License The first and probably the most important aspect you need to check is whether the bookie has a license. Nowadays, most gambling websites have a permit from the gambling commissions in Malta and Curacao. However, you may also find many companies that are licensed by your local gambling authority.
It is not advisable to open an account on an online bookie that does not have a permit from any regulatory body, even if it has a fantastic sportsbook, loads of promos, and cool features. The fact that a given betting website has a license means that it has to abide by specific rules. If it breaks those rules, you can always contact the gambling authority.
We recommend choosing a bookie that’s regulated by your jurisdiction. By doing this, you can count on your local commission in case something happens with the bookie.
High OddsThe second thing that you should consider when choosing a new bookie is the odds. This is where things could get tricky because most betting websites use a special formula to determine their odds. In other words, you may find a lot of differences once you start checking the different gambling operators.
Speaking of the devil, it should be noted that some brands have better odds for certain sports than others. Usually, bookmakers focus more on the sport that brings them more customers, which means that this option will probably have more lucrative odds than others.
If you pick a betting website with high odds, you could increase your winnings’ value as long as you successfully predict the event. So, before you start wagering, go through a few bookies, check whether your favourite sport is available and compare the odds.
Quality of the sports sectionAlthough the odds are important, this shouldn’t be the only thing you take into account before you start betting. Every sports section is different, which is why you shouldn’t be surprised if you notice that some bookies offer more sports than others.
Even if you have a favourite sport, we recommend choosing a brand that provides you with more options. For example, many betting sites decided to include eSports, Virtual Sports, and other intriguing things you can bet on.
Besides the sports, it is also essential to check out the different markets. Depending on which bookie you go to, you may have access to thousands of options for some of the popular sports.
Check whether you will find things like FT Score, Over/Under, Asian Handicaps, Total Goals, etc. Some bookmakers allow their clients to bet on exceptional markets, especially for things like eSports.
Attractive BonusesOne of the main aspects that you have to consider when choosing an online bookie is the types of bonuses it offers. Many people go through the list of promotions before creating an account because this will give them a good idea of what to expect.
The bonus portfolio of each company usually consists of different types of rewards. In addition to the welcome promo, which will probably be the most attractive reward, you will likely come across at least several offers for registered customers. The latter is really important because they are indicative of the way a bookie treats its clients.
Regardless of which promotion you are interested in, make sure to read its full conditions. This is the only thing that will give you information about the things you have to do to avail yourself of the specific rewards. Check things like the minimum deposit requirement, the playthrough condition, the sports you can bet on, and more.
Quality of the LIVE sectionThe live betting section is probably one of the reasons why the iGaming industry became so popular. Even though most inexperienced punters don’t feel comfortable placing live bets, they quickly realise that this has a lot of benefits once they overcome their fear.
That’s why it is crucial to go through the live section prior to opening an account.
Apart from being more attractive, live betting has many advantages. For example, there are loads of unique markets, special features, and appealing odds.
That being said, the first thing that you have to do once you enter this section is to check whether you can punt on your preferred sport. Even though you should be able to bet on most sports, there could be some exceptions.
Besides the sport itself, you also need to pay close attention to the structure and the different features inside the live section. Every online bookmaker has a different approach to this, so expect to find a lot of differences. If you have the chance, try some of the features.
Speaking of features, some online bookies decided to make their live betting sections even more special. Hence, you can find various options that will allow you to change the format of your odds.
The live betting section is famous for having attractive odds, but since they change all the time, it might be hard to keep track of everything new, especially if you want to follow several events at once. Luckily, some bookies have an option called “MultiView”, which gives you the chance to monitor several live events simultaneously.
Betting FeaturesThe different sports betting features are one of the reasons why people like to punt online. Unlike a few years ago, almost every online bookmaker gives its clients access to several betting features. Even though some are better than others, each one positively affects your overall betting experience.
Here are some of the most popular betting options that you have to look for when choosing an online bookie:
- Cash Out – This is probably the most popular sports betting feature in the iGaming industry, which is why it is available on most online bookies. Those who decide to use it will have the chance to reduce their potential losses or receive a specific amount of their winnings, depending on the event’s predictable outcome.
- Partial Cash Out – This feature is identical to the first one, but instead of settling your total bet, you can keep a portion of it. Even though Partial Cash Out is handy, some online bookies are yet to add it to their section.
- Live Streaming – Usually, bookies that have an advanced live betting section also have this feature. Live Streaming gives you the chance to watch some of the top sports events live, which has many benefits. Sadly, most betting operators have not managed to optimise their platforms just yet, so you may not have access to this option..
- Edit Bet – Another popular feature that punters will probably use a lot is Edit Bet. This will come in handy if you decide to change specific bet parameters, such as the market.
Optimised Mobile VersionNowadays, most of us have a smartphone or a tablet, which gives us access to the internet whenever we want to. Besides reading the news, playing games, and checking our emails, some people use their handheld devices for online betting.
That’s why you shouldn’t be surprised if you notice that some operators have excellent mobile website versions. Most bookmakers know that the majority of their customers use their mobile devices, which is why they pay a lot of attention to their mobile site. Some brands even develop stand-alone applications for Android and iOS.
Whether you want to use the app or the mobile site, make sure that you will have access to your favourite sports, features, and bonuses. Usually, bookies include everything from their desktop websites, but in some cases, you may not have access to particular markets and features.
Payment MethodsAnother important thing that you have to check before choosing your preferred online bookmaker is the payment section. You need to be sure that the operator gives you access to enough deposit and withdrawal options. The good news is that most bookies are always trying to stay up to date with the latest payment innovations.
Consequently, you will find many websites where you can fund your account and claim your winnings using e-wallets, vouchers, cryptocurrencies, credit/debit cards, and more. Besides the payment alternatives, you also need to pay attention to several other aspects, such as the minimum deposit/withdrawal requirement. Moreover, you have to check whether there are any fees and how long you have to wait for your transaction.
Keep in mind that most bookies require their clients to create an account before revealing the banking methods available in their country.
