Jaxon Gaming News » Esports Betting 101 ~ Betting on Esports Online in January 2026

Esports Betting 101 ~ Betting on Esports Online in January 2026

Last Updated on January 9, 2026
Fact checked by: Rachel Guillaumier

If you are interested in esports betting in 2026, you have come to the right place. With this guide we’ll try to answer all your questions and more about betting on esports online. Combine the expert betting guidance on this page with your extensive knowledge of the games and you have the winning formula.

This guide covers everything from how esports betting works, which esports titles you can bet on, strategies to apply and much more. We’ve also ranked to the top places and welcome bonuses below to give you the head start you need to start betting on esports today.

🏆 Jaxon’s Ranking of Best Places to Bet on Esports in January 2026

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There are dozens of esports you can bet on, but the right choice comes down to two things: how well you know the game and how deep the betting markets go. The most wagered titles today are Counter-Strike 2, VALORANT, Dota 2, League of Legends and Call of Duty. You’ll find markets priced for these events readily available in virtually every single sportsbook nowadays.

Bookmakers now list anywhere between 10 to 20+ titles and hundreds of individual gambling markets. From outright winners and pre-match lines to live in-play and player props. Pick the esports games where your insight gives you an edge, and consult the sections below for additional market-by-game guidelines.

As you know, the competitive scene around the esports titles is defined by organised tournaments and leagues, making them exciting options for bettors. You can also claim a fair amount of bonuses just for signing up to a new bookmaker. As an existing esports betting player, you can benefit too from a range of ongoing and seasonal promotions that may or may not be a part of a loyalty program.

🖥️ Esports betting 101: Pros and cons

  • Vast amount of betting markets
  • Wide range of esports options
  • Welcome & seasonal bonuses
  • Live streaming and in-play betting
  • Match-fixing in lower tiers an issue
  • Difficult to follow without in-game knowledge

⌛ Latest esports betting updates

  • December 2025: The Finals esports will incorporate the APAC region into its roster of regions, as well as introduce Grassroots Integration to deepen the global esports circuit.
  • December 2025: Esports betting in Japan remains prohibited after lawmakers met to discuss changing the status quo. They could not come to an agreement.
  • December 2025: Driven by user feedback GG.Bet introduced its Bet Builder, allowing users to combine multiple markets from a single match into one custom bet with higher odds.
  • November 2025: In what we consider to be a major boost to the esports industry, the Esports Integrity Commission announced that Stake has become an official tier one anti-corruption partner. Read more about what this means for the industry.
  • November 2025: North American esports org 100Thieves announced it was building a CS2 team in partnership with Roobet. Read more about the announcement here.
  • October 2025: BETBY has expanded its pre-match and live betting player props coverage across CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends and Valorant – the “big four” esports titles. These player performance markets are now available at sites like BC.Game and Roobet and include:
    • Total kills for each player (per map, totals over/under) across all four titles
    • Most kills player vs player
    • Total headshots for CS2
    • Most kills for CS2, Dota 2 and LoL
  • October 2025: Sportsbook solutions provider BETBY joins the Esports Integrity Commission as a Tier 1 partner in ESIC’s Anti-Corruption program. The program safeguards the esports industry from threats like match manipulation, betting fraud and other integrity-related breaches. As a partner, BETBY will support ESIC’s monitoring and enforcement framework by providing data and operational cooperation. Betby.Games, the company’s proprietary esports feed, saw a Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) year-over-year increase of 8.43% in Q3 2025.
  • October 2025: Data.Bet announces it is the first to trade 2XKO betting markets: winners, to reach the finals and map winner for the final stages of the 2 NICE KO tournament in Nice, France (Oct 10-12). 2XKO is the new fighting game coming from publisher Riot Games.
  • October 2025: LSports, a leading sports data provider, published its Q1 2025 sports data trends report based on data amassed from 450+ clients globally. The report lists esports as showing the strongest growth rate year-over-year, at 75%. Esports sits in position 3 on the list of top sports by overall demand, following football in top position and table tennis in position 2.
  • October 2025: GRID launches CS2 Rushzone, a betting product delivering a daily schedule of reliable and fair CS2 betting content. The product combines official data, live streaming odds and widgets into one solution. Bet365 is one of the operators to have implemented this product.
  • September 2025: At the LTA 2025 Championship Finals, Riot Games announces the return of the LCS and CBLOL in 2026.
  • September 2025: Veikkaus, the Finnish state-owned betting operator, has partnered with Oddin.gg to power its esports betting offering with a strong focus on Counter-Strike 2.
  • September 2025: GRID acquires the technology assets of Bayes Esports, undergoing liquidation proceedings which officially commenced on Aug. 1.
  • September 2025: In partnership with Oddin.gg, Thunderpick launches BetPeek exclusively on its platform. Aimed at countering the traditional one-size-fits-all esports streams, BetPeek transforms streams into a personalised, immersive experience with features like:
    • Follow any player
    • Dynamic camera control
    • X-Ray vision
    • Play, Pause & Rewind
    • Integrated betting tools
  • August 2025: Berlin-based esports data company Bayes Esports filed for insolvency and was put under administration in May 2025, according to The Esports Advocate. This followed a series of layoffs and a change in senior management.
  • August 2025: Inspired Entertainment, a leading B2B provider, announced the launch of three Virtual Sports titles: V-Play NHL, NBA Re-Play and Re-Play Esports, available through Bet365.
  • July 2025: Esportsbook solutions provider Data.bet announced the launch of its Hot Bundles tool featuring pre-built combinations powered by advanced statistical models. Data.Bet believes this tool will simplify the betting experience for newcomers to esports betting.
  • July 2025: Esports betting industry newsletter Sharpr published its Global Esports Betting Monitor for H1 2025. Data from the Kambi network shows that Counter-Strike and LoL accounted for 83% of total esports wagering volume. Dota 2 betting is on a downward trend. Valorant continues to grow steadily, whilst Call of Duty doubled its share year-over-year.

