Bitcoin Betting
If you are a sports betting enthusiast, you should know that you can enjoy your favourite pastime activity using cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin is undoubtedly the most popular cryptocurrency, and most crypto-friendly sportsbooks accept it.
Our team of reviewers has spent a lot of time playing on some of the best Bitcoin betting sites to find out how they work and what are their policies. Our quest results are the list of the best Bitcoin sportsbooks and a comprehensive guide to Bitcoin betting.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ BeGambleAware.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ BeGambleAware.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
#ad New customers only. You are only allowed to participate if you are at least eighteen (18) years old or of legal age as determined by the laws of the country where You live (whichever is higher). T&Cs apply. Play responsibly. 18+ gamblingtherapy.org.
Comprehensive Guide to Best Bitcoin Betting Sites
Stay with us to learn all about using Bitcoin for sports betting. You can learn how to choose a Bitcoin sportsbook that suits you best and other things you should consider if you want to enjoy crypto sports betting. Of course, we’ve got you covered if you are interested in betting bonuses too!
Our experienced reviewers have vetted all bookmakers listed on this page. Therefore, you can rest assured that you will have access to the best odds and bonuses in the market if you join them. So, without further ado, let’s dive into Bitcoin betting and find out why you should give it a go.
What Is Bitcoin Betting?
In a nutshell, Bitcoin betting is using Bitcoin to play on online sportsbooks. There are two types of Bitcoin betting sites. Most of them are so-called hybrid betting sites, meaning that you can use both traditional and digital money to make transactions and wagers on them.
Although there are still scarce, some betting sites accept only cryptocurrencies. We call them crypto-only sportsbooks. If you join crypto-only betting sites, you can use Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to make deposits and withdrawals and place your bets.
Best Bitcoin Betting Sites
Whether you are a newbie or an experienced bettor, you will want only the best for yourself. Since the number of Bitcoin betting sites increases daily, finding a sportsbook that ticks all the boxes is not easy.
So, if you are on the lookout for the best Bitcoin betting site, we are ready to offer you a helping hand. We have done our homework and selected some of the best Bitcoin-friendly bookmakers, and it’s up to you to choose the one that fits your needs.
But first, let us share with you the criteria we base our selection on.
How We Rate Bitcoin Betting Sites
In order for a betting site to be recommended by our team, it should meet certain requirements. When reviewing sportsbooks, we take into consideration many factors.
To put it simply, we use our valuable resources, time and money, to play on these sites so that you don’t have to. Those that pass the test get included in our list.
So, let’s take a look at the key factors we consider when testing a Bitcoin betting site.
Licence and Security
An online gaming licence issued by a trustworthy authority is a factor that makes a reputable Bitcoin sportsbook. By obtaining a licence, the operator has proved that it is dedicated to providing players with a safe and fair betting experience.
Most Bitcoin betting sites hold a Curacao online gaming licence. While it is not the best licence in the industry, it enables operators to offer their services worldwide, with a few exceptions. While we prefer licences issued by the UK Gambling Commission and Malta Gaming Authority, few Bitcoin-friendly sportsbooks boast it.
When it comes to security, we check whether the betting site employs the latest security measures. They include 128-bit SSL encryption and 2-step verification. As for fairness, running on a platform powered by a licensed software provider is an indicator that the bookmaker will treat its customers fairly.
Variety of Sports and Betting Markets
Although you may not be into darts or chess and prefer placing bets on popular sports like football or basketball, the range of sports a betting site offers tells a lot about it. Therefore, when reviewing Bitcoin sportsbooks, we pay close attention to listed sports and betting markets.
A good Bitcoin sportsbook will offer major leagues in popular sports, niche sports, eSports and specials, like the Eurovision Song Contest or Oscars. Some of the best crypto-friendly betting sites also offer college leagues, which can be appealing to newbies to sports betting.
We particularly appreciate it when a bookmaker offers the option of live betting, also known as in-play betting. It enables punters to place their bets while the game is underway.
