Best Bookies Bonuses 2025
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What Does It Take to Be a Good Bookmaker?
We should first appreciate that the competition within the massive online bookmaker industry is staggering. The number of online bookmakers is forever increasing. New online bookmakers surge onto the scene at a rapid rate, and for new customers selecting the best betting sites may seem intimidating.
This article aims to help guide a new customer into selecting the correct online bookmaker based on ratings, outlining features to search for and compare when looking into what it takes to be a good bookmaker. T&C’s apply to all promotional offers, and new customers should be aware of these conditions. As there are so many sports bookmakers, look at our ratings and rankings as a starting point when selecting a new online bookmaker so that bonus.org will show you the endless sea of bookies. Free bets expire within a certain timeframe, so it is important to use them promptly.
License – Reputable and Trustworthy Bookmakers
When looking at bookmakers, a legitimate concern for any new customer will be the operator’s reliability and how regulated the online betting site is. The Gambling Commission licenses all betting sites. Other gambling commissions may license other betting sites depending on their location worldwide. The Gambling Commission lays down strict regulations that a licensed betting site must adhere to, and these regulations are there to protect the customer.
Well-established online bookmakers such as Paddy Power or William Hill generally have a good reputation as being reliable and trustworthy, backed up with a good user experience and ratings. New online bookies may not have an experienced reputation, but this is not to say the bookmaker is not trustworthy or reliable.
A new customer should always check that the bookmaker is legitimate and licensed, check terms and conditions and look for any poor reviews of the bookmaker, such as poor customer service or failure to payout. Online bookmakers without a license do not need to follow the regulations laid down by gambling commissions which can leave customers unprotected in the case of any wrongdoing.
What is the UL Gambling Commission?
The Gambling Commission regulates all gambling in the United Kingdom. This does not just include Bookmakers and online betting sites. It regulates all corners of gambling: bingo, lotteries, casinos, slot arcades, and companies that provide machines and software.
The commission licences and regulates the businesses and people who work in or provide gambling in the United Kingdom. As well as laying down guidelines for the involved businesses and people to follow, the commission is also there to protect the public. Any complaints about transactions or services that customers may have encountered can be communicated to the commission. The commission also promotes safer gambling, gambling awareness, getting help, and avoiding fraud and scams. A betting site must adhere to the strict regulations set by the Gambling Commission to ensure a safe and reliable betting experience.
A User-Friendly Website
There are two ways to define a user-friendly website. First, we refer to on-site navigation and the layout of the pages. Can visitors find what it is that they are looking for? How easy is it to encounter the most relevant sports? How long does the page take to load? Is a help section clearly labelled? What user ratings of the website are intuitive in their design that will naturally attract a more robust customer base.
The second point is that there should be numerous customer service options if an issue arises. Email, live chat widgets and a dedicated toll-free phone number are all recommended.
Sign-up Process of a Betting Site
For new customers, the first experience they will have once they have selected which online betting site to deposit with will be the sign-up process. The best betting sites will have a simple, streamlined, and secure verification process, which can also set an example to a new customer of how the rest of the site will operate.
Nearly all online betting sites require the same customer information in sign-up. A new customer should consider the ability to easily and securely input this information and the amount of time it takes the bookmaker to verify the details when deciding upon a new bookmaker.
Mobile Version of the Website and a Mobile App
A growing number of users are now accessing betting sites away from the home or the office. So, it only stands to reason that every portal must be able to be fully displayed on a smartphone or a mobile device. This can help accommodate the needs of those on the go, and once again, such an option will surely attract a wider customer base.
Mobile applications have become synonymous with effective websites. The same principle holds true within the world of sports bookmakers. A betting mobile app enables clients to quickly and easily visit their account to view the latest sports standings and ratings and, perhaps most importantly, to take advantage of the best spreads when they become available. A mobile application also signals that the company is seeking to cater to the needs of its customer base.
The Variety of Sports Available at the Betting Site
The range of sports and sports betting markets available to customers differs from one bookmaker to another. One of the main reasons new customers will sign up to a bookmaker is to place bets on their chosen sports and various sports available to place bets on. Nearly all
betting sites will offer sports betting markets on major sports such as football betting, horse racing, boxing and tennis. However, more and more online bookmakers are offering sports betting on the more niche markets and obscure sports. For example, when football is being bettened, a punter may not just want to bet on matches in the Premier League but also look further afield and place bets on matches in the Dutch Eredivisie or the Australian A-League.
