Liam Austen-Rondi is a seasoned sports betting and gambling writer who brings a unique blend of SEO expertise, copywriting flair, and a ion for responsible gambling to Safestbettingsites.co.uk. His career has spanned major rebranding initiatives at Bally's Interactive, the launch of award-winning websites, and collaborations with top-tier PR and marketing agencies. Liam's insights into safe and enjoyable betting are informed by his deep industry knowledge and commitment to responsible practices.
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Ian Bruce became interested in betting in 1987, when he landed a winning Yankee on his first attempt. That stroke of luck (and he its that's exactly what it was) sparked an interest in understanding the strategies behind successful wagers. Over the years, he has become one of the UK's most prolific writers on betting and gaming, and is best known for his systematic approach to winning. Ian's career in the industry now spans over three decades. His favorite betting method is Dutching because, in his words, "It's the one I win with more often than not."
All posts by Ian BruceThe UK is a hotbed for eSports betting, with a wealth of options for punters to choose from. Whether you’re into Counter-Strike, Dota 2, or League of Legends, you’ll find plenty of sites offering markets on your favourite games. Our guide will help you find the best eSports betting sites in the UK, alongside handy how-tos and tips to get you off to a great start.
Top 7 eSports Betting Sites at a Glance
To help you get started, we’ve shortlisted seven of the best eSports betting sites in the UK, each offering a unique experience for punters.
- NetBet: Boasts a wide array of eSports markets, including lesser-known titles, perfect for those who like to explore.
- Spreadex: Unique spread betting platform for eSports, ideal for those seeking a different betting experience.
- All British Casino: While primarily a casino, it offers a decent selection of eSports markets with competitive odds.
- Fitzdares: A bookmaker with a focus on customer service and a curated selection of eSports markets.
- Betfred: A household name in UK betting, providing a reliable platform and a decent range of eSports options.
- Luckster: A newer contender with a growing eSports section, offering competitive odds and enticing bonuses.
- BoyleSports: Another established UK bookmaker with a solid eSports offering, including live betting and streaming.
Three of the Best eSports Betting Sites in Detail
Choosing the right eSports betting site can be daunting. We’ve narrowed it down to three top platforms, each excelling in specific areas to cater to different preferences.
1. NetBet – Best for Established eSports
NetBet’s eSports offering is surprisingly robust, especially for fans of well-established titles. They may not have a wide variety of games, but they offer a lot of betting options for the most popular eSports events.
NetBet’s focus lies on the titans of eSports – League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. For these games, they offer a wealth of betting opportunities, extending far beyond simple match results. Delve into map-specific bets, predict round scores or even wager on individual player performance.
The live betting section is particularly impressive. The odds change as the game goes on, making it more exciting for those watching live. NetBet focuses on popular eSports tournaments and leagues, allowing fans to bet on top events all year round.
Play Here Because:
- Provides a variety of betting options for established titles.
- Strong focus on live betting, with real-time changing odds.
- Bet on the biggest eSports events throughout the year.
- Easy for both new bettors and experienced punters to navigate.
But Bear in Mind:
- Focuses primarily on established eSports, with fewer options for fans of niche or emerging titles.
2. Spreadex – Best for Spread Betting on eSports
Spreadex sets itself apart in the eSports betting landscape by offering a unique spread betting option alongside traditional fixed odds. Their platform is not just for eSports, but it is designed for people who want a unique betting experience. Your winnings and losses depend on how accurate your predictions are.
At Spreadex, you’ll find the usual eSports suspects like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. However, the way you bet on them is what makes it interesting. Instead of fixed odds, you’re essentially predicting a range for various outcomes, such as the total number of kills or rounds in a match. The closer your prediction is to the actual result, the more you win (or lose, if you’re off the mark).
This adds a layer of strategy and excitement that appeals to experienced bettors seeking a challenge. In addition to spread betting, Spreadex also offers standard fixed-odds markets for those who prefer a more traditional approach.
Play Here Because:
- Offers different betting experiences with potentially higher rewards (and risks).
- Traditional betting markets are available alongside spread betting.
- Covers the most popular games with a range of markets.
- Easy to navigate, even for those new to spread betting.
But Bear in Mind:
- Requires a good understanding of the concept and involves higher risk.
- Spreadex’s focus is broader than just eSports.
3. All British Casino: Best for UK-Based eSports Betting
All British Casino, a stalwart for UK casino players, has recently added eSports betting to their repertoire. While their eSports selection might not be as comprehensive as dedicated eSports bookmakers, they offer a solid range of popular titles that resonate with the UK audience, such as CS:GO, Dota 2, and League of Legends, alongside a growing selection of UK eSports tournaments. They mainly focus on big tournaments and simple bets on who will win, which is great for British punters new to eSports.
