How To Choose Between Fractional And Decimal Odds
Hone your sports betting experience by choosing between fractional and decimal odds.
Each have their pros and cons, and bettors will ultimately find their preferred odds format once they have tried both out.
Understanding how fractional or decimal odds work is crucial. This allows you to evaluate probabilities, whether deciding on a bet builder or making some outright picks.
Fractional Odds Explained
Betting odds with a slash between two numbers are fractional betting odds. The number on the right is a nominal stake, with the number on the left showing the potential winnings from that stake.
To use a simplistic example, a £1 wager on a 3/1 bet would return a total of £4, with £3 of that as winnings.
It is easy to work out the probability with straight-forward fractional odds like this. A 3/1 price means an implied probability of 25%.
Decimal Odds Explained
Alternatively, you could choose the decimal odds format. This is all about preference for online bettors – it’s also easy to convert odds using free tools.
The simple equation for decimal odds is: Winnings = (odds * stake) – stake
To use the example above, fractional odds of 3/1 work out as 4.00 in the decimal format. Decimal odds don’t have the same variable with the stake like we can see in fractional odds of 4/6, 3/5, etc.
Instead, a nominal stake of one is included in the odds.
If you bet £1 on a 4.00 wager, your total returns will be £4.
Calculating potential winnings is easier with decimal odds once you get the hang of it. We would recommend familiarising yourself with the equation to work out implied probabilities from decimal odds.
