Top 5 Sports Betting Sites
Are you looking to get started in the exciting world of sports betting, or are you just searching for a new site? We've got you covered, and below, you'll find a list of our tried and tested platforms. Each sports book has been chosen for various reasons to give you the best choice. But one thing each site has in common is a valid license issued by reputable gambling authorities. Saving you time on the less interesting stuff and more time to check out the features and betting markets on offer.
Bitcasino
Bitcasino was the first platform to launch legal online casino gambling with Bitcoin in 2014. Two years later, it also launched a hugely popular sports book. The site operates using a Curacao gambling license and is a trustworthy destination. Over the years, it has earned numerous awards for its services to bettors.
| Site details: | |
| ⭐ Our rating | 4.5/5 |
| 📅 Launched in: | 2014 |
| ⚽ Number of sports: | 35+ |
| 🎮 eSports: | Yes |
| 👀 Live betting: | Yes |
| 📱 Mobile betting: | Yes |
| 📄 License: | Curacao |
| 🏢 Gambling company: | Moon Technologies B.V. |
BitCasino offers 35+ Sports
The selection of available categories is very varied. You can choose from football and baseball, right up to handball and harness racing. It's also good to see greyhound and thoroughbred horse racing. The mix is fantastic, and you can also bet on eSports, virtual sports, and world events.
The odds we analyzed are competitive, and in-play betting is widely offered. Cash-out deals pop up regularly, too. Multi-bet insurance is also an interesting feature, where you can receive part of the bet back if one selection doesn't win.
Bitcasino Offers & Promotions
Bitcasino doesn't have a welcome offer but has a fantastic range of rewarding promos. Many of these don't require a deposit and revolve around prize draws and tournaments.
The Clubhouse and VIP Clubhouse are not to be missed. You can build up your points based on all your sports bets and reap tailored rewards, such as enjoying preferential perks and even invitations to VIP sports days.
Payment Methods at BitCasino
Bitcasino is a cryptocurrency platform that accepts eight different coins. You can deposit in fiat money and purchase your preferred coin through the onsite exchange. This option accepts credit/debit cards, Samsung, Google, and Apple Pay wallets.
Deposits and withdrawals using crypto can be made with tiny minimum amounts, usually instant.
The Site Usability at BitCasino
Usability is another element that Bitcasino does so well. The platform works beautifully across all devices and feels incredibly professional. You can choose a day or nighttime setting, with zero clutter.
Sports can be easily chosen from the top menu, and live events are accessed to the left. There are intuitive menus, and we like each sport's 'news' function. The news section gives you access to recaps, tips, and general info as the action plays out. There are also in-depth guides for those new to betting.
Pros
- A longstanding and trustworthy operator
- 35+ sports to bet on
- Multi bet insurance
- Instant withdrawals
- Help guides available for new bettors
- Platform available in 12 languages
- Mobile app
- Loyalty and VIP programs
- Weekly prize pools and tournaments
Cons
- No historical stats are available
- No welcome offer
Customer support available | Phone support not available |
Impressive live casino section | No welcome bonus |
Great selection of games |
Bet1000
Bet1000 bounced into the sports betting arena in 2022 and is owned by SG International N.V. The operator is reputable and manages several successful online casinos. Bet1000 is licensed with the Curacao gaming authorities via a sub-license with Antillephone N.V.
| Site details: | |
| ⭐ Our rating | 3.5/5 |
| 📅 Launched in: | 2022 |
| ⚽ Number of sports: | 30+ |
| 🎮 eSports: | No |
| 👀 Live betting: | Yes |
| 📱 Mobile betting: | Yes |
| 📄 License: | Curacao |
| 🏢 Gambling company: | SG International N.V. |
30+ Sports at Bet1000
They offer classic sports like football, tennis, basketball, and ice hockey. But you can also spread your bets across less popular genres. These include beach volleyball, alpine skiing, and lacrosse. Bet1000 has an impressive number of events to bet on within each sport, with more than 1,000 within the football sector alone.
The Bet1000 odds are competitive and stack well against more established sports betting sites. We also like that there are heaps of betting options with handicaps, totals, money lines, and parlays. Giving you the ultimate choice when building your bet slip.
