Quick Comparison
| Factor | Single Elimination | Double Elimination |
|---|---|---|
| Games (8 teams) | 7 games | 14-15 games |
| Games (16 teams) | 15 games | 30-31 games |
| Minimum games/team | 1 game | 2 games |
| Time required | Shorter | ~2x longer |
| Second chances | None | One loss allowed |
| Scheduling complexity | Simple | More complex |
Single Elimination Explained
In single elimination, one loss and you're out. It's the most straightforward tournament format and creates maximum drama in every game.
✅ Pros
- • Quick: Fewest games possible
- • Simple: Easy to understand & run
- • Exciting: Every game is do-or-die
- • Clear path: Just keep winning
- • Scheduling: Straightforward timing
❌ Cons
- • One bad day: Best team might lose early
- • Few games: Half the teams play only once
- • Upsets matter: Can crown a lucky winner
- • Early exit: Long trip for one game
📊 Game Count Formula
Single elimination games = n - 1 (where n = teams)
8 teams = 7 games | 16 teams = 15 games | 32 teams = 31 games
Double Elimination Explained
In double elimination, teams must lose twice to be eliminated. After your first loss, you drop to the "losers bracket" where you get a second chance to make it to the finals.
✅ Pros
- • Fairer: Best team usually wins
- • More games: Everyone plays at least twice
- • Second chances: One bad game won't end you
- • Better value: Worth the travel/entry fee
- • Comeback stories: Losers bracket runs are exciting
❌ Cons
- • Time: About 2x as many games
- • Complex: Harder to follow brackets
- • Scheduling: Losers bracket timing is tricky
- • Fatigue: Some teams play many more games
- • Grand finals: "Reset" rule can confuse viewers
📊 Game Count Formula
Double elimination games = 2n - 1 or 2n - 2 (depending on grand finals)
8 teams = 14-15 games | 16 teams = 30-31 games | 32 teams = 62-63 games
💡 The "Reset" Explained
In grand finals, if the team from the losers bracket wins the first match, there's often a "reset" - a second championship game. This is because the winners bracket team hasn't lost twice yet. Some tournaments skip this for time.
Which Format Should You Use?
Choose Single Elimination When:
- You have limited time (single day event)
- Large number of teams (16+) and limited courts
- Playoff stage after pool play (already had round robin)
- You want maximum drama and urgency
- Casual/fun event where fairness is less critical
Choose Double Elimination When:
- Teams traveled far and deserve multiple games
- Finding the "true" best team matters (competitive event)
- Smaller field (8-12 teams) where time permits
- Esports/fighting game tournaments (industry standard)
- Entry fees justify more playing time
Hybrid Formats
Many tournaments combine formats to get the best of both worlds:
Pool Play + Single Elimination
Round robin pools ensure everyone gets games, then single elim playoffs for the exciting finish.
Most common format for weekend tournaments
Modified Double Elimination
Full double elim through semifinals, then single elim finals (no reset) to save time.
Balances fairness with time constraints
Real-World Examples
| Event | Format | Why |
|---|---|---|
| NCAA March Madness | Single Elimination | 68 teams, limited time, maximum drama |
| World Series / NBA Finals | Best-of-7 | Fairness over small playoff field |
| EVO (Fighting Games) | Double Elimination | Skill-based, best player should win |
| World Cup Soccer | Pool + Single Elim | Balance of games and knockout drama |
| Little League Baseball | Double Elimination | Kids deserve second chances |
Create Your Tournament Bracket
Brakto supports both single and double elimination formats. Choose your format, add teams, and we'll generate the perfect bracket structure.