Odds show the price of a bet. They help explain how likely a sportsbook believes an outcome is and how much a winning bet would return.
Most sportsbooks display odds in one of three formats:
- American odds
- Decimal odds
- Fractional odds
Each format looks different, but they all represent the same basic idea: probability and payout.
American Odds
American odds are most common in the United States.
A favorite is usually shown with a minus number.
Example: -150
This means you would need to bet $150 to win $100 in profit.
An underdog is usually shown with a plus number.
Example: +130
This means a $100 bet would win $130 in profit.
In both cases, your original stake is returned if the bet wins.
Decimal Odds
Decimal odds are common in Europe, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Decimal odds show the total return, including your original stake.
Example: 1.67
A $100 bet at 1.67 would return $167 total.
Example: 2.30
A $100 bet at 2.30 would return $230 total.
Decimal odds are useful because the math is simple: Stake × Decimal Odds = Total Return
Fractional Odds
Fractional odds are most common in the UK and Ireland.
Example: 4/6
The number on the right is the stake. The number on the left is the profit.
A $6 bet at 4/6 would win $4 in profit, for a $10 total return.
Quick Comparison
| American | Decimal | Fractional | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| -150 | 1.67 | 4/6 | Risk $150 to win $100 |
| +130 | 2.30 | 13/10 | Risk $100 to win $130 |
Key Takeaways
- Odds show price, probability, and potential payout.
- American odds use plus and minus numbers.
- Decimal odds show total return.
- Fractional odds show profit compared to stake.
- Odds do not guarantee an outcome.