Betting Odds, Lines & Spreads

Types of Odds

Navigating betting odds can be difficult for newer players – especially when you consider that there are multiple odds formats used throughout the wagering world. When novice bettors first realize that -125, 1.80 and 4/5 all represent the same probability, it can make them dizzy – but we're here to lay it all out clearly.

American Odds

American odds are a popular format in the U.S., designed to be clear once you get the hang of them. They come in two forms: positive (+) and negative (-) numbers. Positive odds (e.g., +200) indicate how much profit you'd make on a $100 bet. So, a +200 bet would net you $200 if you win. Easy enough, right?

Negative odds are a bit different. They show how much you need to bet to win $100. For example, odds of -150 mean you’d need to wager $150 to win $100. The lower the negative number, the more likely the outcome, but the less you'll earn per dollar bet. It’s essentially a way to balance the risk of betting on favorites.

The beauty of American odds is how clearly they reflect the underdog-favorite dynamic. Positive odds suggest an underdog, while negative odds point to a favorite. This format makes it straightforward to compare potential risks and rewards at a glance, once you understand the pluses and minuses.

Decimal Odds

Decimal odds are the simplest format for many bettors, popular across Europe, Canada, and Australia. They show exactly how much you'll get back for every dollar (or unit) wagered, including your original stake. For example, odds of 2.50 mean you’ll receive $2.50 for every $1 bet if you win, covering both your initial wager and your profit.

The key to understanding decimal odds is that they directly represent the total return. So, if the odds are 3.00, a successful $10 bet would return $30—your $10 stake plus $20 in profit. Higher numbers indicate higher potential payouts, while lower numbers signify favorites and lower returns relative to the stake.

Decimal odds make comparing bets straightforward because you’re seeing the total return value in one number. This format’s clarity and ease of use are why it’s widely adopted in many countries and on most online betting platforms. It’s a favorite for newcomers due to its direct calculation of returns, making it a great starting point for betting enthusiasts.

Fractional Odds

Fractional odds are a traditional format, commonly used in the UK and Ireland. They’re expressed as fractions, like 5/1 or 7/2, showing the ratio of profit to the original stake. So, odds of 5/1 (read as "five to one") mean you’d win $5 in profit for every $1 you bet. Similarly, odds of 7/2 mean you’d earn $7 for every $2 wagered.

The format might seem a bit complex at first because it involves fractions, but it’s actually straightforward once you grasp it. The numerator (top number) indicates how much you’d win, while the denominator (bottom number) represents the stake. If you bet $10 at 7/2, you’d get $35 in profit plus your initial $10 back, totaling $45. Lower odds, like 2/5, mean you have to bet more to earn less, indicating a favored outcome.

Fractional odds can be a bit trickier to calculate quickly, but they’re favored by many bettors for how clearly they represent the risk-reward ratio. They’re especially popular in horse racing, where bettors often look for value in underdog picks or assess returns more precisely using this format. Once you’re familiar with the basic math, fractional odds become an easy way to see potential profits relative to the stake.

Our wildly popular odds calculator lets you move easily between formats so you can quickly convert one odds type to your preferred option.

Types of Bets

Bets in sports betting come in various forms, generally focused on picking winners, predicting score margins, or anticipating total points. Some bets involve combining multiple outcomes for higher rewards, while others target specific in-game events or achievements. Each type offers a unique blend of risk and reward, catering to different betting strategies and preferences.

Here's a look at the main bet types you'll encounter at our best sports betting sites:

Moneyline

Moneyline bets are the simplest form of sports betting, focusing solely on picking a winner. It’s all about who wins, no spreads or point totals involved. If you see +250, that team is the underdog; a $100 bet would return $250 if they win. A -120 means they’re the favorite, requiring a $120 wager to win $100. Moneylines are perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers straightforward outcomes – just back your pick and hope for a victory.

Check out our moneyline betting guide for a more detailed look at this popular format.

Point Spread

Point spread bets are all about leveling the playing field between teams, making any game more exciting. Instead of just picking a winner, you’re betting on whether a team can “cover the spread,” meaning they either win by a certain margin or avoid losing by too much. For example, if a team is -5.5, they need to win by 6 or more points to win the bet. This format keeps games thrilling until the final whistle, adding intensity even to potential blowouts.

We go into further detail in our spread betting guide.

Totals

Totals bets, also known as Over/Under bets, focus on the combined score of both teams rather than who wins. Bettors predict whether the total points scored will be above or below a set number. For instance, if the line is 220.5 in an NBA game, you’d bet on whether the teams' combined score will be over 220 or under 220.5. It’s a simple yet engaging way to stay invested in every basket, goal, or run, keeping things interesting until the very end.

Spend some time in our over under betting guide to learn more.

Futures

Futures bets are long-term wagers placed on events that will unfold over a season or tournament. Instead of betting on a single game, you’re predicting outcomes like who will win the NBA championship, MVP award, or a division title. Since these bets can be made months in advance, they offer a chance for big payouts, especially when backing underdogs. Futures keep you invested throughout the season, adding suspense as teams rise or fall and turning each game into a step toward your bigger prediction.

