Point spread vs. moneyline vs. totals (comparison piece)
Explore the differences between point spread, moneyline, and totals betting with tips on how arbitrage betting ensures consistent profits.
Point spread vs. moneyline vs. totals (comparison piece)
Point spread, moneyline, and totals are three fundamental types of sports bets that differ in how outcomes are predicted and paid out.
Each betting type offers unique advantages and challenges, affecting risk, potential reward, and how the bettor approaches the game.
Arbitrage betting removes the guesswork and risk associated with choosing between these options by guaranteeing profit regardless of outcome.
Understanding Point Spread Betting
Point spread betting involves wagering on the margin of victory in a game. The favorite must win by more than the spread, while the underdog can lose by less or win outright for the bet to pay off. This type levels the playing field and is popular in sports like football and basketball.
- •The spread is a handicap set by bookmakers to balance betting action.
- •Betting on the favorite requires overcoming the spread; the underdog has an advantage.
- •Payouts are typically close to even money, with small vig included.
Challenges with Point Spread Betting
Predicting the exact margin of victory can be difficult, requiring deep knowledge or luck. Variations in scoring and unexpected game events can alter outcomes unpredictably.
- →Game dynamics may shift unexpectedly.
- →Close spreads can be harder to assess accurately.
💡Point Spread Example
If Team A is favored by 7 points against Team B, Team A must win by more than 7 for bets on them to pay. If they win by exactly 7, the bet is a push and stakes are returned.
Bet $100 on Team A at -110 odds; if they cover the spread, you win $90.91 profit.
Understanding Moneyline Betting
Moneyline betting is a straightforward wager on which team will win the game outright, regardless of margin. Odds represent the payout based on the implied probability of each team winning.
- •No point spread involved, just pick the winner.
- •Favorites have lower payouts, underdogs offer higher returns.
- •Simpler for beginners but can carry higher variance.
Moneyline Betting Challenges
Large discrepancies in odds can lead to risky bets if the underdog wins unexpectedly. Managing bankroll and understanding implied probabilities are key to success.
- →Favorites may offer low returns on investment.
- →Underdogs can be tempting but riskier.
💡Moneyline Example
If Team A is -150 and Team B is +130, a $150 bet on Team A wins $100 if they prevail, while a $100 bet on Team B wins $130 if they pull an upset.
Stake $150 on favorite at -150 to win $100 profit.
Understanding Totals (Over/Under) Betting
Totals betting involves wagering on whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a set line established by the bookmaker. This type focuses on game flow rather than winner prediction.
- •Popular in sports with variable scoring like basketball and soccer.
- •Requires assessment of offensive and defensive capabilities.
- •Less affected by which team wins but more by pace and style.
Challenges with Totals Betting
Unexpected game tempo changes or weather conditions can influence scoring totals. This unpredictability creates risk that arbitrage betting can eliminate by balancing bets across outcomes.
- →Weather or injuries can drastically affect scoring.
- →Game tempo can be unpredictable.
💡Totals Betting Example
If the total is set at 45.5 points, bettors wager on whether the combined score will be over or under that number. A final score of 28-20 results in a total of 48, winning the over bet.
Bet $100 on over at -110 odds to win $90.91 profit.
How Arbitrage Betting Simplifies Choosing Between Bet Types
Arbitrage betting involves placing bets on all possible outcomes across different bookmakers to guarantee profit. This eliminates the need to predict which bet type will be most profitable or risky, as it balances risk automatically.
- •Removes guesswork between point spread, moneyline, and totals.
- •Ensures guaranteed returns despite market fluctuations.
- •Complex calculations can be automated with tools like ArbitUp.
💡Arbitrage Example
By betting on the underdog moneyline with one bookmaker and the favorite on the point spread with another, an arbitrage bettor locks in profit regardless of which bet wins.
Using odds from two bookmakers, calculate stakes so total payout exceeds total stake.
Practical Advice for Bettors Considering Point Spread, Moneyline, and Totals
Successful bettors should understand the strengths and weaknesses of each bet type and consider how arbitrage betting can protect their bankroll. Diversifying bet types and using automated tools helps manage risk and improve profitability.
- •Study sport-specific trends before choosing bet type.
- •Use arbitrage to hedge against losses in risky bets.
- •Leverage software like ArbitUp for efficient bet placement.
Bankroll Management
Maintaining a disciplined bankroll and staking plan reduces losses. Arbitrage betting further protects bankroll by ensuring positive expected value.
- →Set limits on bet size per game.
- →Adjust stakes according to arbitrage opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️Choosing bet types based solely on potential payout without considering risk and probability.
- ⚠️Failing to understand how the point spread affects the outcome of a bet.
- ⚠️Overestimating the likelihood of underdog moneyline wins leading to poor bankroll management.
- ⚠️Ignoring game conditions that impact totals betting, such as weather or injuries.
- ⚠️Not utilizing arbitrage opportunities to reduce risk and secure guaranteed profits.
- ⚠️Attempting complex arbitrage calculations manually instead of using automation tools.
- ⚠️Overbetting on a single bet type without diversifying strategies.
The Power of Arbitrage Betting
Arbitrage betting eliminates guesswork by securing profit regardless of the outcome, transforming sports betting into a calculated investment.
- ✓Guaranteed returns by covering all outcomes.
- ✓Reduces risk compared to traditional single-outcome bets.
- ✓Simplifies decision-making across point spread, moneyline, and totals.
Get Started with ArbitUp
Ready to start earning guaranteed profits?
Why ArbitUp is the best and most affordable option
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This content is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Sports betting involves substantial risk. Only bet with money you can afford to lose. See our Terms of Service for complete legal disclaimers.