Betting Odds
When reviewing a betting site, we also inspect the odds it offers. The odds show how likely is a certain outcome to happen. They can be indicated in three ways, fractional or British odds, decimal or European odds and moneyline or American odds. On the best Bitcoin betting sites, you can choose the type of odds you prefer.
We recommend only those websites that offer competitive odds. The best operators do their research and update information on teams and players to offer the odds that can provide players with a rewarding betting experience.
Types of Bets
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned bettor, you may want to try your luck with various types of bets. Of course, traditional wagers such as moneylines, spreads and totals are a must. Still, there are other bet types too. They include full cover and prop bets, futures, teasers and more.
We appreciate Bitcoin sportsbooks that offer a variety of bets, thus pleasing both conservative players and those willing to take risks.
Bonuses and Promotions
Like online casinos, betting sites also use marketing tools known as bonuses and promotions to attract new players and keep existing ones. Bitcoin sportsbooks are no exception. But, things get pretty exciting when it comes to the deals available on crypto betting sites, we have to admit.
Bookmakers come up with various offers, starting with welcome deals. When rating Bitcoin sportsbooks, we look at both welcome offers and those available to regular users. Stay with us to find out which are the best options when it comes to sportsbook bonuses and promotions.
Withdrawal Times
Bitcoin is one of the quickest banking options out there. However, due to a pending time imposed by operators, withdrawing your winnings in BTC may take longer than a few moments. That’s why we test each betting site to check how much time a withdrawal needs to be processed.
The best sportsbooks process Bitcoin payouts within 12 hours. If your account is fully verified, they may take less, though.
Customer Support
Bitcoin betting is all fun and games until an issue occurs. Then, when you need a helping hand, a good Bitcoin sportsbook will offer you one any time, day or night.
The betting sites we consider are those that offer customer support 24/7 through various communication channels. For example, they enable you to contact agents via live chat, email or phone and immediately get help.
Complete Guide to Bitcoin Betting
If you are new to online sports betting, all the options you have may be overwhelming. However, even when we consider only those betting sites that accept Bitcoin, there are many options to choose from.
If you start looking for a safe and fair BTC sportsbook on your own, you will encounter a plethora of websites offering sports betting services. Unfortunately, sifting through them is an exhausting activity that can be both time and money consuming.
To help you in this process, we have created a complete guide to Bitcoin betting, with all the aspects you should consider included. Stay with us to learn about various options betting sites offer to players who use Bitcoin. In addition, find out all about bonuses, promotions and loyalty schemes you can take advantage of and how to place your bets safely.
Finally, we will discuss the pros and cons of Bitcoin betting so that you can make an informed decision on whether you will engage in it or not.
Popular Sports on Bitcoin Betting Sites
The best Bitcoin betting sites tend to cater to all kinds of players. Because of that, they include a variety of sports in their offer. Still, some Bitcoin sportsbooks are better than others in particular sports.
Best Football/Soccer Bitcoin Sportsbooks
Football is the most important of the least important things in life. This quote summarises how big football is. We can say that it is the most popular sport in the world. Naturally, all sportsbooks offer betting on football, so it is not an easy task for a bookmaker to stand out.
A variety of betting markets, types of bets and promotions you can use to bet on your favourite football teams is what can make a difference. Of course, you want to play on a Bitcoin betting site that offers competitive odds and is fully regulated and licensed. Some of the most popular leagues you can bet on in BTC include the Premier League, Serie A and La Liga.
Best Basketball Bitcoin Sportsbooks
Basketball is another popular sport that excites bettors worldwide, especially in the US and Europe. A good sportsbook lets you place your bets on your national team in various international competitions or root for your favourite team in the NBA.
The best basketball Bitcoin betting sites offer plenty of markets and allow players to place bets in-play. Low minimum and high maximum bets are another feature that can help a sportsbook stands out from the crowd. Needless to say, you should look for the odds that are higher than the industry average.
