HOW DO ODDS BOOSTS WORK? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW, AND MORE
If you've browsed online sports betting platforms recently, you've probably seen odds boosts promoted front and center. But how do odds boosts work, exactly?
They’re simple: sportsbooks temporarily improve the odds of a specific bet, giving you a higher potential payout without changing the bet’s actual chance of hitting. Same event, same risk, but if your bet wins, you take home more winnings.
Learn more about a certain sportsbook's odds boosts here:
WHAT ARE ODDS BOOSTS?
Odds boosts (also called boosted odds, price boosts, or profit boosts) are among the most popular promotions used by betting sites. They’re especially common around primetime matchups, favorite teams, and big tournaments across sports like football, basketball, and even horse racing.
Here’s how they work: let’s say a team is listed at +150. A sportsbook might boost that to +200 for a limited time. That means a $50 wager would return $100 in profit instead of $75, without changing the outcomes or the house edge.
Essentially, this tactic is used by most bookmakers to incentivize bets, drive traffic, and offer a perceived advantage over competing betting sites.
HOW DO ODDS BOOSTS WORK?
When a sportsbook offers a boost, they temporarily increase the odds on a particular bet, whether it’s a single game line, a player prop, or a multi-leg parlay. Boosts may require you to opt in, apply it manually from your bet slip, or they might appear automatically.
It's important to note, though, that while the boosted odds give you better value, they don’t alter the likelihood of success. Some sportsbooks even impose limits to manage risk, such as:
- Max stake (e.g., $25 or $50)
- Expiration within hours
- Restrictions on bonus bets or stacking with other bonuses
ODDS BOOSTS IN ACTION
Let’s say ESPN Bet boosts a combo: “Pastrnak, MacKinnon, and Draisaitl each to score a goal” from +825 to +1000. A $50 first bet would now return $500 profit instead of $412.50. The bet stays the same, but you get improved odds.
TYPES OF ODDS BOOSTS
Here are the most common categories you’ll see across sportsbook offers:
- Single Bet Boosts: One specific bet, such as a team to win or a player to score.
- Parlay Boosts: Improved payouts on multi-leg parlays, including same game parlays.
- Prop Bet Boosts: Boosted odds on niche markets or player props.
- Daily Odds Boosts: Refreshed each day as part of a rotating set of daily promotions.
- Profit Boosts: A percentage increase on your profit, applied to one or more wagers.
Some sportsbooks even let new users or loyal customers apply a daily odds token to any market of their choice!
ARE ALL BOOSTS GOOD BETS?
Not quite. While some are good bets, others may not offer true value. Here’s how to tell the difference:
- Compare odds with other betting sites
- Use EV calculators or rely on your own handicapping
- Focus on sports and outcomes you understand, avoid chasing random boosts on sports you don’t follow
- Check if the new odds still offer best odds in the market
Many bettors fall into the trap of betting because a line is boosted, not because it's smart. That’s where strategy matters.
SMART STRATEGY FOR BOOSTS
To make the most of odds boosts, use these tips:
- Only boost bets you would’ve placed anyway
- Stick to your bankroll strategy, don’t raise stakes just because odds are better
- Track your results: not all boosts are profitable long-term
- Look for DraftKings boosts, FanDuel Sportsbook specials, or custom promos from ESPN Bet
P.S: Profit boosts can help reduce the vig, especially on markets where the sportsbook might be off compared to public perception.
AND WHAT ABOUT HEDGING BOOSTED BETS?
Some bettors use hedging strategies, aka they place the opposite side of a boosted line on another sportsbook to lock in a win or cut losses. But not all sportsbooks offer this flexibility, so read the fine print, and don’t risk a ban for taking advantage of overlapping promos.
If you want to learn more about how to use a hedging calculator, you can check out our resources!
RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING TIPS
Whether you’re playing for fun or building a long-term betting profile, manage your bankroll with discipline. Boosted odds can be exciting, but they’re still gambling. Set limits, avoid chasing losses, and don’t let promotions push you into risky spots. If you need help, check out our responsible gambling resources and/or Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
FAQ: HOW DO ODDS BOOSTS WORK?
WHAT IS AN ODDS BOOST?
An odds boost is when a sportsbook offers better-than-normal odds on a specific bet, raising your potential payoutwithout changing the risk.
ARE ODDS BOOSTS ALWAYS GOOD BETS?
No. Evaluate each boost with value in mind. If the boosted odds don’t beat the market, it’s not worth the wager.
HOW MUCH DO ODDS BOOSTS TYPICALLY INCREASE ODDS?
Usually between 10% and 40%, though some profit boosts can go higher - especially on parlays or player props.
WHERE CAN I FIND THE BEST ODDS BOOSTS?
Look at major betting sites like DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, Bet365, and ESPN Bet. Compare promos daily for the best odds boosts.
WHY DO SPORTSBOOKS OFFER BOOSTED ODDS?
In short? To attract attention, drive bets on specific events, and stand out in a crowded online sports betting market.
DO ODDS BOOSTS COME WITH RESTRICTIONS?
Yes. Expect limits on stake, time, bonus eligibility, and sometimes exclusions on same game parlays or niche sports.
CAN ODDS BOOSTS REDUCE THE VIG?
Yes, boosts on well-priced lines can reduce the house edge, offering better value if the market is soft.
SHOULD I EVER SKIP AN ODDS BOOST?
Absolutely. If it’s in a market you don’t follow or the odds don’t add up, pass on it. Better to skip than to chase.