The most popular esports titles and popular esports titles for betting include games that dominate viewership, tournaments, and betting markets. The most popular genres are typically first-person shooter or multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games. Among these genres, you will find titles such as:

  • Counter-Strike 2 
  • League of Legends
  • Dota 2 
  • VALORANT

These titles are some of the most popular, and if you are interested in betting on these, you will have no issues finding them on gaming betting sites. The game mechanics of each title, such as kills, destroyed buildings, or points scored, directly influence the popular esports betting markets available that include match winner, total kills, map winner, and specific in-game objectives, depending on the unique features of each game.

✅ Counter-Strike 2 Betting

CS2 Esports betting

Counter-Strike 2, also known as CS2, is one of the leading first-person shooter games. As such, you will find plenty of CS2 betting sites to choose from, including the recommended bookmakers on this page.

CS2 is an objective-based game where players will play the role of either a terrorist or counter-terrorist, who will be trying to eliminate the other team. At the start of each round, you will purchase weapons and equipment to help you, with rewards for your performance. If you complete an objective, such as planting a bomb or killing an enemy, you will also earn money.

✅ League of Legends Betting

league of legends official banner

Image Source: Riot Games

League of Legends is a multiplayer online battle arena game with two teams of five players. Both teams are working against each other and every player will select a champion from a list of 170+, who have their own traits and abilities. If you secure a kill or complete an objective, you will be rewarded with gold. Gold can be used to purchase items to make champions more powerful. To win, your team must progress from your side of the map to the opposite side, and destroy the other team’s base.

You can find hundreds of LoL betting sites, including our recommended bookmakers, right here via the banners on this page.

✅ Valorant Betting

valorant promo banner

Image Source: Riot Games

If you enjoy CS2, the chances are that you would also like Valorant. It’s a team-based first-person shooter that is similar to CS2. You will choose your character which will have their own unique abilities, as you progress through your objectives. Your main goal is to either eliminate the Defenders’ team or plant a Spike before you run out of time. There are usually approx 25 rounds per game with each lasting just 100 seconds. To be the overall winner, your team will need to reach 13 rounds.

If you want to check out Valorant, you can browse our suggested Valorant betting sites on this page.

✅ Dota 2 Betting

dota 2 official steam banner

Image Source: Valve/Steam

Another one of the most popular games is Dota 2, so finding Dota 2 betting sites will never be an issue. It’s a competitive game that is also available for tournaments, where players can win millions of dollars. It’s a multiplayer online battle arena game where you will choose from over 120 heroes. To win the game, you will need to be the first one to enter the other team’s stronghold to destroy their ancient.

🕹️ Other esports to bet on

With the growth of esports betting, you can access plenty of popular titles on sports betting sites and some online casinos, too. Many of these platforms not only cover esports but also offer a wide variety of online casino games, providing users with an extensive selection beyond just betting on popular sports like football, basketball, and soccer. Here are even more titles you will find online:

✅ Fortnite Betting

Fortnite is one of the most popular esports games across the globe, so there will never be a shortage of Fortnite betting sites. It is a multiplayer game where all players will work together to survive. You will battle against characters that are either controlled by other players or the game. It can feature up to 100 players at any one time, who are all competing to be the last man standing.

On the Fortnite esports betting front, you’ll mainly find outrights for solo play but if it’s a team event, there’ll be many more markets to choose from, including match winner, most kills, etc.

✅ Mobile Legends Betting

Due to the huge competitive scene across Southeast Asia and beyond, Mobile Legends betting has grown rapidly. Nowadays, bettors can find various events like MLP, M-Series, and more. Aside from attracting massive audiences, these events provide excellent betting opportunities like match-winner markets and detailed options like first blood, map totals, handicap lines, and more.

The objective-driven gameplay makes betting on Mobile Legends even more enjoyable. The latter makes in-play betting very exciting, as momentum can shift rapidly.

As more regulated bookmakers add Mobile Legends to their list of Esports, betting on it will keep improving.

✅ Rocket League Betting

Rocket League betting is unique because it combines the thrill of traditional sports and esports. The game offers a unique mix of football and high-speed cars, making it a popular betting choice for people. Bettors can find a wide array of markets, such as match winner, total goals, handicaps, and more.

Due to how it works, live betting on Rocket League games is also very popular. The matches are fast and often tricky to predict, meaning bookies can offer numerous short-term markets with high odds. The game’s easy to understand, making it a solid choice for new and seasoned Esports bettors.

✅ Rainbow Six Siege X Betting

If you are a fan of the legendary franchise, you will appreciate the Rainbow Six Siege X betting options. The game offers fresh mechanics and competitive updates, allowing bettors to access unique markets. The possibilities include map winner, total rounds, outright winners in global events, and more.

Rainbow Six Siege X offers a mix of strategy and operation synergy, making live betting enjoyable. Since momentum can shift in seconds, bookies often have many unique options that are not available in other esports.

✅ StarCraft Betting

StarCraft will always be one of the all-time esports classics, and for good reason. Known for its split-second decision-making and importance in strategy, people who like StarCraft betting usually have access to many options. Things like map winner, specific race matchups, and total markets are just some of the common betting alternatives.

If you decide to bet on the game, you will find multiple top-tier events like the Esports World Cup, GSL, DreamHack, ESL, and more. No two games in StarCraft II are alike, so bettors must analyse everything carefully. Considering all that, StarCraft remains one of the most rewarding titles for sharp bettors.

