Sports Betting Arbitrage: Lock in a Win by Betting Both Sides
Ever wondered if there’s a way to bet without losing? With sports betting arbitrage, you can guarantee a profit regardless of the game’s outcome. Arbitrage betting, often called “sure betting”, takes advantage of differences in sportsbook odds by placing opposing bets that lock in a win before the game even starts.
This strategy works because sportsbooks calculate their odds based on their bettors’ activity. Since each sportsbook has its own way of adjusting lines based on betting patterns, mismatched lines can appear between different sportsbooks. That’s where the arbitrage opportunity lies — when you can bet on both sides of the outcome and secure a guaranteed profit.
How Sports Betting Arbitrage Works
Each sportsbook sets its odds independently, based on its own betting action and liability. If one book offers a +130 line for Team A and another lists Team B at -110, you can bet on both and make a guaranteed profit.
Example Scenario:
- Sportsbook A: Team A +130
- Sportsbook B: Team B -110
If you place $100 on Team A at +130, your potential payout is $230 (profit of $130). If you bet $118 on Team B at -110, you would win $108.18. No matter which team wins, your total payout exceeds your total risk — creating a profit.
Why Arbitrage Opportunities Appear
Arbitrage opportunities exist because sportsbooks calculate odds based on different factors:
- Betting Volume: A surge of bets on one side forces the book to adjust its line.
- Geography: A sportsbook catering to New York bettors might list better odds for the Knicks than a sportsbook focused on California. This is especially true with local bookies, knowing their clients are more likely to bet on their local favorite team due to bias.
- Injuries or News: Sharp bettors acting on insider injury news can create line movement before books adjust.
Step-by-Step Guide to Arbitrage Betting
Step 1: Find an Arbitrage Opportunity
The first step is identifying mismatched lines. Use an odds comparison tool to monitor sportsbooks in real-time and get alerts when differences appear.
Pro Tip: Focus on major sports like the NFL, NBA, and Premier League, as high betting volume increases the chances of line discrepancies.
Step 2: Use an Arbitrage Calculator
Once you spot an opportunity, calculate the exact bet amounts using an arbitrage calculator. Input the positive and negative odds, and the calculator will tell you how much to wager on each side to lock in a profit.
Example: If one sportsbook offers +130 and another offers -110, the calculator may suggest betting $100 on the underdog and $118 on the favorite to guarantee a $12 profit regardless of the outcome.
Step 3: Place Your Bets Quickly
Odds change fast, especially when sharp bettors are involved. Place your bets immediately after confirming the opportunity to avoid losing the edge. Many sportsbooks adjust their lines within seconds once a betting imbalance is detected.
Capital Requirements for Arbitrage Betting
Arbitrage betting usually yields small profits per bet (around 15%). To scale your profits, you need enough bankroll to place large bets when opportunities arise.
Example:
- If you spot a 3% arbitrage opportunity and bet $10,000 across both sides, you lock in a $300 profit.
- Over 100 similar bets per month, that’s $30,000 in guaranteed profit.
Pro Tip: Keep funds spread across multiple sportsbooks to avoid deposit and withdrawal delays when shifting capital for new opportunities.
Advanced Arbitrage Techniques
1. Middling
Middling happens when you bet both sides of a game with different point spreads, aiming to win both bets. For example:
- Sportsbook A: Lakers -6.5 (-110)
- Sportsbook B: Opponent +7.5 (-110)
If the Lakers win by exactly 7 points, you win both bets—which maximizes profits.
2. Live Arbitrage
Live betting creates unique arbitrage opportunities as odds shift in real-time. Bettors can capitalize on mid-game momentum changes to lock in profits.
Risks and Limitations
Sportsbooks don’t like arbitrage bettors because they guarantee wins. Some risks include:
- Account restrictions or bans.
- Reduced betting limits on future wagers.
- Line movements closing the arbitrage window before you can bet both sides.
Final Thoughts
Sports betting arbitrage is a low-risk, high-reward strategy—but only if you act fast and stay disciplined. Build a network of accounts at major sportsbooks, track odds with software, and use arbitrage calculators to maximize profits.
For the best odds and lowest vig, check out BetAnySports, one of the top sportsbooks for sharp bettors.