Bet1000 Offers & Promotions
Bet1000 offers stupendous welcome bonus offers to new players. These are often made up of deposit matches of up to 100%, which give your balance a nice starting boost. The platform aims to reward your first handful of deposits, following this up with regular offers. Reload deals are often available to top up your deposits.
Payment Methods
Bet1000 has a fantastic range of payment methods for players worldwide, with localized providers and major credit cards, bank transfers, and eWallets. The minimum deposit and withdrawal amounts are a pleasingly low €10. A golden aspect of Bet1000 is that you can make payments with cryptocurrencies and/or fiat money. Giving you the best of both worlds, and cashout times are minimal.
Bet1000 Site Usability
The usability is where Bet1000 really comes into its own league. We found it very user-friendly and will serve you well if you are new to sports betting. Everything you need is at your fingertips; intuitive menus display all the relevant info. Nothing is too cluttered, and the bet slips are some of the simplest we have discovered.
The 'quick bet' function lets you place a bet with just one click. You can easily save and load events for future reference. Another impressive feature is the 'results' section. This will give you access to thousands of stats from previous events. You can easily download these for comparison, enabling you to make informed betting choices.
Pros
- Thousands of events
- 30+ sports
- Accepts cryptos
- Quick bet function
- User-friendly layout
- Low min deposits/withdrawals
- Site available in 10+ different languages
- 24/7 phone support
Cons
- Not many sports promos
- No dedicated mobile app
An amazing live casino | No mobile gambling app |
The hottest game suppliers on the market | Lacks popular global progressive jackpots |
A manageable bonus wagering requirement |
Q88Bets
ProgressPlay Limited owns and operates Q88Bets, which was founded in 2020. It's an established sports betting site that boasts two gambling licenses. The UKGC and Malta Gaming Authority guarantee that strict safety measures are adhered to.
| Site details: | |
| ⭐ Our rating | 4.8/5 |
| 📅 Launched in: | 2020 |
| ⚽ Number of sports: | 20+ |
| 🎮 eSports: | Yes |
| 👀 Live betting: | Yes |
| 📱 Mobile betting: | Yes |
| 📄 License: | UKGC & MGA |
| 🏢 Gambling company: | ProgressPlay Limited |
Find 20+ Sports at Q88Bets
Q88Bets has a pleasing selection of sports. Categories range from soccer, MMA, table tennis, and horse racing. It's also great to see categories containing women's sports, such as soccer and rugby. The smaller genres include floorball, surfing, and water polo. We also like that there's a solid choice of motor racing with speedway, motorbikes and Formula 1.
There's quite a reduced selection compared to pre-match bets when it comes to live betting. Thankfully, the competitive odds and selection of betting choices make up for this. Q88Bets compares well in these areas, even against the larger sports betting sites.
Q88Bets Offers & Promotions
This site caters to punters when it comes to bonuses and rewards. You can kick things off with a €10 free bet for a deposit of €10. This free bet allows you to try the site without depositing too much. The rest of the ongoing promos and deals are sublime. You can expect weekly free bets, cashback, reloads, and more.
We also like that Q88Bets offers a loyalty scheme to sports bettors, where each bet will propel you through multiple tiers. You can exchange your accrued points for bonuses, free bets, and cash.
Payment Methods
The choice of payment methods is good, though not huge. Major providers like Visa, MasterCard, and PayPal are on hand. You may deposit a minimum of €10 and withdraw a €20 minimum with a fee of €2.50 applicable to each cash-out. Nevertheless, the processing times are 24 hours, and the site operates with PCI-compliant payments.
Q88Bets Site Usability
The sports betting vertical is condensed, and sports are arranged according to icons. The usability adapts well to a mobile device, but it can sometimes be tricky to select your chosen sport. Bet slips are streamlined and without clutter. You can also use the 'quick bet' function, and we like that the combo bets are easy to access on the slip.
The live multi-view option is second to none. You can view up to 5 events with simulated live action on one screen. The results menu is where you'll get your stats, and these are easy to drill down on, thanks to numerous filters.
