Esports betting

1xBet

1xBet is a long-standing international bookmaker operating under a Curaçao license. The site offers a full sports betting platform, but it’s the esports section that is particularly impressive with its sheer volume and reach.

It covers all major esports titles, including Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant, StarCraft II, and numerous regional favourites. One of 1xBet’s biggest strengths is its willingness to offer markets on Tier 2, Tier 3, and even some qualifier matches that many other bookmakers ignore.

Bettors can find a wide range of options such as match winners, map handicaps, total rounds, player kills, and outright tournament winners. Live betting is extensive and updates quickly during matches. Odds are generally competitive, especially on less popular events.

The platform supports an enormous variety of payment methods, over 100 options including credit/debit cards, e-wallets (Skrill, Neteller), bank transfers, and a broad selection of cryptocurrencies, making it accessible for players across different regions. Deposits are usually instant, while withdrawals are reliable but can take longer depending on the method chosen.

Meanwhile, the interface is functional rather than flashy, which may feel slightly overwhelming for complete beginners. However, the sheer depth of esports coverage makes up for it. If you ever need assistance or have a question, its customer support is available 24/7 via live chat.

Overall, 1xBet is an excellent all-rounder for esports bettors who value variety and global tournament access. It’s a great fit for players who enjoy betting across multiple games and lower-tier events.

GG.BET

GG.BET is a Curaçao-licensed bookmaker that has positioned itself as one of the premier esports betting destinations since its launch. Unlike most sportsbooks that treat esports as a side category, GG.BET embraces it as the centre of its product. It provides deep coverage across 15–20 esports titles, with particular strength in CS2, League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant, and several niche games.

The platform stands out for its rich selection of betting markets. Beyond basic match-winner bets, you’ll find detailed options like map winners, handicap betting, total kills/over-unders, player props, and round-by-round specials on big matches. Live betting is smooth and responsive, with many major events offering live streaming and real-time statistics.

Payment methods are diverse and modern, supporting cryptocurrencies, popular e-wallets, and traditional banking options. Deposits are instant in most cases, and withdrawals are generally processed quickly, though verification can occasionally cause minor delays.

The site features a clean, intuitive design optimised for both desktop and mobile use. Promotions for esports bettors are frequent, including boosted odds and cashback offers. While some users report stricter bonus wagering requirements, the overall value for dedicated esports fans remains high.

In summary, GG.BET delivers one of the best pure esports betting experiences available in 2026. It is the ideal choice for serious punters who want depth, competitive odds, and a platform built specifically around competitive gaming.

Thunderpick Esports Review

Thunderpick is a Curaçao-licensed, crypto-focused betting platform that has gained significant popularity among esports enthusiasts. Built with gamers in mind, it offers a sleek, modern interface and treats esports as its core vertical rather than a secondary category. The site covers more than 20 esports titles, delivering strong depth on flagship games such as CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends, Valorant, and Call of Duty.

Thunderpick provides competitive odds across pre-match and live markets, including map handicaps, total rounds, player performance props, and tournament outrights. The live betting section is fast and user-friendly, allowing quick adjustments as matches unfold. Many events also come with live streaming options, enhancing the overall experience.

As a crypto-first platform, Thunderpick excels in payment flexibility. It supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies with near-instant deposits and withdrawals, which is one of its biggest advantages. Traditional payment methods are also available for those who prefer them. The absence of lengthy processing times makes it especially attractive for players who want fast access to their funds.

The platform includes gamified features and regular promotions tailored to esports bettors. Its clean design works excellently on both desktop and mobile devices. While availability is restricted in some countries, those who can join benefit from a smooth, modern betting environment.

Betista

Betista is a Curaçao-licensed modern hybrid gambling platform that gained attention in 2026 for its well-executed sportsbook alongside its casino offerings. While it covers traditional sports, its esports section is surprisingly strong and one of the highlights of the site.

Betista offers solid coverage of major esports titles, such as Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant, and several others. Bettors can access a good variety of markets such as match winners, map handicaps, total rounds/kills, player props, and tournament outrights. The live betting section performs well with fast odds updates, and the platform often provides live streams, frequently via Twitch integration, for major events.

Payment options are flexible and modern. The site supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies for fast deposits and withdrawals, alongside traditional methods like credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Crypto users particularly appreciate the quick processing times.

