Live Betting Vs. Pre-Game Betting: What You Need To Know

Tue, May 6, 2025
by CapperTek

There are several stark differences between live betting (also called “in-game” betting) and pre-game wagering, and bettors need to understand these complexities before placing their bets. 

Live betting allows bettors to wager during the game, match, race, or live event. Many bettors opt for this option because of the benefits it offers. Live betting allows you to choose based on what is happening and how the game flows. If a favorite is quickly falling behind, you can adapt your strategy to match the true results of the event better. 

It can be a risky situation, though, as the odds are also changing in real time in response to what’s happening. Live betting is very popular with online sportsbooks. These platforms are convenient for bettors who are watching the game live and placing bets as the situation plays out. Before a game starts, you should “shop around” at multiple online sportsbooks for finding the best betting bonus that will give you a high return and good odds. 

In-game betting is a good option for those who are available for the entire duration of a match. You can place your bets one minute into the game or 80 minutes into the game. There’s no risk of you missing out on a bet because the match is already in progress. The downside to live betting is that you need to pay attention the whole time. Injuries, exists, and unexpected goals can upset your strategy, and you need to constantly watch the odds and make predictions on the outcome.

Pre-game or pre-match betting is a more traditional type of betting, and was common even before online sports betting became popular. With this type of betting, you have to do your research before a game starts and consider your strategy ahead of time. You then place your bets on the outcome of the action before it begins. 

It may seem risky, but pregame betting does have its advantages. It requires bettors to properly research past trends, find the best odds, and research the current matchup. You’ll also get access to more diverse betting markets. The downside to this type of betting is that once your bets are placed, you can’t do anything to change them, no matter what’s happening during the game or event. 

So, how do bettors choose between live or pre-match betting? The choice comes down to personal preference and betting experience. Live betting is for those who understand the game and can keep a close eye on it. Pre-game bets are ideal for those who want to take their time researching stats and odds. 

It’s also possible to combine the two betting approaches. Pre-game wagers can be placed after researching the matchup, whereas live bets are placed during the sporting event. Understanding the differences between the two betting types allows you to hone your betting strategy and get the most out of your bets.