
Understanding the types of esports odds is crucial for Canadian bettors. Sportsbooks typically offer three main formats: decimal, American (moneyline), and fractional odds. Each format presents the potential return on a bet differently, and most Canadian esports betting sites allow users to switch between them for convenience.
Decimal Esports Odds
Decimal odds are prevalent in Canada due to their straightforward nature. They represent the total payout, including the stake. For instance, odds of 3.00 mean that for every $1 wagered, the total return is $3, encompassing a $2 profit and the original $1 stake. This format is especially user-friendly for those new to esports betting.
American (Moneyline) Esports Odds
American odds, commonly used in North America, are displayed as positive or negative numbers. A negative number (e.g., -150) indicates the amount one needs to bet to win $100, while a positive number (e.g., +200) shows the profit on a $100 bet. For example, at -150 odds, a $150 bet yields a $100 profit, whereas +200 odds mean a $100 bet results in a $200 profit.
Fractional Esports Odds
Fractional odds, more common in the UK, are expressed as fractions like 2/1. This means for every $1 wagered, the profit is $2, plus the return of the original stake. While less common in Canadian esports betting, understanding this format can be beneficial when exploring international sportsbooks.
What Esports Betting Markets Are Available?

Esports betting in Canada offers a diverse range of markets, catering to various preferences and expertise levels. From straightforward match winner bets to intricate prop bets, understanding these markets enhances the betting experience.
Match Winner (Moneyline) Bets
The most straightforward esports bet involves selecting the winner of a match. For example, betting on Team A to defeat Team B in a League of Legends or Counter-Strike 2 match. This market is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity.
Map Handicap (Spread) Bets
Handicap betting levels the playing field between mismatched teams. For instance, if Team A is favored to win, a -1.5 map handicap means they must win by at least two maps. Conversely, betting on Team B with a +1.5 handicap means they can either win outright or lose by one map for the bet to succeed.
Total Maps (Over/Under) Bets
This market involves betting on the total number of maps played in a match. For example, in a best-of-three series, a sportsbook might set the line at 2.5 maps. Bettors can wager on whether the match will go over (3 maps) or under (2 maps) this line.
Prop Bets
Proposition bets focus on specific in-game events or player performances. Examples include betting on which player will achieve the most kills, whether a match will go into overtime, or if a team will secure the first objective. These bets add depth and excitement to esports wagering.
Futures Bets
Futures involve betting on outcomes that will be determined in the future, such as which team will win a tournament or league. These bets often offer higher odds but require a longer-term commitment.
Parlay Bets
Parlay betting combines multiple individual bets into one wager, requiring all selections to win for the bet to pay out. For example, combining bets on three different match winners into a single parlay can yield higher returns but comes with increased risk.