Other customers may be only concerned with horse racing betting and should look to select the best online bookmakers offering the best sports betting markets for horse racing. Depending on their needs, a new customer should search out the best betting sites for football or the best betting sites for horse racing. The best online bookmakers will generally have a wide range of sports to place bets on and feature leagues and sports events worldwide.
Fixed Odds Betting
Fixed-odds betting is the most common form of betting that bookmakers offer. In general terms, it means that when making a bet with the bookmaker, the odds that the customer and bookmaker have accepted will remain the same without varying until the settlement of the bet. Whatever the price of the bet accepted at that time, no matter what happens in the market, the price will not change, compared to when a customer places a bet taking the starting price where the price of the odds at the beginning of the event are the odds placed by the bookmaker.
The advantage of placing a bet with fixed odds is mainly to secure the bet without the possibility of the odds changing, especially when betting on an event where the odds may change depending on the market. For example, betting on horse racing, where odds will fluctuate until the race starts, a customer can place a fixed-odds bet on a horse they believe is a good price.
The Number of Deposit and Withdrawal Options
Several benefits are associated with offering numerous deposit and withdrawal options. This enhanced odds and level of flexibility can cater to clients of all levels instead of only those who utilise specific tools such as Skrill or PayPal. Also, we should mention that a greater number of bookmakers’ payment methods tend to be associated with higher levels of security. Some of the most common forms include:
- Debit cards
- Direct debit
- Online payment portals such as Neteller and PayPal
Some bookmakers even accept Bitcoins as payment options, like Bitcoin.com Casino. A kaleidoscope of transfer methods is the hallmark of a reputable bookmaker site.
Withdrawal Times of a Bookmaker
As a rule of thumb, withdrawal times will vary depending on the service type employed. For example, PayPal states that an online transfer request will take two to three business days. Transfers directly into one’s bank account could take considerably longer.
Despite these general rules, it is still a fact that some bookmakers delay withdrawals. This is unwise, for clients are likely to become frustrated if their money is not sent as soon as requested. There can be cases when processing takes a day, but this is the maximum amount of allowable time. Summarily, quick withdrawal times reflect a transparent and efficient bookmaker.
High Betting Odds and High Payout Rates
Sports betting is primarily based on the odds offered, the inherent spreads and payout rates. One of the biggest selling points of any sports betting site is if the bookmaker offers the best odds available to the client and the payout rates are just as agreeable. According to analysts, the bookmakers average payout rate is approximately 90%. The remaining percentage is the calling rake (reserved for the bookmaker). While this may seem quite high, the fact is that some sports betting sites now offer figures as high as 95%. This is beneficial to the customer in question.
Odds are another major concern. These ratios will not only determine the payout in question but can also help highlight whether the bets are wise. Higher odds (within reason) are always agreeable. Astute sports bettors will often compare and contrast the major bookmaker sites to appreciate which bookmakers offer the best odds.
Live Betting Options
Live betting options are now becoming common for all bookmakers. Why is this the case? We must first consider high-speed Internet access and 4G mobile phone speeds. Live-in-play betting allows customers to place bets once the game or race has started offering customers a new dimension to sports betting.
Live in-play betting is exciting, as odds on the spread can change quickly depending on variables occurring, such as goals, substitutions or tactical changes. Also, bookmaker sites that offer in-play betting tend to experience higher Internet traffic. In turn, this will help the portal itself to rank higher within the search engine results page (SERP). Higher rankings equate to a better bookmakers reputation.
Live Streaming Options
We should never forget that a bookmaker is primarily concerned with sports. Customers need always be updated regarding horse racing, basketball, football or rugby. After all, late-breaking information will undoubtedly impact how they place bets.
This is why popular bookmakers will offer live streaming options within their websites. Recall that this is not only concerned with embedded flash videos. Streaming spreads and competitive odds should also be displayed. Any sites that do not offer a live streaming feature are not considered “modern” in the contemporary sense.
Customer service
A good online bookmaker essentially needs to provide great customer service. From step 1 of signing up with a bookmaker to problems with withdrawal or general questions about a betting account, customers should expect expert help with their queries from their bookmakers, where questions can be answered and problems solved as quickly and professionally as possible.
The best online bookies offer live chat, telephone, and email customer service, available 24/7 for instant feedback. The number of positive ratings of the bookmakers’ customer service will reflect the dependability of the betting site.
