What is the Labouchere Betting System?
The Labouchere system (pronounced la-boo-shair) is a negative progression betting strategy that gives you complete control over your profit targets and risk levels. Unlike the rigid Martingale or Fibonacci systems, Labouchere lets you create a custom number sequence that represents your desired profit. Your bet is the sum of the first and last numbers in your sequence. After wins, you cross off those numbers; after losses, you add your bet amount to the end.
📊 Labouchere Example ($10 Unit, Sequence: 1-2-3-4 = $100 Profit Target)
| Spin | Sequence | Bet Amount | Result | Action | New Sequence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1-2-3-4 | 5 units ($50) | Loss | Add 5 to end | 1-2-3-4-5 |
| 2 | 1-2-3-4-5 | 6 units ($60) | Loss | Add 6 to end | 1-2-3-4-5-6 |
| 3 | 1-2-3-4-5-6 | 7 units ($70) | Win | Cross off 1 and 6 | 2-3-4-5 |
| 4 | 2-3-4-5 | 7 units ($70) | Win | Cross off 2 and 5 | 3-4 |
| 5 | 3-4 | 7 units ($70) | Win | Cross off 3 and 4 | (empty) |
After 2 losses and 3 wins, the sequence is complete. Total profit = sum of original sequence (1+2+3+4) = 10 units = $100.
Labouchere vs Martingale vs Fibonacci vs D'Alembert
Labouchere offers unique advantages in flexibility and profit targeting:
| System | Progression Type | Risk Control | Profit Target | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martingale | Doubling after loss | None | 1 unit | Very Low |
| Fibonacci | Sequence progression | Medium | Variable | Low |
| D'Alembert | +1 / -1 progression | High | Variable | Low |
| Labouchere | Cancellation progression | Customizable | Set by player | Very High |
How to Create Your Labouchere Sequence
1. Choose Your Profit Target
Decide how much you want to win. For a $10 unit, a sequence summing to 10 units = $100 profit. Common sequences include:
- Aggressive: 5-5 (2 numbers) — fastest completion, higher risk
- Balanced: 1-2-3-4 (4 numbers) — moderate risk, steady progression
- Conservative: 1-1-1-1-1 (5 numbers) — lower risk, longer play
- Very Conservative: 1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1 (10 numbers) — lowest risk
2. Set Your Unit Size
Your unit should be 0.5-2% of your total bankroll. For a $500 bankroll, use $5-$10 units. Remember: your sequence numbers multiply by your unit to determine bet amounts.
3. Calculate Bet Size Formula
Bet = (First Number + Last Number) × Unit Size
Example: Sequence 1-2-3-4, Unit $10 → Bet = (1+4) × $10 = $50
Bankroll Requirements for Labouchere
Your bankroll depends entirely on your sequence length and unit size. Here are guidelines for different sequences with $10 units:
| Sequence | Profit Target | Initial Bet | Bankroll for 8 Losses | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-5 | $100 | $100 | ~$1,500 | Very High |
| 1-2-3-4 | $100 | $50 | ~$800 | Medium |
| 1-1-1-1-1 | $50 | $20 | ~$500 | Low |
| 1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1 | $100 | $20 | ~$1,000 | Very Low |
How to Use the Labouchere System Step by Step
Step 1: Write Your Starting Sequence
Write down your sequence on paper or your phone. Example: 1, 2, 3, 4 (sum = 10 units). This is your profit target.
Step 2: Calculate Your First Bet
Add the first and last numbers: 1 + 4 = 5 units. Multiply by your unit size. For $10 units, bet $50 on an even-money bet.
Step 3: Handle Wins
If you win, cross off the first and last numbers. Your new sequence becomes 2, 3. Next bet = 2 + 3 = 5 units ($50).
Step 4: Handle Losses
If you lose, add the bet amount (in units) to the end of your sequence. Sequence 1-2-3-4 with a $50 loss (5 units) becomes 1-2-3-4-5. Next bet = 1 + 5 = 6 units ($60).
Step 5: Complete the System
When all numbers are crossed off, you've achieved your profit target. The system is complete — take your profit and consider resetting or stopping.
⚠️ Important: Know When to Stop
Labouchere sequences can become very long during extended losing streaks. Set a maximum sequence length limit (e.g., 15 numbers) before you start. If you hit your limit, stop the system, accept the loss, and reset. Never chase losses by continuing indefinitely — that's when bankrolls get wiped out.
Advanced Labouchere Variations
The Reverse Labouchere (Positive Progression)
Some players use a reverse Labouchere: add numbers after wins and cross off after losses. This aims to ride winning streaks. It's riskier but can capitalize on hot runs.
Split Sequence Strategy
For even more control, split your sequence into multiple smaller sequences. This diversifies risk and prevents any single losing streak from overwhelming your bankroll.
Dynamic Sequence Adjustment
Advanced players adjust their sequences based on current bankroll. If you're up, you can shorten the sequence for faster profit. If you're down, you can lengthen it to reduce risk.
Test Labouchere Risk-Free
Before risking real money, practice the Labouchere system with our free roulette simulator. Experiment with different sequences, profit targets, and see how losing streaks impact your bankroll in a risk-free environment.
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