Here's a look at our most notable futures pages:

• Super Bowl Odds
• CFP National Championship Odds
• NBA Finals Odds
• World Series Odds
• Stanley Cup Odds

Prop bets

Prop bets, short for proposition bets, focus on specific events or outcomes within a game, rather than the final score. They range from player stats, like total points scored by a star player, to quirky events like the length of the national anthem. These bets can cover anything from team milestones to individual performances, making games more interactive and fun. Whether it’s predicting the first touchdown or the total three-pointers made, prop bets keep every moment thrilling, adding a unique layer of excitement beyond the scoreboard.

We offer a detailed list of the best prop betting sites here.

How to use SBR’s odds tables

Whether you’re a rookie bettor eager to understand sports odds tables or a seasoned player looking to enhance your wagering experience beyond browsing our top bets, we've got everything you need right here.

Our odds page features top-rated sportsbooks in your area, providing the most up-to-date lines for every game and futures market across various sports. Want an instant edge? Look for odds highlighted in blue – they represent the best value for a particular bet.

Each set of game odds includes three important additional features:

• The Favorite feature (indicated by a star to the left of the team names) lets bettors prioritize specific matchups on their main Odds page; simply click the star, and that game becomes a favorite.
• The Matchup feature (indicated by the word "Matchup" to the right of the star) is a stathead's delight, transporting interested bettors to a page fully devoted to trends, comparisons and other game details for the game in question. Best of all, the Matchup page includes the best values for spread, total and moneyline plays.
• The Odds History feature (indicated by parallel wavy lines to the right of the Matchup link) takes bettors through every major odds development since the lines first opened. Players can alternate between a variety of sportsbooks and quickly identify every time the spread or total shifted.

Sportsbook Review features comprehensive odds across a variety of top sports:

NFL Game Odds | NFL Player Props | NFL Futures Odds

NBA Game Odds | NBA Player Props | NBA Futures Odds

MLB Game Odds | MLB Player Props | MLB Futures Odds

NHL Game Odds | NHL Player Props | NHL Futures Odds

Line movement: Why do sportsbooks move odds?

Sportsbooks move lines primarily as a way to manage risk. When a significant amount of money is wagered on one side of a bet, the sportsbook adjusts the line to balance the action and minimize potential losses.

By shifting the line, they encourage bettors to wager on the opposite side, helping maintain even exposure on both outcomes. This balancing act is crucial for sportsbooks, which aim to earn profit through the vig (the built-in commission) rather than risk huge payouts on lopsided betting.

Public betting trends also influence line movement. When a large number of casual bettors, often called “public” bettors, place money on one side, the line may shift to reflect this surge in interest. For example, if the majority of bettors back a popular team, the sportsbook may adjust the line to make the less popular team more attractive.

This shift isn’t necessarily based on new information about the game, but rather on public sentiment, which can sometimes create value for sharp bettors who bet against the trend.

Sharp action – bets placed by professional or experienced bettors – also triggers line movement. When sharp bettors place heavy wagers, sportsbooks take this as a signal that these bettors have valuable information or insights. As a result, the line adjusts quickly to reflect the more accurate probability indicated by sharp action.

In this way, sportsbooks protect themselves from being exploited by sharper, more informed bets while keeping the action balanced and the lines as accurate as possible.

What are Vegas odds?

"Vegas odds" traditionally referred to the betting lines set by Las Vegas sportsbooks, which were once the hub of sports betting in the U.S. For decades, Vegas was seen as the gold standard for odds-setting, with casinos along the Strip acting as trendsetters for the broader betting market. The term became synonymous with the most authoritative and accurate lines, as Vegas bookies were known for their experience and deep expertise.

However, the phrase "Vegas odds" is mostly a misnomer today. With the rise of online sportsbooks and the legalization of sports betting across many states, odds are no longer exclusive to Vegas. Major sportsbooks now operate nationwide, often adjusting their lines independently or using odds from other sources, not just Las Vegas.

While "Vegas odds" is still used colloquially to describe the opening or consensus lines, most of these odds are now set by algorithms, sharps, and oddsmakers operating across various locations, not solely in Sin City. As a result, the term has more historical than literal accuracy in today's global betting market.

How to choose sports betting sites

Knowing sports is only part of what will make you a successful bettor.

Just like making any important purchase, shopping around for the friendliest odds can make a huge difference. Here are some tips to help you find the best sportsbooks:

• Prioritize quality of odds: You want access to sportsbooks that consistently offer the best odds, with clear displays so you can easily compare prices and find the best value between prominent sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel or Caesars.
• Leverage bonus offers: Take advantage of the best sportsbook promos, especially at the start of every season and/or playoffs. BetMGM bonus code, FanDuel promo code and DraftKings promo code offers are among the strongest you'll find.
• Consider sportsbook reputation: Selecting the right sportsbook can be daunting. Check their commitment to customer safety and responsible gaming. Our responsible gaming guide highlights how major sportsbooks prioritize player protection.
• Trust expert reviews (like ours): If you're unsure about a sportsbook, let expert reviews guide you. Sportsbook Review has tested and rated dozens of top MLB betting sites, so whether you're keen on finding the best parlay betting sites or looking for a review of a top-tier platform like bet365, we have you covered.

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