Best Tennis Bitcoin Sportsbooks
Tennis may not be as popular as football and basketball, but it still attracts bettors around the globe. Tournaments like the Australian Open, Wimbledon, US Open or the Davis Cup are some of the major tennis competitions a good Bitcoin betting site should cover.
Competitive odds, promotions offering enhanced odds and a variety of betting markets is what you should look for in a tennis sportsbook.
Best Horse Racing Bitcoin Sportsbooks
In some parts of the world, like the United Kingdom, betting on horse races is still huge. So, if you are a horse racing enthusiast, you can head to the best Bitcoin sportsbooks offering betting markets in this niche.
These bookmakers cover major horse racing events like Royal Ascot, Dubai World Cup Carnival, Kentucky Derby, etc. In addition, some of the best sportsbooks offer promotions tailor-made for horse racing fans, such as free bets.
Best Bitcoin Sportsbooks for Other Sports
If none of the sports mentioned above is your cup of tea, you can browse the best Bitcoin betting sites for other sports. They offer various betting markets for bettors interested in cricket, boxing, golf, MMA, darts, chess and other lesser sports.
On these betting sites, you will find the best odds and bonuses you can take advantage of to make your stay more enjoyable and rewarding.
Live Betting with Bitcoin
Live betting or in-play betting is a relatively new feature bettors can use. It enables them to place bets even when a game has started.
Thankfully, BTC-friendly betting sites offer bettors a chance to try their luck with the games that are in progress.
If you want to take advantage of in-play betting, you have to pay close attention to the odds as they change in real-time. However, on the best Bitcoin betting sites, you will be able to place bets in a few clicks, thanks to a user-friendly interface.
Casino Games on Bitcoin Sportsbooks
Today, most sportsbooks are part of full-fledged gambling platforms that offer other forms of entertainment like casino and live casino games. The same goes for sportsbooks that accept Bitcoin.
So, if you want to take a chance on slot machines, casino classics like roulette or blackjack, or live dealer games while waiting for the outcome of the games you can place your bets on, you can do it without leaving the website.
Simply go through tabs and choose the type of casino game you like most. Then, use BTC to place your bets on casino games for a chance to win payouts you can cash out almost instantly.
Bitcoin Betting Bonuses and Promotions
Many players pick betting sites based only on bonuses and promotions they offer. Although with don’t agree with this system, we get why they do it.
However, if you want to really benefit from sportsbook offers, you have to understand how they work. Not all betting deals are good for you. To help you choose what will work for you, we bring you a lowdown on the most common bonuses and promotions on Bitcoin betting sites with critical features you should bear in mind.
Welcome Bonus
A welcome bonus is any type of incentive offered to newly registered players. It can be a deposit match bonus, free bet, risk-free bet and others. You have to sign up with the Bitcoin betting site you like and make a deposit to qualify to claim a welcome bonus.
However, some bookmakers do not make a big deal of signing up. Instead of welcome bonuses, they offer various promotions to regular players.
Whichever offer you claim, make sure to know the terms and conditions first. That’s where you will find all the rules you have to obey to make the most of the bonus you want to redeem. We will discuss possible scenarios regarding bonus terms and conditions below.
Match Bonus
As its name suggests, a match bonus is an incentive you receive based on the deposit you make. You will have to deposit a specified amount of money to qualify for a match bonus expressed as a percentage of the deposit.
The operator will indicate the maximum amount you can receive. The maximum bonus amounts can go up to 1 BTC. Maximum bonus amounts can be displayed in traditional money on some betting sites.
As for percentages, they can vary from 10% up to 100%. A bookmaker can offer up to 200% match bonus in some cases, though.
No Deposit Bonus
This type of betting bonus does exactly what it says on the tin. You have a chance to claim a bonus with no payment needed. While online casinos offer no deposit bonus cash and free spins, bonuses with no deposit needed are rare on Bitcoin betting sites. At least as an offer that is available upon registration.
