Betting odds are the backbone of online betting, determining your potential winnings and reflecting the likelihood of an outcome. For Filipinos new to betting on platforms like 7XM, YE7, or PS88, odds can seem confusing at first.
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Whether you’re wagering on PBA basketball, boxing, or esports, understanding odds is key to making informed bets and enjoying the experience. This guide breaks down the essentials of betting odds in simple, practical terms, tailored for Filipino bettors using PAGCOR-licensed or reputable platforms.
What Are Betting Odds?
Betting odds represent two things:
- Probability: The likelihood of an event happening (e.g., a team winning a basketball game).
- Payout: How much you’ll earn if your bet wins.
Odds are set by bookmakers based on factors like team performance, player stats, and market trends. In the Philippines, you’ll encounter odds in various formats, but they all serve the same purpose: to help you understand your chances and potential returns.
👉 New to betting? Check out our Betting Basics Guide for a foundation before diving into odds.
Common Odds Formats in the Philippines
There are three main odds formats you’ll see on betting apps like BC.GAME, 1xBet, or YE7. Here’s how they work:
1. Decimal Odds
- What It Is: The most common format in the Philippines, decimal odds show your total payout (stake + profit) per unit bet.
- How It Works: Multiply your bet by the odds to calculate your payout. For example:
- Bet ₱100 at 2.00 odds = ₱100 × 2.00 = ₱200 (₱100 stake + ₱100 profit).
- Bet ₱500 at 1.50 odds = ₱500 × 1.50 = ₱750 (₱500 stake + ₱250 profit).
- Why It’s Popular: Easy to understand and widely used on Filipino betting apps like PS88 and BK8.
- Example: A PBA game might list Barangay Ginebra at 1.80 to win. A ₱200 bet returns ₱360 if they win.
2. Fractional Odds
- What It Is: Common in some international markets, fractional odds show your profit relative to your stake.
- How It Works: The numerator (top number) is your potential profit, and the denominator (bottom number) is your stake. For example:
- 1/2 odds mean you bet ₱2 to win ₱1 profit (plus your ₱2 stake back).
- 5/4 odds mean a ₱4 bet wins ₱5 profit (plus your ₱4 stake).
- Why It’s Used: Less common in the Philippines but seen on apps like 22Bet for international events like boxing.
- Example: Manny Pacquiao at 3/1 odds means a ₱100 bet returns ₱400 (₱300 profit + ₱100 stake).
3. Moneyline Odds
- What It Is: Popular for sports like basketball and boxing, moneyline odds show how much you need to bet to win ₱100 (negative odds) or how much you’ll win on a ₱100 bet (positive odds).
- How It Works:
- Negative Odds (-): Indicates the favorite. For example, -150 means you bet ₱150 to win ₱100 profit (total payout: ₱250).
- Positive Odds (+): Indicates the underdog. For example, +200 means a ₱100 bet wins ₱200 profit (total payout: ₱300).
- Why It’s Popular: Common in NBA and PBA betting on apps like 1xBet and Megapari.
- Example: San Miguel Beermen at -120 (favorite) vs. TNT Tropang Giga at +150 (underdog). A ₱120 bet on San Miguel returns ₱220; a ₱100 bet on TNT returns ₱250 if they win.
👉 Pro Tip: Most betting apps let you switch between odds formats in the settings. Choose the one you’re most comfortable with, like decimal for simplicity.
How Odds Reflect Probability
Odds also indicate the implied probability of an outcome. Here’s how to calculate it for decimal odds, which are common in the Philippines:
- Formula: Implied Probability (%) = (1 ÷ Decimal Odds) × 100
- Example:
- Odds of 2.00 = (1 ÷ 2.00) × 100 = 50% chance of winning.
- Odds of 1.50 = (1 ÷ 1.50) × 100 = 66.67% chance.
- Odds of 3.00 = (1 ÷ 3.00) × 100 = 33.33% chance.
Lower odds (e.g., 1.50) mean a higher chance of winning but a smaller payout. Higher odds (e.g., 3.00) mean a lower chance but a bigger payout. Bookmakers include a margin (house edge), so the actual probability may be slightly lower.
Tips for Using Odds Effectively
- Compare Odds Across Apps
Different platforms like YE7, 7XM, or PS88 may offer slightly different odds for the same event. Check multiple apps to get the best value.
Example: If Ginebra is 1.90 on BK8 but 2.00 on 1xBet, the latter gives a higher payout for the same bet. - Start with Simple Bets
As a beginner, focus on straightforward bets like picking a winner (moneyline) or betting on over/under points in a basketball game. Avoid complex bets like parlays until you’re confident.
Pro Tip: Read our Safe Betting Tips for Beginners for more on starting small. - Understand the Sport or Game
Odds reflect data, but knowledge of the sport (e.g., team form, injuries) can help you spot value bets. For example, betting on an underdog in a PBA game might pay off if you know they’re on a hot streak.
Pro Tip: Follow local sports news or check in-app stats on platforms like 22Bet for insights. - Use Bonuses Wisely
Many apps offer free bets or deposit bonuses (e.g., 100% up to ₱7,000 on YE7). Use these to test odds without risking your own money, but read the terms (e.g., wagering requirements).
Pro Tip: See our Top Online Betting Apps in the Philippines 2025 for apps with the best bonuses. - Bet Responsibly
Never bet more than you can afford, and don’t chase losses based on tempting high odds. Set a budget and stick to it.
Pro Tip: Check our Responsible Gambling in the Philippines guide for tools like deposit limits.
Common Betting Terms to Know
- Stake: The amount you bet (e.g., ₱100).
- Payout: Your total return, including stake and profit.
- Favorite: The team or player likely to win (lower odds).
- Underdog: The team or player less likely to win (higher odds).
- Over/Under: Betting on whether a game’s total points will be above or below a set number (e.g., 180.5 points in a PBA game).
- Parlay: Combining multiple bets for a higher payout, but all must win.
Final Thoughts
Understanding betting odds is essential for making smart, enjoyable bets in the Philippines. Whether you’re using decimal odds on PS88 or moneyline odds on 1xBet, knowing how they work helps you calculate payouts and assess risks. Start with simple bets, compare odds across trusted platforms, and always bet responsibly. With these basics, you’re ready to dive into the excitement of online betting with confidence.
👉 Ready to bet? Explore our Top Online Betting Apps in the Philippines 2025 and Safe Betting Tips for Beginners to start your journey on platforms like 7XM and YE7.
I’m Abner Cabanda, A Filipino Gaming Content Creator Specializing In Game Reviews, Guides, And Esports Insights.
With A Marketing Communications Degree From Ateneo De Manila University, I Blend Storytelling And Strategy To Deliver Content That Informs, Entertains, And Connects With Gamers Worldwide.
From Mobile Titles Like Mobile Legends And Wild Rift To The Latest Industry Trends, My Mission Is To Help Players Make Smarter Choices, Master Their Favorite Games, And Stay Updated On The Vibrant Gaming Culture In The Philippines.