the PDC Tour and other major tournaments.
Betfred:
Betfred is another reliable bookmaker for darts. They offer a variety of markets similar to bet365 and Unibet, ensuring that bettors have plenty of options to choose from when placing their bets.
Why Bet365 Stands Out for Darts Betting
Bet365 is often considered the best bookmaker for darts markets due to several key reasons:
- Extensive Market Variety: Bet365 offers a broader range of betting options compared to other bookmakers, covering everything from match outcomes to detailed stats like total 180s and handicap legs won.
- User-Friendly Platform: The interface is intuitive, making it easy to find and place bets.
- Generous Welcome Bonus: New users can benefit from a welcome bonus, which provides extra bet credits to use on various darts events.
- Live Streaming: Bet365 allows you to watch live darts through their streaming services, enhancing the overall betting experience.
Popular Darts Bets on Bet365
For those new to darts betting or looking to expand their options, here are some popular types of darts bets available on bet365:
- Outright Tournament Winner Bet: Predict which player will win a tournament.
- Match Win Bet: Bet on the player who will win a specific match.
- Set Win Bet: Wager on who will win the next set, the total number of sets, or over/under a certain number of sets.
- Nine-Darter Bet: Bet on a player achieving the highest possible checkout of 501, similar to a 147 break in snooker.
- Most 180s: Bet on a player to score the most 180s in a particular game, leg, or set.
- Handicap Betting: Apply a handicap to level the playing field between competitors, aiming to make the bet more balanced and potentially more rewarding.
For the best darts markets, bet365 emerges as the top choice, offering an unparalleled variety of betting options and user-friendly features. Unibet and Betfred also provide strong alternatives with competitive markets and odds. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the sport, these bookmakers ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable darts betting experience.
Which bookmaker offers the best darts odds?
When it comes to finding the best odds for darts betting, it’s essential to compare across various bookmakers, especially for major tournaments like the PDC World Championship, PDC Premier League, and UK Open. These events attract a large TV audience, leading to highly competitive betting markets. From our odds analysis, we can say that the top darts bookmakers when it comes to the best darts odds are the following: Bet365, BetVictor, Parimatch, Betfred, Unibet, and Fitzdares. BetVictor and Betfred stand out particularly in this area for these reasons:
BetVictor: Consistent Odds and Promotions
Best Features: BetVictor is known for its competitive odds and regular promotions across various sports, including darts.
Biggest Negatives: Limited unique darts-specific offers compared to others.
Alternative: Betfred
Our View: BetVictor remains a strong contender for darts betting due to its consistent odds and attractive promotions. It’s a solid choice for bettors looking for reliability.
Betfred: Known for Special Odds Offers
Best Features: Betfred frequently offers special promotions for major darts events, enhancing the betting experience.
Biggest Negatives: The user interface can be less intuitive than some competitors.
Alternative: Bet365
Our View: Betfred excels in providing special offers and promotions for big darts events. Despite a less sleek interface, its promotions make it a worthwhile choice.
To ensure you get the best darts betting odds, it’s crucial to compare the offerings of at least these top bookmakers: Bet365, BetVictor, Parimatch, Betfred, Unibet, and Fitzdares. Each bookmaker has its strengths, so consider what features are most important to you, whether it’s unique promotions, live streaming, or competitive odds. Always check odds comparisons before placing your bets to maximise your potential returns. In our darts preview articles, our experts will also suggest the bookmakers that have the best odds specifically for the selections picked, at the time of posting. This will make it easier for readers who want to follow our tips to get the best prices.
Which Bookmakers Offer In-Play Darts Betting?
Darts has become a massively popular sport, particularly for TV audiences, with major events like the PDC World Championship and the Premier League drawing significant viewership. As such, all major online bookmakers provide in-play betting options for darts enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top options.
Bet365
Bet365 is well-known for its extensive range of in-play betting markets, making it a top choice for darts betting. They offer numerous options for wagering on various aspects of the game, ensuring that punters can engage with the sport in real-time.
Key Points:
- Extensive in-play betting markets
- Renowned reputation for live betting
- Ideal for detailed, varied wagers
Unibet
Unibet stands out not only for its in-play betting options but also for offering live streams of selected darts matches. This feature allows bettors to watch the action as it unfolds and place informed bets simultaneously.