✅ Tekken 8 Betting

People who like Esports know that Tekken 8 betting offers a unique experience. Due to its intensive and skill-based gameplay, this title provides many unique betting opportunities. Bookmakers often have round handicaps, outright winners, match winners, and more.

Due to Tekken 8’s popularity, modern bookies provide many events. You can bet on the Tekken World Tour, EVO, and more. It’s one of those games where you need to understand many factors to succeed.

✅ Street Fighter 6 Betting

Like Tekken 8, Street Fighter 6 betting offers fans a chance to wager on one of the most competitive one-on-one titles. This game is built on decades of fighting game legacy, so it has many fans among the betting community. People can find various betting markets like round scores, winners, handicap lines, and more.

Most top-tier bookies will let Street Fighter 6 fans bet on different events like Capcom CUP and EVO, for example. Due to the game’s popularity, bettors can expect additional betting markets and even special bonuses.

✅ Halo Betting

People interested in Halo betting often find various events they can bet on, such as the Halo Championship. Although bookies offer different markets, most brands will have tournament winners, map outcomes, and many specific in-game alternatives.

Halo is a unique game that combines individual skill, strategy, and team dynamics. Those things create exciting variance for bettors, especially those who like live betting. Since momentum can swing quickly, the live odds shift fast, giving bettors a thrilling experience.

✅ EA FC 25 Betting

People who like football, esports, and betting know that EA FC 25 offers many options. Building on FIFA’s legacy, people who like EA FC 25 betting can find an abundance of markets. Like wagering on traditional football, this title offers handicaps, 1×2, over/under, totals, and much more.

The title has competitive modes and numerous events, including the eChampions League. Its fast gameplay, realistic football experience, and endless tactics make it a fan favourite among sports bettors.

✅ Brawl Stars Betting

Since the mobile Esports scene continues to grow, Brawl Stars betting is slowly becoming more popular. The objective-driven game is designed to provide bettors with a load of exciting markets to choose from. Aside from the common markets, many bookies have objective-specific alternatives related to gem grabs, goal counts, and more.

With events like the Brawl Stars World Finals and other top-tier competitions, the game always has something to offer. The game offers fast gameplay and intense rounds, making it a solid choice for live betting fans.

✅ PUBG Betting

Battle Royals have been among the most successful games in the last couple of years, and PUBG often leads the way. People who like PUBG betting can punt on Outright winners, top placements, and a load of in-game specific stats. Global events like the PUBG Global Championship attract fans worldwide, meaning bookies can provide even more markets and exclusive bonuses.

Live betting on PUBG is a hit or miss because not all bookmakers offer good markets. Those who do, however, will provide multiple opportunities, most of which have excellent odds.

✅ Free Fire Betting

If you like the chaos of battle royales, you will find Free Fire betting very interesting. The action-packed mages guarantee that bettors can find loads of betting opportunities. This includes top placements, most kills, outright winners, etc.

What sets Free Fire apart from other shorts is that it is very fast-paced. The game offers constant skirmishes, making it an exhilarating option for live betting enthusiasts. The huge competitive scene in LATAM and SEA ensures year-round events that offer plenty of markets with high odds.

✅ Marvel Rivals Betting

Marvel Rivals is a unique title that attracts comic and esports fans. People who like Marvel Rivals betting can bet on some of the most iconic heroes and pick from several markets. Bookies usually have map outcomes, team winners, and various character-specific propositions.

Marvel Rivals is complex and requires you to understand the hero strategies to be effective. Those who know what they are doing will realise live betting can be every exciting because of the game’s dynamics. The game is genuinely among the hottest entries in the Esports betting scene.

✅ World of Warcraft Betting

It’s true that World of Warcraft betting is not the first thing that comes to mind when talking about this game. However, Blizzard’s efforts to establish the Arena World Championship and Mythic Dungeon International paved the way for numerous WoW betting enthusiasts.

WoW can potentially offer an infinite number of betting options. Punters can wager on series winners, map outcomes, dungeon-specific markets, etc. Bookies that offer live WoW betting options can provide you with even more short-term markets with competitive odds.

✅ Apex Legends Betting

Apex Legends betting has become incredibly popular lately, thanks to its amazing squad-based battle royal style. With markets like team placements, total kills, and outright event winners, it seems like bookies always have something to offer.

Speaking of events, competitions like the ALGS offer regular top-tier clashes that attract global betting enthusiasts. The game’s unique abilities, movement mechanics, and other aspects are also ideal for live betting because they offer constant surprises.

✅ Call of Duty Betting

Thanks to its established league structure, Call of Duty betting remains one of the most popular activities for esports bettors, particularly in North America. Bookmakers will offer all kinds of markets for this game, such as outright winners and match handicaps. It is also possible to punt on in-game objectives, such as Search and Destroy rounds.

Those who like CoD betting know that the game’s fast pace means live betting can be very intense. Hence, many of the bonuses bookies offer may target in-play betting. Overall, Call of Duty remains one of the household names in Esports gambling and a fan favourite.

✅ Overwatch 2 Betting

Overwatch 2’s unique gameplay also means that bettors can access many markets only found here. Overwatch 2 betting enthusiasts will find options like map scores, match winners, and numerous alternatives related to the specific map type.

Team compositions play a massive role in Overwatch 2, and since players can do that mid-game, live betting is more exciting than usual. It’s safe to say the game rewards those who understand evolving metas and can adapt to changes.

✅ Age of Empires Betting

Real-time strategy fans are aware of the Age of Empires betting opportunities. Due to how the game works, bookmakers can provide all sorts of markets. Leading bookies also let people bet on events like the Red Bull Wololo and much more.

Age of Empires is a game where people can develop endless strategies. Betting on it is not as straightforward as it seems because punters must know the meta and how everything works. Yet, those familiar with everything often find hidden gems among the numerous markets.

