How Decimal Betting Odds Work – The Complete Guide

There are three main types of odds in the world of betting: American odds (Moneyline) fractional (British), and decimal odds, also known as European odds.

The difference between the three types of betting odds is the way the potential return is presented. There is no difference in terms of pay-outs and the chance of winning. The percentage probability can be converted to and introduced to punters in any of these three formats.

On kickoff.co.uk, punters are able to choose between seeing the odds in a decimal or fractional form.

Decimal odds are the most used betting odds format online and in international markets, as they are easier to understand on a global scale than fractional or Moneyline odds. Although they are known as European odds, they are also prominently used across all sport betting markets in the UK, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

According to https://betting-sites.me.uk/, Harry Odgen conceived and refined the way betting odds are seen in 1790.

What are Decimal Odds?

Decimal odds represent price and probability. They’re presented in a way that present the likelihood of your bet winning, with punters able to calculate potential profit if a bet is victorious.

The biggest difference between decimal and fractional odds is that fractional odds show potential returns without your initial stake, whereas decimal odds show the return including your stake.

If you are looking to place a bet with the decimal format, it’s important to understand the following:

Decimal ‘odds against’ prices:

• 5.0 – £1 stake x 5 = £5 winnings
• 5.0 – £5 stake x 5 = £25 winnings
• 5.0 – £10 stake x 5 = £50 winnings

‘Evens’ odds in decimal:

• 2.0 – £1 stake x 2 = £2 winnings
• 2.0 – £5 stake x 2 = £10 winnings
• 2.0 – £10 stake = £20 winnings

‘Odds on’ decimal prices:

• 1.5 – £2 stake x 1.5 = £3 winnings
• 1.5 – £5 stake x 1.5 = £7.50 winnings
• 1.5 – £10 stake x 1.5 = £15 winnings

How Do They Work?

Now you understand the principle a bit more, how do decimal odds work?

Converting odds to decimals is simple. The number represents the cash amount you would win for every £1 wagered and shows the total return rather than profit alone – there is no need to add on your stake, this is already included.

The formula for decimal odds is:

Stake x Odds = Total Winnings

If a better fancies a Chelsea win and the odds are displayed as 1.93, a stake of £100 would produce a pay-out of £193. The original £100 stake is included in these winnings, so the better’s profit would be a healthy £93.

Similarly, if placing a £100 stake on Liverpool winning the game at 2.68 decimal odds, it’s possibly to calculate a potential pay-out using the following method:

100 x 2.68 = £268

Again, the original stake is included in the chance to win £268, so the net profit on this bet would be £168.

The most important thing to remember when betting with decimal odds is that your initial stake is included in any potential return.

The breakeven threshold in decimal odds is 2.0 – this will double the punter’s original stake. Anything below 2.0 is less than evens odds, meaning the return is less than the stake and any odds above this will mean the return is more than the stake.

Decimal odds are the most popular type of odds used across Europe.

Understanding Decimal Odds Can Make Betting Easier

Can understanding decimal odds improve the way you place a bet? Can it even make betting easier? Let’s take a look.

Easier to Calculate Potential Winnings

Fractional odds display the profit alone. For example, 3/1 means a better will win £3 for every £1 staked. Decimal odds represent the total return, so 2.2 means you will win £2.20 for every £1, including your stake. 

If a football punter wanted a more accurate picture of their potential total return, converting fractional odds to decimal will help with this.

Easier to Understand the Betting Markets 

Decimal odds are straightforward and easier to understand, whereas fractional odds can be a bit more confusing – especially for beginners to the betting industry. Which has the bigger potential return, 7/14 or 2/6? 

When betting using decimal odds, there isn’t any complication – 1.85 is bigger than 1.24. Simple.

Greater Betting Options

Decimal odds allows a better to bet in smaller increments in between fractions, and there is better price competition. For example, if the presented odds are 2.5, you can ask for 2.52, 2.54 or 2.56 before you hit the next standard fraction.

Become a Betting Pro

Now that you understand decimal odds, you might want to be a bit more adventurous with your betting style. But don’t go in blind, make sure you take advantage of our free football tips.

If you’re seeking the winning edge, why not become a KickOff pro? Our members have access to top tips, stats and the chance to copy our football tipsters.

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Written by Ashley Salek for kickoff.co.uk