Free Bet
This is the most common offer on Bitcoin betting sites. Free bets are available to new and existing customers. You will have to deposit to claim a free bet in most cases. If it wins, you will be able to keep your winnings with no wagering requirements to meet. However, the bookmaker won’t pay out the bonus amount.
Some bookmakers offer an additional free bet to players who verify their accounts. Remember that you have to activate these bonuses within a set amount of time, or they will expire. Players are mostly allowed to use them on all events, pre-match or in-play.
If you want to claim a free bet, make sure to get familiar with the rules attached to it. Some operators impose certain restrictions, like using them only on events with the odds of up to 2.00.
Moneyback Bonus
In some cases, you may be offered a moneyback or cashback bonus. Another term for this bonus is a risk-free bet. It works as a free bet that you can benefit from if you make a losing wager. Sometimes, these bonuses are available for specific events only.
If you claim a moneyback bonus, you can get a share of the money you have wagered back even if you lose. Another version of this offer is so-called multi-bet insurance. It provides a free bet when one of your bets in a multi-bet multiplier loses.
No Wagering Bonus
A no wagering bonus is an offer you can claim and keep the winnings obtained from it without meeting wagering requirements. The good news is that a few Bitcoin-friendly sportsbooks offer bonuses with no wagering requirements to meet.
These are the best deals, hands down, since you don’t have to risk your own money to turn the bonus into withdrawable cash. Even when bonus amounts are small, they are worthwhile. You can cash out your winnings immediately if you get lucky while using them.
Reload Bonus
Reload bonuses are match bonuses available to existing customers. They function in the same way as match bonuses, with the only difference being that they are available regularly. In most cases, you will be able to claim them weekly. Typically, reload bonuses carry wagering requirements you have to meet within a set time.
Enhanced Odds
One of the common types of promotions on betting sites are so-called enhanced odds. Everybody wants to get the most out of their stakes, and that’s exactly what enhanced odds offer. These promotions cover various markets, and the operator will specify the events you can bet on and benefit from enhanced odds.
The enhanced odds are easy to get. You place a bet, and you will score a bigger payout if you get lucky to win. If you want to take advantage of enhanced odds, you should check the terms and conditions attached to the offer first.
In some cases, bookmakers pay out winnings obtained through the enhanced odds in the form of a free bet value. So, you will have to use the free bet and cash out winnings from it, provided it is successful.
Betting Bitcoin Faucets
While classic no deposit bonuses are rare on betting sites, some sportsbooks still offer their customers an opportunity to get free money. Or, to be precise, free satoshis. Satoshis are the smallest fractions of Bitcoin. On sportsbooks, you can use them to place free bets.
While some crypto casinos provide you with free satoshis for completing simple tasks, on sportsbooks, Bitcoin faucets enable bettors to place bets with no deposit needed. In addition, if the betting site offers casino games, you can also use your satoshis to try your luck at them.
Bitcoin Betting Bonus Terms and Conditions
As we have previously mentioned, all sportsbook bonuses and promotions come with the terms and conditions attached. Although it is not the most interesting thing to read, you must study it to understand how a betting offer works. Each offer has a different set of rules, from the mechanism it is based on to the wagering requirement it carries.
Speaking of wagering requirements, besides a multiplier that applies to a bonus or the sum of deposit and bonus, you should pay attention to how much time you have to complete the playthrough. The bonus terms and conditions also specify events you can use your bonus on and the minimum odds or maximum odds of bets.
Bitcoin Sportsbook Loyalty Programs
Most Bitcoin betting sites offer loyalty programs. Also known as VIP programs or clubs, these schemes offer various benefits to existing players based on the level they have reached.
Each bookmaker has its own set of ways to incentivise loyal customers. For example, some betting sites use systems based on points bettors earn when making wagers. These points determine the level players have reached based on their activity.