![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/07/All-British-Casino-eSports-768x547.jpg 768w)
What sets All British Casino apart is their seamless integration of eSports into their established platform. It is easy to switch between traditional casino games and eSports betting. Both options often have promotions that cater to both interests.
If you’re a UK-based player who already enjoys their casino games, it’s a convenient way to explore eSports wagering without leaving a familiar site. They also offer localised payment options and customer tailored to UK players.
Play Here Because:
- Designed for UK players, with familiar payment methods and customer .
- Easy-to-use platform for existing casino customers.
- Combined promotions for casino and eSports.
- Focus on major eSports titles and simple bets.
- Growing selection of UK eSports tournaments.
But Bear in Mind:
- Limited eSports selection compared to dedicated bookies.
- Fewer betting options per match.
Best Online eSports Betting Sites Compared
Choosing the right eSports betting platform is crucial, so we've compared our top 10 UK bookmakers across key features to help you make the right choice.
| Bookmaker | eSports Coverage | Live Streaming | Mobile App | Welcome Bonus | UK License |
| NetBet | Extensive | ![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/08/check.png){kind=small} |
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| Spreadex | Good | |
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| All British Casino | Limited | ![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/08/cross.png){kind=small} |
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| Fitzdares | Good | |
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| Betfred | Good | |
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| Luckster | Limited | |
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| BoyleSports | Good | |
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What We Expect from the Best eSports Bookmakers
When selecting the best eSports betting UK sites for punters, we consider a range of factors that contribute to a positive and rewarding betting experience. Here's what we look for from our top eSports bookmaker:
- Comprehensive eSports Coverage: A wide range of eSports titles, leagues, and tournaments, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
- Competitive Odds and Value: Fair odds that offer good value for your bets, maximising potential returns.
- Variety of Betting Markets: Beyond match-winner bets, a diverse range of betting options like handicaps, over/unders, and prop bets for a deeper betting experience.
- Live Betting and Streaming: In-play betting options and live streaming of matches to enhance the excitement and engagement.
- Secure and -Friendly Platform: A safe and intuitive platform that is easy to navigate, with a smooth betting process and clear information.
- Mobile Compatibility: A dedicated mobile app or mobile-optimised website for betting on the go.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Generous welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programs to reward your betting activity.
- Payment Options and Security: A variety of secure payment methods, including popular options like debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
- Customer : Responsive and helpful customer available through multiple channels like live chat, email, and phone.
- Licensing and Regulation: A valid UK Gambling Commission licence to ensure a safe and fair betting environment.
To learn more about our evaluation process, check out our guide on How We Rank Gambling Sites. We assess each bookmaker to provide you with accurate and reliable recommendations.
Common eSports Betting Offers
eSports betting sites in the UK offer a variety of promotions to attract and reward punters. Here are some of the most common offers you'll encounter:
Welcome Offers
These are designed to entice new customers and typically come in the form of deposit matches, free bets, or risk-free bets. For example, a bookmaker might offer to match your first deposit up to a certain amount, giving you extra funds to wager on eSports.
Odds Boosts
These promotions enhance the odds on specific eSports matches or events, increasing your potential winnings if your bet is successful. Odds boosts can apply to individual bets or accumulators, and they can be a great way to get more value from your wagers.
Other common UK eSports betting offers include cashback bonuses, reload bonuses, accumulator boosts, and special promotions tied to major tournaments like the League of Legends World Championship or The International Dota 2 Championships. It's always worth checking the promotions page of your chosen bookmaker to see what offers are available.
Top Offers at eSports Betting Sites
Fancy a bonus? The top eSports betting sites usually offer enticing promotions to both new and existing customers. Here are some of the top offers currently available:
Betfred – Free Bet if Your First eSports Bet Loses
![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/07/logo-betfred.svg){kind=logo}
Betfred’s “Free Bet if 1st Bet Loses” promotion provides a safety net for newcomers to eSports betting. Place your first eSports bet up to £10, and if it loses, Betfred will refund your stake as a free bet. This allows you to explore different eSports markets and betting strategies without risking your own money.
BoyleSports – Acca Loyalty – Get a Free Acca
![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/07/logo-boylesports.svg){kind=logo}
BoyleSports rewards loyal eSports punters with their Acca Loyalty program. Place 5 accumulator bets on eSports with 4 or more selections, and you’ll receive a free accumulator bet. It’s a great way to boost your potential winnings and enjoy even more eSports betting action.