The interface is clean and user-friendly, with a dedicated esports tab that makes navigation easy. Betista also runs regular promotions, including boosted odds and cashback offers specifically targeting esports bettors. While not as deep as pure esports specialists, it strikes an excellent balance for players who enjoy both casino games and competitive gaming bets.

Overall, Betista is one of the stronger hybrid options in 2026 for esports betting. It is particularly recommended for players looking for a modern platform with reliable live betting features and convenient payment options.

BookOfBet Casino

BookOfBet Casino, licensed under Curaçao, is a multi-vertical gambling site that combines a large casino library with a respectable sportsbook. Its esports offering stands out as one of the better ones among casino-first brands.

The platform provides decent coverage of popular esports disciplines such as CS2, League of Legends, Dota 2, and Valorant. While it may not match the extreme market depth of dedicated esports bookies, BookOfBet delivers reliable pre-match and live betting options on major tournaments and leagues. Bettors can find standard markets like match winners, handicaps, and totals, with live betting being a key strength during big events.

In terms of payment methods, you have options like cryptocurrencies, e-wallets, and traditional banking solutions. Deposits are typically instant, and withdrawals are processed reasonably quickly once account verification is complete. The site’s crypto-friendly approach appeals to many modern esports bettors.

Its design is straightforward and mobile-optimised, making it easy to switch between casino games and the sportsbook. BookOfBet also offers frequent bonuses and promotions that can be used across both casino and sports/esports betting.

In summary, BookOfBet is a well-rounded choice for players who want a strong casino experience paired with capable esports betting. It performs best for those focusing on major tournaments rather than niche or lower-tier events.

PowerUp Casino

PowerUp Casino is another Curaçao-licensed online gambling platform that has built a growing reputation for its balanced mix of casino games and sports betting. Its esports section is functional and continues to improve in 2026.

The site covers the core esports titles, primarily Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, Dota 2, and Valorant. Market variety is respectable for a hybrid casino, including popular bet types such as match winner, map winner, handicaps, and some player props on bigger matches. Live betting is available and works smoothly for high-profile events.

PowerUp supports a good selection of payment methods, including multiple cryptocurrencies, e-wallets, and traditional banking options. One of its advantages is relatively fast withdrawal processing, especially when using crypto. This makes it convenient for players who want quick access to their winnings after successful esports bets.

The platform features a modern, easy-to-navigate design with strong mobile compatibility. Regular promotions, reload bonuses, and occasional boosted odds for esports help add value for active bettors.

All in all, PowerUp Casino is a solid mid-tier option for esports betting. It suits players who want a reliable all-in-one gambling site rather than a dedicated esports specialist. While market depth is not class-leading, the combination of decent coverage, fast payments, and a user-friendly experience makes it worth considering.

Learn about the Types of Esports Bets in 2026

Given the sheer number of betting options in 2026, it’s best to split esports wagers into several categories. Each type can satisfy the different needs of an esports punter. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular ones!

Match Winner

Let’s start with the easiest one: match winner. With this one, you simply try to guess which team will win a specific match. It’s easy to understand and quite popular among esports fans. As usual, there are odds for both the favourite and the underdog. They can also be placed live during matches.

Futures bets

Futures bets are a bit more complex than the regular match-winner wagers. Here, you bet on who you think will win a specific tournament. These bets can be placed up to a year in advance before the start of the competition. However, be careful, as odds can change quickly during that time, as teams pick up form or lose it.

Player Bets

These types of bets are connected to the performance of a player from a team, or, if there's a deathmatch, to each of the players in the match. There are different betting options, such as game-specific bets like who will claim the first kill, or more general ones like who will be the MVP of the match and more.

Odds/Evens

In odds/evens, you can wager on lots of in-game events. For instance, you can bet on whether a team will score an odd or even number of rounds or points. You can also try to guess if the game will end in an odd or even number of rounds. It’s an exciting betting option, which is highly rated by bettors for its variety and unpredictability.

Over/Under

Over/Under bets are also quite popular among punters. For instance, a sportsbook will set a predetermined number that a team will get 15 kills in a game. You can place a bet stating that it will score an amount over or under the site’s figure. With these, you don’t bet on whether the team is winning or losing the match, and it does not matter for the stake to be successful.

Handicaps

Handicaps are essentially a more intricate version of the Match Winners. They are very valuable when you want to bet on esports matches where the outcome of the event seems relatively obvious. For instance, if one of the teams is much better than the other, and is expected to win, you cannot generally expect to get high odds on your bets for it.

