How To Bet

Julie Cambridge

Negative and Positive Betting Odds: What They Mean and How to Use Them

Betting odds can be confusing for beginners, but understanding the difference between negative and positive betting odds is key to making smart bets. In this guide, we’ll break down what these odds mean, how to read them, and which is better for different types of bets. Additionally, we’ll also cover popular betting methods, such as mobile betting, live sports betting, and the use of cryptocurrency. Let’s dive in!

What Are Positive and Negative Betting Odds?

If you’re going to be successful at betting online, you’ll need to understand betting odds before you begin.

Positive odds (e.g., +200) show how much profit you’d make on a $100 bet, while negative odds (e.g., -150) indicate how much you need to bet to win $100. Positive odds typically represent underdogs, and negative odds represent favorites. Knowing the difference can help you manage your bets more effectively and make better decisions when placing wagers.

Betting sites often display odds in American format by default, but you can switch to fractional or decimal odds based on your preference. Regardless of the format, the principle remains the same – positive odds mean bigger potential profits but higher risk, while negative odds offer safer bets but lower payouts.

How to Read and Calculate Betting Odds

  • Positive odds: A +300 bet means a $100 wager could win you $300. If you bet $50, your profit would be $150.
  • Negative odds: A -200 bet means you must wager $200 to win $100. Betting $50 would yield a $25 profit.

Understanding this helps you quickly assess the risk and reward of any given bet. Many betting platforms have built-in calculators that allow you to input your stake and instantly see your potential return. This is particularly useful when placing multiple bets or combining wagers into a parlay.

Which Is Better: Positive or Negative Odds?

Neither is strictly better – it depends on your betting strategy. Positive odds offer higher payouts but are riskier. Negative odds are safer bets, but the returns are smaller. For consistent profits, many bettors focus on bets with negative odds, while risk-takers chase underdogs with positive odds.

One approach is to mix both types of bets. For example, you might place a large bet on a favorite with negative odds to secure a win, and a smaller bet on an underdog with positive odds for a chance at a big payout. This balanced strategy can help mitigate losses while maximizing potential gains.

Examples of Negative and Positive Betting Odds

  • Positive Odds Example: Betting +400 on an underdog NFL team to win. A $100 bet could net $400.
  • Negative Odds Example: Betting -150 on a favorite in the UFC. A $150 bet returns $100 if the favorite wins.

Live sports betting often features both positive and negative odds that shift rapidly based on the action. For instance, if a soccer team is trailing at halftime, their odds might shift to +250, offering a tempting payout if you believe they can make a comeback.

Where Are Negative and Positive Betting Odds Most Popular?

Positive and negative odds are standard in sports betting markets like the NFL, Basketball, MLB, and UFC. Negative odds are common for favorites in major events, while positive odds are more frequently seen in futures bets, parlays, and underdog matchups.

Live betting, also known as in-play betting, is another area where odds fluctuate in real-time. This allows bettors to place wagers during the game, responding to events as they unfold. Positive odds may spike if a key player is injured, while negative odds might tighten if a dominant team pulls ahead.

Betting on Mobile: Convenience at Your Fingertips

Betting has never been easier with mobile platforms offering seamless access to odds, live betting, and account management. Most sportsbooks have dedicated apps that allow you to bet from anywhere, track live scores, and cash out early. Mobile betting also means you can act quickly on shifting odds, which is essential for live sports betting.

Using Cryptocurrency to Bet

More sportsbooks are now accepting cryptocurrency as a form of payment. Betting with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies provides faster transactions, lower fees, and enhanced privacy. Crypto betting also allows for easier international participation without currency exchange hassles.

Additionally, some platforms offer special promotions for crypto users, such as enhanced odds or cashback bonuses. This can be a great way to maximize value while taking advantage of modern technology.

Start Betting with BetOnline – Get $250 in Free Bets

Ready to put your knowledge to the test? Join BetOnline today and claim up to $250 in free bets. Whether you’re backing a favorite or taking a chance on an underdog, BetOnline has you covered with competitive odds across all major sports. Enjoy mobile betting, live sports action, and even place your bets using cryptocurrency for a faster, more secure experience.