Darts: Play 501 Online
A browser dart game on a full-size dartboard layout. Play 501 (or 301) against the computer at three levels, or pass the phone to a friend. Hold to aim, release to throw, and finish on a double.
How to play Darts
- Each player starts on 501 (or 301) and throws three darts per turn. Every dart's score is taken off what you have left.
- The thin outer ring is a double (2 x the number) and the thin inner ring is a treble (3 x). The outer bull is 25 and the bullseye is 50. Three treble 20s make the top turn of 180.
- You must finish on exactly zero, and the last dart must be a double (or the bullseye). This is called double out.
- If a dart takes you below zero, to exactly 1, or to zero without a double, you bust: the turn ends and your score goes back to what it was before that turn.
- The first player to check out wins. The scoreboard suggests a checkout route once you are on 170 or less.
- Choose 501 straight out to finish on any dart, which is easier for beginners.
Controls
- Touch: press and hold; the aim circle sits just above your finger so you can see it. Move to aim and lift to throw.
- Mouse: hold the button, move the aim and release to throw.
- Keyboard: arrow keys move the aim (hold Shift to move slowly), Space throws.
- Your aim drifts a little all the time, and more if you hold it for too long. Release while it is over your target.
Tips
- Beginners score more aiming at the big single 20 and 19 beds than at the trebles.
- Leave yourself an even number on your last turn before checking out. 32 (double 16) is popular because a miss into single 16 still leaves double 8.
- If you are on an odd number, throw a single odd number first to leave an even double.
- Do not hold the aim too long: after a second and a half the wobble grows.
FAQ
How do you play 501 darts?
Both players start on 501 and take turns throwing three darts. Each dart's score is subtracted, and the first to reach exactly zero, finishing on a double, wins.
What is a bust in darts?
A bust is a turn that would take you below zero, leave you on 1, or reach zero without a double. Your score returns to what it was at the start of that turn.
What is the highest checkout in 501?
170: treble 20, treble 20, bullseye. Some numbers below 170, such as 169, 168, 166, 165, 163, 162 and 159, cannot be finished in three darts.
How do the dartboard numbers work?
Each wedge scores its number. The outer thin ring doubles it, the inner thin ring trebles it, the green outer bull is 25 and the red bullseye is 50.
Can I play darts against a friend?
Yes. Pick 2 players to pass the device between turns. Choose vs Computer to play the computer at Easy, Normal or Hard.