✅ WarCraft 3 Betting

Thanks to its legacy, popularity, and unique-hero RTS mechanics, WarCraft 3 betting is special for Esports fans. Despite the game’s age, bookies offer loads of markets like map counts, handicaps, outright winners, and more. Moreover, the odds (even for some ot the more common markets) are usually very high.

WarCraft III betting is not easy because people must consider many things. Macro strategies, micro controls, and a hero pick-off can change the game’s pace, so Esports bettors must be careful.

✅ Honor of Kings Betting

As one of the most popular mobile games with a working connection in China, Honor of Kings betting is growing rapidly. The game’s mechanics allow bookies to create diverse markets that include series winners, total maps, first blood, and more.

Honor of Kings has numerous international events, meaning bettors have access to frequent options to punt on. The game’s fast pace and tactics make it a solid choice for in-play wagers. Overall, it’s safe to say it is among the standout mobile betting titles.

⏩ Fast-Betting Esports

✅ eBasketball Betting

It’s safe to say that eBasketball bridges the gap between traditional sports betting and esports. Players have access to competitive NBA 2K games and simulated games, meaning there’s always something to bet on. Bookies often include markets like match winners, point spreads, totals, and more.

Due to how it works, eBasketball is excellent for people looking for frequent betting options. Since the game is dynamic, In-Play eBasketball betting often results in many opportunities. The game offers a blend of realism and esports, making it a solid pick for many punters.

✅ eFootball Betting

Similar to the esports mentioned above, eFootball betting has surged in popularity. Powered by Konami’s football simulations, the sport has a global competitive scene that offers bettors many opportunities. People can expect to find intense in-play options where quick changes can shift betting odds in seconds.

People looking to taste traditional sports betting and Esports will appreciate eFootball and everything it has. There are loads of major tournaments and professional leagues, meaning there are always betting opportunities for those interested.

💸 Types of bets for esports betting online

Whether you are looking to join sports betting sites, esports sites, or sweepstakes casinos, it’s important to know exactly how you place bets. Like all forms of online gambling, you need to know how the process works. You can place your first bet easily, using your own money or bonus funds, and review your selections in the bet slip before confirming your wager. Here’s an explanation of the different types of bets you can place online:

First mapFirst map bets are a great option for first-person shooter games like Counter-Strike. Rather than predicting who you think will be the overall winner, you will place a bet on which team will win the first map.
First killThis type of bet will take a little more experience than other kinds of betting. Before you place a first kill bet, it would be a good idea to follow live streams to get an idea of who could perhaps get the first kill. Research will help you a long way in placing this type of bet.
First bloodFirst blood is similar to first kill, but instead of killing it will be the first to draw blood as in cause injury. Much like the first kill, this betting type will take some expertise. You will need some knowledge of the players in the match, which means you will need to carry out some research before the match starting.
Odd/EvensAn odd or events bet is where you guess whether there will be either an odd or even number of games won, rounds played, or players killed. Whilst this bet can be complex, it’s a fun alternative to outright winner bets. But there is no real expertise required, as it’s very much a 50/50 approach.
Over/UnderOnce you have got to grips with odd/events bets, you may even like to try an over/under bet. This bet type will require you to predict whether a team will score more or less than a certain amount, which has been set by the esports betting site. For example, if the bookmaker gives a number of 4, you would bet whether you think a team will score over or under this number.

The bet slip is the interactive interface where you can add, remove, and review all your betting selections before placing your wager, making the process straightforward and flexible.

❓ A guide to understanding how esports odds work

If you are going to have successful esports bets, you will need to have a basic understanding of how esports odds work. Finding the best odds and better odds is crucial, as they maximise your potential returns and give you a significant advantage over other bettors. Here is a guide to everything you need to know about odds to get started.

How esports odds work

If you are a beginner, you need to understand that the odds are what tells you the likelihood of an outcome. You can use this to calculate what your chance of winning is and your potential returns on every bet. Odds can be shown in a few different forms, including decimal, fractional, and American. Online sportsbooks often offer better odds than physical bookmakers, giving you more competitive payouts.

Is there a difference between esports odds and sports betting odds?

In terms of odds, there isn’t much difference between esports and sports betting. Both will be displayed clearly on the betting platform and you will use this to calculate your potential winnings and chances of winning the bet. When comparing different platforms, always look for the best odds to ensure you are getting the most value for your wagers.

The difference between odds formats

As we’ve already explained, there are three different odds formats – fractional, decimal, and American. While they show the exact same information, it is presented differently. Once you get to grips with the formats, it is easy to understand. Here is a breakdown of the odds formats and how to read them.

Fractional odds

When it comes to fractional odds, you can easily calculate how much you may be able to win, comparing the potential win amount to your wager. The number that is on the left side represents how much you could win if your bet is successful. The number on the right is how much money you need to bet.

For example, if for every $1 you bet, you will win $9, this could be shown as 1/10. We get this number by 1 / (9 + 1) = 0.10. This shows that there is a 10% chance that the outcome will happen.

Decimal odds

If you ever come across odds that are shown in the following format – 8.00 – this is a decimal format. Decimal odds enable you to calculate how much money will be returned should your bet be successful. All you need to do is multiply your wager amount by the decimal shown, and this will equal how much you will win. But keep in mind that the return will be given out to the nearest $1. For example, if you placed a bet with the odds of 4.33, the return would be $43.33.

American odds

American odds are the most popular format in the US. Whilst it can be confusing at first, it is surprisingly easy to learn. You will find American odds in two different forms – positive and negative.

Positive number odds show the amount that you will win should you place a bet. For example, if the odds are +300, this means that you will win $300 if you place a bet of $100. For negative number odds, if the odds are -300, you will need to place a bet of $300 to win $100. It goes without saying that negative odds are seldom worth it, unless you pair them with positive odds markets.