Pros
- Reputable operator
- Multi-licensed platform
- Great choice of promos and bonuses
- Some live event streaming
- Loyalty programme
- Live multi-view feature
- 24/7 fast customer support
Cons
- Site available in English only
- Some withdrawal fees
Live chat available | Withdrawal fees |
Great customer support | Low max withdrawal limits |
Available on desktop & mobile |
RocketPlay
The Curacao-based operator Dama N.V. created RocketPlay in 2020, adding the site to its already heaving range of popular platforms. Even though RocketPlay is still a pretty new sports betting site, it has already won multiple industry awards. The platform also holds many accreditations with iGaming player review sites.
| Site details: | |
| ⭐ Our rating | 4.7/5 |
| 📅 Launched in: | 2020 |
| ⚽ Number of sports: | 35+ |
| 🎮 eSports: | Yes |
| 👀 Live betting: | Yes |
| 📱 Mobile betting: | Yes |
| 📄 License: | Curacao |
| 🏢 Gambling company: | Dama N.V. |
Choose between 35+ Sports at RocketPlay
RocketPlay features all your favorite mainstream sports with bets on cricket, tennis, ice hockey, and the NFL. The volume of live betting events is impressive, and you can follow the action on simulated streams. We were surprised to see high odds on many 'favorite' outcomes. This includes a great range of betting types and favorable deals on less popular sports.
RocketPlay Offers & Promotions
As a new member, you can expect a 2-step welcome offer. The offer is a 200% deposit match and a free bet. Your second deposit is rewarded with another free bet, which can be used on many sports.
RocketPlay works hard to bring only the very best promos to sports bettors. The lineup includes reloads, weekly free bets, and a multitude of combo boosts. Many of these bonuses can be used more than once, and RocketPlay also has regular deals on special sports events.
The sports jackpots caught our eye, which includes daily prize pools of up to €2,000. Free to enter, and any of your bets could trigger a cash prize - wager free.
Payment Methods
RocketPlay offers basic payment methods, with cards, eWallets, and bank transfers. You can deposit and withdraw at least €20; cashing out is complete in less than 12 hours. It's also possible to make payments with cryptocurrencies. RocketPlay currently supports seven different tokens to choose from.
RockeyPlay Site Usability
RocketPlay may have many events and sports, but the site is organized well. Simple filters and menus enable you to get to what you want quickly. Usability is excellent, and the platform is very welcoming, particularly to new punters.
Bet slips are simple, and the entire sportsbook adapts easily when using a mobile device. It's easy to see future events and get access to stats, which can be downloaded if you wish.
Pros
- Multi award-winning platform
- Trusted operator
- Plethora of promos
- 24/7 phone support
- Fast withdrawals
- Favorable bonus terms
- Sports jackpots and tournaments
- Supports cryptos
Cons
- No sports loyalty program
- Not many payment methods
Available on desktop & mobile | Low cashout limits |
Licensed and regulated casino | No mobile app |
Cryptocurrencies accepted |
VulkanBet
VulkanBet has been around since 2015, and while initially focused on eSports, it now has a great range of standard sports. The platform is operated by Verbenaz Ltd., which is based in Cyprus. The site has a license from Anitllephone, who the Government of Curacao licenses.
| Site details: | |
| ⭐ Our rating | 4.2/5 |
| 📅 Launched in: | 2015 |
| ⚽ Number of sports: | 25+ |
| 🎮 eSports: | Yes |
| 👀 Live betting: | Yes |
| 📱 Mobile betting: | Yes |
| 📄 License: | Curacao |
| 🏢 Gambling company: | Verbenaz Limited |
VulkanBet offers 25+ Sports
Since it changed ownership, VulkanBet has put much extra effort into improving its sports betting. Now, they offer more than 20 mixed sports with classic options such as soccer and basketball. eSports are now listed under their category on a separate site area. We were slightly disappointed that horse racing isn't offered, though.
VulkanBet claims to have the best odds, and it's not far wrong there. You can get some really good deals and a good selection of betting types. Live betting is offered, but not that frequently.
VulkanBet Offers & Promotions
It's great to see that VulkanBet offers a two-part welcome bonus. These are simple deals of deposit matches that you can use on any single or accumulator bets. Wagering requirements are generally fair and fall into the standard industry amounts.
