User Review
( votes)Who are they?
Only the world’s largest and original internet betting exchange, that’s who! But although Betfair is known predominantly as a betting exchange, as of 2012 it also offers the more conventional sportsbook option, and fortunately for fans of both, customer accounts cover the two, so there is no need to constantly transfer funds. The company merged with Paddy Power in February 2016, becoming Paddy Power Betfair.
Why should I bet with this bookmaker?
As well as all the benefits that come from a betting exchange, the Betfair sportsbook is certainly among the industry leaders in terms of sign-up bonuses, special and cashback offers, enhanced odds and concessions. The cash-out feature is particularly enticing, meaning players can lock-in profit, and the ease with which customers can navigate and play between the exchange and sportsbook is definitely a major attraction. High limits are a huge draw to bettors of a certain ilk too.
Why shouldn’t I bet with this bookmaker?
In all honestly, the sportsbook odds are rarely among the best on the market. Seemingly the approach from Betfair is to attract players with generous sign-up offers, and keep them with a host of other specials, and of course the lure of the exchange (which does have great odds, just watch the commission!). Others have reported some issues with settling and customer service, but neither of these seem to be regularly reported issues.
Current Sign-up bonus
If new customers sign up and place a bet with a minimum stake of €10 on any sportsbook market, they get €30 in free bets.
Other noteworthy specials
Betfair offers Best Odds Guaranteed on UK and Irish horse racing meets, and also has a rather innovative football cashback option. Before placing an a bet, a customer is offered a list of options from which a selection can be made. If this event occurs yet the bet is lost, the original stake is returned. In any given game, the options that can be selected between can include a certain player scoring first of last, both teams scoring, red cards given, and even certain players providing an assist, making this a rather unique and imaginative form of concession.
Additional specials include insurance on accumulators through the cover of one losing selection, and regular offers of enhanced odds on big sporting events.
Sports and market available
The usual selection of mainstream and more choice sports. There is nothing particularly fancy, but regular players will have no bone to pick here.
Special features
As adhered to earlier, navigation between the exchange and the sportsbook couldn’t be easier, and there is no need to transfer funds as everything is conveniently stored in the same account. So whether you want to play against the house or another player, the option is always there.
Betfair’s horse racing coverage is first class, and the display of odds and meets is particularly user-friendly (as is the Best Odds Guaranteed offer). The cash out function is a particular favourite, and the mobile app, as you would expect from a provider focusing on in-play betting, is first-rate.
Support Functions
The regular combo of phone, email and live chat services are available (the latter of which is only manned 10am-10pm).
Payment Options
Huge array of options, including all the classics, meaning no issues to be had. Convenient and simple.
Verdict
7/10 – Sportsbook
9/10 – Exchange