Types Of Bets In Sports Betting | Explained
Wondering what the different types of bets in sports betting are and when to use them? You’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re backing the Springboks, Kaizer Chiefs, or your favourite F1 driver, there’s more than one way to bet — and each type of bet comes with its own rules, risks, and rewards. Knowing the different types of bets in sports betting in South Africa helps you make smarter choices and find the markets that suit your style.
At Probets, our team of local Sports betting experts have tested every major sportsbook and break down these bet types in plain, South African English. From classic Moneyline bets to exciting parlays and prop markets, we’ll show you how each one works, where to find them, and when to use them. It’s part of our mission to make betting simpler, safer, and more rewarding for Mzansi players.
💡 Quick Tip: All the bet types you’ll see in this guide are 100% legal when placed with licensed South African sportsbooks, regulated by provincial gambling boards under the National Gambling Board (NGB). To learn more about how licensing and protection works, see our Legal Betting Guide.
Most international resources, like ESPN’s betting explainer, describe the same bet types you’ll find locally — but South African sportsbooks such as Betway, Hollywoodbets, and Sportingbet often present them with unique twists, local markets, and special odds boosts during PSL or Rugby World Cup matches. We’ll unpack the key ones below so you can read your bet slip with full confidence.
The Main Types of Sports Bets
Once you understand how betting odds work and how to manage your bankroll, the next big step is learning what types of sports bets you can actually place. Each bet type represents a different way of predicting an outcome — from simply picking a winner, to combining multiple results or betting on individual player performances.
Think of it like learning the positions on a sports field: every role has a purpose, and knowing which one to play (or in this case, which bet to make) gives you a real edge. Some bets are simple and safe; others are more creative and carry higher risk for bigger potential rewards. Understanding the difference will help you find your comfort zone — whether you prefer slow and steady or going for that big weekend multi.
Below, we break down the five main types of sports bets you’ll encounter on South African sportsbooks, with real examples from our favourite local markets — from PSL derbies and Springbok tests, to Premier League fixtures and cricket showdowns. For each one, our Probets experts explain:
- ✅ What the bet means (in plain South African English)
- 📊 A real-world example using local teams or tournaments
- 🎯 When to use it — and when to avoid it
These are the foundations of betting — once you know them, you’ll be able to navigate any sportsbook confidently and start identifying which markets suit your strategy and personality best.
1️⃣ Moneyline (Match Winner)
The simplest and most popular bet type — you’re predicting who wins. Pick one team, and if they win, your bet lands.
Example: Chiefs to beat Pirates at odds of 2.10. If Chiefs win, you’re paid out on that result.
When to use: Ideal for beginners — no math, no spreads, just your call on who wins.
2️⃣ Point Spread (Handicap)
A spread or handicap evens the playing field between strong and weak teams. The favourite “gives up” points, while the underdog “receives” them.
Example: The Springboks -6.5 vs Wales means SA must win by 7+ points for your bet to win.
When to use: Great when one team is a heavy favourite — spreads balance the odds.
Learn more about odds and margins in our Odds & Payouts Guide.
3️⃣ Totals (Over / Under)
You’re betting on how many total points, goals, or runs will be scored — not who wins. Sportsbooks set a line, and you pick whether the total will go over or under.
Example: Over 2.5 goals in Chiefs vs Sundowns means you win if there are 3 or more goals.
When to use: Great if you’re confident it’ll be a tight defensive game or a high-scoring shootout.
4️⃣ Parlays (Multi-Bets)
Combine multiple bets into one ticket for bigger potential payouts — but all legs must win for you to collect.
Example: Chiefs, Arsenal, and the Springboks all to win on one ticket. Miss one? The bet loses.
When to use: Fun for small stakes with big returns. Avoid using your full bankroll on these.
See how to bet smartly in our 1Voucher Betting Guide.
5️⃣ Prop Bets (Player / Team Specials)
Props let you bet on specific events within a game — like who scores first, total corners, or a player’s performance.
Example: Lukhanyo Am to score a try anytime at odds of 3.50, or Over 10.5 corners in a soccer match.
When to use: Great for entertainment or fans who follow player stats closely.
Always bet with a licensed sportsbook — regulated by the National Gambling Board.
Which Bet Type Is Right for You?
Different bets fit different personalities and situations. Our Probets experts put together this quick guide to help you match your goals with the right markets — keeping things fun, responsible, and aligned with your bankroll. If you’re brand new, it’s okay to start simple and level up as you learn.
