Introduction:
If you’ve ever opened the FanDuel app and felt confused by numbers like -110, +250, or 1.91, you’re not alone. Odds can look intimidating at first—but once you understand them, betting becomes smarter, safer, and more profitable.
On FanDuel, odds determine:
- How much you win
- How risky a bet is
- Whether a bet has value
This guide explains FanDuel odds step by step, in plain English—no math degree required.
By the end, you’ll know:
- What betting odds really mean
- All odds types used on FanDuel
- How FanDuel sets odds
- How to read odds in the app
- How to find value bets
- Common mistakes that lose money
Whether you’re a beginner or casual bettor, this guide will help you bet smarter in 2026.
What Are Betting Odds?
Betting odds show two things at the same time:
- The probability of something happening
- The payout if you’re right
In simple terms:
- Low odds = safer bet, smaller payout
- High odds = riskier bet, bigger payout
Odds are not predictions—they’re prices set by the sportsbook.
How Odds Work (Real Example)
If a team has odds of -200:
- The sportsbook believes they are likely to win
- You must bet $200 to win $100
If a team has odds of +200:
- They are less likely to win
- A $100 bet wins $200
Understanding this concept is the foundation of smart betting.
Types of Betting Odds Used on FanDuel
FanDuel primarily uses American odds, but it also displays decimal odds in some views.
1. American Odds (Most Common on FanDuel)
American odds use plus (+) and minus (-) numbers.
Negative Odds (-110, -150, -300)
- Show favorites
- Indicate how much you must bet to win $100
Example:
-150 = Bet $150 to win $100
Positive Odds (+120, +250, +500)
- Show underdogs
- Indicate how much you win on a $100 bet
Example:
+250 = Bet $100 to win $250
American Odds Quick Table
| Odds | What It Means | $100 Bet Outcome |
| -110 | Slight favorite | Win $90.91 |
| -200 | Strong favorite | Win $50 |
| +100 | Even odds | Win $100 |
| +200 | Underdog | Win $200 |
| +500 | Big underdog | Win $500 |
2. Decimal Odds (Sometimes Shown)
Decimal odds show total payout, including your stake.
Example:
Odds 2.50 × $100 bet = $250 total return
Decimal Odds Table
| Decimal Odds | Implied Meaning |
| 1.50 | Strong favorite |
| 2.00 | Even odds |
| 3.00 | Underdog |
| 6.00 | Long shot |
FanDuel mainly uses American odds, but understanding decimals helps when comparing bets.
Types of Bets Where FanDuel Odds Appear
Odds appear across all bet types.
Moneyline Bets
Straight bet on who wins.
- No point spread
- Odds reflect favorite vs underdog
Point Spread Bets
FanDuel adds or subtracts points to balance teams.
Example:
- Team A -3.5 (must win by 4+ points)
Odds are usually around -110 on both sides.
Totals (Over/Under)
Bet on total points scored.
- Over 48.5
- Under 48.5
Odds usually close to even.
Player Props
Odds on individual player performance.
Examples:
- Touchdowns
- Passing yards
- Rebounds
- Goals
These often carry higher odds and higher risk.
Same-Game Parlays
Combine multiple bets from one game.
- Higher odds
- Lower probability
- Popular but risky
Futures Bets
Long-term bets.
Examples:
- Championship winner
- MVP
- Season win totals
High odds, long wait.
How FanDuel Sets Odds
FanDuel doesn’t pick odds randomly.
Odds are influenced by:
- Statistical models
- Team/player performance data
- Injuries and lineups
- Public betting behavior
- Risk management
If a lot of money comes in on one side, odds may move to balance action.
Why Odds Move (Line Movement Explained)
Odds change because:
- New information (injuries, weather)
- Heavy betting on one side
- Market corrections
Smart bettors watch line movement to spot value.
How to Read FanDuel Odds in the App
Step-by-Step
- Open a sport (NFL, NBA, MLB, etc.)
- Choose a game
- View betting markets
- Odds appear next to each option
- Tap odds to add to bet slip
The bet slip automatically shows:
- Stake
- Potential profit
- Total payout
Understanding Payout vs Profit
Many beginners confuse these.
- Profit = money you win
- Payout = profit + original bet
Example:
- Bet $100 at +200
- Profit = $200
- Payout = $300
Implied Probability (Key to Smart Betting)
Odds reflect implied probability.
Implied Probability Formula (Simple)
- Negative odds: Odds ÷ (Odds + 100)
- Positive odds: 100 ÷ (Odds + 100)
You don’t need to calculate this every time—just know:
- Lower odds = higher probability
- Higher odds = lower probability
Tips to Find Value Bets on FanDuel
Value betting is how smart bettors win long-term.
1. Compare Odds
Use more than one sportsbook to see if FanDuel offers better value.
2. Avoid Emotional Betting
Don’t bet just because:
- It’s your favorite team
- It’s a prime-time game
3. Focus on Lines, Not Teams
You’re betting numbers—not loyalty.
4. Watch Line Movement
Early odds often offer better value before public money moves the line.
5. Be Careful With Parlays
Parlays look attractive but carry:
- Lower probability
- Higher house edge
Use them sparingly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Chasing Losses
Trying to win back losses leads to poor decisions.
Mistake #2: Betting Big Underdogs Blindly
High odds don’t mean value.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Juice (Vigorish)
The sportsbook margin is built into odds—especially on spreads.
Mistake #4: Overusing Same-Game Parlays
They’re fun, but not profitable long-term.
Mistake #5: Betting Too Many Games
Quality beats quantity.
FanDuel Live Odds Explained
Live betting allows bets during games.
Live Odds Characteristics
- Change constantly
- React to every play
- Can offer great value—or traps
Best used when:
- You understand the sport well
- You react quickly
- You manage bankroll carefully
Bankroll Management (Quick Basics)
Smart odds mean nothing without discipline.
- Bet 1–5% of your bankroll per bet
- Never go all-in
- Track wins and losses
This keeps you in the game long-term.
Who FanDuel Odds Are Best For
FanDuel odds work well for:
- Beginners
- Casual bettors
- Live-betting fans
- Same-game parlay users
Advanced bettors may compare odds across platforms.
Conclusion:
Understanding FanDuel odds turns betting from guessing into strategy.
- Odds show probability + payout
- American odds dominate FanDuel
- Higher odds ≠ better bets
- Value matters more than favorites
- Discipline beats excitement
If you read odds correctly, avoid common mistakes, and focus on value—not hype—you’ll make smarter bets in 2026 and beyond. For more tech tips and app reviews, check out Fletchapp.com to stay ahead in the world of technology!