How to eSports Betting Sites in the UK – Step-by-Step
ing an eSports betting site in the UK is a straightforward process, typically taking just a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Choose a Bookmaker
Select a reputable eSports betting site from our list of recommendations. Consider factors like eSports coverage, bonuses, and features to find the best fit for you.Click “” or “Sign Up”
Look for a prominent button on the homepage inviting you to create an .Fill in the Registration Form
Provide your personal details, including your name, date of birth, email address, and residential address. You might also be asked to create a name and .Your Identity
Some bookmakers require you to your identity before you can deposit or place bets. This usually involves ing a copy of your ID or port.Make Your First Deposit
Once your is verified, head to the cashier section and choose your preferred payment method. Enter the amount you wish to deposit and follow the instructions to complete the transaction.Claim Your Welcome Bonus
If the bookmaker offers a welcome eSports betting bonus, make sure to claim it during the deposit process or shortly after. Read the and conditions carefully to understand the wagering requirements.Start Betting on eSports
Browse the eSports section, find the events you want to bet on and place your wagers. Enjoy the excitement of competitive gaming, and good luck with your bets!
Popular eSports Betting Markets
eSports betting websites offer a wide variety of markets beyond simply picking the winner of a match. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular options you'll find at UK eSports bookmakers:
This is the most straightforward bet – simply predict which team or player will win the entire tournament. It's a long-term bet that requires analysing team form, player skills, and overall tournament dynamics. The odds for tournament winners can be quite high, especially for underdogs.
Similar to traditional sports betting, this involves predicting which team will win a specific match. It's a popular choice for live betting, where you can assess the momentum and make informed decisions as the match unfolds.
In games like CS:GO, Dota 2, and Valorant, matches are played across multiple maps. You can bet on the winner of individual maps, offering more opportunities for wagering and a different perspective on the game.
This involves predicting whether a specific statistic, such as the number of kills or rounds, will be over or under a set number determined by the bookmaker. Totals bets add another layer of excitement and analysis to your eSports betting experience.
In matches where one team is considered a strong favourite, handicap betting levels the playing field by giving the underdog a virtual advantage (positive handicap) or the favourite a virtual disadvantage (negative handicap). This can make betting on mismatched teams more interesting and potentially more lucrative.
This bet focuses on which team will get the first kill in a match. It's a fast-paced and exciting market, often influenced by team strategies and individual player skill. First blood bets are common in games like League of Legends and Dota 2.
Key eSports Betting Opportunities
The diverse world of eSports betting offers many games and tournaments for UK bettors to enjoy. Here's a glimpse into some of the key eSports titles that attract significant betting action:
CS2 (Counter-Strike 2)
The long-awaited sequel to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, CS2 is poised to become a dominant force in eSports betting. With its tactical gameplay, intense gunfights, and massive global following, CS2 tournaments like the Majors offer a plethora of betting markets, from match winners and map winners to prop bets on individual player performance.
Call of Duty
The Call of Duty League (CDL) is a major eSports league featuring top teams competing in the latest Call of Duty title. With fast-paced action and a dedicated fan base, CDL matches provide ample betting opportunities, including match winners, map winners, and various prop bets.
Dota 2
Dota 2 is one of the most popular eSports titles worldwide, boasting a massive prize pool for its annual tournament, The International. Dota 2 betting offers a wide range of markets, from predicting tournament outcomes to betting on individual hero kills and map objectives.
Warcraft
World of Warcraft eSports focuses on the arena-based PvP format, where teams of three battle it out in intense duels. Warcraft betting includes predicting match winners, individual map outcomes, and specific in-game events like first blood.
League of Legends
The League of Legends World Championship is one of the biggest eSports events globally, attracting millions of viewers and bettors alike. League of Legends betting sites usually offer diverse markets, including match winners, map winners, first blood, and various prop bets on champion kills and objectives.
Age of Empires
The Age of Empires competitive scene is growing rapidly, with tournaments featuring both classic and newer titles in the series. Betting on Age of Empires involves predicting match winners, map winners, and various in-game events like the first wonder built or the total number of villagers killed.
Starcraft
Starcraft II remains a popular eSports title, with a dedicated community and regular tournaments. Starcraft betting focuses on match winners, map winners, and specific in-game events like the first base destroyed or the total number of units produced.
FIFA
FIFA eSports has grown in popularity in recent years, with professional players competing in various tournaments and leagues. FIFA betting involves predicting match winners, correct scores, total goals, and various prop bets on individual player performance like goals scored or assists.
