Best Sports Betting Sites in 2025

How to Choose the Best Sports Betting Platform in 2025

Wading through endless sports betting sites all promising to give you the best possible experience can be hard graft.

But fear not!

I’m here to help you with my step-by-step guide to what you should look out for when shopping around for a great new sports betting platform.

Take a look at the following points. These outline some of the most important aspects that should give you the tools to find the best sports betting platforms for your individual style.

Does the site operate in your country?

The very first step in your journey should be to ensure that the sports betting website operates in your country. That’s to say, you can legally use the site without any repercussions.

Of course, this will depend on where you live.

In some countries, such as the UK and Spain, gambling is perfectly legal. Whereas in other countries, it is completely prohibited, and/or the laws change from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

You probably already know if gambling is legal where you reside, but if you don’t, a quick Google search should suffice.

Whether or not you live in a country where gambling is permitted, you always have the option to enable a VPN which will mask your IP address from the betting site operator and allow you to access sites all over the world.

That said, VPNs come with their own set of potential downsides, which we’ll consider now.

Could a VPN be the right solution?

A lot of people believe that bettors who enable a VPN are doing so because gambling is prohibited in their country of residence. However, this is simply not true.

Many people choose to use a VPN for heightened security, and to add an element of anonymity.

But some sports betting websites do not take kindly to players using such tools. In fact, depending on the operator, if you’re found to be using a VPN you could see your account closed.

Therefore, the best piece of advice I can give you is to contact the sports betting site and check their policy on VPN usage.

As an example, I contacted a few of our recommended operators and had a chat with their friendly staff.

These are the answers I received to the question “what is your policy on using a VPN?”

• SportBet.one: “It is highly discouraged to use VPN on our platform. There are no penalties as such, but you can be suspected of multi-accounting when using VPN”
• MyStake: “It is the player’s sole responsibility for using such applications. We don’t limit users if they are using VPN”
• Casumo: “Unfortunately, the VPN is not allowed under terms and conditions”
• ChipStars: “VPN usage is allowed. Ideally, you should use a VPN hosted in your own country, as this will enable the payment methods and games available and games available in the country”

As you can see, these operators each have their own policy on using a VPN. So before you assume that you can use one, it pays to double check with the sports betting site first, just to be on the safe side.

What payment methods are offered?

One really important factor that people often overlook is what kind of payment methods are offered by the sports betting platform.

These days, there’s no end to the different ways you can deposit and withdraw at the most modern betting websites. And although you might have a preferred payment platform, it’s always nice to have more options if you decide to switch things up in the future.

Therefore, I would always advise looking at the variety of banking methods available at a site before signing up.

At most leading sports betting sites, you’ll have a solid collection of traditional banking methods, such as bank transfers and credit and debit cards.

But if you’re a fan of more modern-day platforms, perhaps a site that offers eWallets and cryptocurrencies will be more up your alley.

A great example of a sports betting brand that offers an array of payment options is 1xBet. Not only can you deposit and withdraw using popular methods like debit cards and eWallets, but they also have over 25 cryptocurrencies to choose from.

Always keep withdrawal times in mind

While most betting websites offer free and instant deposits, the same can’t be said when the time comes to withdraw your winnings.

That’s why it’s so important to check with a betting site before you open an account, so that you don’t have to put up with long processing periods and extensive waiting times.

Again, I did a little bit of digging and came up with a few key pieces of information about some of our recommended operators.

In regards to withdrawal times, a ChipStars rep told me:

 “Each method has an equally optimal time to withdraw funds. Withdrawals generally take up to 24 hours to process, but in some cases, they may take more time”

The ChipStars withdrawal policy also mentions that in order to get the fastest withdrawals possible, customers need to have their KYC documents completely up to date.

At SportBet.one, they only let you withdraw in cryptocurrencies, and a helpful member of the customer services team gave me a rundown of the most popular coins and their withdrawal times:

“EOS and SBET withdrawals are instant (no minimal withdrawal limit). BTC and  LTC withdrawals might take up to 20 minutes (minimal withdrawal – 0.1 mBTC/ 0.001 LTC/). USDT and ETH can take up to 12 hours in some cases”

Finally, at Casumo, they informed me that eWallet withdrawals are usually instant, but:

“Cards and via bank details take from 1 to up 5 working days”

As you can see, the banking method you use to receive your winnings is essential when it comes to cutting down on withdrawal times.

One operator I like for fast payouts is 22Bet, where you can withdraw using eWallets or crypto for same-day payouts.

What kinds of benefits do you receive?

All leading sports betting platforms offer various types of bonuses to attract new customers and retain existing ones.

From no deposit bonuses to match deposit offers, free bonus bets and enhanced betting odds, there’s always a great deal to be had at a trusted betting site with sports.

For example, while their offers are subject to change, I recently looked at BetOnline.ag’s promo page and saw no less than six different bonus offers, including a 100% crypto bonus and 50% match deposit bonus of up to $1,000 when you open an account.

