Best Esports Betting Sites in Canada for 2024

For those who may be unfamiliar with the term, esports is essentially competitive video gaming. What started as small local events in the early 70s has now turned into a multi-billion-dollar industry with a massive fan base. Over the years, esports has evolved from just a hobby to a professional, high-stakes competition, with players competing for prize money, sponsorships, and more. The rise of esports reflects how gaming culture has evolved and grown over the years, with people from all walks of life finding joy in this form of entertainment.

With its surge in popularity, esports has become an attractive market for sports betting enthusiasts. However, one question that comes to mind is whether users need to be video gamers themselves to bet on esports. The answer is no, you do not need to be a gamer to enjoy and bet on esports. Betting on esports is like betting on any other sport, with users placing wagers on their favourite teams or players.

Esports leagues have become increasingly popular and have reached millions of fans worldwide. Some of the most notable esports leagues include the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS), the Overwatch League (OWL), and the Call of Duty League (CDL). These leagues are home to some of the most popular games, including League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Overwatch, and more.

As this industry continues to grow at a rapid pace, many Canadian betting enthusiasts may be wondering if esports betting in Canada is legal.

The good news is that esports betting in Canada is indeed legal, just like traditional sports betting. As long as you place your bets through licensed and regulated operators, you can enjoy the thrill of betting on your favourite teams and players without any legal concerns.

Plus, several of the world's top esports betting platforms have already entered the Canadian market, offering an extensive selection of esports games and events to bet on, including League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Dota 2, and many more.

As with traditional sports betting, users must be of legal gambling age in their respective province to place esports bets. The good news, however, is that while some knowledge of the games can be helpful, you don't necessarily have to be a video gamer to bet on esports. With a little research and strategic thinking, anyone can potentially profit from the exciting world of esports betting in Canada.

When it comes to choosing the best esports betting site, there are many factors to consider beyond just the odds and payouts. That's why we've done the research and put together a comprehensive list of the most important features that are taken into consideration when rating and ranking these bookmakers. From the top esports leagues to the best bonuses and promotions, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover what sets the best esports betting sites apart from the rest!

• Esports Coverage: A good esports betting site should cover a variety of esports games and leagues, from popular games like League of Legends and CS:GO to up-and-coming titles. The more games and leagues covered, the better.
  Bonuses and Promotions: A bookmaker should offer enticing welcome bonuses, promotions and regular offers to attract and retain customers. The best esports betting sites offer promotions specific to esports betting, such as free bets, enhanced odds, and cashback offers.
• Betting Markets: The range of betting markets offered by a bookmaker is crucial, and it should cover not just the winners of matches but also in-game events like first blood, first to ten kills, and map winner, among others.
  
• Betting Odds: The top betting sites offer competitive odds on a wide range of betting markets. Odds can vary greatly between bookmakers, so it's essential to shop around for the best value.
• User Experience: All esports betting sites should be easy to navigate and use, with a fast and responsive interface. It should also offer a betting app or a mobile-optimized website for betting on the go.
• Payment Options: The top sportsbooks will offer a variety of payment options, including popular debit and credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. They should also allow you to deposit and withdraw in Canadian dollars.
  Customer Support: The quality of customer support is vital when betting online. A good bookmaker should offer a variety of support options, including live chat, email and phone support.
• Security and Licensing: You should only ever place your hard-earned money in the hands of a licensed, reputable regulator and preferably, one that uses SSL encryption to keep your personal and financial information secure.
• Esports-Specific Features: The top-tier esports betting sites offer unique features like live in-play betting, expert analysis, and detailed statistics to help you make informed betting decisions. Some sites also offer fantasy esports, where you can build your own dream team and compete against other players for cash prizes.

If you’re a fan of competitive gaming and you want to put some money on the line, you need to know where to go. Lucky for you, we’ve got a list of the top sites that offer esports betting in Canada. Considering everything from fast payouts to easy-to-use interfaces, let’s dive into it and find the perfect site for your esports betting needs! 

Much like choosing the right hero in a game of Dota 2 or picking the right champion in League of Legends, finding the right betting site to place your esports bets can make all the difference. But how do you separate the good from the bad? Fear not, because we’ve put together a list of the top features to look for in an esports betting site. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to level up your betting game!

