The betting industry has grown enormously over the last 20 years and much of that growth has been driven by the rise of internet technology.
Where once it was necessary to visit a retail betting location if you wanted to wager on your favorite sport, you can now access bookmakers from around the world from the comfort of your home or even while you are on the move.
Some people still prefer to use old-fashioned betting locations, but there are many benefits for those who opt to do their betting with an online bookmaker.
Safety and security
One of the main benefits of using an online bookmaker is that it can offer verifiable safety and security. Modern online bookmakers, licensed and regulated by a reputable gambling authority, must follow strict rules on security and safety.
This includes detailed procedures for ensuring that they protect financial and personal data, and to make sure that they can always payout winning bets.
Another advantage of betting with an online bookmaker is that you can quickly and easily check out their credentials. Most online bookmakers provide details of their security procedures, and all will display the details of their betting license, making it easy to check with the regulatory authority in your state.
Online bookmakers also provide quick and convenient access to problem gambling advice and guidance.
Convenience
Perhaps the main advantage of betting with an online bookmaker is that it is far quicker and more convenient than older methods of betting on sports.
With just a few clicks, you can check out the prices offered on various markets at dozens of bookmakers, so you can quickly find the best odds.
If your state offers online sports betting, you will have an advantage over those who must travel to retail betting locations. In the time that it takes someone to drive to their local sportsbook, you can check out the full range of available prices and make your bet in comfort.
It is also possible to bet on the move. Most modern online sportsbooks offer a mobile betting service. This will either be in the form of a downloadable app or through an optimized site that makes it possible to access betting markets using a standard mobile browser.
Being able to bet through your mobile device means it is possible to keep up with the latest odds moves, markets and sports betting news without having to take time out of your schedule.
Betting resources
Modern online betting sites are able to offer an array of features and tools that can help you with your sports betting, many of which are only available to online sports bettors. These include:
Bet Builder
A bet builder tool allows you to create your own bet, by adding different regular and prop bets and then adjusting your stake. As with straightforward bets on the spread or the moneyline – the online process of making a bet is far quicker and more intuitive than the retail alternative.
Cash Out
Some online bookmakers will offer the extremely useful Cash Out tool – this is a good way to take advantage of an ongoing event if your bet appears to be successful.
By cashing out your bet you may take a smaller profit but can lock in that profit before the event is finished. Using the Cash Out option can also help you to reduce your losses while the market is still live, whatever your preferred sport.
Betting Guides
Many online betting companies provide extremely helpful guides to betting. These guides cover everything from how a betting market works to tips on how to bet on certain sports.
Often the sportsbook site will also offer betting previews of upcoming events, along with general advice on better betting. You can find guides on almost any sport – from football to horse racing.
Stats and Graphics
Not only do online bookmakers provide access to live streaming that is easily accessible at the click of a mouse or a tap of the screen, but they also support their live betting markets with a variety of graphical and statistical information, ranging from box scores to relative territorial dominance.
These can be helpful when you are looking for the best bet, both in pregame and live betting markets.
Promotions and Bonuses
The online betting world is well known for offering a wide variety of promotions and bonuses. These range from welcome bonuses to ongoing rewards such as cashback, free bets and bettor competitions.
The quality of these promotions can vary widely, and it is important to always check the terms and conditions of any betting offer before you sign up, but they can provide a boost to your sports betting.
Conclusion
Betting on sports is a popular pastime across the US, and the recent development of the sports betting industry in many states has provided many more opportunities to bet on your favorite sport.
It is important to remember that betting should be done in moderation and within your financial limits, but as long as you bet sensibly – online sports betting can be a much better option than visiting a retail betting site.