Not only do new customers get bonuses thrown at them, but as a loyal customer, you should also see things like reload bonuses and VIP programs extended to you.

Therefore, take a few moments to check out what’s on offer in terms of bonuses and promotions at a new site, before you consider joining up.

Is the betting site legit and trustworthy?

Another essential thing to take into consideration is whether or not the sports betting platform is legit and trustworthy.

So let’s take a moment to look at these two factors in a little more detail.

Check for a license

Generally speaking, I would always advise that you play at licensed betting sites.

That’s not to say that unlicensed operators are all shady and should be avoided, but as a rule of thumb, they work hard to keep their license, and therefore usually offer customers a better all-round experience.

Checking for a license is easy.

Simply take a look at the footer of the website and you should see a license number, along with details of the authority that issued it.

If you live in the UK, then you will see the license number accompanied by the UK Gambling Commission’s logo.

Other operators in Europe may hold a license for the Malta Gaming Authority, and those on the other side of the pond might have a license from the Curacao eGaming Control board.

If you cannot see a license number, then I suggest you tread carefully.

Again, it doesn’t mean that a betting site is necessarily untrustworthy, but you may find lax security and a lack of player protection, so be extra cautious and do some research on the brand before you sign up.

Check for SSL-encryption software

Another way to check that a site is trustworthy is to take a look at the kind of security they have in place to protect their players.

Personally, I always look for betting sites that use SSL-encryption software.

This software encrypts any transaction between you and the betting website. Therefore it protects your personal and financial information from any potentially shady third parties online.

Using this software illustrates that a site takes its players’ privacy seriously, and I would take it as a good sign that the site is safe for you to bet at.

Read player reviews

One of the easiest ways to get a feel for a site and what kind of experience you can expect is to read other players’ reviews.

The great thing about reading other players’ opinions is that they are usually unbiased, and are written by people just like you who are looking for the best experience.

I wouldn’t take one bad review as a sign to walk away from a betting platform, but I would definitely advise treading with caution if you find a site that has stacked up many bad reviews over a long period of time.

Look for opportunities to play anonymously

Playing anonymously appeals to people for many reasons.

As you may or may not know, lenders such as banks don’t like to see frequent payouts to any online gambling operator.

Therefore, if you are considering taking out a loan or mortgage in the near future, it may be worth your while playing anonymously, so that these transactions do not show up on your bank or card statement.

Another reason that customers enjoy anonymous gambling is that it offers a higher level of security.

Without having to give out your personal and financial details every time you make a deposit or withdrawal, this information is kept away from prying eyes.

Unfortunately, most traditional betting sites do not offer 100% anonymous play, but the most modern end-to-end crypto betting sites do.

Therefore, if safety is your number one priority, I would recommend seeking out a 100% crypto betting site where you can play safely and anonymously.

A great crypto betting site that I like at the moment is CloudBet, where you can play completely anonymously using both popular and exotic selections of digital currencies.

Does the sports betting platform give you good odds and many markets to explore?

Let’s cut to the chase; when shopping around for a great new betting site, you want one that gives you the best chance of pocketing some serious winnings. And, of course, the best way to bring home the bacon is to place bets on sports matches and events that have the most competitive betting odds.

Therefore, do not jump on the first sports betting site that catches your eye.

Instead, take a few moments to peruse their sportsbook and look at what types of odds and markets they offer.

This is worth the effort in the long run, as you will have more markets to bet on, and you will see higher payouts over time.

One of my favorite betting sites is SportBet.one, as they have an enormous sportsbook to peruse, and offer a wealth of odds and markets to consider.

Does the sports betting website offer games as well as sports betting?

These days, there are plenty of sports betting websites that also offer you the chance to spice up proceedings with some casino gaming action as well.

If you’d like to try some of the most popular casino offerings, such as smash-hit slots and immersive live gaming, then why not opt for a site that offers everything under one roof?

If that’s something you’d be interested in, then let’s take a quick look into what you can find at a great sports betting platform that also offers casino games.

Comprehensive game selection

Since the inception of online casino gaming, software developers have gone from strength to strength, creating bigger and better games with insanely good graphics, sophisticated mechanics, and some truly staggering jackpot prizes.

At the top betting sites that offer casino games, you can find giant collections that comprise the most popular slots, authentic real-time live casino card games and game shows, as well as other forms of gambling, such as poker, scratch cards and even bingo.

So if you’re looking to mix things up, check out sites like BC.Game which offers a veritable smorgasbord of betting and gaming opportunities.

Bonuses for games and bets

The popular combination of casino games and sports betting has also given way to sites that offer bonuses that you can use on more than one type of gambling.

For example, a sports betting platform that offers you a match deposit bonus may also allow you to use these funds to play on their casino game collection.

So if you’re in the market for an exciting new adventure, then why not visit a site that will give you a great bonus that you can use across multiple genres of gambling?

How Do Our Experts at WeGamble.org Select the Sports Betting Sites We Recommend to You?

