Free Sports API information and resources.

Sports APIs Features Explained

Free Tier/Trial

Indicates if the provider offers a plan that is free to use, usually with limitations on usage (like number of API calls per month), features, or sports covered. Some providers offer a free trial period, usually 30 days, to test the API.

Pricing (💲 Scale)

A relative estimate of the cost for paid plans, ranging from low at $~20/month (💲) to very high at $~1000+/month (💲💲💲💲💲). This is a general guide based on available information and typical market rates.

Pregame Odds

Refers to odds available before an event starts. This is the most common type of odds offered.

Live Odds

Refers to odds provided for games while they are actively in progress (in-play or live betting). These odds update dynamically based on the game's events.

Closing Odds

Refers to the final odds offered by sportsbooks just before an event begins. These are often used as a benchmark for evaluating betting strategies or model performance.

SGP Odds

Stands for Same Game Parlay odds. Indicates if the API specifically provides calculated odds for combining multiple bets (legs) from within the same sporting event.

Futures Odds

Indicates if the API provides odds for long-term outcomes, such as predicting a league champion, MVP winner, or other season-long results, well in advance.

Bet Deeplinks

Specifies if the API provides direct URLs that link to a specific bet on a sportsbook's website, allowing users to easily navigate and place the bet.

Bet Settlements

Indicates if the API provides data confirming the outcome of placed bets (e.g., Win, Loss, Push) after an event is completed. This is useful for tracking and verifying wagers.

Stats

Indicates if the API provides access to player and team statistics, historical data, or other analytical information beyond basic scores and odds.

Schedules

Indicates if the API provides information on upcoming games, match schedules, and event timetables.

Active In Discord

Shows if the API provider has an active and responsive presence in the SportsAPIs.dev Discord community, which can be helpful for support and discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sports odds API?

A sports odds API is a programming interface that provides real-time and historical betting odds data from various sportsbooks. Developers use these APIs to build betting applications, odds comparison tools, and sports analytics platforms.

Which sports API offers the best free tier?

Several providers offer generous free tiers. The-Odds-API provides 500 requests/month free, while others offer limited trial periods. Check our comparison table above to find the best free sports API for your specific needs.

How do I choose between different sports data APIs?

Consider these factors: coverage of sports/leagues you need, data update frequency, pricing structure, API reliability, documentation quality, and available features like live odds, player props, or historical data. Our comparison table helps evaluate these factors.

What's the difference between pregame and live odds?

Pregame odds are betting lines available before an event starts, typically more stable and easier to cache. Live odds update in real-time during games, requiring websocket connections or frequent polling, and are generally more expensive to access.

Do I need different APIs for different sportsbooks?

No, most sports odds APIs aggregate data from multiple sportsbooks. However, coverage varies by provider. Some APIs focus on US sportsbooks (DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM), while others specialize in international bookmakers.

What are SGP (Same Game Parlay) odds?

Same Game Parlay odds allow bettors to combine multiple bets from the same game into one wager. Not all APIs provide SGP data as it requires complex calculations and direct sportsbook partnerships.

How much do sports APIs typically cost?

Pricing varies widely: entry-level plans start around $20-50/month for basic odds data, mid-tier plans range from $200-500/month with more features, and enterprise solutions can exceed $1000/month for comprehensive data with high request limits.

Getting Started with Sports APIs

1. Choose Your Use Case

Before selecting an API, define your project needs:

• Odds Comparison Site: Need pregame odds from multiple sportsbooks
• Live Betting App: Require real-time odds with low latency
• Analytics Platform: Focus on historical data and closing lines
• Fantasy Sports: Need player stats and projections

2. Evaluate API Features

Key features to consider:

• Data Coverage: Sports, leagues, and bet types available
• Update Frequency: How often odds refresh (seconds vs minutes)
• Historical Data: Access to past odds and results
• Documentation: Clear examples and SDK availability

3. Start with Free Tiers

Most providers offer free tiers or trials. Use these to:

• Test data quality and accuracy
• Evaluate API response times
• Understand the data structure
• Build a proof of concept