Best Betting Sites by Sport
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Football Betting Sites
Football is one of the most popular sports to bet on in the world, and there are many excellent football betting sites to choose from. When selecting a football betting site, consider the following factors:
- Competitive Odds: Look for sites that offer competitive odds on football matches, including Premier League, Championship, and international games. Competitive odds ensure that you get the best possible return on your bets.
- Wide Range of Markets: Choose a site that offers a wide range of markets, including match winner, goalscorer, and accumulator bets. A diverse selection of markets allows you to explore different betting opportunities.
- Live Streaming: Consider a site that offers live streaming of football matches, allowing you to watch and bet on the action as it happens. Live streaming enhances the betting experience by providing real-time updates.
- In-Play Betting: Look for sites that offer in-play betting options, allowing you to place bets during the match. In-play betting adds excitement and allows you to react to the unfolding events.
- Bet365: Known for their competitive odds and wide range of markets, Bet365 is a popular choice for football bettors. They offer extensive coverage of football leagues and tournaments worldwide.
- William Hill: With a long history of football betting, William Hill offers a wide range of markets and competitive odds. Their user-friendly platform and reliable service make them a top choice.
- Paddy Power: Paddy Power is known for their humorous ad campaigns and offers a wide range of football betting markets. Their innovative features and promotions attract many football enthusiasts.
Horse Racing Betting Sites
Horse racing is a popular sport to bet, and there are many excellent horse racing betting sites to choose from. When selecting a horse racing betting site, consider the following factors:
- Competitive Odds: Look for sites that offer competitive odds on horse racing events, including major festivals like Cheltenham and Royal Ascot. Competitive odds ensure you get the best value for your bets.
- Wide Range of Markets: Choose a site that offers a wide range of markets, including win, place, and each-way bets. A variety of markets allows you to tailor your betting strategy.
- Live Streaming: Consider a site that offers live streaming of horse racing events, allowing you to watch and bet on the action as it happens. Live streaming provides real-time insights and enhances the betting experience.
- Best Odds Guaranteed: Look for sites that offer the best odds guaranteed, ensuring that you get the best possible price for your bet. This feature is particularly valuable for horse racing bettors.
Some of the best horse racing betting sites in the include:
- Betfred: Known for their competitive odds and wide range of markets, Betfred is a popular choice for horse racing bettors. They offer comprehensive coverage of horse racing events.
- William Hill: With a long history of horse racing betting, William Hill offers a wide range of markets and competitive odds. Their reputation for reliability and excellent service makes them a top choice.
- Ladbrokes: Ladbrokes is a well-established bookmaker that offers a wide range of horse racing markets and competitive odds. Their user-friendly platform and extensive coverage make them a favorite among horse racing enthusiasts.
Tennis Betting Sites
Tennis is a popular sport to bet on, and there are many excellent tennis betting sites to choose from. When selecting a tennis betting site, consider the following factors:
- Competitive Odds: Look for sites that offer competitive odds on tennis matches, including Grand Slam events like Wimbledon and the US Open. Competitive odds ensure you get the best return on your bets.
- Wide Range of Markets: Choose a site that offers a wide range of markets, including match-winner, set-winner, and game-winner bets. A diverse selection of markets allows you to explore different betting opportunities.
- Live Streaming: Consider a site that offers live streaming of tennis matches. This allows you to watch and bet on the action as it happens, providing real-time updates and enhancing the betting experience.
- In-Play Betting: Look for sites that offer in-play betting options, allowing you to place bets during the match. In-play betting adds excitement and allows you to react to the unfolding events.
- Bet365: Known for its competitive odds and wide range of markets, Bet365 is a popular choice for tennis bettors. They offer extensive coverage of tennis tournaments worldwide.
- William Hill: With a long history of tennis betting, William Hill offers a wide range of markets and competitive odds. Their user-friendly platform and reliable service make them a top choice.
- Paddy Power: Paddy Power is known for its humorous ad campaigns and offers a wide range of tennis betting markets. Their innovative features and promotions attract many tennis enthusiasts.
Golf Betting Sites
Golf is a popular sport to bet on, and there are many excellent golf betting sites to choose from. When selecting a golf betting site, consider the following factors:
- Competitive Odds: Look for sites that offer competitive odds on golf tournaments, including major events like the Masters and the Open. Competitive odds ensure you get the best value for your bets.
