Esports betting has grown from a niche market to a major part of the online gambling industry. As competitive gaming gains mainstream popularity, more bookmakers are adding esports to their betting options. Whether you’re a casual gamer, a seasoned bettor, or simply curious, knowing which betting sites offer esports markets can help you choose the best platform for your needs.
Understanding Esports Betting
Esports betting involves wagering on competitive video game tournaments and matches. Popular games include League of Legends (LoL), Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), Valorant, and Call of Duty. Markets range from outright winners to specific in-game events like first blood or total kills.
Unlike traditional sports, esports matches can have faster results and unique betting opportunities. This makes it essential to use platforms with reliable odds, strong coverage, and fast payout systems.
Criteria for Choosing Esports Betting Sites
When comparing platforms, consider these factors:
- Game Coverage: Some sites offer only major tournaments, while others cover minor leagues.
- Betting Markets: Look for variety in bet types, from match winners to prop bets.
- Odds Quality: Competitive odds directly affect your potential returns.
- Live Betting: In-play betting can add excitement and flexibility.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Some sites have esports-specific offers.
- Licensing and Security: Always choose licensed and reputable operators.
Top Betting Sites with Esports Betting
Below are some leading platforms that consistently provide esports betting options.
Betway
Betway is widely recognized for its esports coverage. They sponsor several professional teams and tournaments, making them a popular choice for competitive gaming fans. Betway offers:
- Markets on major and minor tournaments
- Live betting options
- Strong promotions for esports bettors
Unikrn
Specializing in esports, Unikrn focuses almost entirely on gaming events. The site provides:
- Extensive esports markets
- Unique betting features like skill-based wagering
- Cryptocurrency payment support
GG.Bet
GG.Bet has a strong reputation in the esports community. Key features include:
- Wide range of supported games
- Esports-focused welcome bonuses
- In-depth match statistics for bettors
Pinnacle
Known for competitive odds, Pinnacle appeals to serious bettors. They offer:
- Low-margin odds for higher value
- Coverage of niche and major esports events
- High betting limits
Bet365
Bet365, a mainstream bookmaker, has steadily expanded its esports coverage. Expect:
- Multiple markets per match
- Live streaming for select events
- Comprehensive statistics for analysis
Betting Sites Not on GamStop with Esports
Some players prefer to use betting sites not on GamStop due to restrictions placed by UK self-exclusion schemes. While caution is advised when using such sites, they can offer:
- More flexible account limits
- Broader market access
- Alternative payment options
However, ensure these sites are still licensed in reputable jurisdictions and have fair betting policies. Examples of non-GamStop sites with esports markets include:
- Stake.com
- Thunderpick
- 1xBet
Popular Esports Games for Betting
Understanding which games attract the most betting activity can help you pick the right markets.
League of Legends (LoL)
One of the most watched esports titles, LoL tournaments like the World Championship draw massive betting interest.
CS:GO
Counter-Strike has a long-standing competitive scene. Bettors can wager on match winners, map scores, and round outcomes.
Dota 2
With tournaments like The International offering multi-million-dollar prize pools, Dota 2 betting is a major attraction.
Valorant
A newer title gaining rapid popularity, Valorant offers diverse betting markets.
Call of Duty
The Call of Duty League brings consistent action with multiple matches per season.
Live Betting on Esports
Live betting allows you to place wagers as matches unfold. This feature can be especially exciting in esports, where momentum shifts quickly.
Advantages include:
- Real-time reactions to in-game events
- Better odds opportunities during matches
- Increased engagement for viewers
Look for platforms that combine live betting with high-quality streams and fast market updates.
Bonuses and Promotions for Esports Betting
Many bookmakers provide bonuses tailored to esports bettors. Examples include:
- Free bets for specific tournaments
- Deposit match bonuses for esports markets
- Cashback offers on losses
Always read the terms and conditions to understand wagering requirements before claiming a bonus.
Payment Methods for Esports Betting
Payment flexibility can enhance your betting experience. Common methods include:
- Credit/debit cards
- E-wallets like Skrill and Neteller
- Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum
- Bank transfers
Betting sites not on GamStop often provide more crypto and alternative payment options than traditional UK-licensed operators.
Risks and Responsible Betting
Esports betting can be fun, but it carries risks. Keep these in mind:
- Set spending limits
- Avoid chasing losses
- Bet with money you can afford to lose
- Use tools like self-exclusion or deposit limits where available
If you are prone to gambling problems, seek help from professional support organizations.
Final Thoughts
The number of betting sites with esports options is growing, from specialized platforms like Unikrn to global brands like Bet365. Whether you want deep market coverage, competitive odds, or betting sites not on GamStop, the key is to choose a licensed and secure provider.
The best platform will depend on your priorities: odds, market variety, live betting features, or payment flexibility. With careful selection, esports betting can be an engaging and rewarding experience.
