What Are Odds Boosts?
How to evaluate and profit from boosted odds
5 min read
The Quick Answer
Odds boosts are enhanced odds on specific bets offered by sportsbooks as promotions.
Example: DraftKings might boost "Chiefs to win" from -150 to +100. Some boosts are genuinely +EV (profitable), while others are still bad value. Always calculate before betting.
How Odds Boosts Work
Example Boost
Regular Odds:
Chiefs ML: -150
Bet $150 to win $100
Boosted Odds:
Chiefs ML: +100
Bet $100 to win $100
In this example, the boost improves your payout significantly. But is it +EV? That depends on the Chiefs' true win probability.
How to Evaluate an Odds Boost
Not all boosts are created equal. Follow this process:
1. Find Fair Odds
Use sharp books (Pinnacle, Circa) or de-vig the odds to find the "true" probability. This is your baseline.
2. Compare to Boost
If the boosted odds imply a lower probability than the fair odds suggest, the boost is +EV.
3. Calculate Edge
Determine exactly how much edge you have. Bigger edge = more confident bet. Marginal edge = be selective.
Use our EV Calculator to quickly evaluate boosts.
Good Boosts vs. Bad Boosts
Good Boost Signs
• Simple bet (single outcome, no parlay)
• Large percentage improvement (30%+)
• Outcomes are correlated favorably
• Sharp odds available for comparison
Bad Boost Signs
• Multi-leg parlay (correlation kills value)
• Small percentage improvement
• Uncorrelated or negatively correlated legs
• "Feels good" but math doesn't work out
Common Types of Odds Boosts
Single-Game Boosts
Enhanced odds on a moneyline, spread, or total for one game. Often the most straightforward to evaluate.
Parlay Boosts
Pre-built parlays with improved odds. Be skeptical—books often use negatively correlated legs.
Profit Boosts
Tokens that add a percentage to your profit (e.g., 25% profit boost). Value depends on the bet you choose.
No-Sweat Bets
If you lose, get your stake back in bonus bets. Effectively reduces your risk but has playthrough requirements.
Find +EV Bets Beyond Just Boosts
Boosts are great, but consistent edge comes from finding mispriced lines. Get 5 free +EV picks daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an odds boost in sports betting?
An odds boost is a promotional offer where a sportsbook improves the odds on a specific bet. For example, boosting Chiefs ML from -150 to +100. It's a marketing tool to attract bettors.
Are odds boosts worth it?
Sometimes yes! Evaluate each boost individually. Calculate if the boosted odds exceed the implied probability of winning. Many boosts are +EV, but some are still bad value. Always do the math.
How do I find the best odds boosts?
Check all your sportsbook apps daily—boosts are usually prominently displayed. Use multiple books to access more boosts. Compare the boosted odds against fair odds to identify true value.
Why do sportsbooks offer odds boosts?
Boosts are customer acquisition and retention tools. Books lose money on some boosts hoping you'll make other -EV bets. They also create engagement and daily app opens.
Do odds boosts affect my account standing?
Betting only boosts (especially profitable ones) can flag your account. Mix boost bets with regular action to maintain access. Books track who's "boost hunting" and may limit you.