Esports is the fastest-growing sport in the world. It’s gone from a relatively underground activity to hosting some of the world’s biggest tournaments in under a decade. With its profile rising all the time, now is the perfect time to start learning about what esports offers. Our guide will show you the best esports betting sites, why crypto is the best way to bet on esports, and how you can start betting with crypto today! Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.
ESports Betting Sites That Accept Crypto
Available Bonuses
Bonuses are a crucial aspect of betting for many players. With bankroll management a vital part of creating a winning strategy, it makes sense to find the best bonus to help with this. We’ve covered the best bonuses available to players when first signing up for a crypto sportsbook.
BC. Game
There isn’t a traditional welcome bonus at BC. Game. What it does instead is it provides a free spin of a bonus wheel every single day. There are wager-free wins of up to 1 BTC offered with this wheel, which makes it a hugely appealing bonus. Regular promotions are also offered here, but they change often. If you want additional bonuses, you will have to check regularly to claim them.
Sportsbet.io
Sportsbet.io uses a loyalty program to reward its players. So, there isn’t a welcome bonus offered. However, the more often players use the site, the more bonuses will be awarded. These can include cashback and free bets.
Stake
Sports players can’t claim a welcome bonus at Stake. There are cashback bonuses available through the loyalty program. These are offered on a weekly and monthly basis. The higher you rise up the loyalty scheme, the more cashback you are awarded.
Thunderpick
Two different welcome bonuses are available to sports players at Thunderpick. Either a 5% matched bonus or a 100% matched bonus. Players have 2x wagering on the first bonus and 30x on the second. You have to choose between lower wagering or a higher bonus amount.
888Starz
There’s a 100% matched bonus of up to $150 worth of crypto at 888Starz. On top of this, it also awards a free bet worth 20% of the deposit. Players can also claim a 50% matched bonus on their second deposit, up to a maximum of $145. All bonuses have 5x wagering, which can only be achieved through a parlay bet with at least three 1.40 or higher selections.
Payments
Many players jump into a sportsbook without knowing what cryptocurrencies are available. While most sites will offer the ability to use big-name cryptos such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, smaller cryptos are often overlooked. We’ve provided a list of available cryptos at the best sites so that you know if your chosen crypto is available.
BC. Game
- BCH, BTC, DOGE, EOS, ETH, LTC, USDT, TRON, USDC, XRP, ADA, SOL, DOT, BNB, FTM, and MATIC
- No deposit fees or withdrawal fees
- €10 minimum deposit
- €10 minimum withdrawal
- Withdrawals are processed within 10 minutes
Sportsbet.io
- BTC, EH, LTC, USDT, TRX, XRP, ADA, DOGE, BNB, BUSB, and SOC
- No fees for deposits or withdrawals
- 0.0005 BTC minimum deposit
- 0.0005 BTC minimum withdrawal
- Withdrawals are processed within three confirmations
Stake
- BTC, ETH, DOGE, LTC, XRP, TRON, BCH, and EOS
- No deposit fees, small withdrawal fees
- $20 equivalent minimum deposit
- No stated withdrawal limits
- Withdrawals are processed instantly
Thunderpick
- BTC, ETH, LTC, USDT, XRP and BCH
- No transaction fees
- $1 equivalent minimum deposit
- No stated withdrawal limits
- 30-minute processing time for withdrawals
888Starz
- BTC, ETH, LTC, DASH, DOGE, DOT, SL, TRX and XMR
- No transaction fees
- Minimum deposits vary depending on crypto
- No withdrawal limits
- 15-minute processing time for withdrawals
General Information & Security
A solid understanding of a site’s basics is essential to know what to expect. We’ve covered the vital aspects to help you get a headstart. On top of this, we’ve also provided the license information and industry reputation to help you understand what it offers.
BC. Game
- Year founded: 2017
- Languages: English, French, Russian, Italian, Arabic, German, Spanish, and more
- License: Curaçao
- Reputation: 95%
Sportsbet.io
- Year founded: 2016
- Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Turkish, and more
- License: Curaçao
- Reputation: 93%
Stake
- Year founded: 2017
- Languages: English, French, Russian, Finnish, German, Spanish, and more
- License: Curaçao
- Reputation: 91%
Thunderpick
- Year founded: 2017
- Languages: English, French, Russian, Portuguese, German, Chinese, and more
- License: Curaçao
- Reputation: 86%
888Starz
- Year founded: 2020
- Languages: English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Arabic, and more
- License: Curaçao
- Reputation: 85%
Anonymity
Playing anonymously is one of the top-selling points for crypto betting. To remain anonymous, you’ll need a crypto-betting site that allows it. Check our quick list to determine which sites will allow you to retain your privacy.