Now that you have the tools to find a great sports betting operator, it’s time to look at how the other writers and I work closely with our team of industry experts to bring you our list of selected operators.

We open an account and deposit real funds

The first thing we do in order to have an experience just like our readers is to open an account with the operator we’re reviewing and make a deposit.

At this stage, we consider how easy the sports betting website makes it to navigate the site and register a new account.

We like to see websites and apps that make the process as streamlined as possible.

We don’t think it should take more than a couple of minutes to complete the process, and we would expect to have our account verified by the operator within the same day.

Furthermore, I like to see a wide range of payment options available, as I know that you may like to change from things like bank transfers and debit card payments to eWallets and cryptocurrencies.

Finally, we take note of the deposit time. Is it instant and free?

I only recommend operators to you if they offer the easiest and most cost-effective solution for opening an account and making that first deposit.

We place real bets on sports matches and competitions

Continuing our journey as a regular customer, our experts then trawl the site to check out the odds and markets, before placing real bets on matches and other sporting events.

We like to see a good selection of both domestic and international events, along with a great range of markets and the most competitive odds around.

At this stage, I also note how easy it is to find all my favorite sports, market and odds, and how simple it is to place a wager. I also look at the terms and conditions of any bonuses offered to new players, to see how fair and realistic these offers are.

We chat with the customer service team regularly

I’ve always said that I believe customer service to be the cornerstone of any great betting site.

With that in mind, when I am writing up a new sports betting site, I always get in touch with the representatives at the sports betting platform and ask them a few questions.

As you’ll see throughout this guide, I query things like deposit and withdrawal times, VPN usage, bonus terms and conditions, and many other queries that the common sports bettor has.

I’ll also take note of whether the staff member I speak with is friendly and professional, and how long it takes for me to get answers to my questions.

Finally, I’ll also make sure to contact the betting site through multiple channels, to check which one is the most efficient, before reporting my findings back to you.

We go through the withdrawal process from start to finish

As well as deposits, we also go through the withdrawal process as you would.

If I’m lucky enough to scoop some winnings, then I’ll put in a request and see how long it takes for the betting site to process my winnings and payout.

I also switch up my banking methods from time to time, using credit and debit cards, eWallets, and cryptocurrencies, to see which one has the quickest turnaround.

And of course, I then feed all of this information back to you, so that you can make an informed decision about which payment method might be best for you at any particular betting site.

We listen to other players’ feedback and complaints

I always advise people to do their own research. This includes reading other players’ online reviews, to give yourself a good idea of what to expect at a new betting site.

Taking that one step further, our experts also reach out to players just like you, and gather a wealth of independent and unfiltered comments about an operator.

Not only do we listen to all of your feedback, but we also investigate any complaints, including from players or even sometimes other organizations within the gambling industry.

We compile 100% honest reviews using all of the information we gather

At the end of our thorough review process, we compile all the information, good and bad. The result is honest and unbiased sports betting and casino reviews for you to enjoy.

I will never recommend a site that has a consistently bad track record, but, by the same token, I won’t just sing the praises of a betting site that has a bunch of 5-star reviews without doing my own research first.

That’s why here at WeGamble, you can find reviews by writers like me, backed up by thorough research from our team of experts.

How to Start Your Sports Betting Adventure off Right

If you’re new to the world of sports betting, it can be a bit daunting knowing where to start.

That’s why I have made a quick step-by-step guide that will take you through the stages of opening an account at a betting site with sports, all the way through to collecting your winnings.

So if you want to dip your toe into the water of sports wagering, let me help you get off to a great start.

Choose an operator from our list

I hope that I’ve given you all the information you need to do your own research and select a great sports betting operator.

But if you want to skip through the tedium of trawling the internet yourself, then you can simply select a trusted betting site from our list of reviewed operators.

As you’ve seen, I work closely with our team of industry experts to bring you a cherry-picked selection of the best in the business.

Therefore, if you’re looking to start your adventure off right, simply select one from our list and follow the next steps.

Open a new account

Once you’ve selected a great sports betting platform, it’s time to open an account.

This process will vary from site to site, but it’s a pretty standard affair.

Locate the “register” or “open account” tab, which should be clearly visible on the homepage, and follow the instructions.

At a traditional gambling website, you’ll be asked for some basic information, such as your full name, address, date of birth, telephone number, and email address.

At a crypto sports betting site, you’ll be asked for your crypto wallet address.

Regardless of which type of site you’re at, your account is usually verified within the same day.

Make your first deposit

Now that you’ve got a new account, it’s time to make your first deposit.

All the operators we work with offer you a great selection of banking methods, including wire transfers, credit and debit cards, and eWallets.

There are also many crypto sports betting operators that let you deposit and withdraw using digital assets like Bitcoin, Dogecoin, and Ethereum.

When it comes to deposits, there are also some other options to explore, including pay-by-mobile and voucher systems. Just be aware that these two options are not usually available for withdrawals.