- Wide Range of Markets: Choose a site that offers a wide range of markets, including tournament winner, top 10 finish, and hole-in-one bets. A variety of markets allows you to tailor your betting strategy.
- Live Streaming: Consider a site that offers live streaming of golf tournaments. This allows you to watch and bet on the action as it happens, providing real-time insights and enhancing the betting experience.
- In-Play Betting: Look for sites that offer in-play betting options, allowing you to place bets during the tournament. In-play betting adds excitement and allows you to react to the unfolding events.
- Bet365: Known for their competitive odds and wide range of markets, Bet365 is a popular choice for golf bettors. They offer comprehensive coverage of golf tournaments.
- William Hill: With a long history of golf betting, William Hill offers a wide range of markets and competitive odds. Their reputation for reliability and excellent service makes them a top choice.
- Ladbrokes: Ladbrokes is a well-established bookmaker that offers a wide range of golf markets and competitive odds. Their user-friendly platform and extensive coverage make them a favorite among golf enthusiasts.
Other Sports Betting Sites
There are many other sports to bet on, including cricket, rugby, and boxing. When selecting a sports betting site, consider the following factors:
- Competitive Odds: Look for sites that offer competitive odds on your chosen sport. Competitive odds ensure you get the best return on your bets.
- Wide Range of Markets: Choose a site that offers a wide range of markets, including match winner, points spread, and over/under bets. A diverse selection of markets allows you to explore different betting opportunities.
- Live Streaming: Consider a site that offers live streaming of your chosen sport, allowing you to watch and bet on the action as it happens. Live streaming provides real-time updates and enhances the betting experience.
- In-Play Betting: Look for sites that offer in-play betting options, allowing you to place bets during the match. In-play betting adds excitement and allows you to react to the unfolding events.
- Bet365: Known for their competitive odds and wide range of markets, Bet365 is a popular choice for sports bettors. They offer extensive coverage of various sports.
- William Hill: With a long history of sports betting, William Hill offers a wide range of markets and competitive odds. Their user-friendly platform and reliable service make them a top choice.
- Paddy Power: Paddy Power is known for their humorous ad campaigns and offers various sports betting markets. Their innovative features and promotions attract many sports enthusiasts.
What offers do Bookmakers Provide to New Players?
Due in part to the competition, it is always critical for online bookies to attract new players. New betting sites often come with an excellent welcome bonus. Although the structure of the site and its internal features are very important, many players are particularly interested in the bookmakers sign-up offers for new customers. Sports free bets are a common promotional offer to attract new customers, providing them with free bet tokens for placing initial bets.
Although the bonus of the welcome offer may look attractive, some requirements need to be met for free bets, such as wagering requirements, how long free bets will be valid before they expire, or what are the minimum odds to bet when using free bets. What are some of the most common bookmakers sign-up offers that the best betting sites use?
Deposit Bonus Offers
Perhaps the most common welcome offer bookmakers award for new players is a one-time deposit bonus. In most cases, this equates to a certain “matched” percentage of the amount the player deposits or uses for their first bet. For example, a new customer has made a deposit of £500, and a first-time bonus offers a matched 20%. In this case, the player would receive a bonus of £100. Therefore, having £600 to place bets with.
No Deposit Bonus Offers
A no-deposit bonus is a bookmaker’s welcome offer which states that those who register will receive a certain amount of free credits or a free bet without having to make any instalments to the bookmaker. However, it will be necessary to make a future deposit to claim any accrued winnings.
Cashback Bonuses
There can be times regarding a welcome offer when a bookmaker will award a certain amount of cashback after an instalment or when he or she has placed a specific number of bets. The bookmaker often rewards the bonus in either a free bet or a number of free bets. Of course, the exact stipulations will vary between each online bookmaker.
A Free Bet Offer
A free bet allows customers to place a bet online without using their own money. Although named “free bet” the offer generally requires customers to make a qualifying first bet before being awarded the free bet. Often a bookmaker will entice a new customer to their site with a free bet within the welcome offer.
Free bets will be rewarded to the betting account after making a qualifying bet, such as bet 10 get 30 in free bets, the free bets credited after settlement of the first qualifying bet. Time limits and required minimum odds generally come with free bets, a 7 day free bet is the usual time limit a bookmaker will require a customer to play the free bets.