• Wide range of games: A good esports betting platform should offer a variety of games to bet on, from popular ones like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, to up-and-coming titles. This allows you to explore and find the game you're most familiar with and confident in.
• Competitive odds: As with any form of betting, odds matter. A platform that consistently offers competitive esports odds ensures that you get the most value for your money and increases your chances of winning big.
• Live streaming: One of the most exciting things about esports betting in Canada is the ability to watch the action unfold in real time. A platform that provides live streaming allows you to watch the matches and events you've bet on and follow the action as it happens.
• Bonuses and promotions: Who doesn't love a good bonus or promotion? Esports betting sites often offer various promotions to new and existing users, such as free bets, deposit bonuses, and cashback deals. These can significantly boost your betting bankroll and help you take more calculated risks.
• User-friendly interface: A good betting platform should be easy to navigate and user-friendly. It should allow you to quickly find the games and events you want to bet on, place your esports bets, and track your winnings.
• Mobile betting: In today's fast-paced world, the ability to bet on the go is a must. An esports betting platform that offers mobile betting allows you to place bets from your smartphone or tablet, giving you the flexibility to bet anytime and anywhere.
• Safe and secure transactions: Finally, safety and security should be a top priority when it comes to betting on esports. A good platform should offer secure and safe transactions, ensuring your personal and financial information is protected at all times.

When it comes to choosing the perfect bookmaker for esports betting in Canada, it all comes down to what you prefer. Once you’ve found a bookmaker that is licensed and legal to operate in Canada, the next step is to explore the range of esports betting markets offered and see if they cover the games and matches you're most interested in. However, you should also pay attention to the quality of the odds and lines in order to make sure you're getting the best possible value for your bets.

If you're someone who likes promotions and bonuses, compare what each bookmaker offers, as well as any other features that can impact your overall experience, such as customer support, and payment options. The right esports bookmaker for you is the one that checks all the boxes, so take your time, do your research, and find the bookmaker that suits your preferences.

Here's how to open an account:

• Step 1: Choose a reputable esports betting site that operates legally in Canada. You can use the list of the best esports betting sites provided on this page to find the right bookmaker that matches your preferences.
• Step 2: Navigate to the bookmaker's website by typing in the URL or clicking on a link.
• Step 3: Click on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button to start the registration process.
• Step 4: Provide your personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and email address, to create your account. It's crucial to enter accurate information as it will be used to verify your identity and process any withdrawals.
• Step 5: Set up your account details by choosing a username and password. Make sure to choose a secure password to protect your account from potential hacking attempts.
• Step 6: Verify your account by following the bookmaker's instructions, which may include providing additional documentation such as a copy of your government-issued ID or a utility bill. This is a standard security measure to ensure only legitimate users can access the platform.
• Step 7: Make your first deposit using one of the deposit options offered by the bookmaker, most of which accept popular credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Choose the option that suits you best and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the deposit process.
• Step 8: Start betting on your favourite esports matches and tournaments with your funded account. Browse the available markets, place your esports bets, and enjoy the excitement of online betting!

Remember to always read the bookmaker's terms and conditions and follow their instructions carefully as the specific sign-up process and requirements may vary.

Esports betting may seem daunting at first, but we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to get started.

Different Markets and Betting Types

When it comes to esports betting in Canada, there are many different markets and betting types available to sports bettors. Here are some of the key options you need to know:

• Match winner: This is a straightforward bet where you pick the winner of a match or series.
• Handicap: Handicap betting involves giving one team or player a theoretical advantage or disadvantage to level the playing field. For example, you might bet on a team to win with a -1.5 handicap, meaning they must win by at least two games or maps to cover the spread.
• Totals: In this type of bet, you wager on the total number of maps, rounds, or games played in a match.
• Futures: This is a bet on the outcome of an event that will take place in the future, such as a tournament winner or player of the year.
• Live betting: As the name suggests, this is betting on esports matches that are already underway. Live betting allows you to react to how a game is playing out and place wagers on the fly.

There are many other types of bets available for esports betting, so make sure to explore all of your options and find the best fit for you.

