How to Compare Sportsbook Odds
Line shopping can add 2-5% to your returns
6 min read
The Quick Answer
Line shopping means checking multiple sportsbooks to find the best odds before betting.
Getting -108 instead of -115 on every bet could turn a losing bettor into a winning one. It's the single easiest way to improve your long-term results with zero additional skill required.
Real Example: Chiefs vs Bills Spread
| Sportsbook | Chiefs -7 | Bills +7 |
|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | -115 | -105 |
| DraftKings | -110 ✓ | -110 |
| BetMGM | -112 | -108 ✓ |
| Caesars | -110 ✓ | -112 |
| PointsBet | -108 ✓ | -112 |
Best Line for Chiefs -7: PointsBet at -108
Betting $108 at PointsBet wins $100 instead of betting $115 at FanDuel for the same $100. That's $7 saved per bet—which adds up over hundreds of bets.
The Math Behind Line Shopping
Small differences in odds compound dramatically over time.
Scenario: 1,000 Bets at $100
Without line shopping (-115):
Break-even at 53.5% win rate
With line shopping (-108 avg):
Break-even at 51.9% win rate
Same 52% Win Rate, Different Results
At -115: LOSE $3,000/year
At -108: WIN $200/year
Difference: $3,200
How to Line Shop Effectively
1. Have Multiple Accounts
Sign up for every legal sportsbook in your state. The more options, the better odds you'll find. Most have sign-up bonuses too.
2. Check Before Every Bet
Make it a habit. Before placing any bet, spend 30 seconds checking 3-5 books. It takes minimal time but pays big dividends.
3. Use Tools to Compare
Odds comparison sites and tools surface the best lines automatically. Don't manually check every book—let technology help.
Understanding Sportsbook "Tiers"
Sharp Books
Examples: Pinnacle, Circa, Bookmaker
• Lowest margins (sharpest lines)
• High limits
• Lines move based on sharp action
Soft Books
Examples: FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM
• Higher margins but more promos
• Lower limits for sharp bettors
• Lines can be "off" from sharp books
Learn more: Sharp Books | Soft Books
We Compare Lines For You
Our FairLine compares odds across books and surfaces the best value bets automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I compare odds across sportsbooks?
Different sportsbooks offer different odds on the same event. By comparing (line shopping), you can get better payouts. Over time, consistently getting the best odds adds 2-5% to your returns.
Which sportsbook has the best odds?
No single sportsbook has the best odds all the time. Books vary by market, sport, and timing. Sharp books like Pinnacle often have tighter lines, while softer books like FanDuel/DraftKings have more variation.
What is line shopping?
Line shopping is comparing odds across multiple sportsbooks before placing a bet to find the best price. It's one of the simplest ways to improve your long-term results.
How much difference do better odds make?
Getting -108 instead of -115 on every bet would turn a breakeven bettor into a 3% ROI bettor. Over 1,000 bets at $100 each, that's $3,000 extra profit.
How many sportsbook accounts should I have?
Ideally 5-10+ accounts. More accounts = more line shopping opportunities, more promos, and better access to the best odds. Sign up for every legal book in your state.