A guide for picking the right bookmaker for your needs and taste
Picking the right bookmakers is the first thing you have to get right when betting online. This is a process of elimination more than it is about seeking perfection. The key is to begin by looking at a list of online bookmakers UK and then crossing off the ones that do not perform well in each of the criteria below.
Betting markets
First and foremost, you want to make sure that the bookmaker you choose fits well with your interests. For example, most bookmakers cover football extensively. If this is the only sport you’re interested in, check for bookmakers that have more betting options on certain games. Some will have more unique bets, like “Both Teams to Score in Both Halves”.
If you enjoy a second sport, make sure this is also covered. For example, some bookmakers hardly offer any bets for UFC, whilst others do a great selection.
Who has the best odds?
If you have a few bookmakers lined up, check what the odds are on each one for a specific upcoming bet. Rule out any that have notably worse odds than the going market rate.
Historically, SkyBet has often offered worse odds than its competitors but has gotten away with it because of its routine, generous £5 free bets.
In-play betting?
Next, check to make sure the bookmakers that you have your eye on do in-play betting. You may not think you use it much, but it’s always handy having this option. This is where you can pick up good underdog bets, such as being able to predict that a team will make a comeback during the second half of a football game. At the end of the day, the more choices you have, the better your bets will be.
Bonuses
Bonuses are a hugely lucrative aspect of betting, but they can be deceiving. Whilst you’re encouraged to make use of as many bonuses as you can, you shouldn’t sign up with a company and continue to use them just because of their sign-up offer. In the long run, this could end up costing you.
Bonuses should instead be compared towards the end of your decision over which bookmaker to use. Whilst you can exhaust most sign-up offers on their own merit, search for the potential for ongoing free bet offers, as this will be important in the long run.
Payment methods
Payment methods are an important aspect of your choice that we often neglect. Not only is it convenient to use your favourite payment method of choice (i.e. PayPal) but it could save you money, as some have higher transaction fees than others. Also check withdrawal terms, costs, and speed.
Customer support
Customer service is one of the most important aspects of choosing a bookmaker, but understandably, it’s not the first criteria you check. Instead, this can be your last vetting process, where you send them a message and see how well and how fast they respond. Also, check for the methods of communication. Avoid sites that only allow one method of communication.