Decimal and Fractional Odds Explained
Odds are written three ways around the world, but the bet underneath is the same. Here is how to read decimal and fractional odds and convert them.
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Decimal odds
Decimal odds show the total return for each 1 you bet, stake included. At 2.50, a $10 bet returns $25, which is $15 in profit. At 1.91, a $10 bet returns $19.10, which is $9.10 in profit.
Decimal odds are common in Europe, Canada and Australia. To get profit, subtract 1 from the decimal number and multiply by the stake.
Fractional odds
Fractional odds show profit compared with stake. At 5/2, you win 5 for every 2 you risk. A $2 bet wins $5, and a $10 bet wins $25. At 1/2, you win 1 for every 2 risked, so a $10 bet wins $5.
This style is traditional in the United Kingdom and Ireland, especially in horse racing.
Converting between styles
To turn fractional into decimal, divide and add 1: 5/2 is 2.5 + 1 = 3.50, and 1/2 is 0.5 + 1 = 1.50.
To turn decimal into American: if the decimal is 2.00 or higher, subtract 1 and multiply by 100. If it is below 2.00, divide -100 by the decimal minus 1.
- 2.50 decimal: (2.50 - 1) x 100 = +150
- 3.50 decimal (5/2): (3.50 - 1) x 100 = +250
- 1.91 decimal: -100 / 0.91 = about -110
- 1.50 decimal (1/2): -100 / 0.50 = -200
Going back to decimal
From a plus American number, decimal is 1 + the number / 100, so +150 is 2.50. From a minus number, decimal is 1 + 100 / the number without its sign, so -200 is 1.50 and -110 is about 1.91.
The price is the same in every style. Only the way it is written changes, so the same bet pays the same money.
Bets can lose, and nobody should bet money they cannot afford to lose. Bettors must be 21 or older where betting is legal. If gambling is a problem for you or someone you know, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Questions
Is 2.50 the same as 5/2?
No. 2.50 in decimal is 3/2 in fractional and +150 in American. 5/2 fractional equals 3.50 decimal and +250 American.
Which style do United States sportsbooks use?
Most United States books use American odds, though many apps let you switch the display to decimal or fractional.
Does the style change what I win?
No. A bet at 2.50 decimal, +150 American or 3/2 fractional pays exactly the same.
More guides
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