Once you have selected your preferred payment method, simply select the amount you wish to deposit and follow the instructions.

Deposits are usually free and instant.

If you have any issues whatsoever, you can contact the customer services team directly, who should be able to deal with your query in a jiffy.

Select your welcome bonus (where applicable)

At many sports betting sites, you can also select your welcome bonus at the same time as you make your deposit.

In fact, most welcome bonuses will require you to make a qualifying deposit to activate them.

For example, you may be entitled to a free bet or a match deposit bonus, as long as you deposit a minimum of $10.

Therefore, when selecting your bonus, make a note of the minimum amount and ensure that you deposit this, or more, so that you can trigger your sign-up offer.

Explore the markets and place your first bet(s)

Now we get to the fun part! You have a shiny new account and some funds in the tank, so now it’s time to explore the markets and place your first bet.

A great sports betting website will have a solid collection of sports, along with exciting markets and competitive odds.

So this is your time to sit back, relax and take a look at what you might like to bet on.

Again, the operators we work with will make the process of placing a wager extremely simple.

Don’t forget about in-play betting!

At the leading sports betting websites, you can also place bets in real-time via in-play betting.

You can stream the events on any device, such as an Android or iOS smartphone, and watch the action unfold, plus place wagers at a moment’s notice.

The invention of in-betting has completely revolutionized the way we watch and wager on sports, so don’t forget to check whether the sports betting site has these options.

Withdraw any winnings

When it’s time to withdraw your winnings, you will need to request them in your account, usually via the “cashier” section.

Withdrawal times vary, depending on the operator and also the payment method you use to receive your winnings.

As a quick note, if you want your winnings quickly, I would recommend using an eWallet or cryptocurrency, such as at a Bitcoin betting site.

But also keep in mind that each sports betting site has its own pending approval period. This is usually between 24 and 48 hours, but can take longer at some sites.

Get the Best Bonuses at the Leading Sports Betting Sites

Now it’s time to look at some of the different types of bonus deals you can get at a top betting site with sports.

Remember, it’s not only new players that can pick up bonus deals. Loyal returning customers can also get rewarded regularly, as you’re about to see.

Welcome bonus

Also known as a sign-up offer, a welcome bonus is offered to new customers who register with a betting site.

This bonus can be in the form of free bets, deposit bonuses, no deposit bonuses or risk-free bonus bets.

You may also see some free spins or a casino-sportsbook hybrid offer, if the site also offers casino gaming.

The amount of the bonus and the terms and conditions attached to it differ from site to site.

At present, MyStake is a recommendation of mine, as their new player sign-up offers are usually pretty generous. For instance, a 100% match deposit bonus up to $1,000, along with 10% cashback on crypto deposits. Not bad!

Deposit bonus

A deposit bonus is offered to customers who make a deposit into their account. The bonus amount is usually a percentage of the deposit amount, up to a certain limit.

For example, a site may offer a 100% deposit bonus up to $1,000, whereas some sites, like BC.Game, are known for offering up to 180% as a deposit match.

Just be careful to read the T&Cs of any offer that looks too good to be true – it probably is.

No deposit bonus

A no deposit bonus is a bonus offered by some online betting sites to new customers without requiring them to make a deposit.

This bonus can be in the form of free bets, free spins, or bonus cash. It allows customers to try out the site and its games without risking their own money.

Free bets

A free bet is a bonus that allows you to place a bet without risking your own money. If you win the bet, you get to keep the winnings, but not the stake.

If you lose the bet, you don’t lose any of your own money.

One of my go-to betting sites for great free bets offers is Sportsbet.io, where you can get a free wager for depositing just $10.

Risk-free bets

A risk-free bet is similar to a free bet, but the difference is that if you lose the bet, you get your stake back as a bonus.

For example, if you place a $10 risk-free bet and lose, you will receive a $10 bonus.

Reload bonuses

A reload bonus is offered to existing customers who make additional deposits into their account after their first one.

The bonus amount is usually a percentage of the deposit amount, up to a certain limit.

Loyalty/VIP programs

Players who stay loyal to one particular betting brand may be invited to join either a loyalty or VIP program.

While these programs will differ, the vast majority are based on a tiered system, where you get rewarded the more bets you make and the higher the levels you climb.

A favorite of mine is Cloudbet, which lets sports bettors climb six levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby and collect bonuses and perks along the way.

Other promos to explore

When we think about promotions at sports betting sites, the word “bonus” often springs to mind.

But bonus offers are not the only way to get some extra perks and benefits out of a great sports betting platform.

You can also find lots of other ongoing promos, such as competitions, battles, and tournaments.

While not explicitly bonuses, these promotions give you the chance to enter into competitions where you can pocket some extra winnings.

Popular promos at sports betting sites include NFL, NBA, and soccer battles.

You may also find that a sports betting site with casino games lets you enter into things like slots tournaments and live casino championships.

What Kinds of Bets Can You Make at the Top Betting Sites?