However, if you go for a handicap bet, you will only win the wager if the team wins by a certain number of points over the opponent. It makes the type of bet riskier than the usual bets, but lets you get a higher potential reward.

Multi Bets

Then there are multibets, which are also quite easy to understand. A multibet consists of several bets you place. To win the multibet, you must also win all wagers within it. These bets could be from any of the different types we mentioned so far. Overall, multibets are a great way to engage with your favourite esports, but are probably the riskiest ones.

New Betting Sites for Esports

Finding a new betting site for your esports bets is always an exciting event. Many punters look for new sportsbooks, as they often have more betting options and more flexible payment methods. On top of that, new sites try to attract bettors with appealing promotions and new features. These are some of our must-try new betting sites for esports bets:

• Playio: Licensed betting site, launched in 2024
• Slotexo: Early 2024 launch, reliable operator
• Slots Hammer: Licensed betting site, opened its virtual doors in 2024

Esports Betting Sites with Quick Payouts

Most players don’t like it when they have to wait a long time for their winnings. That’s why more bettors look for esports betting sites with fast withdrawals.

Still, you must remember that delays in payouts are possible due to different factors that are out of control of the bookmakers. For example, policies set out by the payment providers mean that withdrawal via a credit card is always slower than one via an e-wallet or cryptocurrency. Here are a few betting sites known for their fast withdrawals:

• Starzino: Lighting fast withdrawals 
• VoltSlot: Same-hour cashouts 
• JustCasino: Straightforward and fast withdrawals process

Crypto-Friendly Betting Sites

Speaking of crypto, it has become almost an inseparable part of esports bookmakers. Fans of video games and betting enjoy them for their quick transactions and ability to remain mainly anonymous and not share sensitive data. Here is a list of our recommendations for betting sites that support crypto:

• Winsane: Curacao-licensed crypto bookie
• Sushi Casino: Reliable betting site which accepts crypto
• Stake Casino: Licensed betting site with a focus on digital currencies

Esports Betting Platforms with the Highest Odds

Of course, some bettors seek the highest possible odds for their esports betting adventures. With high odds, you can get a better return provided that your bet is successful. These are the sites with the most appealing odds for you:

• ExciteWin: Exciting esport odds!
• PlayFast: Licensed bookie with fantastic odds
• Pribet: Exceptional odds for many esports

Best Betting Apps for Esports Wagers

These days, betting apps are not that common. This is due to many companies committing to optimising their websites for mobile platforms. Still, there are quite a few betting apps that allow you to bet on your favourite esports. These are those worth checking out:

• Leon.bet: Betting apps for IOS and Android devices
• 20bet: Excellent betting apps for any mobile device
• N1Bet: Android App available 

No-Verification Betting Sites

Verification can be a sensitive subject for some bettors, as not all of them like to share personal data online. Many websites require it so they can avoid underage gambling and prevent financial crimes. That’s why they require ID for verification of a user account.

However, not everyone is willing to share their private information with sportsbooks, which is why lots of punters turn to no-verification esports betting sites. These sites have more relaxed regulations, and that’s why you need to be more careful when picking one to bet on. Here are a couple of the safer ones you could give a try:

• OhMySpins: No mandatory verification on sign-up, licensed betting site
• Powbet: Massive betting site with reliable verification and no KYC
• Sportaza: Curacao-licensed no verification bookie

League of Legends World Championship (Worlds)

The undisputed biggest esports event globally is League of Legends Worlds. Fans of the game have seen it evolve from humble beginnings in 2011 into a massive international spectacle. The tournament attracts tens of millions of viewers and features top teams from around the world competing for the Summoner’s Cup and a multi-million-dollar prize pool.

To this day, South Korea’s T1 remains the most successful organisation historically, but regions like China (LPL) and Europe (LEC) continue to challenge its dominance. Worlds 2026 is expected to be one of the biggest editions yet, with intense rivalries and high-stakes matches that create excellent betting opportunities across map handicaps, totals, and outright winners.

The International (TI) – Dota 2

Valve’s flagship Dota 2 tournament remains one of the most prestigious and lucrative events in esports. Known for its massive crowds and unpredictable outcomes, TI features the world’s best teams battling in a high-pressure format. What makes it unique is its crowd-funded prize pool, generated through in-game Battle Pass sales.

