American Odds is an odds format most commonly used in the United States. It is easy to recognize because the number is marked with either a + or a - sign.

How do American Odds work?

If the odds have a + sign, they show how much profit a 100-dollar bet would return. For example, +150 means that a 100-dollar bet would make 150 dollars in profit.

If the odds have a - sign, they show how much you need to stake in order to win 100 dollars in profit. For example, -120 means you need to risk 120 dollars to make 100 dollars in profit.

Where is this used?

This format is especially common in American sportsbook markets, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and other US-based betting lines.

Why does it matter?

At first, American Odds may look less convenient than decimal odds. But once the logic becomes clear, they make it easy to understand the favorite, the underdog, and the size of the possible return.