Perhaps you’re a seasoned sports betting fan; in which case, feel free to skip the next bit!

But if you’re still new to sports betting, and want to know which are the most popular types of wagers you can make, take a look below.

Moneyline

Moneyline betting is a type of sports betting where you pick which team or player you think will win the game or match.

It’s one of the simplest forms of betting, and it’s popular among beginners and experienced sports bettors alike.

With moneyline betting, the odds are expressed in terms of a positive or negative number. If the odds are positive, that means the team or player is the underdog, and if the odds are negative, that means the team or player is the favorite.

Example of a moneyline bet

Let’s say you’re betting on a football game between the New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins.

If the Patriots have moneyline odds of -150, that means they are the favorite. If you bet $150 on the Patriots and they win, you win $100.

If, on the other hand, the Dolphins have moneyline odds of +200, that means they are the underdog. If you bet $100 on the Dolphins and they win, you win $200.

Parlays

Parlay betting, also known as accumulator betting, is a popular form of betting in which you place multiple bets on a single ticket.

This type of betting allows you to increase your potential payout, but it also increases your risk, as the bets are linked together, and all of them must win for you to win the parlay bet.

If any of the bets lose, you lose the entire bet.

Parlay betting allows you to combine bets from different sports or different types of bets, such as moneyline, point spread, and totals bets.

You can also parlay different outcomes within the same game, such as the winner and the total points scored.

Example of a parlay bet

You want to place a parlay bet on three NFL games.

You select the winner of each game, and if all three of your picks win, you win the parlay bet.

However, one of your picks loses. Therefore, you lose the entire bet.

Spreads

A point spread is a type of bet in which the bookmaker handicaps or gives an advantage to one team or player over the other.

The spread, also known as the line, is the number of points the favored team is expected to win by.

In order for a bettor to win a bet on the favored team, the team must win by more than the spread.

On the other hand, if a bettor places a bet on the underdog team, the team can either win the game outright or lose by less than the spread.

Example of spread betting

If the spread is -7.5 for the favored team, the team must win by at least 8 points in order for a bettor to win the bet.

If the underdog team has a spread of +7.5, the team can either win the game outright or lose by less than 7 points for the bet to be a winner.

Totals

A totals bet, also known as an over/under bet, is a type of bet in which a bookmaker sets a total number of points that will be scored in a game by both teams combined.

A bettor can then place a bet on whether they think the total points scored will be over or under that set number.

Example of total betting

If the total is set at 45.5 points for a football game, a bettor can place a bet on whether they think the total points scored by both teams combined will be over or under 45.5 points.

Futures Bets

Futures bets are bets on sporting events that will take place in the future, such as the winner of the Super Bowl or the NBA championship.

The odds for futures bets can change throughout the season as the teams’ performances change.

Prop Bets

Prop bets, short for proposition bets, are bets on specific events or outcomes within a game.

For example, you can bet on which team will score first, which player will score the most points, or how many points a certain player will score.

How Does In-Play Betting work?

In-play betting is one of the most exciting revelations to come out of online gambling in recent years.

In order to make real-time bets, you will need a good internet connection, and your favorite device, including a PC, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

After that, it’s simply a case of live streaming the sports event you want to bet on, and then placing in-play wagers.

Live streaming

The process of live streaming at sports betting sites involves several steps. First, the site must have obtained the broadcasting rights for the sports event.

Once this is done, the site will use its own streaming technology or partner with a third-party streaming service to broadcast the event to its users.

To access live streaming, you must log in to your account on the sports betting site and navigate to the live streaming section.

Here, you’ll find a list of upcoming events that are available for live streaming. You can then select the event you want to watch and start streaming.

Live streaming enhances the overall user experience by providing a more immersive and interactive experience.

You can watch the events and engage with other bettors in real time through chat features that are often available on the site.

Bet in real time

Making bets throughout a match or sport event offers a level of excitement unmatched by pre-match wagers.

You can change tactics, and really get your teeth into the action.

A great site where you can watch live streamed sports and make in-play bets is Sportsbetting.ag. They have a great selection of events, and you can wager in real time from any device that you choose.

But while in-play betting is fun,  it’s important to note that it also comes with some risks.

One of the biggest risks of in-play betting is that the odds change quickly, which can make it difficult to make profitable bets.

Additionally, when you’re betting in-play, you may be tempted to make impulsive bets based on emotions, rather than data and analysis.

Most Popular Sports to bet on

When it comes to sports betting, there are a few sports that stand out as the most popular among bettors.

Here are some of the top sports to bet on that are beloved the world over.

Football (Soccer)

Football, or soccer as it’s known in some countries, is the world’s most popular sport and also the most popular sport to bet on.

With leagues and matches happening all year round, there are numerous opportunities to place bets. Some of the most popular fixtures include the Premier League and Champions League, as well as the FA, Carabao, and, of course, World Cup.

At the leading soccer betting sites, you can wager on all of these events, plus many more.

American Football

In the United States, American football is king.