While it peaked above $40 million in the past, recent editions still consistently deliver one of the largest prize pools in esports. TI is famous for delivering underdog stories and incredibly close series, making it perfect for bettors who enjoy volatile and thrilling markets.

ESL Pro League (CS2)

One of the longest-running and most respected leagues in first-person shooter esports, the ESL Pro League has been a staple since 2015. The competition features 32 top CS2 teams in a hybrid group and playoff format, with Best-of-3 and Best-of-5 matches. Its consistent schedule and high production quality make it a favourite for both fans and bettors. Regular seasons and playoffs offer plenty of betting volume throughout the year.

Valorant Champions

Riot Games’ premier Valorant tournament has also gained quite the popularity in recent years and quickly become a major global event. Featuring the best teams from international leagues, Valorant Champions delivers fast-paced, tactical gameplay with growing viewership and strong betting interest. The tournament’s expanding prize pool and evolving meta make it increasingly attractive for live betting.

BLAST Premier (CS2)

BLAST Premier another premium CS2 circuit known for its high production values and stacked lineups. BLAST events feature top teams in compact, high-stakes formats, often with excellent live streaming and betting markets available.

These competitions consistently deliver the highest viewer engagement and betting volume in 2026. Whether you prefer MOBAs or shooters, they provide frequent and exciting wagering opportunities throughout the year.

Most Popular Betting Offers in Esports

In the world of online betting, you can take advantage of various promotions that can improve your overall experience. Many sportsbooks offer such promotions as a way of attracting and retaining bettors. However, before you activate them, make sure to read their terms and conditions, as sometimes, they can be quite difficult to fulfil.

Here are some of the most popular betting offers and bonuses that you will likely come across as an esports fan and bettor:

Free bets

Free bets are among the most popular esports-related bonuses, as everyone likes freebies. They do exactly what they sound like: they are free credits which allow you to bet without using your own funds. If you bets is successful, you cash out as you would usually do. But if you lose, you only lose the bonus funds. Overall, free bets are a great insurance for you as a punter.

Cashbacks:

Some sportsbooks also offer cashback as a way of rewarding players. These types of bonuses allow you to recover a percentage of the money lost while betting on your favourite esports events. The percentage you get back is determined by the bookmaker itself, and it’s usually 10 to 20%.

Match Bonuses

In some online sportsbooks, you will also come across match bonuses. They are essentially a boost to your deposited funds, as they add a percentage of betting money to your deposit. However, they can only be used for bets, and you cannot withdraw them.

VIP Bonuses

Some bookmakers have VIP programmes and bonuses to reward their most loyal customers. These benefits often include higher withdrawal limits, exclusive match bonuses, cashback, and priority customer support.

Companies That Sponsor Esports in 2026

As esports continues to grow globally, major betting companies are increasingly investing in sponsorships to reach younger audiences. Here are some of the most prominent betting brands actively sponsoring professional esports teams:

Betway

Betway is a well-established international bookmaker licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and other respected regulators. The company has been one of the most active sponsors in esports for several years. It has a long-standing partnership with Ninjas in Pyjamas (NiP), one of the most recognisable organisations in Counter-Strike.

DraftKings

DraftKings is a leading US-based sportsbook and fantasy platform. Beyond traditional sports, it has made significant moves into esports. One of its most notable partnerships is with FaZe Clan, a global powerhouse competing in CS2, Call of Duty, Fortnite, and more.

Unibet

Unibet is a major European betting brand, licensed by the UKGC and other strict authorities. It has invested heavily in esports sponsorships, most notably partnering with Team Liquid, which is one of the world’s largest and most successful organisations, with strong teams in Dota 2, CS2, League of Legends, and Valorant.

GG.BET

While smaller than the mainstream giants, GG.BET is a dedicated esports-focused bookmaker. Its sponsorship of Natus Vincere (NAVI), one of the most popular CS2 teams in the world, perfectly aligns with its strong emphasis on esports betting.

Stake

Stake is a rapidly expanding crypto bookmaker that has made a major impact in esports sponsorships. Stake has partnered with several high-profile organisations, including T1, a dominant force in League of Legends, and other top teams across multiple titles.

Thunderpick

Last but not least is Thunderpick, which is a fast-rising crypto-friendly bookmaker that has become highly active in the esports scene. Over the last couple of years, the brand has partnered with several notable organisations and is known for its heavy involvement in CS2 and broader esports events, appealing strongly to the competitive gaming community.