Esports Odds

As a Canadian sports bettor, understanding odds is crucial to successfully bet on esports. Odds are a way to measure the likelihood of an outcome occurring, and in esports, they can change rapidly depending on the action in the game.

Odds can be presented in different formats, including decimal, fractional, or American odds, but they all convey the same information. The lower the odds, the more likely the outcome, and the higher the odds, the less likely the outcome. For example, if a team has odds of 1.5, you would earn $1.50 for every $1 you bet if that team wins.

Esports odds can vary greatly between different bookmakers and even between different matches within the same tournament. So, it's important to do your research and compare odds across different betting sites to find the best value for your money.

Additionally, it's important to keep in mind that odds are not always an accurate predictor of the outcome, and upsets do happen in esports just like in traditional sports. So, it's important to consider other factors like the teams' recent form, past performances, and head-to-head records when making your bets.

Payout Percentage

The payout percentage is another crucial factor to consider when it comes to esports betting in Canada. It represents the percentage of the total money bet that will be paid back to bettors in winnings over a given period. In the world of esports betting, payout percentages can vary widely, so it's important to choose a bookmaker that offers a high payout percentage to ensure that you get the most value for your bets.

As a sports bettor in Canada, you'll want to choose an esports bookmaker that offers competitive payout percentages. The payout percentage is also known as the return to player (RTP) percentage, and it's typically displayed on the bookmaker's website. Ideally, you should be looking for a bookmaker that has a payout percentage of at least 95% or higher.

Keep in mind that the payout percentage can vary depending on the game you're betting on and the specific bet you're placing. Some bets may have higher payouts than others, so it's important to do your research and choose bets that offer the best value for your money.

Another important factor to consider is the bookmaker's track record for paying out winnings. Look for a bookmaker that has a reputation for prompt and reliable payouts, and avoid those that have a history of delaying or withholding payouts.

As with any form of betting, having a solid strategy can be the difference between winning big and losing it all. Unlike traditional sports, however, esports betting requires an understanding of the specific game being played and the players or teams involved. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get started:

1. Research the game: Before placing any bets, make sure to research the game and the players or teams involved. Learn about their strengths and weaknesses, previous performances, and overall track record. This will help you make more informed decisions when it comes to placing your bets.
2. Know the odds: Understanding the odds is crucial in esports betting. Odds can vary from site to site, so it's important to shop around for the best value. Look for favourable odds on the team or player you want to bet on, but don't forget to consider the payout percentage as well.
3. Keep up with the news: Esports is constantly evolving, with new players and teams emerging all the time. Keeping up with the latest news and trends can give you an edge when it comes to placing your bets. Follow esports news sites and social media accounts to stay up-to-date.
4. Set a budget: It's easy to get carried away when it comes to betting, so it's important to set a budget and stick to it. Don't chase losses and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
5. Consider live betting: Esports matches can be unpredictable, and live betting allows you to adjust your bets as the game unfolds. This can be a great way to hedge your bets or take advantage of shifting odds.

By following these tips and strategies, you'll be well on your way to making informed, successful esports bets.

As esports continues to grow in popularity, the number of leagues and tournaments available for betting is also on the rise. Here's everything you need to know:

• Leagues: Esports has many different leagues, each with its unique format and game titles. These leagues offer a range of tournaments and competitions, with some being more popular than others. The most notable leagues for esports betting include the League of Legends Championship Series (LCS), Overwatch League, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) Pro League.
• Tournaments: Tournaments are the heart of esports, with many held annually or biannually. The tournaments are a great way to bet on the most talented players in the world and the most popular games. Some of the biggest esports tournaments are The International (Dota 2), the League of Legends World Championship, and the Evolution Championship Series (EVO).

Esports Categories

Esports is a vast world with a diverse range of games and categories to bet on, each with its unique set of rules and gameplay. These categories are typically divided into genres, such as fighting games, first-person shooters, real-time strategy, sports games, racing, and multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games.

Fighting games are one-on-one combat games, where players use various techniques and moves to defeat their opponent. Some of the most popular fighting games in esports include Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Super Smash Bros.

First-person shooters are typically team-based games where players take on the role of a character with a weapon, attempting to take out the opposing team. Examples of popular first-person shooter games in esports include Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Overwatch, and Call of Duty.

