Definition
A unit is a standardized bet size representing a fixed percentage of your bankroll. Using units instead of dollar amounts allows bettors to compare performance regardless of bankroll size. One unit typically equals 1-2% of your total bankroll.
Example
Your bankroll is $10,000, your unit is $100 (1%). You bet '2 units' on a strong play = $200. Tracking in units, you're up '15 units' this month. Another bettor with a $50,000 bankroll and 15-unit profit made $7,500.
Common Questions
How big should my unit be?
How big should my unit be?
1-2% of bankroll is standard for recreational bettors. Professionals might use 0.5-1%. Smaller units mean more bets to prove your edge, but better protection against variance and going broke.
Should I ever bet more than one unit?
Should I ever bet more than one unit?
Some bettors scale bets (1-3 units) based on confidence. This can work if you're accurately assessing edge. But many sharps use flat betting (same units every bet) to remove bias and emotional decisions.