BC. Game
There is no KYC verification when playing at BC. Game. This site caters to anonymous players very well, which makes it a good choice for privacy.
Sportsbet.io
It’s challenging to say whether Sportsbet.io allows for anonymity. This is because it allows anonymous signup, but there is a chance it will require KYC for a withdrawal. It’s not a guarantee that Sportsbet.io will request this, but be aware that there is a chance.
Stake
You cannot remain anonymous when playing with Stake. It requires KYC when creating an account. This is a slight negative, but it’s understandable as the site also allows players to use fiat currency, which requires KYC verification to be carried out.
Thunderpick
Players can play anonymously with Thunderpick. It doesn’t require any information apart from an email address. As long as you have this, then you can play with complete privacy.
888Starz
You can remain anonymous if you choose to play with 888Starz. It does ask for personal information during the signup process, but there is no KYC here. So, you can remain completely private when betting on esports.
Introduction to eSports Betting
While esports in its current incarnation has only been known for a short while, it’s been around almost since the dawn of video gaming. The first video game is widely believed to have been written in 1962. By 1972 there were tournaments where players would compete against each other. The biggest one saw 24 of the best players competing to win a “Spacewar!” tournament. It wasn’t a mainstream event, though, as very few people had access to gaming technology. Moving through the 80s and 90s saw gaming become more advanced and more mainstream. Tournaments in arcades were a regular occurrence. Although the events were small-scale compared to modern events, they were much larger than the 70s tournaments.
The late 90s and early 2000s were when esports started to gain steam. The internet and LAN parties meant that players could easily compete against each other. Larger-scale tournaments began appearing, leading to the current landscape available now. With tournaments being broadcast around the world, growing prizes, and celebrity players, esports is starting to challenge the status quo. The success of esports means that betting on esports has become much more prominent in recent years. Although many sites resisted offering esports options initially, this has changed over time as its popularity continues to grow.
The Rise of Bitcoin in eSports Betting
Most sports betting sites didn’t offer esports betting initially. It meant that crypto sites had to take the reins. The first esports betting sites were powered solely by crypto. With Bitcoin being a prominent player, it stands to reason that it’s played a big part in the success of esports. With crypto leading the way for esports betting to become popular, it’s the main reason crypto is still the best way to bet on esports. Crypto sites have been in the industry from the start and have the most knowledge on the subject.
What are Crypto eSports Sites?
Crypto esports betting sites are fast growing in the world of online betting. With esports becoming extremely popular, it’s not surprising that these sites have started appearing regularly. However, you have to make sure you research thoroughly before choosing a site. Not all sites are legitimate, a side effect of a fast-growing industry. Our choice of crypto esports betting sites allow you instant access to trustworthy sites that offer high levels of service.
The Impact of Cryptocurrency on the eSports Betting Industry
Crypto has played a big part in esports betting from the beginning. It was the first currency that adopted esports betting as a viable idea and has played a significant role in its growth. On top of that, the advent of crypto as a payment method for gambling has impacted gambling in general. More sites are offering players the opportunity to bet using crypto. It means that going forwards, it’s likely that crypto will play a big part in both esports and traditional sports betting.
What is the Future of eSports Crypto Betting
Esports betting has a solid future. More games are being added to sportsbooks constantly, and viewing figures keep rising. As it becomes a more marketable product, it will become more prominent in sportsbooks. The most exciting thing about esports and crypto is that developers can viably use crypto to create a betting ecosystem. This will allow players much more flexibility in the future, especially if games have specific gambling mechanics built into them.
Reasons Why to Use Cryptocurrency for eSports Betting?
There are many reasons why you would use cryptocurrency to bet on esports. If you’re new to the world of crypto betting, then you can discover the benefits of using crypto to bet on esports.
Anonymous Betting
Remaining anonymous when betting is massively essential. It allows you to protect your identity from online fraud, which is a risk using any site online. The other benefit is that your bank can’t see what you’re doing with your finances. If you’re applying for a loan or mortgage, remaining anonymous with your betting is crucial.
You Can Bet from Anywhere
Crypto betting can be carried out anywhere. A lot of the top crypto betting sites are located offshore. So you can access them no matter where in the world you are. It is vital to research them first to make sure that they are legitimate.