When it comes to incentives available to loyal players, they come in all shapes and sizes. For example, bettors can benefit from bonuses, free bets, points exchange at more favourable rates, cashback bonuses, enhanced odds, etc. In addition, some loyalty programs offer players a chance to get entries to draws and raffles, tickets to exclusive events or benefit from lower wagering requirements, higher maximum withdrawal limits and a personal account manager.
Mobile Bitcoin Betting
The best Bitcoin betting sites are mobile-friendly. You don’t have to access them from your desktop or laptop anymore. On the contrary, you can place a bet on your favourite team wherever you are.
Some of the best Bitcoin sportsbooks offer dedicated apps you can download and install on your iOS or Android-powered smartphone or tablet. If you opt for an app, you will have a sportsbook on your mobile device, enabling you to instantly access it.
Even if your preferred bookmaker does not offer a mobile app, you will be able to access its site using the browser on your mobile device. Save your username and password, and you will access the sportsbook with a few taps on the screen of your smartphone or tablet.
Many Bitcoin betting sites offer bonuses and promotions tailor-made for mobile users. Some of them offer bonuses upon registration via mobile phone. Others will reward you when installing their app on your mobile device. Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions before claiming any of these offers.
How to Join Bitcoin Betting Site
Now that you are familiar with the basics of Bitcoin betting, let’s find out how to start enjoying it. If you have ever played on an online sportsbook, you will notice that there are not many differences between a regular and a Bitcoin-friendly betting site. Simply follow these steps, and you are good to go.
- Choose a reputable sports betting site that accepts Bitcoin
This is probably the most daunting task given the number of sportsbooks available on the internet. However, not all of them are good for you. Therefore, we have made a list featuring the trusted bookmakers only. You can narrow down your selection by browsing them and seeing for yourself which ones meet your requirements.
Pay attention to the factors listed above and take your time to check each one of them. Most of the features you should look at can be checked without registration completed, so if you like what you see, you can proceed to step 2.
- Create an account
This one is easy. Click on the Sign Up, Join or Register button and complete the procedure as required by the operator. Choose an available username and create a strong password. You will also be asked to share your personal and contact details, so simply fill in the signup form, and that’s it.
The bookmaker will send you an email with a verification link. Go to your inbox, open it and click on the link to complete the registration procedure.
- Log in and make a deposit
Use your login details to sign in to your sportsbook account. At this point, you will be suggested to make a deposit and claim a welcome offer. More information on depositing and withdrawing on Bitcoin websites is given below.
If the bookmaker offers a no deposit bonus, you should redeem it before making a deposit. Follow the steps given in the offer, and you will get your free bet or any other incentive designed for newly registered users.
If you want to take advantage of a deposit-based welcome offer, you will have to make a payment first. Some of these offers also require entering a bonus code. In this case, you should copy and paste the code given by the operator without changing any of its elements when making a deposit.
How to Deposit and Withdraw on Bitcoin Betting Sites
Although each betting site has its unique sides, the biggest difference between traditional and crypto betting sites is that the latter support Bitcoin and other virtual currencies. If you want to use Bitcoin, here is how to make your deposits and withdrawals.
- How to make a Bitcoin deposit?
Don’t get intimidated by the idea of depositing in Bitcoin. The process is quite straightforward. Head to the cashier and choose Bitcoin as your preferred payment option. However, before you can do it, you should create a crypto wallet and obtain the cryptocurrency.
To top up your sportsbook account, you should log into your crypto wallet and enter the amount you want to deposit along with the operator’s crypto wallet address. In most cases, it will be given on the betting site. Alternatively, the operator will provide a QR code you can scan and make a payment effortlessly.
When your transaction is confirmed, the money should be available in your account in a few moments. If you have claimed a welcome offer, it should be added to your account immediately.
- How to make a Bitcoin withdrawal?
Bitcoin withdrawals function similarly. Instead of entering the operator’s crypto wallet address, you should enter your address along with the amount you want to cash out. As previously mentioned, withdrawal times vary from one betting site to another. On some of them, pending time may take up to 48 hours. At others, it can be completed within 12 or 24 hours.