In-Play eSports Betting and Live Streaming
In-play betting, also known as eSports live betting, has revolutionised how punters engage with competitive gaming. It allows you to place wagers on matches as they unfold, taking into the live action and shifting momentum. This dynamic form of betting adds an extra layer of excitement and strategic depth to your eSports experience. You can respond to surprises, take advantage of trends in the game, and change your bets to possibly make more money.
![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/07/eSports-Live-Streaming-768x503.jpg 768w)
Many online bookmakers now provide live streaming for eSports. This feature improves the viewing experience for people who like to bet while watching the game, making the betting experience more exciting and engaging. You can watch the matches unfold in real time, gaining valuable insights into team performance, player strategies, and overall game flow. This allows you to make informed decisions and place more accurate bets.
Whether you're a seasoned eSports fan or a casual observer, in-play betting and live streaming are essential features for a truly engaging eSports betting experience.
Popular Payment Methods Accepted by Online eSports Bookmakers
UK eSports bookmakers offer a variety of payment methods to cater to different preferences and needs. Here are some of the most popular options you'll find:
Widely accepted, trusted by millions, quick and easy for deposits and withdrawals.
E-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are convenient and secure, offering fast transactions and an extra layer of privacy.
A traditional method, suitable for larger deposits and withdrawals, but may take longer to process.
A prepaid voucher system, ideal for those who prefer not to share their bank details online.
Mobile payment options, offering a seamless and secure way to deposit from your smartphone.[/su_list]
Make sure to check which payment methods your bookmaker accepts, along with any fees or processing times that may apply.
eSports Betting Sites on Mobile Devices
The convenience of mobile betting has transformed the way punters engage with eSports. Most eSports bookmakers have a mobile app or website that is optimised for smartphones and tablets. This allows you to bet, watch live streams, and manage your on the go.
Mobile eSports betting apps are usually easier to use than mobile websites. They have push notifications for match updates and personalised betting suggestions, making the experience smoother and more intuitive. Whether you're using an iOS or Android device, betting on eSports on the go has never been easier. Just make sure you have a stable internet connection to enjoy seamless betting and live streaming.
eSports Betting Tips and Strategies
Betting on eSports can be both exciting and profitable, but it's important to have a smart approach. Here are some tips and strategies to help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of success:
Do Your Research
![The Best eSports Betting Sites in the UK in [cur_month] [cur_year]](/uk/wp-content/s/sites/3/2024/07/game-controller-svgrepo-com.svg)
Knowledge is power in eSports betting. Before placing any wagers, thoroughly research the teams, players, and games you’re interested in. Look at recent performance, head-to-head records, player statistics, and any relevant news or updates that could impact the outcome of a match. Understanding the meta (current strategies and popular picks) of a game can also give you valuable insights.
Focus on Specific Games or Teams
Don’t try to be an expert in every eSports title. Instead, focus on one or two games that you’re ionate about and follow them closely. This will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the game mechanics, team dynamics, and individual player strengths and weaknesses. Specialising in a few areas can give you a significant edge over casual bettors.
Manage Your Bankroll Wisely
One of the most crucial aspects of successful betting is bankroll management. Set a budget for your eSports betting activities and stick to it, regardless of winning or losing streaks. Avoid chasing losses, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
Try using a staking plan by betting a set percentage of your bankroll on each wager. This can help you stay in the game longer and reduce your risk.
Look for Value Bets
Don’t just bet on favourites. Look for value bets where the odds offered by the bookmaker seem higher than they should be based on your own analysis and research. This often involves betting on underdogs or identifying potential upsets. While riskier, value bets can lead to significant profits in the long run.
Utilise In-Play Betting
In-play betting allows you to place bets during a match, taking advantage of live information and shifting momentum. It can be a valuable tool for experienced bettors who can quickly analyse the game and make informed decisions. However, in-play betting requires discipline and a cool head, as impulsive decisions can lead to losses.
eSports Betting Sites with the Best Odds
Finding the best odds is crucial for maximising your potential winnings in eSports betting. Compare odds from different bookmakers to get the best value for your bets. It's important to shop around for the best deal. Some bookmakers consistently offer competitive odds across various eSports titles, while others might specialise in specific games or markets.
Take a look at our comparison table below, highlighting the current outright odds for the Rainbow Six World Cup event. (Rainbow 6: eSports World Cup outright odds, correct as of 22/07/24).
| Bookmaker | BDS Esport | Faze Clan | FURIA Esports |
| NetBet | 7/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 |
| BoyleSports | 7/2 | 5/1 | 7/1 |
Game Over
Whether you're experienced in eSports or new to it, UK bookies offer loads of betting opportunities. You can enjoy top bookmakers, competitive odds, many betting options, live streaming and more. to bet responsibly, do your research, and, most importantly, have fun!
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