Dynamic odds in live betting

When participating in live or in-play betting, you will notice dynamic odds that change in real time based on the ongoing match developments. These dynamic odds allow you to adapt your wagers as the action unfolds, providing more strategic options and an enhanced betting experience.

🧠 Best esports betting strategies for 2026

Success in esports betting in 2026 starts with a smart strategy. The best esports betting strategies combine thorough research, careful analysis, and disciplined bankroll management.

Staying up-to-date with the latest esports news and trends will give you an edge and make your betting experience more rewarding.

  1. Arbitrage Betting – Bet on all possible outcomes for guaranteed profit
  2. Matched Betting – Use sign-up bonuses to limit risk
  3. Pick-3 Method – Back three match winners in a row for boosted odds
  4. Over/Under Strategy – Bet on total kills, rounds, or maps played
  5. 1.01 Betting – Go ultra-safe with low-risk, high-frequency bets

Start by studying the teams, players, and esports titles you want to bet on, look at recent form, head-to-head records, and performance in major tournaments. Dive into the available betting markets to spot value bets and take advantage of competitive odds.

Managing your bankroll is crucial: set limits, stick to your budget, and avoid chasing losses. Advanced strategies like live betting can offer great opportunities if you’re able to react quickly to in-game developments, while arbitrage betting can help experienced bettors lock in profits by exploiting differences in odds across betting sites.

Not sure how to approach your next wager? Start with proven methods like arbitrage betting, covering all match outcomes for a guaranteed return, and matched betting, which makes smart use of bookmaker promos. These aren’t just tips; they’re long-term tactics bettors rely on every day.

Every game is different, but a smart betting approach starts with preparation. Try the 1.01 strategy for ultra-safe plays, test the pick-3 method for parlay-style odds, or explore over/under markets for value beyond match winners. The right strategy depends on how you want to play.

Live esports betting isn’t about guessing; it’s about timing. Early-game wagers like first blood or first kill are ideal in MOBAs and shooters. Mid-match, switch to totals and momentum-based odds. By the final stretch, focus on smaller prop bets rather than the obvious winner.

When the favourite is too strong, handicap betting helps level the odds. Whether it’s League of Legends, CS2, or Fortnite, this strategy forces the stronger team to outperform a set margin, making bets on heavy favourites far more rewarding.

By following these best practices, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and enjoy the best esports betting has to offer.

🎮 Bets on esports tournaments and events

Esports tournaments and events are the heartbeat of the competitive gaming world, drawing massive audiences and offering thrilling opportunities for esports betting. The biggest events, such as the League of Legends World Championship and the Dota 2 International, feature the world’s top teams battling for glory and multi-million dollar prize pools.

Sites which are deeply embedded in the esports scene, like GG.Bet, Stake, BC.Game and Thunderpick provide extensive coverage of these tournaments, giving fans access to a wide variety of betting markets and competitive odds. You can bet on match winners, tournament champions, and even specific player performances, adding an extra layer of excitement to every match.

ESL pro league trophy

The trophy that awaits the winners of ESL Pro League. Image Source: HLTV

The esports calendar is packed with high-profile events, including the ESL Pro League for CS2, M World Championship for Mobile Legends, and Apex Legends Global Series for Apex Legends, each offering unique betting opportunities. Whether you’re a fan of traditional sports or new to esports, these tournaments deliver non-stop action and the chance to engage with the most popular esports on the planet.

✖️ Common mistakes: Staying safe when betting on esports

Now that you know a lot about betting on esports, we will provide you with a guide on how to keep safe when betting online. So, before you dive in, take a few minutes to check out the most common mistakes to avoid.

  1. Chasing losses: This is the easiest way to find yourself in financial trouble. When you’ve had a loss, you should accept it and move on. Only place bets that you would have, regardless of the outcome.
  2. Not sticking to your budget: Before you step online, you should decide on a betting budget. Regardless of what happens, you should avoid breaking this.
  3. Not understanding the basics: It’s okay to not be experienced, but the key is trying to understand the very basics before attempting to place bets. Make sure you know enough about the verification process, odds, betting types, and transactions.
  4. Ignoring stats: When it comes to research, you should never ignore the stats you find. Every piece of information you find should be taken into consideration when placing your bets, so that you’re making an informed decision.
  5. Not following trends: Follow the prominent teams and players, check out social media platforms, and follow everyone’s moves. Make sure you know exactly what’s happening, so you stay ahead of the game.

🎁 Types of esports bonuses on your online betting site

Esports betting bonuses can be found in all shapes and sizes, but they will all enhance your experience and give you some valuable offers. Here is a quick overview of what you can expect to find.

  • Welcome bonus: Welcome bonuses are the most common type of esports promotion that you will come across. This is a one-time offer that is only given to first-time users at the time of registration. To activate the welcome bonus, you usually need to make your first deposit, which must meet a minimum amount set by the site. Once you create an account, you will not be able to claim any further welcome offers. The standard welcome bonus will come in the form of a deposit bonus. For example, if you deposit $100, you may be given another $100, bringing your total bankroll to $200.
  • No deposit bonus: Another type of bonus is one that requires no initial investment at all. This can be in many forms, including free bets and credits. It’s a great way of boosting your bankroll, allowing you to place even more bets on your favourite esports.
  • Free bet: A free bet is a promotional offer that gives you a risk-free betting amount to use on sports or esports events. Winnings from a free bet usually do not include the original free bet amount in the payout.
  • Risk-free bets: Risk-free bets allow you to place a wager without risking your own money. If your initial bet loses, you may receive a refund or bonus credits, making it a popular way to test strategies with minimal financial risk.
  • Reload offers: A reload bonus is one that comes after depositing money into your esports account. It can be given to you in a variety of forms, such as a deposit bonus, free bets, credits for placing bets, and much more.

