Quick summary
This article covers all you need to know about accumulator bets, including how to place them. You’ll learn how to calculate the potential payout, and how they compare to single and system bets. For more betting insights, explore our blog, The Advantage.
Not sure what an Accumulator Bet is?
It simply means combining multiple bets into one, giving you the chance to win bigger payouts. While the concept is straightforward, understanding how it works can make all the difference in your betting strategy.
In this guide, we’ll explain what accumulator bets are, how to place them, and how to calculate your potential winnings so you can bet smarter.
What is an accumulator bet?
An accumulator bet, also known as an “acca” in the UK or a “parlay” in the US, combines several selections into a single wager. To win, every selection in the accumulator must be correct. The more selections you add, the bigger the potential payout. But the risk increases as well. Unlike single or system bets, if one selection loses, you lose the entire accumulator.
For example, let’s say you place an accumulator bet on three football matches:
- Team A vs. Team B: You bet on Team A to win.
- Team C vs. Team D: You bet on Team C to win.
- Team E vs. Team F: You bet on Team E to win.
For you to win your accumulator, all three must win for you to win the bet. If even one of them loses or draws, the whole bet fails.
Accumulator bets are popular because they allow you to cover multiple outcomes in a single bet slip, offering the chance for much bigger returns than betting on each match individually.
How to calculate the total odds of accumulator bets
Step 1: Note the odds of each selection
Let’s say you have three selections with the following odds:
- Selection 1: +100 (2.00 in decimal odds)
- Selection 2: +200 (3.00)
- Selection 3: –200 (1.50)
Step 2: Multiply the odds together
Multiply the odds of each selection to get the total odds for the accumulator.
2.00 × 3.00 × 1.50 = 9.00
Step 3: Calculate your potential payout
Multiply your stake by the total odds. For a $10 bet at 9.00 odds:
- $10 × 9.00 = $90
If all three selections win, you’ll receive $90 total, this includes your original $10 stake plus $80 profit. If even one selection loses, the entire accumulator loses.
Accumulator bet vs. single bet vs. system bet (quick comparison)
Feature | Accumulator bet | Single bet | System bet |
Risk | High: all selections must win | Low: only one outcome needs to be correct | Moderate: allows some selections to lose |
Payout | High: multiplied odds for multiple selections | Fixed: based on the odds of a single event | Moderate: smaller than accumulators, but safer due to coverage of combos |
Complexity | High: multiple outcomes to predict and track | Low: one outcome to predict and track | Moderate: involves predicting and tracking several combinations |
Chance of Winning | Low: all selections must be correct | Higher: only one selection to get right | Moderate: increased chance vs. accumulators, but less than singles |
Best For | Bettors seeking high rewards and willing to take risks | Beginners or those who prefer a simple bet | Bettors looking for a balance of risk and reward |
Why some bettors prefer accumulator bets
- Higher potential payouts: Accumulators combine multiple bets into one, increasing the potential payout compared to single bets.
- Potential for small-stake wins: Even a modest wager can lead to a significant return if all selections hit, appealing to those who want a chance at a big win without risking too much.
- Increased excitement: Accumulators add excitement to betting, as bettors need to track multiple outcomes for a chance at a big win.
- Flexibility: Bettors can combine different markets and events into a single bet, offering more flexibility in building their strategy.
Efficient use of stakes: By combining selections, bettors can increase their return without having to place several separate bets.
Strategies for more successful accumulator bets
- Focus on Value, Not Volume: Select fewer, high-value bets rather than adding as many selections as possible.
- Mix Different Sports or Markets: Diversify your accumulator by combining different sports or betting markets to reduce risk.
- Avoid Too Many Selections: The more selections you add, the higher the risk. Limit your accumulator to 3-5 bets for a better balance of risk and reward.
- Use smaller stakes: Keep your wager size modest since accumulators carry high variance.
- Look for Boosted Odds: Many sportsbooks offer boosted odds on accumulators. Take advantage of these promotions to increase potential returns.
Conclusion
Accumulator bets can offer the chance for bigger payouts, but they come with higher risk. By focusing on value, limiting the number of selections, and sticking to markets you understand, you can approach accumulators more strategically and improve your chances of a successful bet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum number of selections I can include in an accumulator bet?
The maximum number of selections in an accumulator bet depends on the sportsbook you’re using. Most platforms allow up to 20 or more selections in a single accumulator.
Can accumulator bets include non-sporting events?
Some sportsbooks allow accumulators on events like elections or entertainment outcomes, but this is less common than sports betting.
Can I use free bet bonuses for accumulator bets?
Yes, many sportsbooks allow it, but terms often apply, such as minimum odds or specific bet types.
What happens if a match in my accumulator is canceled?
Usually, the canceled selection is removed, and the accumulator is recalculated with the remaining picks. The exact handling depends on the sportsbook’s rules.
What’s the difference between a double, treble, and accumulator?
A double is an accumulator with two selections, a treble has three, and an accumulator generally refers to any bet with more than one selection.