Sports Betting vs Arbitrage Betting

Traditional Sports Betting

Traditional sports betting involves selecting one outcome of a sporting event and placing a bet on it. The profit in this case depends on the accuracy of your prediction, the odds offered by the bookmaker, and, of course, luck—an unpredictable factor.

The main advantages of such bets include the potential for significant winnings, especially when using accumulators or betting on high odds. If you choose a scanner to find arbs, the likelihood of error can be minimized.

Profitability and risks of traditional sports betting:

• High profit potential: With successful bets and a well-planned financial strategy, you can increase your capital. However, luck plays an important role, as even a thoroughly analyzed bet can lose due to unexpected events.
• High risks: The risks of losing your capital are considerable, especially for inexperienced players. Even a single loss can wipe out your entire bankroll.

Arbitrage betting

Surely, arbitrage betting (or surebets, arbs) is still a form of sports betting. However, in this article, we are comparing it with sports betting based on other factors — such as personal analysis, paid predictions, or even random choices.

Arbitrage betting is a method where a player places bets on all possible outcomes of a sporting event using different bookmakers. This guarantees a profit regardless of the event's result due to the differences in odds between the bookmakers.

In this method, there is no reliance on luck, nor is there a need for exceptional analytical or financial skills. And if you use a scanner to find arbitrage opportunities, the probability of making an error can be minimized.

Profitability and Risks

• Guaranteed profit: Unlike traditional betting, arbitrage offers the chance to earn a guaranteed profit. The essence lies in betting on all possible outcomes of an event, leveraging the odds from different bookmakers, ensuring a profit regardless of the result.
• Low profit margin: Typically, the profit from arbitrage is small, usually around 3-5% of the total stake. To earn significant returns, a large capital and frequent transactions are required.
• Risk of account suspension: Most bookmakers view arbitrage betting unfavorably and may restrict the accounts of those who use this strategy by lowering betting limits or blocking the ability to withdraw funds.

Profitability Comparison:

• Expected profit: Traditional sports betting can offer substantial winnings but comes with high risks, depending heavily on luck and the accuracy of predictions. Arbitrage, on the other hand, guarantees a steady but low income, which is determined solely by the size of your capital and the number of transactions.
• Income stability: Arbitrage betting offers more stable returns when used correctly, although the overall profitability is limited. Traditional sports betting may yield higher profits, but it is unpredictable and involves considerable risk.
• Knowledge and skill requirements: Successful traditional sports betting requires a deep understanding of the sport and strong analytical skills. Arbitrage betting, however, does not require these, and you don’t even need to search for opportunities yourself, as there are specialized programs—scanners. In our ranking, we have listed all available scanners, including their advantages, disadvantages, user reviews, and pricing plans, ensuring you can find one that fits your needs.

We have prepared a comparison table to show the profitability of traditional sports betting versus arbitrage betting with a budget of 500 euro. Of course, the amount can vary, but the goal is to concisely reflect everything mentioned above.

* - depends on the chosen event, odds, financial strategy, and several other factors beyond your control. Instead of 500, a different amount is quite likely, even a pessimistic zero.

Which is better to choose: traditional sports betting or arbitrage betting?

The choice of betting type depends on your goals, your risk tolerance, and how much time you're willing to spend analyzing and placing bets. Here are a few key factors that can help you make the right decision:

Traditional Sports Betting

You might prefer traditional betting if:

• You enjoy analyzing sporting events and have solid knowledge in a particular sport.
• You’re willing to accept high risk for the chance of significant winnings.
• You can afford to lose and view betting as entertainment rather than a primary source of income.

Arbitrage Betting (Surebets)

Arbitrage betting might be the right choice if:

• You prefer a stable, albeit smaller, income that doesn’t depend on the outcome of the sporting event.
• You have enough starting capital to work with small margins.
• You’re willing to dedicate more time to placing arbitrage bets.
• You’re prepared for potential restrictions from bookmakers.

Conclusion on Traditional and Arbitrage Betting

The choice between traditional betting and arbitrage depends on your goals and risk tolerance. If you are ready to take on high risks for the potential of larger winnings, traditional betting might suit you. However, if you prefer a stable, even if less substantial, income, arbitrage betting could be your tool of choice.

Whichever method you choose, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with each and approach betting with a clear and rational mindset.