📖 Glossary of esports betting terms

Understanding the language of esports betting is key to navigating betting markets and making smart decisions. Here’s a handy glossary of essential esports betting terms to help you get started:

  • Match Winner: A bet on which team or player will win a specific match.
  • Handicap: A way to level the playing field by giving one team a virtual advantage or disadvantage.
  • Over/Under: A bet on whether a particular statistic (like total rounds or kills) will be over or under a set number.
  • Decimal Odds: A popular odds format showing the total payout for each unit staked, including your original bet.
  • Bankroll: The total amount of money you have set aside for betting.
  • Stake: The amount of money you wager on a single bet.
  • Payout: The total amount you receive if your bet is successful.
  • Arbitrage Betting: A strategy that involves placing bets on all possible outcomes across different betting sites to guarantee a profit.
  • Value Betting: Identifying bets where the odds offered are higher than the actual probability of the outcome.

Familiarising yourself with these terms will boost your confidence and help you make more informed choices, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable esports betting experience. Whether you’re betting on match winners or exploring advanced strategies, this glossary is your go-to guide for the world of esports betting.

The legality surrounding betting on esports isn’t straightforward in the US, as some states allow it while others strictly ban the activity. The US online gambling industry is quite complex and it varies on a state level. Whether esports’ betting legal status applies to you depends on your location, so it is an important consideration for bettors. This means that you will have to understand the local laws before attempting to bet on esports.

With esports and sports betting legislation changing all the time, it’s always best to check. For example, as of right now, placing bets on esports is legal in New Jersey, Nevada, West Virginia, and Tennessee. Other states allow esports on some level, such as Iowa, Arkansas, New York, Illinois, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Washington DC, Rhode Island, New Mexico, Montana, Oregon, and Delaware.

💻 Online platforms for betting on esports

Finding the perfect bookmaker can be challenging when you first get into esports betting. With a lot of competition out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. Esports fans can place wagers on their favourite games through an online betting site or explore a variety of online esports betting sites, which are platforms dedicated to providing secure and legal esports betting options. To give you a helping hand, you can check out any of our recommended bookmakers throughout this page.

For further help, we have outlined some of the best features to look out for below.

  • Live betting options – Long before online bookmakers became a thing, live betting for sports has been commonplace. The growth of esports online betting has helped to pave the way for live esports betting. Even though esports betting websites and online sportsbooks are relatively new still, they are still incredibly popular.
  • Esports betting apps – Nowadays, all of the online gambling sites that offer esports are compatible with mobile. Whether the platforms offer a dedicated mobile app or an optimised mobile site, there are usually ways of accessing the online sportsbooks wherever you are, on the go. Esports betting apps are usually available for both Android and iOS.
  • Valuable bonuses – All of the major sports betting sites that offer esports will reward new players with welcome bonuses. You will also usually find plenty of ongoing promotions such as reload offers, no deposit bonuses, free bets, cashback and much more. Every bonus will vary, so make sure you check out the T&Cs for important details such as wagering requirements, time limits, and expiry dates. While there are requirements to consider and work around, these generous bonuses will enhance your overall experience.

When recommending platforms, we focus on the best betting sites and top esports platforms to ensure you have access to the most reputable and feature-rich options for your esports betting experience.

Our go-to sites for esports betting action for January

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📱 Esports betting apps: Bet on the go in 2026

Esports betting apps have transformed the way fans interact with their favourite games, making it easier than ever to place bets on the go in 2026. The sites for esports betting now offer dedicated mobile apps that deliver a seamless and intuitive betting experience, whether you’re at home or on the move. These esports betting apps provide access to a wide range of esports markets, including live betting on top titles like LoL, Dota 2, and CS2.

With features such as real-time updates, competitive odds, and exclusive mobile promotions, you can enjoy the thrill of betting from the palm of your hand. Leading betting sites like Vave and Roobet have set the standard with user-friendly interfaces, fast loading times, and secure payment options, ensuring your betting experience is smooth and safe. Whether you’re tracking live matches or managing your account, esports betting apps make it easy to stay connected and place bets on the best esports action anytime, anywhere.

🔑 Essential features for successful esports betting

When choosing a site to bet on esports, here are some things to look out for. We have put together a list of the most important features to consider:

  • A wide variety of betting options, including live wagers, prop bets, and access to popular esports betting markets tailored to different games.
  • Secure and diverse payment methods, with some options allowing you to fund your account without using your bank account for added security and convenience.

Genuinely helpful customer support

Even on the most reputable of betting sites, issues can occur. When this happens, you need to know that your bookmaker is capable of helping you efficiently. Unfortunately, not all bookmakers are great at looking after their customers, so it would be beneficial to check out reviews on Jaxon and customer reviews online first.

Make sure that the bookmaker offers at least a couple of decent options for reaching the support team, such as live chat, email support, telephone support, and FAQs.

Intuitiveness of site navigation

If you are new to the world of esports betting, you might not know your way around the platform. Look for platforms that are neatly presented and easy to use. Ideally, you need to be able to land on the homepage and be able to find a link to a page that you want within moments. Betting sites that are confusing to look at will simply make potential players go elsewhere.

Payment methods that you want to use

If you have a preferred banking method, make sure that your chosen bookmaker supports this. Highly-rated online betting sites for esports accept a range of payment options, including credit and debit cards, PayPal (and other e-wallets), bank wire transfer, bank transfers (a traditional and secure method, especially reliable for larger transactions, though processing times are typically longer), and cryptocurrency.

Some payment methods, such as e-wallets, allow you to deposit and withdraw funds without directly using your bank account, offering added security and convenience. The available methods may be a deal breaker for you, so make sure you check these out before registering an account. That way, you can get started quickly and be able to deposit funds and bet on esports in no time.

