Best Betting Exchanges for 2025

Learn how betting exchanges work, how they differ from sportsbooks, and why sharp bettors use them to unlock better odds and lower fees.

Learn how betting exchanges work, how they differ from sportsbooks, and why sharp bettors use them to unlock better odds and lower fees.

Explore Exchange Reviews

Novig Overview
Novig Overview
Novig Overview

Novig

Peer-to-peer betting exchange with low vig spanning major betting markets

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The BetSmarter Newsletter

Betting strategies, new tools, and discounts. 3 minutes to read, delivered every Friday.

The BetSmarter Newsletter

Betting strategies, new tools, and discounts. 3 minutes to read, delivered every Friday.

Explore Other Types of Betting Platforms

Funded Trading overview
Funded Trading overview
Funded Trading overview

Funded Trading

Learn how funded sports trading platforms work, how to qualify for funding, and why this model is growing in sports betting.

Learn More About Exchanges

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Understanding Betting Exchanges: Peer-to-Peer Sports Betting for Smarter Wagers

What Is a Betting Exchange?

A betting exchange is a platform that allows users to bet against each other, rather than against a traditional sportsbook. Instead of the house setting the odds and taking your bet, you either accept odds from another user or post your own.

This peer-to-peer model removes the traditional sportsbook’s margin (the "vig") and gives bettors the freedom to trade positions like they would on a stock market.

Popular exchanges include NoVig, BetOpenly, and ProphetX.

How Betting Exchanges Work

There are two sides to every exchange bet:

  • Back bet: You're betting on something to happen (e.g., Team A to win).

  • Lay bet: You're betting against it happening (e.g., Team A to not win).

You can:

  • Take existing odds (back or lay) from the market

  • Post your own odds, and wait for another user to match them

Once matched, the exchange holds the funds in escrow from both parties. The winner is paid out when the event settles, minus a small commission (usually 1-5%) taken by the exchange platform.

Betting Exchange vs. Sportsbook: What’s the Difference?

Feature

Sportsbook

Betting Exchange

Who sets the odds

The house

The users

Who takes the risk

The house

Another user (peer)

Margin (vig)

Built into odds

Low commission on winnings

Flexibility

Fixed odds only

Custom odds and lay options

Limits

Set by sportsbook

Set by market liquidity

Exchanges provide sharper odds and more flexibility—but typically have lower liquidity and fewer available markets compared to traditional sportsbooks.

Why Sharp Bettors Use Exchanges

Professional and high-volume bettors prefer exchanges for several reasons:

  • Better Odds: No house edge means tighter pricing.

  • Lay Betting: You can bet against outcomes (like being the book).

  • No Limiting: Most exchanges don’t ban or restrict winning bettors.

  • More Control: You set your own price and bet size.

That said, liquidity can be an issue on niche markets or low-profile games. In those cases, sportsbooks still play a role in a well-rounded betting strategy.

Exchange Platforms FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about exchanges.

Here are some frequently asked questions about exchanges.

Here are some frequently asked questions about exchanges.

What is a betting exchange?

What is a betting exchange?

What is a betting exchange?

How is a betting exchange different from a sportsbook?

How is a betting exchange different from a sportsbook?

How is a betting exchange different from a sportsbook?

Are betting exchanges legal in the U.S.?

Are betting exchanges legal in the U.S.?

Are betting exchanges legal in the U.S.?

Why do bettors use exchanges?

Why do bettors use exchanges?

Why do bettors use exchanges?

Do betting exchanges offer live betting?

Do betting exchanges offer live betting?

Do betting exchanges offer live betting?

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Join Other Smart Bettors

Don't Gamble; Bet Smarter.

Betting strategies, new tools, and discounts. 3 minutes to read, delivered every Friday.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

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Join Other Smart Bettors

Don't Gamble; Bet Smarter.

Betting strategies, new tools, and discounts. 3 minutes to read, delivered every Friday.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Expert reviews & comparisons of 30+ sports betting tools that help you find your edge & bet smarter.

21+. Please play responsibly. For support with a gambling addiction, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

© 2025 BetSmart. All rights reserved

Expert reviews & comparisons of 30+ sports betting tools that help you find your edge & bet smarter.

21+. Please play responsibly. For support with a gambling addiction, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

© 2025 BetSmart. All rights reserved

Expert reviews & comparisons of 30+ sports betting tools that help you find your edge & bet smarter.

21+. Please play responsibly. For support with a gambling addiction, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

© 2025 BetSmart. All rights reserved