Statistics

Poisson Distribution Calculator

Probability of k events in an interval.

Enter your values

Results update instantly as you type — no submit needed.

Results
P(X = k)
0.104196
P(X ≤ k)
0.889326
P(X > k)
0.110674
Mean and variance
4
Standard deviation
2

Quick answer

The Poisson distribution models rare independent events at a constant average rate λ over a fixed interval.

P(X=k) = λ^k e^(−λ) / k!

How to use the Poisson Distribution Calculator

  1. 1Enter the average number of events per interval.
  2. 2Enter the event count you are testing.
  3. 3Read exact and cumulative probabilities.

Frequently asked questions

When is Poisson appropriate?

Independent rare events at a steady rate: calls per hour, defects per metre.

How does it relate to binomial?

Poisson is the limit of binomial when n is large and p is small.