Here’s a handy table about the specifics of each payment method:

Payment MethodDeposit SpeedWithdrawal SpeedMaximum Allowed Withdrawal per MonthFees
Credit/Debit CardsInstantUp to 48 Hours50,000€1-2% (Depending on Card Provider)
E-WalletsInstantUp to 24 Hours50,000€0%
Bank TransferUp to 24 Hours3 – 5 Business Days100,000€0%
CryptocurrencyInstantInstant50,000€0%

Which esports betting site offers the fastest payouts?

Reliable esports betting sites usually support a wide range of payment methods for both deposits and withdrawals. These often include major credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro. You’ll also find popular e-wallets like Neteller, Skrill, PayPal, and Payz, giving users flexible digital payment options. Esports betting sites that accept PayPal are available too. These are sites that possess licenses from top-tier jurisdictions and are approved to process payments via PayPal itself.

Your choice of payment method often comes down to convenience, but it’s important to consider factors like deposit and withdrawal limits, as well as processing times. For example, some options may allow for larger transfers but come with slower payouts.

Speed is a major consideration for many, which is why esports betting with cryptos (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Ripple) has become so popular. Others prefer prepaid cards like Paysafecard and Neosurf, which can help maintain better control over spending.

Whatever option you go with, it’s crucial to approach esports betting responsibly. Below are the most commonly accepted payment methods at top esports sportsbooks:

  • Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Maestro
  • E-wallets: PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, Payz
  • Prepaid cards: Paysafecard, Neosurf
  • Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple
  • Other methods: Bank transfer, Interac, POLi.

Pros & cons of payment methods

Here’s a quick overview of the key advantages and drawbacks of the most common payment options:

💳 Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)

  • Pros: Widely accepted and offer instant deposits.
  • Cons: Often can’t be used for withdrawals and may incur fees.

📱 eWallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller)

  • Pros: Fast transactions, added privacy by not sharing banking info, and typically easy to use.
  • Cons: Possible withdrawal fees, lower limits, and not always supported by all sites.

🎫 Prepaid Vouchers (Paysafecard, Flexepin)

  • Pros: Quick and secure payments, ideal for setting spending limits.
  • Cons: Only work for deposits and usually have low transaction limits.

🌐 Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Litecoin, USDT, Ether)

  • Pros: Fast transfers, minimal fees, privacy-focused, generous bonus potential, flexible limits, and strong security.
  • Cons: Subject to market volatility and requires a crypto wallet for receiving payouts.

Using crypto to bet on esports

Since crypto is decentralised, you’re not tied to any specific country, and transactions are quick and direct.

Volatility can be a factor, but that cuts both ways. If you’d rather avoid price swings, stablecoins like USDT offer a smart alternative, staying pegged to the U.S. dollar. Another perk? Top Bitcoin betting sites often charge significantly lower fees than traditional banking options.

Here’s a quick breakdown of popular cryptocurrencies used for esports betting and what sets each one apart:

Cryptocurrency Key Features
Bitcoin (BTC) Widely accepted and ideal for larger bets
Ethereum (ETH) Fast block times (around 15 seconds) with added smart contract security
Tether (USDT) Pegged to the dollar; transaction fees under $1 on Tron or BSC
Litecoin (LTC) Quick confirmations (2.5 minutes) and ultra-low fees
Ripple (XRP) Lightning-fast transfers (3–5 seconds) with tiny fees (as low as $0.0002)
Dogecoin (DOGE) Simple, fast (1-minute blocks), and a hit with new users
TRON (TRX) Near-instant processing with little to no fees—great for frequent, low-stakes bets
Bitcoin Cash (BCH) Cheaper and faster than BTC, perfect for mid-sized bankrolls and regular play

🔎 How to find the best esports sites in January 2026

When it comes to searching for the best of the best, you can often get blinded by the abundance of choices that you have. Before you get started, here are some questions you should ask yourself first. When comparing options, remember that choosing the best betting sites gives you access to the best odds, a reputable experience in the betting industry, and a smoother journey from registration to your first bet.

Is the site legally allowed in my state?

As we have already mentioned, esports is not regulated in all states. You need to double-check that you can actually access the bookmaker’s site safely first. You should also confirm the legal age of gambling there, as some sites will require you to be either 18 years old or 21 years old and over.

What esports are available?

Of course, the main attraction to any esports site is the actual selection of esports itself. With a lot of major esports covered on most platforms, you shouldn’t have an issue finding a site that suits you. But consider what esports you want to try out, to help you find the best site for you.

Is live streaming offered?

While in-play betting may be supported, live streaming isn’t always available. If this is a deal breaker, you will need to clarify this first. Most esports sites will have an embedded live stream on each of the pages, allowing you to place accurate in-play bets.

Does the esports site work on my device?

Let’s face it, not everyone wants to place bets on their desktop PC. While you might like to use your desktop sometimes, you also may want to relax on your sofa with your mobile or tablet. Look up the best bookmakers that offer an esports app or mobile-friendly site.

Can I claim bonuses?

When you’re interested in placing bets, there’s nothing better than boosting your bankroll with a promotion or two. You will come across a selection of promotions such as welcome bonuses, free bets, deposit bonuses, reload offers, and more. While all bookmakers will offer varying deals, they will all offer great value.

How easy is it to place your first bet?

Top platforms in the betting industry make it simple to register, deposit, and place your first bet. The best betting sites guide you through each step, so you can start wagering and take advantage of the best odds right away.

🏅 Ranking the best esports platforms

Every bookmaker that is detailed on this page has been reviewed by the Jaxon experts. When we review esports bookmakers, we always look out for ones that offer:

  • A safe betting environment
  • Secure banking options
  • Generous bonuses
  • High-value odds
  • Mobile-friendly site or app
  • Great customer service

These criteria help us identify the top esports platforms and the best betting sites in the industry. Each recommended platform is a reputable sports betting site, ensuring you have access to trusted and comprehensive offerings.

