How to properly configure filters in arbitrage scanners: a detailed guide with examples

Arbitrage scanners are key tools for finding arbitrage opportunities in sports betting. However, even the most advanced scanners won't work effectively if you don't configure them properly. In this article, we'll explain how to set up filters correctly to minimize risks, increase profitability, and save time.

Why are filters needed in arbitrage scanners?

Filters help to:

• Exclude unnecessary or unsuitable bets.

• Reduce errors related to match selection.

• Speed up the process of finding suitable arbitrage opportunities.

• Adapt the scanner to your betting style, experience level, and bankroll.

Without proper filter settings, the scanner may generate a huge number of unsuitable arbitrage opportunities, making it harder to work and increasing the risk of losses.

Key filter parameters in arbitrage scanners

Before moving on to setup examples, let's go over the main filter parameters found in most popular arbitrage scanners (BreakingBet, BetBurger, ArbMate):

Profit Margin (Yield)

This parameter sets the minimum and maximum profit percentage for an arbitrage opportunity. For example:

• Minimum profit: 1% (to filter out low-profit arbs).

• Maximum profit: 10% (to avoid drawing suspicion from bookmakers).

Sports

Scanners allow you to select which sports you want to search for arbitrage opportunities in. Popular options include:

• Football

• Tennis

• Basketball

• Hockey

• Less popular sports (e.g., table tennis, cricket)

Bookmakers

You can specify which bookmakers you work with. For example:

• Choose only trusted bookmakers where you have active accounts.

• Exclude bookmakers with low betting limits or frequent account restrictions.

Market Types

Typically, the following options are available:

• Main outcomes (1X2).

• Totals (Over/Under).

• Handicaps (Asian and European).

• Individual totals.

• Winning a specific match segment (e.g., first half).

Maximum Bet Amount

This parameter helps avoid placing bets that could draw unwanted attention from bookmakers. For example:

• Set a limit of 100 euro per bet.

Time Before Match Start

You can define a time range for arbitrage scanning:

• Pre-match only (e.g., from 1 to 24 hours before the start).

• Live only.

• Combination of pre-match and Live.

Odds Range

Specify the acceptable odds range for arbitrage opportunities. For example:

• From 1.5 to 3.0 (to exclude extremely low or suspiciously high odds).

Excluding Bets with Potential Refunds

Some arbitrage opportunities involve bets that may be voided. If you want to avoid such situations, use this filter.

Excluding Suspicious Arbitrage Situations

Scanners can identify bets that are likely to be canceled by bookmakers. For example, arbitrage opportunities with delayed odds updates.

Examples of Filter Settings for Different Strategies

Scanner Setup for Beginners

Beginners are advised to start with minimal risks and the most stable options:

• Profit margin: 3% to 7%

• Sports: Football, tennis

• Bookmakers: Only highly rated, reliable bookmakers (e.g., Pinnacle, Bet365, 1XBET)

• Market types: Main outcomes (1X2), totals, handicaps

• Time before match start: 2 to 24 hours

• Exclude voided bets: Enabled

Scanner Setup for Live Betting

Live arbitrage requires quick reactions and stricter filtering:

• Profit margin: 5% to 10%

• Sports: Tennis, basketball

• Market types: Totals, handicaps

• Time remaining in event: 5 to 30 minutes

Scanner Setup for Experienced Bettors

Experienced bettors can use more complex strategies:

• Profit margin: 5% to 10%.

• Sports: Any, including less popular ones (e.g., table tennis).

• Bookmakers: All available.

• Market types: Any, including alternative totals and player/team statistics.

• Time before match start: From 1 hour.

Common Filter Setup Mistakes

• 1. Overly Strict Filters

If the filters are set too narrowly, the scanner will show very few arbitrage opportunities. This is especially problematic for bettors with a small bankroll.

• 2. Ignoring Odds Updates

Some scanners update data with a slight delay. Make sure your filters are optimized for bookmakers that update their odds in real time.

• 3. Excessively High Yield

Setting a profit filter above 10% often leads to suspicious arbitrage situations that bookmakers may cancel.

Scanner Selection Tips

BetBurger

🔹 Best choice for live betting
🔹 Ideal for intermediate-level bettors
🔹 High scanning speed and data accuracy
🔹 Supports multiple bookmakers and markets

BreakingBet

✔ Simple interface
✔ Suitable for both beginners and advanced arbitrage bettors
✔ Fast odds updates

ArbMate

🔹 User-friendly interface
🔹 Designed for experienced arbitrage bettors
🔹 Real-time odds updates
🔹 Flexible pricing plans starting from €19/month

Surebet Scanner Settings: Final Notes

Proper filter configuration in your arbitrage scanner isn't just about convenience—it's a key factor in your betting success. Use the guidelines and examples above to tailor the filters to your goals and experience level.

Keep in mind that filter optimization is an ongoing process: as you gain experience and adjust your strategy, you should fine-tune your settings accordingly.

Happy arbing! 🚀