Small odds or big odds? This is one of the most debated approaches in sports betting is wagering on small odds—bets that offer lower returns but are perceived as safer. But is this an effective betting strategy? Does this work at all and African bettors should use this strategy? Let’s find out with one of the most reliable betting operators 1Win!

Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!

Understanding Small Odds in Betting

Small odds, also known as low betting odds, refer to bets where the probability of winning is high, but the payout is relatively low. For example, a favourite in a football match may have odds of 1.20, meaning a $100 bet would only return $120, including the stake. This type of betting is often preferred by cautious bettors who want to minimize risk and build steady profits over time.

Statistics on Small Odds Betting

To illustrate the expected value (EV) of small odds betting, we can compare it with high odds betting in the table below:

Betting StrategyWin Rate (%)Average OddsRequired Bankroll Growth (%)

Small Odds (1.20-1.40) 85% 1.30 Slow but steady

High Odds (2.50-4.00) 40% 3.00 High risk, high reward

Value Betting 50-60% 2.00+ Long-term profitability

While small-odds betting provides more frequent wins, its profitability is limited unless managed carefully.

Why Bettors Choose Small Odds

Many African bettors, using 1Win, gravitate towards small odds for several reasons:

1. Perceived Safety – Since favourites are more likely to win, the risk appears lower.
2. Steady Bankroll Growth – Even with small returns, consistent wins can lead to gradual profit accumulation.
3. Lower Emotional Stress – Betting on favourites reduces the anxiety associated with underdog bets.
4. Increased Winning Streaks – Bettors often experience more consecutive wins than those who are betting on high-odds events.

However, while these factors may seem appealing, relying solely on low betting odds as a betting strategy has its downsides.

The Risks of Betting on Small Odds

Despite its perceived advantages, betting on small odds carries several risks:

1. Low-Profit Margins – Since the payout is small, bettors need a high winning percentage to generate significant profits.
2. Unexpected Losses – Even favourites lose occasionally, and one loss can erase the profit from several winning bets.
3. Overconfidence Trap – Some bettors assume that low odds equal guaranteed wins, which is never the case.
4. Bookmaker Margins – Betting on small odds often means higher bookmaker margins, reducing long-term profitability.

Bookmaker Policies and Margins

According to industry experts, bookmakers apply higher margins to small-odds bets to ensure their profitability. For instance, a bookmaker offering odds of 1.20 might have a true probability closer to 83%, not the implied 83.3%, meaning bettors consistently get slightly worse value.

Comparing Small Odds to Other Strategies

To determine whether small odds betting is a sound betting strategy, it’s helpful to compare it with other approaches:

High Odds Betting

• Involves betting on underdogs with high potential payouts.
• Higher risk but greater reward.
• Requires fewer correct bets to make a profit.

Betting Odds Comparison Approach

• Focuses on finding the best odds across multiple bookmakers.
• Ensures maximum value from every wager.
• Suitable for both small and high-odds bettors.

Value Betting

• Bets are placed when the odds are higher than the actual probability of an event occurring.
• Requires deep analysis and research.
• More profitable than simply betting on small odds.

Arbitrage Betting

• Taking advantage of different odds from multiple bookmakers to guarantee profit.
• Requires fast decision-making and access to multiple betting accounts.
• Limited opportunities due to bookmakers adjusting odds quickly.

How to Effectively Use a Small Odds Betting Plan

If you decide to incorporate small odds into your betting plan, consider the following strategies to improve your success rate:

1. Bankroll Management – Set a clear budget and stake percentage for each bet to avoid major losses.
2. Bet in Multiples (Accumulators) – Combining multiple small-odds bets can increase overall returns, though it also increases risk.
3. Use Betting Odds Comparison Tools – Find the best available odds to maximize returns.
4. Look Beyond Match Winner Bets – Consider markets such as Over/Under goals, Double Chance, or Handicap betting.
5. Limit Emotional Betting – Avoid chasing losses by sticking to a pre-defined betting strategy.
6. Avoid Overconfidence – Even small odds have risk, so always assess bets critically.

Real-World Examples of Small Odds Betting Success

Success Case: Steady Growth Over Time

A disciplined bettor focuses on placing single bets with low betting odds (1.20-1.40) and achieves an 85% win rate. Over a year, with proper bankroll management, they generate consistent profits, although the returns remain modest compared to riskier strategies.

Final Verdict: Is Betting on Small Odds a Proper Strategy?

Betting on small odds can be an effective betting strategy if managed properly. It is best suited for risk-averse bettors who prioritize consistency over high returns. However, it is not a foolproof method, and without proper betting odds comparison and bankroll management, losses can accumulate quickly.

Responsible Gambling Disclaimer

Gambling involves risk. Bet responsibly.

Also, do not forget that small-odds betting is not a guaranteed way to win, but it can be a useful tool when applied strategically. Bettors should combine it with other techniques to create a well-rounded sports betting approach that balances risk and reward. If you don’t don’t which betting strategy you should use read 1×2 betting strategy as the most easily comprehended strategies for new players.