High / Low Darts is one of those games that quietly builds real dart skills while still being incredibly fun to play. At first glance, it looks simple—score high or score low. But once you start playing, you quickly realize this game rewards accuracy, discipline, smart risk-taking, and reading your opponent.
Unlike traditional darts where players chase big numbers nonstop, High / Low Darts forces you to slow down and think. Sometimes the winning move is smashing a triple 20. Other times, it’s carefully placing a dart into a low-value segment to avoid disaster.
Whether you’re practicing at home, playing with friends, or looking to sharpen your competitive edge, this guide covers everything you need—rules, setup, strategies, mistakes, drills, and equipment tips.
What Is High / Low Darts?
High / Low Darts is a flexible dart game where players compete by scoring either higher or lower than a target number, depending on the chosen mode. This simple twist transforms darts from a power-based game into a strategy-first challenge.
The beauty of High / Low Darts is that:
Beginners can learn it quickly
Advanced players still find it challenging
It improves control and consistency
It works with steel-tip and electronic boards
Because of this, many players use High / Low Darts as a training game to improve performance in popular formats like 301 and 501.
Setting Up the Game Properly
A proper setup creates fair play and helps you develop correct throwing habits.
Dartboard Height and Distance
Mount your dartboard so the bullseye is exactly 5 feet 8 inches from the floor. Measure 7 feet 9.25 inches from the face of the board to the throwing line (oche). This is the official distance used in tournaments worldwide.
If you’re practicing seriously or playing often, board quality matters. A worn board causes bounce-outs and uneven scoring. Many regular players eventually upgrade to professional dart boards because they last longer and play more consistently.
Number of Players
High / Low Darts works well with:
Two players (competitive head-to-head)
Three or four players
Teams (great for social games)
Each player throws three darts per turn, rotating clockwise.
How the Target Number Is Chosen
Before the real game begins, a target number must be set.
Here’s the most common method:
The starting player throws two darts at the same time
Add both dart values together
That total becomes the starting target number
This number shapes the entire match. A low target favors High mode. A high target makes Low mode more challenging and strategic.
High Darts Rules: Playing for Big Scores
High Darts is the aggressive side of the game. The goal is simple: score as many points as possible.
Scoring Breakdown
Single segments = face value
Double ring = 2× the number
Triple ring = 3× the number
Bullseye = 50 points
Add the value of all three darts to get your turn score.
Smart Targets to Aim For
Most players naturally focus on:
Triple 20 (the highest single target)
Triple 19 or 18 as backup options
Bullseye when confidence is high
However, raw power isn’t enough. Accuracy matters far more. Many players improve dramatically after working on fundamentals like stance, release, and follow-through. Spending time learning how to aim with darts can transform your High game faster than any strategy.
How You Win High Darts
You can win by:
Reaching a pre-agreed target score first, or
Having the highest total score after a set number of rounds
Consistency beats flashiness every time.
Low Darts Rules: Winning by Scoring Less
Low Darts is where discipline shines.
Instead of chasing points, players aim to reduce their score to zero while avoiding high numbers.
How Low Scoring Works
Every dart adds to your score
High numbers are dangerous
Singles are safer than doubles or triples
Precision matters more than speed
A careless triple can ruin an otherwise perfect round.
Choosing a Starting Score
The starting score is often:
The sum of the two-dart opening throw, or
A fixed number (commonly 60, 80, or 100)
Balanced starting scores keep games competitive for mixed skill levels.
Optional Life System
Many players add pressure by using lives:
Each player starts with 3 lives
Missing required targets loses a life
No lives means elimination
This system rewards focus and punishes rushed throws.
Core Techniques That Make a Real Difference
Aiming With Intention
Never throw without a plan. Always:
Pick a specific segment
Visualize the dart landing
Keep your head still through release
Good aim isn’t luck—it’s repetition.
Throwing Two Darts Together
Since High / Low often begins with a two-dart throw:
Hold both darts lightly
Use a smooth, relaxed motion
Avoid forcing the throw
This skill feels awkward at first but improves quickly with practice.
Consistency Over Strength
Strong throws don’t win games—repeatable throws do. Develop a routine and trust it.
