Different Odds Styles

There are three types of most popular different odds styles: Decimal, american and fractional. If this sounds already a bit like a math class, that’s because in a way it is. Being good at math in betting has the potential to pay off more than simply getting a good grade. These three types usually represent the odds from European, American and English view respectively. There are also Malay and Hong Kong odds, used in Asia. Each type can be converted to another and do not affect the calculation of the actual payout. This is important because it allows you to convert the probability of any betting event.

Different Odds Styles: Decimal Odds

Also known as Continental, European, and Digital odds, this type is the most commonly found in the countries of: the main continent of Europe (France, Spain, Italy, etc.), Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This is usually considered the easiest of the three systems to understand. It is usually easier to see both the favorites and underdogs at a glance.

The decimal number represents your total winnings including your wager. Compared to the other types, the decimal system is very straightforward math:

Your total return = amount wagered x Decimal odds

The betting example we will be using throughout this article will be the betting line on the Super Bowl, which has the New England Patriots favored to repeat as champions.

If you wager $100 for the New England Patriots to repeat, and the decimal odd value for the line is 4.5, the total potential return is $450 (4.5 x 100). But your actual winnings (profit) would be $450 – $100 (the original amount wagered) or $350.

Different Odds Styles: American Odds

Also known as Moneyline and US odds, this type is used primarily in the United States. The favorite is indicated by a minus sign (-) in front of the betting line. A plus sign (+) is used to show the underdog for the event. The American system indicates the amount you will win, not including your original wager.
Your total return for the favorite winning = 100 x (American odds / amount wagered).
Your total return for the underdog winning = American odds x (American odds / amount wagered).

If you wager $100 for the New England Patriots to win Super Bowl, and the American odds value for the line is +350, the total potential profit is $350. You receive + $350 for every $100 wagered.

Different Odds Styles: Fractional Odds

Also known as Traditional, UK, or British odds, this type is used by bookmakers around the world. The symbol used to indicate the odds is either a slash (/) or a dash (-). For example, a common way to express the betting line is to say the odds are “10 to one.” The Fractional Type will show this as 5/1. For every dollar you wager on the right side of the symbol you will get back the number of dollars on the left side of the symbol. If you place a $100 wager on the New England Patriots to win Super Bowl at 7/2  (7×100/2), once again the profit is the same $350.

Which is the Best System to Use?

There is a reason Fractional and Decimal types are preferred by bettors from most countries. The conversions are much simpler and you can calculate your winnings without using a calculator. The American Type is the most difficult because it requires you not to get confused between the underdog (+) and favorite (-) which in itself seems contradictory.

Stick to what you understand: Simplicity reduces mistakes. There is no reason to change your preffered odds format. Use online bookmakers, where you can change odds style as you like it.
Use converters: If ever needed, Online tools can quickly translate odds into your preferred format.
Adapt to markets: If you bet live, get comfortable with the local odds format.