Best Features:
- Live streaming of selected darts matches
- Unique promotions, such as free casino spins with certain darts bets
- User-friendly site and mobile apps
Biggest Negatives:
- Limited odds boosts
Alternative to Consider: Betway
Our analysis found Unibet’s platform to be exceptionally user-friendly, with both Android and iOS apps providing a seamless experience for placing darts bets on-the-go. The availability of live streaming is a rare and valuable feature, enhancing the overall betting experience.
Live Streaming of Darts
One of the significant advantages of using certain bookmakers for in-play darts betting is the ability to live stream the matches. Bookmakers like Unibet offer high-definition streams of major darts tournaments, including Premier League Darts, World Matchplay Darts, and World Championship Darts. To access these streams, bettors generally need a funded account. This capability allows punters to watch and bet on the action in real time.
Advantages:
- HD-quality live sports streams
- Available on desktop and mobile devices
- Enhances in-play betting experience
Important Considerations
When engaging in in-play darts betting, it’s crucial to ensure that your bets are placed correctly for the specific leg or set odds being offered. This specificity is due to the nature of darts betting, where outcomes can change rapidly.
So, to sum up, for darts fans looking to engage in in-play betting, there are several excellent options. Bet365 is ideal for those seeking a wide range of betting markets, while Unibet offers the added benefit of high-definition live streaming, making it easier to follow the action and place bets simultaneously. Both bookmakers provide robust platforms that cater to the needs of darts betting enthusiasts, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging betting experience.
Which Bookmakers Offer Player Stats for Betting Research on Their Websites?
For darts enthusiasts looking to enhance their betting strategies with player statistics, several bookmakers and specialised resources provide comprehensive data and insights. Bet365 and William Hill are two prominent online bookmakers that excel in offering detailed player stats and tournament records on their websites, making them invaluable for those conducting darts betting research.
Bet365 and Unibet: Leaders in Darts Stats Provision
Both Bet365 and William Hill are renowned for their extensive coverage of darts. These platforms offer detailed player statistics, historical performance data, and real-time updates. This information includes head-to-head records, recent form, and performance metrics across different tournaments and venues. For bettors looking to make informed decisions, these bookmakers provide a wealth of data to understand player tendencies and potential outcomes.
Additional Resources for Darts Betting Research
In addition to bookmakers, several dedicated resources offer robust statistical data for darts:
- Main Tour Websites: The official websites of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) and the British Darts Organisation (BDO) provide extensive player stats and match histories. These are excellent sources for up-to-date information on player performance and tournament outcomes.
- PDC and BDO Live Scores Sites: Both the PDC and BDO maintain live scores sites that offer real-time updates on matches, including detailed stats such as average scores, checkout percentages, and leg-by-leg performance. These live stats are crucial for in-play betting decisions.
What Makes a Good Darts Stats Website?
To identify the best darts stats websites for betting research, consider the following features:
- Comprehensive Statistical Analysis: Top-tier sites provide large amounts of data that are easy to read and filter. This includes player averages, checkout success rates, and performance under pressure.
- Detailed Matchup Information: Understanding how players fare against each other is crucial. Look for sites that provide detailed head-to-head records and performance metrics in specific tournaments or venues.
- Transparency in Wagering Selections: Trustworthy sites allow you to verify their performance by providing clear records of their betting selections along with the reasoning and data behind them.
- Real-Time Data and Live Scores: Successful handicapping often depends on timely information. The best stats websites offer real-time updates and live scores, which are essential for in-play betting strategies.
- Historical Data and Trends: Sites that offer historical performance data and trends can help identify patterns and inform future betting decisions. This includes past tournament results and player form over time.
- Expert Analysis and Projections: Access to expert analysis and statistical projections based on deep databases can provide valuable insights and help identify strong betting opportunities.
Conclusion
For darts bettors aiming to leverage player statistics in their betting strategies, Bet365 and Unibet are excellent choices, offering extensive data and insights directly on their platforms. Additionally, resources like the official PDC and BDO websites provide specialised stats that can further enhance your research. By utilising these tools and focusing on websites with comprehensive statistical analysis, detailed matchup information, and real-time data, you can make more informed and potentially successful betting decisions.
If you’ve not got a William Hill account, you can open one below:
Where Can I Bet on Darts?
Betting on darts has become increasingly popular, and you can easily place your bets online through various reputable bookmakers. One of the top recommendations for darts betting is bet365. Here’s why bet365 and other top bookmakers stand out for darts betting:
In-Running Betting and Live Streaming
Bet365 offers an exceptional in-running betting experience, allowing you to place bets as the action unfolds. Additionally, they provide live streaming of many darts events, enabling you to watch and bet simultaneously, enhancing your overall betting experience.