The NFL is the most popular league to bet on, but college football games also attract a lot of betting action.

The most popular event in the NFL calendar is the Super Bowl, which takes place annually and attracts attention from all over the world.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport to bet on, especially in the United States, where NBA betting sites are a major attraction.

However, basketball leagues around the world also offer plenty of betting opportunities.

International leagues to bet on outside of the USA include Basketball Bundesliga in Germany, Liga ACB in Spain, and the Lega Basket Serie A in Italy.

Tennis

Tennis is another popular sport for betting, with major tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open attracting a lot of attention from bettors.

In recent years, prop betting on tennis has increased, with people betting on things like whether Novak Djokovic will equal, or even beat, the amount of Grand Slam victories held by tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal, and how many times Aussie champ Nick Kyrgios will shout at the crowd during one match!

Baseball

Baseball is particularly popular in the United States, where it’s known as “America’s pastime”.

Major League Baseball (MLB) games attract a lot of betting action, and there are numerous opportunities to place bets throughout the season.

Of course, the best-known event in the MLB calendar is the World Series, which takes place every year.

Horse racing

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports to bet on, and remains popular to this day.

Major races, like the Kentucky Derby in the USA and the Grand National in the UK, attract a lot of betting action.

People all over the world enjoy betting on “the gee-gees”, with whole publications such as The Racing Post dedicated to the research of horses and betting strategies.

Boxing/MMA

Combat sports like boxing and MMA (mixed martial arts) also attract a lot of betting interest, with major fights and events generating significant betting activity.

World-famous boxers like Connor McGregor and Tyson Fury sell out the USA’s biggest stadiums, while, nowadays, the popularity of “influencer” matches, like those between YouTubers like KSI and Jake Paul, draw in more young people than ever to the world of combative sports.

eSports

eSports is a rapidly growing industry, and has become an incredibly popular genre of sport to bet on.

Worldwide eSports tournaments, such as League of Legends World Championship and The International (Dota 2), attract a large international audience and generate significant betting activity.

Betting on these games is available on many online eSports betting sites, and is expected to continue to grow in popularity in the coming years.

Virtual sports

Virtual sports is a newer category of sports betting that has been gaining popularity in recent years.

These virtual events are computer-generated simulations of sports, such as horse races, soccer matches, and basketball games.

These simulations are designed to look and feel like real sports events, but are not based on real-world results. Therefore, “virtuals” offer a unique and exciting way to bet on sports, and many online betting sites now offer these options.

Preferred Payments Methods at the Best Sports Betting Websites

As you’ve seen, the top betting sites with sports offer you a wide range of banking options with which to deposit and withdraw.

You probably already have a go-to option, but perhaps it’s time to mix things up a little with some of the most sophisticated and modern payment methods available.

To that end, let’s take a look at the most popular banking options available at sports betting sites, along with their pros and cons.

Direct bank transfers

Bank transfers are a payment method that can be used at pretty much every sports betting site.

While they are not as popular as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, or cryptocurrency, they are still a viable option for some bettors who like a more traditional approach to banking.

Pros and cons

✅Security: bank transfers are a secure way to make transactions, as they require authentication and verification from both the bank and the betting site

✅High limits: bank transfers typically have higher deposit and withdrawal limits than other payment methods

✅No fees: many online betting sites do not charge fees for bank transfers, which can save you money compared to other payment methods

✖Processing time: bank transfers can take several days to process, which means you may not have immediate access to your funds

✖Inconvenient: bank transfers can be more inconvenient than other payment methods, as you may need to visit a bank branch or use online banking to initiate the transaction

✖Personal information: bank transfers require the sharing of personal banking information with the betting site, which some bettors may be uncomfortable with

Credit and debit cards

Debit cards are a popular payment method for online betting sites because they offer a convenient, usually free way to deposit and withdraw funds.

Furthermore, most of us already have a credit or debit card in our wallet or purse which we use for many online transactions, so there’s a sense of familiarity with this method.

Pros and cons

✅Easy access to funds: credit and debit cards are linked to a user’s bank account, which means that users can easily deposit and withdraw funds from their online betting account

✅No interest charges (debit cards): using a debit card means no interest charges. Unlike credit cards, which can accrue interest if the balance is not paid off in full each month, debit cards only allow users to spend the funds that are available in their bank account

✅Reasonably secure transactions: debit cards offer a relatively safe experience when making transactions online. Most debit cards are protected by a PIN or password, which helps prevent unauthorized access to a user’s account

✖Limited fraud protection (debit cards): one of the biggest drawbacks of using a debit card for online betting is the limited fraud protection. Unlike credit cards, which offer more comprehensive fraud protection, debit cards may have more limited protection in the event of unauthorized transactions

✖ Limited chargeback rights (debit cards): with debit cards, users have limited chargeback rights. Chargebacks are a way for users to dispute a transaction and have the funds returned to their account. However, debit card chargeback rights are more limited than those related to credit cards

✖Overdraft fees/Penalty charges: using a credit/debit card for online betting can result in overdraft fees and/or penalties, if the user spends more money than is available in their account. These fees can be expensive and can add up quickly, so users should be careful to monitor their account balance when using a credit or debit card

eWallets

eWallets have become a popular method for online sports betting customers to fund their accounts and withdraw their winnings.

