Hold Calculator

What is Sportsbook Hold?

Hold, also known as "juice" or "vig," represents the theoretical margin built into betting odds by sportsbooks. It's the percentage of wagered money that a sportsbook expects to keep as profit. Lower holds mean better odds for bettors, while higher holds indicate less favorable betting conditions.

A perfect market with no hold (0%) would have odds that exactly reflect true probabilities. For example, if one side is +150, the other side would be -150. However, sportsbooks typically build in a margin to ensure profit, resulting in holds typically ranging from 2% to 10% in major markets.

How to Use This Calculator:

1. Enter the American odds for Side 1 (e.g., +150)
2. Enter the American odds for Side 2 (e.g., -160)
3. The calculator will show the hold percentage and market efficiency metrics

Understanding Hold Percentages

• 0-2%: Excellent odds (rare, typically found in arbitrage opportunities)
• 2-4%: Very good odds (common in major markets with high competition)
• 4-6%: Average odds (typical for most major sports markets)
• 6-8%: Below average odds (common in props and smaller markets)
• 8%+: Poor odds (often found in parlays and niche markets)

Tips for Using Hold Analysis

• Compare holds across different sportsbooks to find the best odds
• Major sports typically offer lower holds due to competition
• Prop bets and exotic markets usually have higher holds
• Shop for the best lines to minimize the hold you're paying

Note: Lower holds don't guarantee profitable bets, but they do mean you're getting better odds and paying less juice to the sportsbook.