How we recommend choosing
1) Start simple: If you’re new, stick to Moneyline (Match Winner) until you’re comfortable.
2) Think in odds, not teams: Read our
Odds & Payouts explainer to judge risk vs reward.
3) Protect your bankroll: Use small stakes and units (2–5%) — see
Managing Your Bankroll.
4) Play legal: Always use a licensed SA sportsbook,
regulated under the National Gambling Board.
Popular SA Sportsbooks & Bet Types
Most licensed South African sportsbooks offer the core markets you’ve just learned — Moneyline, Spreads/Handicaps, Totals, Parlays, and Props. Here’s a quick at-a-glance look at three big brands our team reviews regularly.
| Sportsbook | Moneyline | Spread / Handicap | Totals | Parlays / Multis | Props / Specials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Betway South Africa | |||||
| Hollywoodbets | |||||
| Sportingbet South Africa |
Note: Market availability can vary by sport and match. Always check the bet slip before placing your wager. Only use licensed SA sportsbooks regulated by provincial boards under the National Gambling Board.
Risk vs Reward: Choosing Your Bet Type
Every bet type carries a different balance of risk and reward. The key is matching your betting style, confidence level, and bankroll to the right market. As the old saying goes: “the higher the odds, the higher the risk.” Here’s a simple way to think about it:
| Risk Level | Bet Type | Typical Return | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🟢 Low | Moneyline, Totals (Over/Under) | Steady, small wins | Beginners, casual punters, or anyone building confidence |
| 🟠 Medium | Spreads/Handicaps, Player Props | Balanced — moderate reward with slightly higher risk | Those who follow form, stats, or team trends closely |
| 🔴 High | Parlays/Multibets, Futures | Big payouts, but harder to win consistently | Experienced bettors managing small, calculated stakes |
Quick Glossary of Betting Terms
Confused by sportsbook jargon? Don’t stress — every bettor starts somewhere. Here are a few key terms you’ll see across South African betting sites, explained in simple language.
Stake
Your bet amount — the money you’re putting on the line.
Odds Boost
A promotion where the sportsbook increases the payout potential on specific bets.
Unit
A percentage of your bankroll (e.g. 1 unit = 2% of total funds). Helps manage consistency.
Push
When a result lands exactly on the line (e.g., total goals = 2.0). Your stake is refunded.
Cash Out
Option to settle a bet early for a partial payout before the match ends.
Line / Spread
The margin bookmakers set to even the odds between favourites and underdogs.
Futures
Long-term bets on tournament or season outcomes (e.g., Springboks to win Rugby World Cup).
Void Bet
A cancelled bet — usually refunded due to weather, postponement, or rule changes.
Want more help decoding sportsbook lingo? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Sports Betting.
FAQs: Types of Bets in South Africa
What are the main types of sports bets in South Africa?
The core markets you’ll see at licensed SA sportsbooks are: Moneyline (match winner), Spreads/Handicaps, Totals (Over/Under), Parlays/Multibets, and Props (player/team specials). We explain each in our guide above, with local examples.
What is a Moneyline bet?
It’s the simplest bet: pick the team or player to win. No margins or totals to worry about. New to betting? Start here, then explore other markets. Also see our odds & payouts explainer.
What is a spread or handicap bet?
The book sets a margin to balance favourites vs underdogs (e.g., Springboks -6.5). Your bet wins if your team covers the spread. Great when favourites are very short on the Moneyline.
What are Totals (Over/Under) bets?
You’re betting on the total goals/points/runs in a game, not who wins. Example: Over 2.5 goals wins if there are 3+ goals. Perfect when you have a read on game tempo.
What is a parlay / multibet?
A single ticket combining 2+ selections for a bigger potential payout — but all legs must win. Use small stakes and manage risk carefully; see our bankroll tips.
What are prop bets — and are they legal in South Africa?
Props are bets on specific events (first goalscorer, corners, player stats). They’re legal when offered by a licensed SA sportsbook under provincial regulation and the National Gambling Board.
Which type of bet is best for beginners?
Start with Moneyline (match winner) while you learn odds and payouts. As you gain confidence, add Totals or Spreads. Keep stakes small — see Managing Your Bankroll.
Do all South African sportsbooks offer these bet types?
Most licensed brands do. Compare Betway, Hollywoodbets, and Sportingbet in our at-a-glance table, or view our full list of trusted SA sportsbooks.
How do I stay in control when trying new bet types?
Set limits, track your results, and take breaks. For support, visit the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) or our Responsible Gambling guide.