Simply put, a unit is a way to measure the size of a bet. Betting units are a concept that can help you manage your sports betting bankroll more effectively. This article explains how betting units work in full detail, including how to quickly determine your ideal unit size. We’ll cover why many experienced bettors lean on this system, and how you can implement it on betting apps like Hard Rock Bet.
What is a betting unit?
A unit in sports betting is a bet amount that represents a fixed percentage of your total betting bankroll. Instead of betting random dollar amounts, you create a consistent system where every wager is based on the same foundation – one unit.
Establishing and betting in “units” allows you to discuss strategies and track performance easily, all without revealing personal financial information.
Think of units like any other form of measurement. They simply provide consistency and structure to your approach. When a bettor says they’re “up 15 units” on the season, or they like a “2-unit play,” they’re communicating relative to their standard bet size instead of specific dollar amounts.
How to choose your betting unit size
You can use math to determine your optimal unit size, with many advocating that around 1-2% of your total bankroll per bet being appropriate. However, at the end of the day the right unit size is the one you can afford. Everyone’s financial situation is different. Always bet responsibly.
Who uses betting units?
Betting units are used by all types of bettors. From pros to hobbyists, thinking about, and placing your bets in “units” has many benefits and is a common practice.
Use betting units on Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook
It’s easy to start betting with “units” on Hard Rock Bet, and all sportsbooks.
You begin by determining your standard wager amount. Once you have that value down, you can apply it consistently across your various bets, from moneylines, spreads, and point totals to the innovative SGP Max feature on Hard Rock Bet that lets you combine multiple Same Game Parlays.
Whether you’re placing a 1-unit bet on an NFL moneyline or a 3-unit wager on an NBA total, the concepts are the same.
FAQ: What to know about betting units
Let’s recap a couple of frequently asked questions on betting units.
Can your betting unit size change during a season?
Absolutely – as your bankroll grows (or shrinks) throughout a season it’s normal to adjust your unit size accordingly.
How do betting units help you to compare betting records with others?
Using betting units is the great equalizer. They let you directly compare results with other bettors, regardless of stake. It doesn’t matter if you’re betting $10 per play or $10,000 – a unit is a unit.
Are betting units used for sports betting and casino games?
Generally speaking a betting unit is a sports betting term, however, in theory if you’re playing in an online casino you could standardize your wagers, too.
Can you use a different unit size for different sports?
Yes, you can. This is largely about personal preference, but bettors can establish different unit sizings for different sports. For example, there are more opportunities to bet on baseball throughout the year with a 162-game regular season vs a 17-game regular season for football betting. Therefore it wouldn’t be uncommon for a bettor to establish a different unit size based on the sport they are betting.
What is a 2 unit bet?
A 2 unit bet is a bet that’s twice as large as your standard bet. For example, if you normally bet $25 at a time – a two unit bet would be $25 x 2 = $50.
How many units is a "max bet" in sports betting?
A “max bet” isn’t necessarily a fixed number and will depend on the player. Bankroll size and bet confidence will play a large role in determining how much a max bet should be.
