A 1X-type bet is a wager that the first, home team will not lose the match based on the main score or a specific statistical indicator. This market is commonly referred to in bookmaker lines as Double Chance. Let’s take a closer look at what 1X means in betting, which sports it applies to, and what advantages and disadvantages this betting market has.
In which sports can you place a 1X bet?
The “X” symbol in the market name stands for a draw. However, note that 1X in betting is a market that can be used not only for the final score. Therefore, the Double Chance can also apply to sports where draws don’t occur. For example, in volleyball, some bookmakers offer a bet that the first team will not lose in the number of aces served.
Most often, however, 1X is offered for the main outcomes in the following sports:
- football;
- hockey and basketball (without overtime);
- handball;
- futsal, etc.
1X bets can be placed both pre-match and live. Often, bookmakers offer this market not only for the whole game but also for segments – halves in football, periods in hockey, and quarters in basketball.
When does a 1X bet win or lose?
Understanding what 1X means in betting is simple, which is why this market is popular even among beginners.
Example of calculation
Let’s look at examples of a win and loss for this type of bet. Suppose you place 10 USD on the FA Community Shield match between Liverpool and Manchester City. The game takes place at King Power Stadium in Leicester, but Liverpool is listed as the nominal home team. Thus, a 1X bet here means betting that Liverpool will not lose. Bookmakers offer odds of 1.60 on this outcome.
There are two possible outcomes:
- the Reds win or draw in regulation time – payout = 1,000×1.60 = 16 USD, net profit = 6 USD;
- the nominal away team wins – the stake is lost.
Advantages and disadvantages of 1X bets
Having analyzed what 1X means in betting on sports events, let’s highlight the key pros and cons of this market.
Advantages:
- easy to understand and calculate – even beginners in betting can grasp it;
- higher probability of winning since it covers two outcomes – home win and draw;
- decent odds when the home team is the underdog;
- available in every bookmaker’s line.
Disadvantages:
Betting on 1X for the favorite is unprofitable due to low odds. Also, bookmakers rarely make mistakes in major markets, so finding value bets here is difficult.
Experienced handicappers usually use this type of wager for underdogs. Even weaker teams tend to show character at home to avoid disappointing their fans. Conversely, away favorites may lack extra motivation. Therefore, it makes sense to consider matches where an underdog has a realistic chance not to lose at home. In such cases, you can sometimes find good odds in the 2.00–3.00 range.