If you’re not sure where to start your search for the best esports platform, check out our recommendations via the banners on this page.

🤠 Our methodology for ranking esports bookmakers

We are dedicated to helping you choose the perfect bookmaker for your esports bets. Our methodology is designed to provide comprehensive insights, ensuring you make an informed decision.

  • Ease of use and interface: A seamless user experience is paramount. We assess how intuitive the site is to navigate, ensuring you can easily place a bet on esports matches without hassle.
  • Variety of markets: Beyond basic match winner bets, we examine the breadth of betting options available. This includes game-specific markets for titles like CS2 betting, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant, offering extensive markets for discerning bettors.
  • Security and payment methods: Your safety is our priority. We scrutinise integrated security features and evaluate the range of secure payment methods available for deposits and withdrawals, including traditional options and crypto-friendly solutions like Bitcoin.
  • Licensing and legality: We verify that bookmakers are properly licensed and operate legally in your region, providing peace of mind as you engage in online betting.
  • Top bonuses and promotions: We highlight platforms offering the most lucrative top bonuses and promo codes, giving you extra value for your wagers.

Eight main categories cover everything from design to customer care, ensuring a holistic review. Each esports betting site receives an in-depth assessment across these criteria, allowing us to pinpoint what makes one bookmaker excel over the rest.

Top esports bookmakers: Find your perfect match

We’ve identified a selection of leading platforms that consistently meet our high standards for iGaming betting platform quality.

  • GG.Bet: A highly user-friendly platform dedicated to esports, GG.Bet Esports offers in-depth markets for major and minor events in Counter-Strike, League of Legends, and Dota 2. They provide full coverage of VALORANT, Rainbow Six: Siege X, Call of Duty, Mobile Legends, StarCraft 2, PUBG, PUBG Mobile, Halo, NBA2K, and Overwatch 2, alongside live-streaming via Twitch for a comprehensive in-play esports live betting experience. Their Android app is also among the best available.
  • BC.Game: Recognised as one of the best betting sites for esports, BC.Game offers top and niche esports markets with live streaming and comprehensive stats. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking diverse esports betting odds and a wide range of betting opportunities. Read our assessment of this site in our BC.Game review.
  • MyStake: Offering extensive esports coverage with competitive odds, MyStake focuses on Dota 2, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike, while also diving deep into niche games. They provide a wide range of betting options, including esports betting offers, live betting, and casino games.
  • Thunderpick: A reliable online bookie with in-play betting options, Thunderpick stands out as a premier crypto betting site. They offer plenty of esports bet markets, from famous titles like Counter-Strike and Dota 2 to newer ones like Valorant, and provide lightning-fast payments.
  • Bet365: One of the world’s largest online betting sites, Bet365 offers everything you could desire in esports betting, covering Counter-Strike, Dota2, League of Legends, Valorant, and more, with a great choice of events & betting markets.
  • Betway: Established in 2006, Betway is a strong advocate for esports, with a dedicated section offering bets on all major tournaments for Dota 2, League of Legends, Counter-Strike, and more. They provide great in-play esports betting action with live streams and exclusive boosts upon human verification.
  • LeoVegas: An award-winning operator, LeoVegas expanded its top-class casino and live casino gaming to include a feature-packed sportsbook from 2016 with strong security levels. They are leaders in mobile betting, offering excellent esports coverage through their dedicated app.
  • Sportsbet.io: As a leading crypto sportsbook, Sportsbet.io delivers one of the most complete betting experiences, encompassing a well-rounded esports offering alongside traditional sports and casino games. They feature markets on virtually all available esports, from CS2 and Valorant to Age of Empires and Warcraft 3.
  • Roobet: A crypto betting site with a growing focus on esports & sports betting, Roobet is known for its sharp design, fast crypto payments, and big-name partnerships. They offer markets on titles like Counter-Strike, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant, with live betting, outrights, and match props. Check out our Roobet review for more information.

💪 Get ready to enjoy plenty of esports fun

If you are just starting out in betting on esports, or you don’t have a lot of experience, hopefully we have provided you with a lot of valuable insight. Likewise, if you’re an experienced bettor, you should have come across a lot of helpful advice or answers to common questions.

We have highlighted some of the many reasons why you should be getting involved in esports. You will find plenty of legal esports sites that offer a safe and fun environment for any particular game. There are lots of esports titles to enjoy, as well as valuable bonuses. Not to mention competitive odds to look out for. Whether you are into CS2, Dota 2, Valorant, Fortnite, or League of Legends, the perfect esports platform is just around the corner.

❓FAQs: Esports betting

The answer to this question will depend on which state you are located. Only certain states in the US regulate esports betting, so you should check the latest laws in your home state before attempting to register an account.

🖥️ What are the best websites for betting on esports?

The best platform for you will vary depending on your preferred esports games and country. But don’t worry, on Jaxon, we have put together a reliable list of top bookmakers. Check out the list on this page for all the favourites.

⚖️ What makes an esports betting site reliable?

A reliable esports betting site boasts proper licensing, strong security measures for payment methods, a wide array of esports betting odds, and positive user reviews reflecting fair play and efficient payouts.

🎮 Can I bet on live esports matches?

Yes, many of the best esports betting sites offer live betting options, allowing you to place wagers as the action unfolds for titles like CS2, Dota 2, VALORANT and League of Legends.

🎁 Are there any bonuses for new esports bettors?

Absolutely. The top esportsbooks provide welcome bonuses, match deposit offers, and exclusive promo codes for new customers, which can significantly boost your initial bankroll and enhance your betting experience.

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