What is Live Betting?
Live betting, also called in-game betting or in-play betting, lets you place bets while a game is happening. Odds update in real time based on the score, momentum, and game events, giving you the chance to bet at different moments during the game.
BET NOWHow Do Live Betting Odds Work?
Live betting markets appear under a “Live Now” section, which lists games that are already in progress. Each game includes betting options such as Moneylines, Spreads, Totals, and other live markets available at that moment.
As the game progresses, betting may briefly pause while the Sportsbook recalculates prices. This short delay ensures that wagers are placed using the most current information before odds reopen.
What is a Live Betting Example?
The image below shows live betting markets for games currently in progress. Each row displays available betting options for that matchup, including Spread, Moneyline , and Total (Over/Under) markets.
In this example, the St. Louis Cardinals are trailing the Cincinnati Reds. As the game situation changes, the odds shown on each market update to reflect the current state of play.
Green odds with an upward arrow:
Indicate the price has increased
Red odds with a downward arrow:
Indicate the price has decreased
These changes correspond to live game events such as scoring plays, outs, or shifts in momentum.
Beyond standard markets, Live betting may also offer short-term bets or Player Props, depending on the sport and moment in the game. Some examples of Player Props can be, “Who will score the next basket?” or “Will the next drive in football result in a touchdown?”.
What Are the Advantages of Live Betting?
- More control over timing: You can wait to place a bet until you see how the game is unfolding, rather than betting before kickoff.
- Better information: Live betting lets you factor in momentum shifts, injuries, or changes in game pace as they happen.
- Opportunity-based betting: Odds can move during the game, sometimes creating better value compared to pre-game lines.
- More engaging experience: Live betting allows you to interact with the game as it happens, making key moments more impactful.
Are There Any Live Betting Limits?
Live betting moves quickly, and odds can change at any moment. During key points in a game, betting may briefly pause while odds are recalculated, which can limit when a wager can be placed. Because of this, timing matters, and prices shown may change before a bet is confirmed.
Live Betting Strategies and Tips
Live betting works best when you approach it with a plan instead of reacting to every odds change.
- Watch the game, not just the score. Momentum shifts, injuries, and coaching decisions can affect odds quickly, and seeing the action helps you make better decisions than relying on the scoreboard alone.
- Look for value opportunities. A favorite that falls behind may offer better Moneyline odds during the game. If you still believe that team can win, Live betting can provide a more favorable price than pre-game odds.
- Avoid chasing every line move. Odds change constantly during Live betting, but not every shift is worth a wager. Staying disciplined and managing your bankroll is key.
- Act quickly: Live betting has the intensity of an auction. Opportunities vanish fast, so act quickly when favorable lines appear.
When used thoughtfully, Live betting can add another layer to watching, a game, allowing you to make informed decisions as the action unfolds.
What is the Difference Between Live Betting vs. Pre-Game Betting?
Pre-game betting is placing a bet before a game starts, using fixed odds based on pre-match analysis. Live betting (in-play betting) is placing a bet during the game, where odds update in real time based on game action.
How to Place a Live Bet on Fanduel
FanDuel Sportsbook makes placing a Live bet simple:
- Log in to your FanDuel account (or create one).
- Navigate to the Live Now option under the Popular Navigation menu.
- Select the sport you want to Live bet on.
- Select your bet type and hit Place Bet.
FYI: Odds are subject to change at any time and often change frequently in real time. Toggle on the “Always accept odds movement”, located on the bet slip, to submit bets without confirming changes to odds for quick bet placement. Toggle off to confirm odds changes before bet placement.
Bet settlement is not always immediate and many of our live markets settle after the game is over.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is In-Game (Live) Betting?
In-game betting, also called Live or In-play betting, lets you place bets on a game after it has started, with odds that change as the action unfolds.
What sports can I Live bet on at FanDuel Sportsbook?
At FanDuel Sportsbook, you can expect to find live betting for most major sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and tennis, though the specific markets depend on the event.
How fast do Live betting odds change?
Odds can shift in seconds, especially after big plays or momentum swings. Be prepared to confirm your bet before the line locks.
Can I cash out early on a Live bet?
Yes, FanDuel often allows “Cash Out” on certain Live bets, letting you settle your wager before the event ends.
Is Live betting riskier than pregame betting?
It can be, because odds change rapidly, and impulse betting is a risk. That’s why it’s important to go in with a strategy and stick to your bankroll.
Which Types of Live Bets Can I Make?
Live betting typically includes Moneylines , Point Spreads, and Totals (Over/Under). Depending on the sport and game situation, you may also see live Prop bets, such as player performance wagers or short-term bets like the next score or play outcome. Available markets can change as the game progresses.
Ready to Bet? FanDuel Makes It Simple
Fast, easy, and built for every level of bettor.