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The Asian Handicap: Established Bookmakers Have It in Their Portfolio
Asian Handicap is a betting option for established bookmakers such as William Hill. Due to that, it eliminates the possibility of a draw during a sporting event (represented as 33 per cent). In other words, the outcome of any match can be one of three ways:
- A win
- A loss
- A draw (depending upon the sports)
An Asian Handicap prevents a draw from entering the equation. This is an especially useful option when two competitors or sports teams are equal in possessing the same skills and levels of expertise. So, bettors can instead rely on their preference for one side. Also, Asian Handicaps are OPTIONAL as opposed to mandatory. So, customers will have another choice besides a standard bet. In conclusion, bookmakers that offer flexible online sports betting options will experience a more robust customer base.
Ongoing Promotions for Regular Players
Customer loyalty for online bookmakers is paramount to enjoying longevity within this industry. Despite the majority of betting bonuses and promotions being for new customers. Likewise, it is logical to highlight that reputable online bookmakers offer unique prizes for ongoing members. Some of the most common online bookmakers ongoing promotions include:
- Cashback bonuses in the form of free bet stakes
- VIP or Loyalty Programmes
- Bonus virtual “credits”
- Multi-bet bonuses
- Virtual credits when one makes a specific number of bets
These are only a few examples of the countless number of current promotions. Once again, it is wise to look at the best betting sites’ ratings and the user ratings of bookmakers to determine which provides the best bonuses for their players.
FAQ about Best Bookmakers
What is a bookmaker, and how does it operate globally?
A bookmaker is an entity that sets odds and accepts bets on various sports and events. It operates both online and offline and provides betting markets worldwide. Depending on the region, bookmakers might be regulated differently, with some countries offering fully legal betting markets and others having restrictions.
What types of bonuses do bookmakers offer?
Bookmakers commonly offer a variety of bonuses, including:
- Welcome bonuses: Offered to new customers upon signing up, often as a match on the first deposit or as free bets.
- Free bets: Players receive a free bet after placing a qualifying bet.
- No-deposit bonuses: A rare offer where you can get a bonus without making an initial deposit.
- Loyalty programs: Frequent bettors are rewarded with points or special bonuses that can be redeemed for cash or free bets.
Are betting bonuses available worldwide?
Yes, many bookmakers offer bonuses internationally, but the availability of certain bonuses depends on the local laws. Some countries have restrictions on gambling bonuses, so players should always check the terms and conditions for their region before claiming a bonus.
What are the terms and conditions of bookmaker bonuses?
Bookmaker bonuses come with specific conditions, such as:
- Wagering requirements: The amount you need to bet before withdrawing bonus winnings.
- Minimum odds: You may need to place your bets on events with odds above a certain threshold.
- Time limits: Bonuses may have expiration dates, requiring you to use them within a set timeframe.
- Country restrictions: Some bonuses are only available in specific countries.
Can I claim multiple bonuses from different bookmakers?
Yes, players can claim bonuses from multiple bookmakers, provided they meet the requirements of each offer. However, some bookmakers may limit the number of active promotions you can participate in at one time.
How do bookmakers decide on their odds?
Bookmakers calculate the odds for various events using a combination of data analysis, statistics, and expert insight. They also factor in a margin to ensure profitability. Odds may fluctuate due to changing circumstances in the event or based on market activity.
How can I find the best bonuses offered by bookmakers?
To find the best bonuses, compare multiple betting platforms and check their promotions sections. Look for bonuses with low wagering requirements, reasonable minimum odds, and fewer restrictions. Websites that rank bookmakers or provide in-depth reviews can also be helpful.
Are live betting bonuses different from regular bonuses?
Yes, live betting bonuses may be specific to in-play events. Some bookmakers offer special promotions, such as enhanced odds or cash-back on live events, which are separate from their regular bonuses. It’s important to check the terms to see if bonuses apply to live betting.
What are the most common sports betting markets offered by bookmakers?
Globally, football (soccer) remains the most popular sport for betting. Other common markets include basketball, tennis, cricket, and horse racing. Some bookmakers also cover niche sports like esports, darts, and motorsports, depending on regional preferences.
How do I ensure a bookmaker is trustworthy and legitimate?
To ensure a bookmaker is legitimate, check for licenses from well-known gambling authorities such as the Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, or Curaçao eGaming. Additionally, read reviews, confirm secure payment methods, and verify responsible gambling practices before placing bets or claiming bonuses.
