Moneyline vs. 1X2 Betting: What’s the Difference?

The Terminology Gap

In online sports betting, you often hear these terms used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.

• Moneyline: A term from the US (common in Basketball/Baseball). It typically implies there are only two outcomes: Win or Loss.
• 1X2: The Global/Asian standard for Football (Soccer). It implies there are three outcomes: Home Win (1), Draw (X), or Away Win (2).

Understanding this distinction is crucial because betting on the wrong market can cost you money.

The "Draw" Trap

This is the most critical difference. In Football, games often end in a tie (0-0, 1-1). In fact, major European leagues see draws in 25-30% of matches.

In 1X2 Betting: The Draw is a valid result. If you bet on "1" (Home Team) and the game ends 1-1, you lose. You did not cover the draw.

In Moneyline (or Draw No Bet): The Draw is NOT a valid result. If you bet on the Home Team and the game ends 1-1, your bet is refunded. It's as if the bet never happened.

Risk vs. Reward

Why would anyone choose 1X2 if it's riskier? Because the odds are higher.

• 1X2 (High Risk, High Reward): Since there are 3 possibilities (Win, Draw, Loss), predicting the exact winner is harder, so the bookmaker pays you more.
• Moneyline (Lower Risk, Lower Reward): Since you have the "safety net" of a refund on a draw, the bookmaker pays you less.

Odds Comparison Example

The odds difference reflects the probability of a draw. In matches where draws are more likely (evenly matched teams), the gap between 1X2 and Moneyline odds will be larger.

Scenario: The 1-1 Draw

Let's look at a real-world example: Man Utd vs. Chelsea. The match is tight.

The Final Score is 1 - 1.

When to Use Each Market

Use 1X2 When:

• You have strong conviction in a specific outcome
• You want higher odds on a favourite
• The match has a low probability of a draw (e.g., attacking teams, derby match)
• You're building an accumulator (parlay) and need better odds

Use Moneyline/Draw No Bet When:

• You like a team but aren't confident enough to risk the draw
• The match is between evenly-matched teams
• You're protecting your stake in a high-profile match
• Playing defensively on a favourite

Which Sport Uses Which?

Basketball (NBA): Almost always Moneyline. Draws are extremely rare (games go to Overtime until there is a winner). You just pick the winner.

Football (Soccer): Almost always 1X2. Draws are very common. If you want the safety of a refund, you must specifically look for the "Draw No Bet" or "Asian Handicap 0.0" market.

American Football (NFL): Primarily Moneyline. Ties are very rare in the NFL (overtime rules almost always produce a winner).

Hockey (NHL): Moneyline for the overall winner (including overtime/shootout). Some books offer "Regulation Time" where a draw at 60 minutes is a valid result.

Tennis: Always Moneyline. There are no ties in tennis.

Related Market: Asian Handicap 0.0

The Asian Handicap 0.0 market functions identically to Moneyline/Draw No Bet:

• Home Win = You win
• Draw = Refund
• Away Win = You lose

If you see "Asian Handicap 0" on a sportsbook, treat it the same as Moneyline for a two-way result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bet on the Draw in Moneyline?

No. Moneyline only offers two options: Home or Away. The draw outcome does not exist in this market.

What happens if I bet on the Draw in 1X2 and no team wins?

You win. If you specifically bet on "X" (Draw) and the match ends in a tie, you collect your winnings.

Are Moneyline odds always lower than 1X2?

Yes, because the risk is lower. The refund on draw means the bookmaker pays out less over time, so they offer worse odds for the same pick.

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