Efficient Sign-Up Process
When choosing a site to bet on darts, it’s essential to consider the sign-up process. Our recommended bookmakers, including bet365, ensure a quick and secure registration process. These sites adhere to Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, making the process straightforward and secure.
Valuable Promotions & Bonuses
The best darts betting sites offer attractive bonuses and promotions specifically for darts enthusiasts. These promotions are straightforward, avoiding the hassle of complex terms and conditions, so you can easily take advantage of them.
Diverse Payment Options
Flexibility in payment options is crucial. We recommend darts bookmakers that support a wide range of payment methods, including e-wallets, credit/debit cards, and traditional banking options. This ensures you can deposit and withdraw funds conveniently.
Quick Payouts
When you win, you want your money quickly. Our selected sites are known for their swift payout times, ensuring you get your winnings without unnecessary delays.
Trusted Licensing
Only sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission are recommended, ensuring that they are legal to bet with in the UK. This licensing guarantees a high standard of fairness and security.
Top-Notch Security
Security is paramount when betting online. Our recommended bookmakers, including bet365, use SSL encryption to protect your data, ensuring that your personal and financial information is safe.
Responsive Customer Support
Good customer service is essential for a seamless betting experience. The top darts bookmakers offer extensive customer service options, including live chat, email, and phone support, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it.
Positive Industry Reputation
Lastly, we consider the overall industry reputation and customer feedback when recommending a bookmaker. Sites like bet365 have a strong standing in the industry and positive reviews from users on forums and app stores.
Summary
To bet on darts online, bet365 is a top choice due to its in-running betting, live streaming, efficient sign-up process, valuable promotions, diverse payment options, quick payouts, trusted licensing, robust security, and excellent customer support. Ensure you choose a bookmaker that meets these criteria to enjoy a safe and enjoyable darts betting experience. If you don’t have an account with them, you can benefit from this welcome offer:
What is the best bet to make in darts?
When it comes to betting on darts, there are several strategies that can enhance your chances of success. One effective approach is to predict the outright winner of a major tournament well in advance. By doing so, you can secure better odds compared to waiting until the final match. This early prediction can often yield higher returns if your chosen player performs well throughout the tournament.
Betting on the Number of Legs or Sets
Another popular strategy among darts bettors is to wager on the total number of legs or sets in a match. This type of bet, known as an over/under bet, allows you to speculate on whether the total will be above or below a specified number. This method is particularly useful for offsetting short odds in one-sided matches, providing an additional layer of excitement and potential profit.
Understanding the Basics of Darts
Before diving into the different types of bets, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of darts. The aim is to reduce your points total from 501 to exactly zero, throwing three darts per turn, and alternating with your opponent. The board is divided into sections that score different points, and to win a leg, your final dart must land in a double.
In most tournaments, players need to win a certain number of sets to claim victory in a match, with each set comprising three, five, or seven legs.
Types of Darts Bets
Betting on darts is not limited to simply backing the winner of a match or tournament. There are numerous betting options available throughout the season, ranging from who will win the next set to how many 180s will be thrown in a session. Here are some of the best darts bets:
- Match Betting: This is the simplest form of betting, where you wager on who you think will win a match. Similar to betting on football or cricket, you pick a winner. Note that some matches, such as those in the Premier League of Darts, can end in a draw.
- Correct Score: Here, you bet on the exact final score in terms of legs or sets. This is an exciting option for live betting, as it allows you to make more informed predictions based on the match’s progress.
- Most 180s: If you’re not keen on backing a specific player, you can bet on who will score the most 180s in a match. This bet adds an extra layer of thrill as you anticipate the big moments.
- Total Legs Over/Under: This market lets you bet on whether the total number of legs in a match will be over or under a certain number. For example, in a best-of-11 match, you might bet on there being more than 7.5 legs.
- Leg Handicaps: In this type of bet, you back a player to win or lose with a positive or negative handicap. For instance, betting on a player to win with a -3.5 handicap means they need to win by four legs or more for your bet to succeed.
Enhancing Your Darts Betting Experience
For those looking to refine their picks and gain deeper insights, BettingTips4You provides an extensive range of darts tips. Whether you are new to darts betting or an experienced bettor, these tips can help you make more informed decisions and enjoy the sport to its fullest.
Can you Bet on 180’s in Darts?