Fiat Value is Diminishing
The value of the fiat has started to drop. The pound sterling has seen significant drops in value in recent times. But it’s not just the monetary value that’s diminishing. Fiat isn’t as flexible as crypto, which means it’s not as valuable in terms of usefulness.
There Are Lower Transaction Fees
Many payment methods charge a fee to send fiat currency, especially overseas. This isn’t an issue with crypto; it doesn’t matter where you send your crypto, and there are no fees to do it. Although crypto does have gas fees to make transactions, these are significantly lower than standard transaction fees.
Your Gains Cannot Be Seized
With crypto being anonymous, it means that unless you convert your crypto to fiat, your gains are your gains. This protects your ability to make a profit and reduces the risk of your gains being seized.
Fast Transactions
Crypto is significantly quicker than any other payment method. Even a slow crypto transaction is completed within an hour. Compared to trading with traditional currency, you can wait up to seven working days for it to be completed.
You Are The Owner Of Your Currency
With standard money; you’re not the owner. Federal governments or a monarchy own it. With cryptocurrency, this isn’t the case; your currency is yours. It means that governments can’t take it without your consent.
Bypass Geo-Restrictions
Geo-blocking is put into place at many different crypto-betting sites. However, you can get around these restrictions when using crypto and a VPN. Combined with anonymity, it allows players to play at any site they want.
Security
Crypto has higher levels of security than almost every other payment method on the planet. With military levels of encryption, it’s impossible to get into your wallet. If you keep your keys private, no one can access your crypto.
Things to Consider When Choosing an eSports Betting Site
When selecting a crypto betting site, there are some aspects that you will have to research. With so many sites on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one. We’ve put together everything you need to know to choose the right betting site.
Options for Deposits and Withdrawals
Having a wide selection of crypto payment methods is essential. If your chosen crypto isn’t available, then you won’t be able to play without making an exchange. Check what’s on offer first; that way, you can start playing immediately.
Payout and Withdraw Speeds & Terms
Even though crypto is rapid when making a transaction, some sites add processing time. Ensure you know how much time they add on; that way, you will know when your withdrawals will likely be processed.
Restricted Countries
Not all crypto sites are available everywhere. Even though you can access sites using a VPN, this is still a risk. If you want to play without a VPN, you must ensure the site is accessible in your region.
Reputation & Trust
A trustworthy site is vital if you want to play there. Check the site’s reputation and its record of treating players fairly. If it does, then it means you’re more likely to be able to trust it. A legitimate site is crucial when finding an esports sportsbook.
eSports Available
If you’re looking to bet on esports, you must ensure the site has it available. If there are no esports options or even a poor choice of markets, it won’t give you the flexibility you need. Check what’s available before you sign up; that will make it simpler for you to bet on your chosen esport.
VIP Programs & Bonuses
Grabbing a solid bonus is imperative for a good bankroll management strategy. It allows you to boost your bankroll and manage your bets more sensibly. It’s not just a case of looking at what’s on offer. Ensure you check the terms and conditions as well. Even the best bonus isn’t worth claiming if they’re not fair.
Where the Site is Licensed
Not all licenses are equal. Some licenses have a better reputation than others. Check which licenses are in place to help you understand whether the site is legitimate. The UK, Sweden, Malta, and Curacao are some of the best regulators.
Features Available
Can you bet on events while they are taking place? Does the site offer a wide range of additional marks? Is the site easy to use? These are all questions that you should be asking. You need to have many features when playing at a site. Ensure you have everything you need before you sign up.
Customer Service
If you have any issues with your chosen sportsbook, you need to know that customer support will provide you with efficient help. If the customer service isn’t at the required standard, it could mean the site isn’t right for you.
How to Bet at Crypto eSports Betting Sites?
Once you’ve chosen your crypto sportsbook, you must understand how to place your bets. Our simple step-by-step guide will help you through the process of placing your first bets.
- Create an account with the site that best fits your needs
- Deposit to your account using your chosen cryptocurrency
- Choose the bet that best fits your research
- Decide on the stake you want to wager
- Place the bet
- If you win, withdraw your winnings
eSports Crypto Betting Vs Traditional eSports Betting
Crypto betting does provide players with a few differences when compared to standard esports betting. Although they are primarily benefits, some can be drawbacks in the wrong circumstances. We’ve looked at the most common differences to help you understand why crypto esports betting is the premier choice.
Financial Privacy
When you bet on esports with standard currency, your bank knows everything you do. This can go against you if you want extra services from your bank. Using crypto can avoid this problem and retain privacy with your finances. It allows you to still bet on esports without impacting your credit score.