Another thing you should keep in mind are withdrawal fees. While most bookmakers won’t charge fees on Bitcoin cashouts, others may calculate a flat fee on all withdrawals you make. We do our best not to include the latter in our selection, though.
However, Bitcoin transactions incur fees that are not on the operator’s part. What you need to pay is a so-called miner’s fee. It is always paid by the sender, meaning that you will have to pay a fee when depositing to the sportsbook. The fee amount depends on multiple factors, including how much money you want to send, how fast your transaction will be processed and so on. When withdrawing your winnings, the fee will be covered by the operator.
How to Enjoy Bitcoin Betting Safely
To ensure that you will enjoy your stay on Bitcoin betting sites to the fullest, we want to share some tips and tricks with you. They will help you keep your details and money safe.
- Avoid scam sportsbooks
If a bonus on an online sportsbook offers a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t let scammers take advantage of you and join only reputable betting sites that accept Bitcoin.
- Join sportsbooks that employ the latest security measures
Check whether a Bitcoin sportsbook uses SSL encryption protocols to protect its users’ data.
- Always check customer support options
If a contact form is the only communication channel you can use to get in touch with sportsbook agents, you should stay away from it. Live chat and an email are a must.
- Play with money you can afford to lose only
Although it is intangible, Bitcoin is real money. Therefore, you should deposit and wager only the amount you can afford to lose.
- Don’t share private keys to your Bitcoin wallet
You must not allow anyone to see the private keys to your crypto wallet since they keep your digital asset protected.
- Avoid crypto exchanges
While you can use a crypto exchange to send your BTC to the sportsbook, it is not recommended. Some exchanges can freeze your account because they don’t allow transfers to betting sites. Also, Bitcoin wallets are a more secure option as private keys protect your funds.
Bitcoin Betting Pros and Cons
Using Bitcoin for online betting comes with certain advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of. We have compiled the list of the pros and cons of Bitcoin betting you should bear in mind if you want to use this cryptocurrency on sports betting sites.
Bitcoin Betting Pros
Below, you will find the reasons why you should consider Bitcoin betting.
- Bitcoin is a safe payment option
Whether you live in a country where online gambling is regulated or not, you can rest assured that you will have no security issues when using Bitcoin for sports betting. At least, as long as you don’t reveal your sensitive details to another person.
Bitcoin uses technology that was created with security measures against identity theft and third-party infringement. It even enables you to enjoy sports betting anonymously. It practically means that you don’t have to share your personal or financial details with the bookmaker.
Betting sites that accept only traditional money will require you to verify your identity before making transactions and withdrawals. On the other hand, you will be able to deposit and cash out your funds in BTC by providing the address of your crypto wallet only. But, of course, Bitcoin is one of the safest payment options only if you go for a trusted sports betting site.
- Bitcoin is a cost-effective payment option
Using all payment methods involves transaction fees. Even when sportsbook operators do not charge them, payment service providers will require you to pay a fee. As for Bitcoin, it is a decentralised cryptocurrency. It means that no institution will charge a fee on Bitcoin transactions. However, it does not mean that Bitcoin transactions incur no fees whatsoever.
Bitcoin is based on blockchain technology, which means that it uses blockchain to record a ledger of transactions. It consists of nodes that authenticate all Bitcoin transfers across the network. So-called miners enable the functioning of the Bitcoin network. Miners keep track of transactions and assemble valid ones into blocks. Upon block verification, miners receive a block reward. They can also benefit from transaction fees, a.k.a. miner’s fees.
As mentioned above, the miner’s fee is always paid by the sender, so you will have to pay it only when topping up your sportsbook account. If you want your transaction to be processed faster, you will have to pay a higher fee. Otherwise, Bitcoin transactions incur lower fees than those you have to pay when using traditional money and payment methods.