Real-time strategy games involve building and managing an army or a base while trying to outwit the opponent. Some of the most popular real-time strategy games in esports include Starcraft II, Age of Empires, and Warcraft III.

Sports games simulate various sports, such as football, basketball, or soccer, with players taking on the roles of real-life athletes or their created characters. Examples of popular sports games in esports include FIFA, NBA 2K, and Madden NFL.

Racing games are often simulation games that simulate the experience of driving a car or bike in a race. Popular racing games in esports include Forza Motorsport, Gran Turismo, and Dirt Rally.

Lastly, MOBA games are multiplayer games where players choose a character and work with their team to defeat the opposing team's base. The most popular MOBA games in esports are League of Legends, Dota 2, and Heroes of the Storm.

Now that you have a better understanding of the various categories in esports, you can explore the games and find the ones that you enjoy the most to bet on. Remember to check out our list of the best esports betting sites for Canadians to ensure that you're getting the most out of your esports betting experience!

Most Popular Esports Games

More important than anything else when it comes to esports betting in Canada is knowing which games are the most popular and commonly wagered on. Here are some of the most popular esports games in the world:

• League of Legends: This is one of the most popular esports games in the world, with a huge fan base and professional leagues and tournaments all over the globe. It's a multiplayer online battle arena game, where teams of players compete to destroy the enemy team's base.
• Street Fighter V: Street Fighter V is a fighting game with unique characters and moves, where players compete in one-on-one battles that require fast reflexes, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of each character's strengths and weaknesses. Esports betting markets include individual matches and tournament winners.
• Call of Duty: Call of Duty is arguably the world’s most popular first-person shooter game with high-stakes missions and battles. Multiplayer mode has teams competing to complete objectives and earn points. With a dedicated esports scene, Call of Duty offers markets for predicting match winners and tournament champions.
• Dota 2: Another popular multiplayer online battle arena game, Dota 2 is known for its intense gameplay and strategic depth. It has a massive following and some of the biggest esports tournaments in the world.
• Counter-Strike: Global Offensive: A first-person shooter game, CS:GO has been a staple of the esports scene for years. It's known for its high skill ceiling and intense, fast-paced gameplay.
• Overwatch: This team-based first-person shooter game has gained a large following in recent years, with a professional league and global tournaments.
• Fortnite: This battle royale game has exploded in popularity in recent years, with a massive player base and a growing esports scene.

These are just a few of the most popular esports games out there, but they offer a great starting point for anyone curious about how to get into esports betting.

It’s important for Canadian esports bettors to understand the various promotions and bonuses offered by sportsbooks for several reasons. Not only can they provide additional value and potential profits to the bettor, but they can also allow them to receive free bets, bonus funds, or other perks that can help them win more and potentially earn more money as well. Promotions also encourage bettors to try out new bookmakers or betting markets, expanding their knowledge and experience with esports betting in Canada.

Without further ado, here are some of the most popular promotions and bonuses offered by esports betting sites:

• Welcome Bonus: This is a bonus given to new users who sign up for the bookmaker's services. The bonus can come in the form of free bets, deposit matches, or other rewards. Users should take advantage of this bonus as it is an easy way to increase the amount of money they have to bet with.
• Free Bets: This is a promotion where the bookmaker gives users a certain amount of money to bet with, without requiring a deposit. Users should take advantage of this promotion as it allows them to try out the bookmaker's services without risking their own money.
• Loyalty Program: This is a program where users earn points or rewards for placing bets on the bookmaker's site. Users should take advantage of this program if they plan to do a lot of betting on the site as it can lead to significant rewards over time.
• Odds Boost: This is a promotion where the bookmaker offers higher odds than usual for a particular bet. Users should take advantage of this promotion if they were already planning on making the bet, as it can lead to higher winnings.
• Cashback: This is a promotion where the bookmaker refunds a percentage of a user's losses. Users should take advantage of this promotion if they plan to do a lot of betting on the site, as it can help mitigate losses over time.
• Refer a Friend: This is a promotion where users can earn a bonus by referring their friends to the bookmaker's services. Users should take advantage of this promotion if they have friends who are interested in esports betting, as it can lead to additional funds for betting.