Yes, you can bet on 180s in darts, and many bookmakers like bet365 offer a variety of markets for this. Betting on 180s involves predicting how many maximum scores (180s) will be hit in a match or by a specific player during a match or tournament.
Types of 180s Bets:
- Total 180s in a Match:
- This is a straightforward bet on the total number of 180s you think will be scored in a match. Bookmakers often provide an over/under market for this bet. For example, if the over/under line is set at 10.5 and the match sees 11 180s, a bet on the ‘Over’ would win.
- Most 180s:
- In this market, you bet on the player you believe will hit the most 180s in the match. The options are Player A, Player B, or a draw if you think they will hit the same number of 180s. A 180 is achieved by hitting three triple 20s, the highest possible score with three darts.
- Player 180s:
- This bet focuses on the number of 180s a specific player will score. For example, you can bet on whether Player A will score over or under 6.5 180s in a match.
- First 180:
- Here, you bet on which player will hit the first 180 in the match, choosing between Player A and Player B.
Additional Market:
- Maximum Checkout:
- Some bookmakers also offer bets on whether a player will achieve a maximum 170 checkout, which is the highest possible finish in darts.
Betting on 180s adds an exciting dimension to darts betting, allowing you to engage with the game on a deeper level. Whether predicting the total 180s in a match, backing a specific player to score the most, or even guessing who will hit the first 180, these markets provide numerous opportunities to test your darts knowledge and enhance your viewing experience.
What is the best bet to make in darts?
When it comes to darts betting, understanding the dynamics of the sport and the betting market can significantly increase your chances of making profitable bets. Here are some of the best betting strategies in darts:
Outright Winner Bets
Predicting the outright winner of a major tournament well in advance can often yield the best odds. Betting on a player to win a tournament before it starts allows you to capitalise on better odds than betting on them once they reach the final. This approach requires a deep understanding of the players’ current form and historical performance in the tournament.
Over/Under Bets
Betting on the over or under number of legs or sets in a match is another popular strategy. This type of bet can offset short odds in one-sided matches by focusing on the expected length of the match rather than the winner. It is crucial to analyse both players’ recent performances and typical match lengths to make informed decisions.
Analysing Darts Odds and Identifying Value
A fundamental aspect of darts betting is determining the likelihood of a player winning a match and whether they are over or undervalued by the betting market. This involves several key factors:
PDC Order of Merit
The PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) Order of Merit ranks players based on the prize money they have earned over the past two years. This ranking can provide an indication of the strongest players entering a tournament. Players higher up the rankings are often given easier draws in the early rounds, enhancing their chances of progressing to the latter stages.
However, relying solely on these rankings has limitations. The two-year span might not accurately reflect current form, and the varying prize money across different tournaments can skew the rankings. For instance, the PDC World Darts Championship offers significantly higher prize money than other tournaments, potentially inflating the rankings of its champions.
Three-Dart Average
A player’s three-dart average is a reliable measure of their form over a period of time. It reflects their average score from three darts thrown, regardless of their opponents or the outcome of matches. Players with high three-dart averages are generally in good form, as seen with Michael van Gerwen and Peter Wright leading up to the 2020 PDC World Darts Championship.
However, this metric can be misleading. A player’s average can be inflated by winning legs quickly or deflated by not having the chance to attempt a double. Therefore, it is also important to consider a player’s checkout percentage, which indicates their ability to finish legs and win matches.
Checkout Percentage
A high checkout percentage indicates a player’s proficiency in hitting the required score to win a leg when given the opportunity. Consistently low checkout percentages suggest a susceptibility to missing crucial shots under pressure, allowing opponents to catch up. Conversely, players with high checkout percentages can maintain or build pressure on their opponents, especially in critical moments of a match.
Match Length and Its Impact
The length of a darts match can significantly impact its outcome. Longer matches tend to favour the favourite, as there are more legs or sets available for them to settle into their game and recover from early setbacks. Shorter matches, on the other hand, can lead to more upsets, favouring the underdog who can quickly establish a lead.
Recognising Good Value in Darts Odds
Identifying value in darts odds requires diligent analysis and a keen eye for detail. Utilising the aforementioned statistics and considerations can help you evaluate players more accurately and spot potential opportunities that the betting market may have overlooked. This process might involve some trial and error, but with time and experience, you can develop a more refined approach to darts betting.
In conclusion, the best bets in darts involve a combination of outright winner bets, over/under bets, and a thorough analysis of player performance metrics and match dynamics. By understanding and applying these strategies, you can enhance your chances of making profitable darts bets.