- Lower minimum and higher maximum deposit and withdrawal limits
If you use Bitcoin, you will be able to make deposits that are by half lower than those supported by traditional betting sites. At the same time, maximum withdrawal limits are set higher, which is particularly convenient for high-rollers. In some cases, withdrawal maximums are higher by 100% than those allowed by regular sportsbooks.
- Bitcoin transactions are processed faster
While deposits are processed instantly, withdrawal times can be considerably longer when using traditional money. On the other hand, transactions in BTC are processed faster, taking up to 4 hours on average. However, in some cases, Bitcoin cashouts can take up to 48 hours, depending on the operator’s withdrawal policy.
Unless you use e-wallets, you will have to wait for your withdrawals to be processed much longer when you use fiat currencies. In some cases, which include using bank transfers, withdrawals can take more than seven days.
Bitcoin Betting Cons
Now that you are familiar with the advantages of using Bitcoin for betting, we will share a few reasons why it is not the best option.
- Bitcoin price volatility
This is one of the main reasons why you should avoid Bitcoin. Its value tends to fluctuate, so if you possess BTC, keep track of its price in the market. Sometimes these ebbs and flows happen rapidly, so you won’t be able to react and make the proper move. If you notice that the BTC price is unstable, the best move would be not to use it for a while. If you use it on the sportsbook of choice or want to exchange your BTC for a fiat currency when its value is low, you will be at a loss.
- Bitcoin transactions are irreversible
Once you have completed your Bitcoin transaction, it is done. Unfortunately, there is no way to get your money back. So, when sending BTC to your sportsbook account, make sure to enter the correct amount.
- Bitcoin sportsbooks are licensed by not so reputable regulators
Most reputable betting sites that accept Bitcoin hold a Curacao licence. Truth be told, it is not the best option since this jurisdiction is well-known for its relaxed regulations. Although the UK Gambling Commission has declared BTC as a cash equivalent, you won’t find many UKGC-licensed bookmakers that accept Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies.
- High conversion fees
In some cases, sportsbooks may allow you to make Bitcoin deposits, but you won’t be able to make wagers in Bitcoin. If you want to place a bet on these sites, you will have to convert your crypto into fiat currency. This process incurs a conversion fee.
You will also have to pay conversion fees if you decide to buy Bitcoin on a crypto exchange or you want to cash out from BTC to USD or another fiat currency. These fees vary and can go up to 1%. At BTC ATMs, conversion fees are even higher, ranging from 7% to 12%.
Other Cryptocurrencies Accepted by Online Sportsbooks
Besides Bitcoin, crypto-friendly sportsbooks also accept Litecoin and Ethereum. On some betting sites, players can also use Dogecoin and Bitcoin Cash. If you own any of these and you want to engage in sports betting, make sure to check which trusted betting sites support the cryptocurrency you want to use.
Closing Thoughts
In our guide to Bitcoin betting, we have covered the key factors you should consider if you want to use digital money to make wagers on sportsbooks. Feel free to pick one of the reputable betting sites we have tested. Then, apply the tips and tricks to stay safe while enjoying your favourite pastime activity using BTC.
Bitcoin Betting FAQ
Is it safe to play on Bitcoin betting sites?
As long as you choose to play on trusted sportsbooks and don’t reveal your sensitive data, such as private keys to your crypto wallet, to other people, it is safe to use Bitcoin for sports betting.
Where can I find trusted Bitcoin sportsbooks?
If you are looking for trusted Bitcoin betting sites, you should look no further because we have listed the best ones on this page.
Can I use bonuses on Bitcoin betting sites?
Yes, Bitcoin sportsbooks offer various bonuses and promotions to both new and existing customers.
How do I place bets on sportsbooks in Bitcoin?
To place a bet on a BTC betting site, you should register with it, make a deposit and find the game you want to wager on.
Can I withdraw winnings from betting sites in Bitcoin?
Yes, crypto-friendly betting sites allow you to withdraw your winnings in Bitcoin.