Gambling comes in many forms, but two of the most popular are sports betting and slot machines. Both attract millions of players worldwide, but how do they compare in terms of profitability?
This case study will analyse 100 sports bets and 100 slot machine spins using a controlled experiment to determine which option provides the best return on investment (ROI) and which presents the highest risk.
To make this a fair comparison, we applied the following parameters:
The experiment was conducted in a controlled environment where every bet and spin was recorded. For the slots we used Bovada real money casino games and for sports betting we went with multiple bookmakers, based on who offered the best odds for the given play at that time. A win/loss analysis was done at the end.
| Betting Type | Total Wagered | Total Won | Profit/Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | £1,000 | £1,210 | +£210 |
| Slots | £1,000 | £930 | +£70 |
| Category | Win Rate | Average Return per £10 Wager | Expected Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | 54% | £11.21 | +12.1% |
| Slots | Varies per spin | £9.30 | -7% |
💡Key Insight: Sports betting allows skilled players to reduce risk, while slots remain fully luck-based.
To make this study even more relevant, let’s examine two real-world sessions:
This shows that sports betting, when done strategically, can outperform slot machines.
✔ Skill matters – bettors can improve over time.
✔ Positive ROI is possible with proper strategies.
✔ Lower house edge (often below 5%).
✔ No knowledge required – anyone can play.
✔ Potential for massive wins (jackpots).
✔ Fast-paced action – higher entertainment value.
| Game Type | Theoretical ROI (Skilled Player) | Theoretical ROI (Casual Player) |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | +5% to +20% | -2% to -10% |
| Slot Machines | -2% to -10% | -5% to -20% |
A skilled sports bettor can be profitable over time, while slot players are expected to lose in the long run.
| Factor | Sports Betting | Slot Machines |
|---|---|---|
| Profitability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Skill Involvement | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Risk Level | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Entertainment Value | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ease Of Play | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
✔ Sports betting allows for skill-based profit, while slot machines guarantee long-term losses.
✔ Winning 54%+ of sports bets can lead to consistent profits.
✔ Slot machines have a fixed house edge and are entirely luck-based.
✔ If managed correctly, sports betting is more sustainable than playing slots.
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