Docs/Advanced

Grid Modes Explained

Understanding arithmetic vs geometric grid spacing.

Two Ways to Space Your Grid

When you create a grid, you choose how the levels are distributed between your lower and upper price bounds. The two options are:

Arithmetic

Equal price distance

Each grid level is the same dollar/price amount apart.

$180, $190, $200, $210, $220 (each +$10)

Geometric

Equal percentage distance

Each grid level is the same percentage apart.

$180, $198, $218, $240, $264 (each +10%)

Arithmetic Mode

How It Works

The price range is divided into equal chunks. If your range is $180-$220 with 5 levels, each level is $10 apart.

Formula:

step = (upper - lower) / (levels - 1)

level[i] = lower + (step × i)

Best for:

  • Tight price ranges (less than 50% spread)
  • Stablecoin pairs or low-volatility assets
  • When you want consistent trade sizes

Geometric Mode

How It Works

The price range is divided into equal percentage steps. If your range is $100-$200 with 5 levels and a 2x multiplier, each step is the same percentage increase.

Formula:

ratio = (upper / lower) ^ (1 / (levels - 1))

level[i] = lower × (ratio ^ i)

Best for:

  • Wide price ranges (100%+ spread)
  • Volatile assets that can swing significantly
  • When you want equal percentage gains per trade

Side-by-Side Comparison

AspectArithmeticGeometric
Level spacingEqual $ amountEqual % amount
Best rangeNarrow (<50%)Wide (>50%)
Profit per tradeFixed $ amountFixed % amount
ComplexitySimpler to understandBetter for volatile assets

Quick Decision Guide

Use Arithmetic if:

  • • Your range is less than 50% wide
  • • You're trading stable assets
  • • You're new and want simplicity

Use Geometric if:

  • • Your range is more than 50% wide
  • • You're trading volatile assets
  • • You want equal % gains per trade
Tip: When in doubt, start with Arithmetic. It's easier to understand and works well for most typical grid setups.