The rest of the promos are decent, but we'd like to see a few more. Quite often, there are weekly match-up bonuses and special event promos. You'll also score a generous handout in bonus cash on your birthday.
Payment Methods
You can make deposits to your account from €10, a good amount to try out the site. You can withdraw a minimum of €20, fee-free, and amounts are processed within 48 hours. When it comes down to the available methods, these include bank transfers, mobile pay, prepaid vouchers, and eWallets.
VulkanBet Site Usability
The desktop version of VulkanBet can seem quite cluttered. A lot is happening, but we like that the odds update in real-time; there's no need to keep refreshing the screen. Some live streaming of events is available, but other than that, there's simulated action. Another good touch is that you can save your favorites, and the bet slips are easy to use.
The mobile site of VulkanBet is less cluttered, thankfully. Statistics are easy to find, having their own section at the top of the sports book. These are also available in multiple languages.
Pros
- Great odds
- 25+ sports
- Two welcome offers
- Fair wagering on bonuses
- Fee-free withdrawals
- Help guides for new bettors
- Site available in 10 languages
Cons
- Limited live support opening hours
- Many restricted countries
Great selection of games | Limited customer support hours |
Sports betting & live odds | No live casino |
Great eSports offering |
Things To Consider When Choosing Your Sports Betting Site
Before signing up at any platform, it's a good idea to consider what's important to you as a bettor. What factors will make or break your experience? It can be easy to get carried away by generous bonuses and 'the best odds.' And before you know it, you've signed up to an illegal platform with rubbish customer support.
At GoodLuckMate, we have developed a list to help guide you in the right direction.
Reputation and Licensing
We can't stress this enough, which is why it is at the top of our list. Each site we've recommended above is safe, reliable, and licensed. So you don't need to worry if you sign up with one - we have done the testing.
If you want to go it alone, please ensure your chosen sports betting site has security and fair gaming at its core.
Selection of Sports
This might go without saying, but if you like to bet on water polo, you need to check if this is available. Football, tennis, and basketball are popular choices; you should always find these on offer. But horse racing, for example, is quite the niche and generally offered at larger sports betting sites.
Betting Options and Odds
The next step will be to see if your preferred bet options are available. The majority of sites will offer futures, outrights, spreads, etc. If you like to follow events live, find out if a streaming service is offered. Odds can make or break many bettors' experiences. And consistently finding poor ones can deflate you quicker than a burst balloon. The highest possible odds are what to look for.
Bonuses and Promotions
If you love rewards as much as we do, researching will save you time in the long run. Don't be sucked in by deals that promise the world; always take time to check the small print. If you receive a bonus that can only be used on basketball and you love soccer, what's the point? Also, if you bet regularly or are a high roller, a loyalty program will serve you best.
Mobile Sports Betting
Most sports bettors prefer to use their smartphones to place bets, check results, keep an eye on the odds, and look at stats. Because sports never sleep, it's important to get instant access. Thankfully, the majority of sites offer a full mobile experience. But if you prefer a downloadable sports betting app's look and feel, check to see if the site offers one.
Customer Support
Bettors usually aren't interested in this until they need it. And even the most experienced sports punters can need assistance at some point. 24/7 customer support is a huge factor in choosing a sports betting site. This ensures that no matter which time zone you're in, you can get some help.
Using a Sports Betting Bonus
Online sports betting sites will offer varied bonuses to new and existing players. Designed to tempt you to sign up or keep you betting, these can add extra fun. Odds bonuses can boost your bankroll.
The best sports betting bonuses are often:
- Free bets
- Risk-free bets
- Bonus credits
- Cashback
- Deposit matches
Promotions also feature heavily, where you'll find deals on events like the Tour de France or US Masters. Bonus codes can sometimes be found on social media and sports forums, so it's always worth keeping an eye out.
Using a bonus is easy; these can often be claimed in the cashier section when you deposit. You'll notice a pop-up or a 'bonus' tab to add the deal to your transaction. In contrast, other sites will collect all their deals under the 'promotions' tab, where you can claim them directly.