Low Fees
Making a transaction with crypto has much lower fees than fiat. It will enable you to keep more winnings when you play with crypto. It becomes even more pronounced if you send funds overseas, as crypto doesn’t add an extra charge to send funds to another country.
Bet From Anywhere
Fiat instantly puts a limit on where you can bet from. If you’re betting with certain currencies, you can’t use them in some countries. This isn’t an issue with crypto. You can use it in any country without any barriers put in place.
Better Bonuses and Rewards
Crypto bonuses are much more significant than fiat ones. A great example of this is Cloudbet. It offers a 5 BTC welcome bonus. There isn’t a single online sportsbook that offers a welcome bonus on the same level as that. If you want to boost your bankroll, crypto sportsbooks are the best choice.
No ChargeBacks
A common scam recently has been people receiving funds and then losing them due to a chargeback. Depending on your payment method, some online casinos could even recall winnings. Sportsbooks can’t do this with crypto. Once a payment has been made, the site can’t stop it. So, your winnings are yours forever.
Volatility of Cryptocurrencies
This can be both a benefit and a drawback. Because crypto is volatile, it can increase and decrease in value. It means your winnings could be worth significantly more or less, depending on the market. Knowing this will allow you to avoid some of the risks, especially if you hold your crypto at the correct times.
Types of Crypto eSports Bets
Although the markets aren’t quite as varied as standard sports betting, esports still has some excellent bet types. You can discover the bet types with our quick-fire guide.
Tournament Winner
This is self-explanatory. It’s a bet on who will be the winner of a tournament. You would typically place a tournament winner bet before the event has started. However, if the odds change during the event, it can also be placed while it is taking place.
Match Winner
You would place a match-winner bet on the outcome of a single match. Depending on the type of game being played and the kind of match, you will have a lot of choices available to you. You may also be able to bet on a team or a single player, again taking into account the game’s specific rules.
Accumulator Bets
Also known as parlay bets, accumulator bets are a collection of single bets combined into one bet. You may choose to bet on three different matches, but when you put them into an accumulator, all three games have to win for it to be a success. Using an accumulator will increase the potential reward but also increase the risk.
Prop Bets
When you place a prop bet, it’s based on a single aspect of the game. It might cover which individual gets the most kills in a team-based event. Each game will have its own prop bets available, which don’t revolve around who will eventually win the game.
Legality and Regulation Behind eSports Crypto Betting
Generally, crypto esports betting is legal almost across the board. However, just like any form of betting, there are exceptions. Each crypto sportsbook will have its own terms and conditions. These will concern the site’s location and the license it holds. It means that you will have to look into the specific rules for each site to play there. Local regulations can also come into play. For example, money laundering regulations and how the country treats crypto can affect whether esports crypto betting is allowed.
Closing Thoughts
Esports is growing at an incredible rate. It has the potential to be the biggest sport in the world in the future. The fact it’s in sync with youth culture means it could overtake the Premier League, World Cup, and Super Bowl as the most significant sporting events. While this would be a long way in the future, it doesn’t mean you should ignore esports now. If you get into it now, you can become an expert before it gets huge. Our guide will give you a solid foundation to be an esports crypto betting expert.
FAQs
What is Crypto Betting?
Crypto betting is placing a bet on a sporting event using cryptocurrency. Many crypto sportsbooks are available, and our guide provides recommendations on the best sites.
How do I Make a Deposit with Bitcoin?
Depositing with Bitcoin can be done very quickly. All you need to do is make your way to your account page at your crypto sportsbook, check the site’s wallet address, and then use your wallet to make a deposit.
How do I Make a Withdrawal with Bitcoin?
Making a withdrawal is also a simple process. Access the account page, navigate the withdrawal tab and then enter your wallet address in the correct space. Once you’ve completed this step, you must choose how much you want to withdraw and confirm it on the site.
Is it Legal to Bet on eSports with Crypto?
It depends on the country where you reside. It’s legal in most countries, but some don’t allow it. To ensure you don’t break any laws, check the regulations for your country before you start playing.
What Cryptocurrencies do eSports Betting Sites Accept?
There are a significant collection of cryptocurrencies that esports betting sites accept. Each site will have a specific list. If you want to play with a particular crypto, you will need to check its availability first. Ensure you do this before signing up, so you don’t waste your time.
Can I Bet on eSports with a Decentralized Betting Platform?
In theory, yes, you can. However, it will vary between platforms. Developers will have created some platforms with esports betting in mind, but some will focus on other betting areas. Make sure to look into the platform’s offerings before you use a decentralized platform.