Hold Percentage Calculator

Quick Facts

  • Finds bookmaker margin for 2-way markets.
  • Inputs: two prices in any odds format.
  • Outputs: Hold % and Reverse Hold %.

How to use

Steps

Enter the two prices. Read Hold % to understand the margin; compare Reverse Hold % for balance.

Formula & definitions

Formula: Hold% = (1/odds₁ + 1/odds₂ − 1) × 100

Hold
Margin for a 2-way book.
Reverse Hold
Sum without subtracting 1; indicates balance.
Try also: Arbitrage · EV · Implied Probability

Hold Calculator

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What is Bookmaker Hold? (Sportsbook Margin Explained)

The Hold—also called the sportsbook's margin or overround—is the hidden percentage edge that bookmakers build into every market. This calculator helps you **find the true bookmaker margin** from any set of odds.

How to Use the Hold Calculator

  • Enter odds for both sides (home/away, over/under, etc) in any format.
  • Instantly see the Hold % (sportsbook’s profit margin on that market).
  • Compare to Reverse Hold % to understand market balance.
  • The lower the Hold, the better value for punters!

Why Margin Matters for Bettors

If you want to maximize your long-term return, always compare bookmaker margins.

Markets with high holds (big margins) mean worse odds for you. Use this tool to spot the best-value markets across different sportsbooks and focus your betting where the margin is lowest!

Tip: Use the Hold Calculator with our Vig Calculator and Fair Odds Tool for the full picture!