Here are some pros and cons to consider before using eWallets at sports betting sites.

Pros and cons

✅Security: eWallets offer an added layer of security when making online transactions. Since eWallets act as a middleman between the customer and the betting site, the customer’s personal and financial information is kept confidential

✅Convenience: eWallets offer a convenient way to fund your sports betting account. Instead of having to enter your credit card information or bank account details each time you make a deposit, you can simply log in to your eWallet account and make a transfer

✅Speed: deposits and withdrawals made through eWallets are typically processed faster than other payment methods. This means you can start betting sooner and receive your winnings quicker

✅Bonuses: some sports betting sites offer bonuses for customers who use eWallets to make deposits. These bonuses can range from free bets to deposit matches

✖Fees: eWallets often charge fees for transactions such as deposits and withdrawals. These fees can vary depending on the eWallet provider and the sports betting site

✖Verification process: in order to use an eWallet, customers must first go through a verification process. This can be time-consuming and may require customers to provide additional personal and financial information

✖Limited availability: not all sports betting sites accept eWallets as a payment method. This means customers may not have the option to use their preferred eWallet at certain sites

Pay-by-mobile

These days, you can do most things with your smartphone, and now that includes making deposits at your favorite betting sites with sports.

But as with everything, this payment method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros and cons

✅Convenience: pay-by-mobile is a very convenient payment method that does not require you to enter any credit card details or personal information. All you need is your mobile phone number, and you can make a deposit within seconds

✅Security: it’s also a secure payment method that uses encryption technology to protect your personal and financial information from hackers and fraudsters

✅Budget control: pay-by-mobile payments are usually limited to a certain amount per day, which means that you can control your betting budget more easily

✖Limited options: not all online betting sites accept these kinds of payments, which means that your options may be limited

✖Transaction fees: some online betting sites may charge transaction fees for pay-by-mobile payments, which can add up over time

✖No withdrawal options: pay-by-mobile payments can only be used for deposits, which means that you will need to use an alternative payment method to withdraw your winnings

Vouchers

Voucher payment methods are becoming increasingly popular at online betting sites.

These payment methods are often seen as a more secure and convenient alternative to traditional banking options, such as credit cards or bank transfers.

However, there are both pros and cons to using voucher payment methods at online betting sites.

Pros and cons

✅ Security: voucher payment methods do not require you to enter any personal or financial information online, which reduces the risk of your information being stolen by cybercriminals

✅ Convenience: most voucher payment methods can be purchased online or at retail locations, making it easy to add funds to your online betting account

✅ Anonymity: voucher payment methods also offer a level of anonymity that traditional payment methods do not. When you use a voucher payment method, you do not need to provide your name or any other identifying information, which can be appealing to some sports bettors

✖ Fees: one of the main disadvantages of using voucher payment methods is the fees that are often associated with them. Some voucher payment methods charge fees for purchasing the voucher and for using it to deposit funds into your online betting account

✖ Limits: voucher payment methods also often have limits on the amount of money you can deposit into your online betting account. This can be frustrating for users who want to deposit larger amounts of money

✖ Withdrawals: voucher payment methods can be problematic when it comes to making withdrawals. Many online betting sites do not allow users to withdraw funds using voucher payment methods, which means you may need to use a different payment method to withdraw your winnings

Overall, voucher payment methods can be a good option for users who value security and convenience. However, it is important to be aware of the fees and limitations associated with these payment methods before deciding whether to use them at online betting sites.

Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin have gained popularity in recent years due to their decentralized nature and high level of security.

As a result, many online betting sites have started accepting cryptocurrencies as a form of payment.

You can even choose from 100% crypto casinos, or hybrid sites that offer both crypto and fiat currencies, like USD, GBP and EUR.

Here are some of the pros and cons of using cryptocurrencies at online betting sites

Pros and cons

✅ Security: cryptocurrencies offer a high level of security due to their decentralized nature and encryption techniques. This makes it extremely difficult for hackers to steal your personal information or funds

✅ Anonymity: cryptocurrencies offer a certain level of anonymity, as they do not require personal information to be linked to your account. This means that your personal information is not at risk of being compromised

✅ Fast transactions: crypto transactions are usually processed much faster than traditional payment methods, meaning that you can deposit and withdraw funds quickly and easily.