High / Low Strategy That Actually Wins Games
When to Play High
You’re behind in score
Your opponent is playing safe
You feel confident in your accuracy
When to Play Low
You’re close to winning
The pressure is rising
You want to avoid busting
Reading Your Opponent
Watch for:
Miss patterns
Rushed movements
Frustration or hesitation
Adjusting your approach mid-game is a huge advantage.
Common Mistakes Players Make
Chasing Unreachable Targets
Trying to hit triples you rarely land leads to wasted turns.
Poor Dart Placement
Throwing randomly instead of placing darts intentionally costs points.
Ignoring Momentum
High / Low Darts has flow. Pay attention to it.
Practice Drills That Speed Up Improvement
High Scoring Drill
Aim only at high-value numbers
Track your progress weekly
Low Control Drill
Aim only for numbers 1–5
Penalize yourself for hitting higher segments
Pressure Simulation
Short games with strict rules simulate end-game nerves.
Many players notice that combining these drills with structured formats like 301 darts leads to faster improvement overall.
Credit: darthelp.com
Advanced Tips
Advanced tips will help improve your High / Low darts skills fast. These strategies focus on reading opponents, handling pressure, and using the game for training. Small changes can lead to better scores and more wins.
Reading Opponents
Watch how your opponent throws their darts. Notice their aiming style and timing. This helps predict their next moves. Spot when they get nervous or lose focus. Use this to adjust your strategy and stay ahead.
Adjusting For Pressure
Pressure affects every player differently. Practice staying calm during close games. Take deep breaths before each throw. Focus on your own game, not the score. This keeps your aim steady and improves accuracy under stress.
Using High/low For Training
Use High / Low darts to practice precision and scoring. Aim for different targets to build control. Track your progress by noting scores each round. This simple game sharpens skills for all dart players.
Variations And House Rules
High / Low Darts is a fun and flexible game. Players often change rules to suit their style. Variations and house rules keep the game fresh and exciting. These changes can make the game easier or harder. They also add new challenges and teamwork options. Below are some popular ways to play differently.
Popular Game Variations
One common variation is the “Double or Nothing” round. Players try to hit double scores only. Another is the “Triples Challenge,” where only triple scores count. Some prefer playing with a time limit for each turn. This speeds up the game and increases pressure. Variations like “No Bull” remove the bullseye from scoring. Each change shifts the game’s focus and strategy.
Customizing Rules
Players can create their own scoring rules. For example, some allow only even numbers to score. Others may require players to hit numbers in order. You can also change the starting score or the winning score. Some groups add penalties for missing the board. Custom rules help balance skill differences among players. They make the game fairer and more fun for everyone.
Playing With Teams
Teams add a social and strategic layer to High / Low Darts. Players take turns in a set order. Team members can plan shots together. Teams share the total score for each round. This encourages communication and cooperation. Some play with rotating players to keep everyone involved. Team play makes the game more dynamic and enjoyable.
Equipment That Helps You Play Better
Choosing the Right Darts
Comfort matters more than price. Weight, grip, and balance should feel natural. Many players start experimenting with darts for beginners before settling on their ideal setup.
Dartboard Quality
Rotate your board regularly to avoid dead spots and bounce-outs.
Electronic Boards for Practice
Electronic boards are excellent for High / Low games, especially in groups. Automatic scoring keeps things smooth. Players often upgrade using recommendations from best electronic dart boards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A High-low Dart Tournament?
A high-low dart tournament combines two games: players aim for the highest and lowest scores. The winner excels in both.
How Do You Play High Score Darts?
To play high score darts, each player throws three darts aiming for the highest points. Score doubles and triples by hitting outer and inner rings. The player with the highest total after all rounds wins.
Why Is Darts 7ft 9 1/4?
Darts distance is 7ft 9 1/4in to ensure fair play and consistent aiming worldwide. This standard maintains game integrity and skill development.
Do You Want The Highest Or Lowest Score In Darts?
In darts, the goal depends on the game type. Most games aim for the highest score to win.
Conclusion
Playing High / Low Darts offers fun and challenge for all skill levels. Focus on aiming carefully and understanding the rules. Practice setting target numbers and scoring points effectively. Each turn matters, so stay calm and enjoy the game. With time, your throws will improve naturally.
Remember, the goal is to have fun while competing fairly. Keep playing, and you will get better with every round. High / Low Darts is a great way to enjoy time with friends. Try it today and see how much fun darts can be!