Double Chance is one of the most popular betting markets for conservative bettors. It covers two out of the three possible outcomes in a football match (e.g., Home Win or Draw), significantly increasing your chances of winning.
However, there is a catch. Bookmakers often charge a higher margin (vig) on Double Chance markets compared to the standard Match Result market. Our Double Chance Calculator solves this problem. By inputting the raw 1X2 odds, it calculates the mathematical “Fair Odds” for 1X, X2, and 12. This allows you to spot when a bookie is offering poor value and when you are better off building the bet yourself.
Double Chance Calculator
Fair OddsEnter the standard 1X2 Odds to calculate the mathematical "Fair Price" for Double Chance markets.
| Outcome | True Prob % | Fair Odds (Zero Vig) |
|---|---|---|
| 1X Home or Draw | ||
| X2 Draw or Away | ||
| 12 Home or Away |
How to Use the Double Chance Calculator
This tool helps you audit the prices your sportsbook is offering. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Get the Main Odds: Go to your bookmaker and find the standard “Match Result” (1X2) odds for the Home Win, Draw, and Away Win.
- Input the Data: Enter these three numbers into the calculator. You must enter all three to accurately calculate the market’s total probability.
- Review the “Fair Odds”: The calculator will display the true odds for:
- 1X: Home Team not to lose.
- X2: Away Team not to lose.
- 12: No Draw (Match will have a winner).
- Compare and Bet: Check the Double Chance section of your sportsbook. If the bookie’s odds are lower than the calculator’s “Fair Odds,” it is a bad bet. If they are equal or higher, it is good value.
Note: If you are looking for a safety net but want higher odds than Double Chance, consider using our Draw No Bet Calculator, which voids your bet if the match ends in a draw.
Real-World Examples: The “Hidden Fee” Trap
Bookmakers know that recreational bettors love “safe” bets like Double Chance, so they often lower the odds artificially. Here is how the calculator protects you.
Example 1: The Underdog Safety Net (X2)
Imagine Crystal Palace (Away) is playing Chelsea. The 1X2 odds are:
- Chelsea: 1.50
- Draw: 4.50
- Palace: 6.50
You want to bet on Palace not to lose (X2). The bookie offers odds of 2.30 for X2.
Calculator Result: Based on the 1X2 probabilities, the Fair Odds for X2 are 2.45.
Verdict: The bookie is offering 2.30, but the math says it should be 2.45. You are paying a heavy premium for this bet. It is mathematically better to place two separate bets on Palace and the Draw manually, or avoid the market entirely.
Example 2: The “12” Bet (No Draw)
Two aggressive teams are playing. The Draw odds are high (3.80). You believe someone will win, so you check the “12” market.
- Bookie Offer: 1.22
- Calculator Fair Odds: 1.28
Again, the calculator reveals that the specific Double Chance market has poor value compared to the raw probabilities found in our 1X2 Probability Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do 1X, X2, and 12 mean?
These are the three options in a Double Chance market:
1X: Home Team wins OR Draw.
X2: Away Team wins OR Draw.
12: Home Team wins OR Away Team wins (Bet loses if it’s a Draw).
Is Double Chance better than Draw No Bet?
It depends on your risk tolerance. Double Chance is safer because you win profit if the game is a draw. Draw No Bet (DNB) offers higher odds, but you only get your money back (refund) if the game is a draw. You can compare the math using our Draw No Bet Calculator.
Why are the calculated odds different from my bookie?
Bookmakers apply different margins to different markets. Often, they take a 3-5% cut on the 1X2 market but might take a 6-8% cut on Double Chance because casual bettors are less price-sensitive. This calculator shows you the “Fair Price” derived from the main market, exposing that extra margin.