✅ Low fees: transactions with crypto usually have lower fees than traditional payment methods, meaning that you can save money when using cryptocurrencies at online betting sites

✖ Volatility: all digital currencies are known for being volatile, meaning that their value can fluctuate rapidly. The value of your funds can change quickly, which can be risky if you are not prepared for it

✖ Limited acceptance: not all online betting sites accept cryptocurrencies as a form of payment, so your options may be limited. That said, more and more sports betting operators are starting to offer crypto as a preferred banking option

✖ Technical knowledge: using cryptocurrencies can be more difficult than traditional payment methods, as it requires a certain level of technical knowledge to use them effectively

✖ Irreversible transactions: crypto transactions are usually irreversible, meaning that once a transaction is processed, it cannot be reversed. This means that if you make a mistake, you may lose your funds

Recommendations for Staying Safe on Sports Betting Platforms

Betting online can be an exciting experience, but it is important to keep in mind that it comes with some risks.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe while betting online.

Do a little research

Make sure you do your research and choose a reliable and trustworthy betting site. Check for licenses, read reviews, and look for any red flags before signing up.

Remember, the quickest way to find a safe and reputable site is to simply select one from our list.

Our expert reviewers have done the hard work, so that you don’t have to! Every sports betting platform we recommend has been thoroughly scrutinized and is safe, secure, and enjoyable.

Up your security

There are some basic steps that you can do yourself to ensure you have the most secure experience possible at any online sports betting site.

• Use strong passwords: create strong and unique passwords for your betting accounts. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts and change them regularly
• Enable two-factor authentication: two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account. It requires you to enter a code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password
• Don’t share personal information: never share your personal information, such as your full name, address, or bank details with anyone online. Legitimate betting sites will never ask for this information

Consider using cryptocurrencies

Although still relatively new to the mainstream, cryptocurrency betting sites are gaining popularity due to the additional safety features they offer sports bettors.

By choosing crypto, you never need to give out your personal or financial information online. This means that the chance of being targeted by online hackers is minimized.

You can also take this one step further by storing your crypto on something called a “cold wallet”, which stays offline until you are ready to make a transaction.

100% crypto sites also offer full anonymity, so if you want to keep your hobby away from prying eyes, you can do so by opting for an end-to-end crypto betting site.

Set your limits

It’s imperative to set deposit limits to control your spending and prevent impulse betting. This will help you avoid losing more money than you can afford.

You can set yourself limits in multiple ways.

One of my favorites is to opt for a prepaid card through an eWallet provider, such as Skrill or Neteller.

These cards need to be pre-loaded with funds, and do not come with any sort of overdraft facility, meaning that once the money is gone, it’s gone!

Prepaid cards are a fantastic way to allocate yourself some spending money, without ever being able to go over your limit.

Another way to set up some boundaries at a sports betting site is to use the tools found in the safer gambling section.

Use the betting site’s responsible gambling tools

Legit sports betting platforms all have a safer gambling section with various tools to help you control your spending and detect any suspicious activity on your account.

You can set things like deposit and loss limits to prevent you from overspending. Plus, you can set reminders that will notify you once you’ve spent a certain amount of time on the site; another great way to avoid spending too much time or money in one betting session.

For those in need of a slightly more disciplined approach, responsible gambling tools also include “take a breaks” where you can effectively restrict your access to the betting site for a period of your choosing.

Finally, if you feel you have developed some unhealthy gambling habits, it may be time to consider self-exclusion.

In countries like the States, you can self-exclude directly through the sports betting site by contacting customer services.

In others, such as the UK, you can sign up to NGO-run platforms like Gamstop, which will ban you from using any UK-licensed site for a predetermined period of time.

Remember, all of these tools are there to help you, so you should never be afraid to get in touch with the sports betting site if you need some assistance.

Online Gambling 101 - What You Should and Shouldn’t Do

Regardless of your experience in online sports betting,  it’s important to remember some key dos and don’ts of sports betting online.

Here are some things that I think it’s important to always keep in mind.

Things you should do

• Do some background research: before placing any bets, do your research on teams, players, and statistics. Make sure you are well-informed before putting your money on the line
• Do set a budget: set a budget for yourself and stick to it. Only bet what you can afford to lose. To help you do this, check out the responsible gaming tools available at all trusted sports betting sites
• Do shop around: take a look around for the best odds and markets. Don’t settle for the first sportsbook you come across
• Do take advantage of bonuses and promotions: many sportsbooks offer bonuses and promotions to attract new customers. Take advantage of these to maximize your winnings, but be careful to always read the T&Cs first
• Do keep track of your bets: Keep a record of your bets and results. This will help you track your progress and identify any patterns or mistakes.

Things you should NOT do

• Don’t chase losses: don’t try to recoup your losses by placing bigger bets. This is a surefire way to lose even more money
• Don’t bet under the influence: don’t bet when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Your judgment will be impaired, and you are more likely to make poor decisions
• Don’t just bet on your favorite team: don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Betting on your favorite team for no other reason than love is a recipe for disaster
• Don’t ignore the fine print: read the terms and conditions of any bonuses or promotions carefully. Make sure you understand the requirements before accepting them
• Don’t forget to take breaks: take breaks to avoid burnout. Sports betting can be addictive, so make sure you step away from it from time to time