Pure bluff
Set equity when called to zero to isolate how frequently the opponent must fold.
Fold Equity Calculator
Separate the value created by immediate folds from the value of being called. The fold equity calculator weights both branches, reports total betting EV, and solves the fold frequency needed to break even when that solution exists.
Separate fold value from showdown value
The heads-up model assumes the opponent either folds or calls the full bet.
How the result is built
Where Fold Equity Enters Bet EV
Fold frequency is the probability input. Fold equity contribution is the value that probability contributes to the decision's expected value.
- Opponent folds40% × 100 = +40
- Opponent calls25% showdown equity → −7.5
- Total EV contribution+32.5
- Fold frequency
- Call frequency
Fold equity is a branch contribution
Fold frequency multiplied by the current pot is the amount contributed by folds to total EV. It is not a standalone percentage added to showdown equity.
Called equity still matters
When called, both bets enter the pot and your conditional equity determines the called-branch value. Strong showdown equity can make a bet profitable even at zero folds.
Heads-up simplification
The model gives the opponent only fold or full-call choices. Raises, multiway action, future streets, and range-dependent response frequencies need a fuller tree.
Worked examples
Value-heavy bet
High called equity can remove the need for any break-even fold frequency.
Frequently asked questions
Is fold equity the same as fold frequency?
No. Frequency is an input; fold equity contribution is frequency times the pot won.
Why can break-even folds be absent?
The bet may already be profitable with no folds, or the algebraic solution may fall outside 0–100%.
Does the opponent call amount equal my bet?
Yes in this simplified heads-up model.
Are raises modeled?
No. The opponent has only fold or call branches.