Like most top online casinos, you'll find attractive VIP and loyalty programs just for sports bettors. Loyalty programs are often open to all depositing members, while VIP clubs will be for the high rollers. Whatever you decide to join, you can be sure of a red-carpet experience. You can usually get faster customer support, quicker withdrawals, tailored bonuses, freebies, and a personal account manager.
Important Terms and Conditions for Odds Bonuses
Sadly, not all sports betting bonuses are created equal. And even we've been fooled by offers promising the world that deliver nothing but a headache. Over the years, we've learned to read and re-read those terms and conditions. Any site worth its weight in gold will also ensure these terms are easy to understand. It might seem like the terms and conditions are your worst enemy, but reading them will ensure no nasty surprises.
We don't like to think of any of you feeling short-changed. So, we've put together the following list to help you avoid the pitfalls when claiming sports bonuses.
- Qualifying bet types: Check which type of bet you can use the bonus; boosted odds and parlays are usually exempt. Try not to forget that not all sports are available for all bonuses. The same goes for certain events and live betting.
- Minimum deposit amount: If a bonus requires a minimum deposit of €10 to claim it, then you must do this. Most deposit match-up bonuses require a minimum amount before you can claim the good stuff.
- Understand the wagering requirements: Most sports betting bonuses have a low rollover requirement, ranging from 1 to 10 times your deposit. It's a great idea to familiarize yourself with wagering and how to complete it before you claim an offer.
- Time restrictions: Most bonuses will have an upper time limit on when you can claim/activate them. You'll also be given a set period of days to complete the wagering requirements.
- Qualifying odds: This information is crucial if you want to claim any odds bonus. You'll often find that these are usually in the mid-range and begin at 1.5.
Remember that you don't need to continue with a bonus once you've claimed it. You can always void it yourself or by asking customer support. Also, remember that sports betting should be fun, and bonuses are not the be-all and end-all of your experience.
6 Best Sports To Bet on With Odds
What are the best sports to bet on? Something which us sports betting gurus at GoodLuckMate are frequently asked. Whether it's from a new or experienced bettor, it always generates a lot of debate in our teams. And while we all have our favorite sports for our reasons, some lend very well to sports betting.
Football
This is also known as soccer depending on which side of the Atlantic you are. It's the most popular betting choice for punters, especially in the UK, though the US is catching up. Everyone can name a football team, event, and player, which makes football a good choice for new bettors. Whether it's betting on your home team or you fancy a flutter in the World Cup.
There are a lot of sports betting sites that offer football as their main market. This means there are some great odds to take advantage of. And with international coverage, there are always events playing throughout the year.
Horse Racing
Another top favorite for bettors is the 'Sport of Kings'. This has a huge following in the UK, Ireland, France, USA, and even Hong Kong. Great odds are synonymous with horse racing, which also attracts some of the most generous bonuses. Strategies can work well due to the study of form, trainers, race conditions, etc. Due to its popularity, live streaming is also widely available at most major horse racing events.
Basketball
Although predominantly an American sport, it is gaining popularity internationally. It's great for live betting as the action is fast-paced, which can produce some awesome betting opportunities. But it is equally as good if a cash-out opportunity pops up and you want to quit while ahead! There are regular games to enjoy, and teams regularly go head-to-head against each other.
Tennis
This game generates huge interest with bettors and not just at Wimbledon time. The popularity ensures lots of live streaming on sports betting sites and good availability. Popular betting choices include first-set winner, handicaps, and totals games. It's another fast-paced activity that's good for live betting and an easy-to-follow sport.
American Football
The NFL, of course, reigns supreme, and the Super Bowl is one of the most anticipated sports events in the US. Finding competitive odds isn't an issue because American football is in high demand. It also means there are generous promotions to take advantage of as sports betting sites compete for your attention. Nothing quite beats the excitement of watching an NFL match, particularly when you are live betting.
Hockey
This sport has come a long way since some of us at GoodLuckMate played it at school! Fast-paced and action-packed, it's another edge-of-the-seat game to bet on. It's hugely popular in both the US and Canada and sweeping across Europe. Bettors are interested in the live opportunities and great historical statistics to study.
