Best Sportsbooks in Canada

Best Sportsbooks in Canada

Posted on May 18, 2025 by in Gambling
Best Sportsbooks in Canada

Sports betting has become a cornerstone of entertainment for Canadians, fueled by the legalization of single-game betting in 2021 through Bill C-218. This landmark legislation transformed the industry, moving it from restrictive parlay bets to a dynamic, regulated market. As of 2025, Canada’s sports betting scene is vibrant, with a plethora of online sportsbooks offering diverse features, from live streaming to cryptocurrency payments. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer eager to wager on the NHL, CFL, or global events, choosing the right sportsbook is critical for a safe and rewarding experience.

This guide explores the best sportsbooks in Canada for 2025, highlighting their key features, bonuses, and what sets them apart. We’ll also cover the criteria for selecting a top-tier sportsbook, provide tips for responsible gambling, and offer insights into the evolving landscape of sports betting in Canada. With a focus on user-friendly platforms, competitive odds, and robust security, this article aims to help you navigate the crowded market and find the perfect sportsbook for your needs.

The Evolution of Sports Betting in Canada

Sports betting in Canada has a rich history, but its modern era began with significant regulatory changes. For decades, bettors were limited to parlay-style bets through government-run lotteries like Proline, which required wagering on multiple games and offered less favorable odds. This system, while legal, couldn’t compete with the flexibility of offshore betting sites, where Canadians reportedly spent billions annually.

The passage of Bill C-218 in June 2021, effective August 27, 2021, marked a turning point by legalizing single-game sports betting (CBC News). This allowed provinces to regulate sportsbooks independently, similar to U.S. state models. Ontario led the charge, launching a competitive market on April 4, 2022, overseen by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) (Action Network). Other provinces, like British Columbia and Quebec, maintain government-run systems, while some allow offshore operators under specific conditions.

In 2025, the Canadian sports betting market is thriving, with an estimated 19.3 million online gamblers spending over $4 billion yearly, much of it on offshore sites (Made in CA). Partnerships between sportsbooks and major leagues, such as Bet99’s NHL affiliation, have normalized betting within sports culture. Innovations like live betting, mobile apps, and crypto payments continue to enhance the user experience, making 2025 an exciting time for Canadian bettors.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Sportsbooks

Selecting a sportsbook involves evaluating several factors to ensure it meets your needs. Here are the key criteria to consider:

  1. Licensing and Regulation: A reputable sportsbook must be licensed by a recognized authority, such as the AGCO in Ontario, Kahnawake Gaming Commission, or international bodies like the UK Gambling Commission. Licensing ensures compliance with fairness and security standards.
  2. Variety of Sports and Betting Markets: Top sportsbooks offer extensive sports coverage, including major leagues (NHL, NBA, NFL) and niche markets (eSports, lacrosse). Diverse betting options, such as moneyline, point spreads, props, and futures, enhance flexibility.
  3. Competitive Odds: Favorable odds maximize potential payouts. Comparing odds across platforms can reveal which sportsbooks offer the best value, especially for popular events.
  4. User Experience and Interface: A clean, intuitive interface is essential for seamless navigation. The platform should be accessible on desktop and mobile devices, with clear menus and quick access to betting markets.
  5. Mobile App Availability: A dedicated mobile app allows betting on the go, with features like live betting and account management. Apps should be fast, reliable, and available for iOS and Android.
  6. Bonuses and Promotions: Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions add value. Look for reasonable terms, such as low wagering requirements, to ensure bonuses are accessible.
  7. Payment Methods: Multiple secure payment options, including Interac, credit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill), and cryptocurrencies, cater to diverse preferences. Fast deposits and withdrawals are crucial.
  8. Customer Support: Reliable support via live chat, email, or phone ensures quick resolution of issues. 24/7 availability is a significant advantage.
  9. Security and Reliability: Advanced security measures, like SSL encryption, protect personal and financial data. A sportsbook’s reputation for timely payouts and fair play is also vital.

By prioritizing these criteria, you can identify a sportsbook that aligns with your betting style and preferences.

Top Sportsbooks in Canada for 2025

Based on extensive research and the criteria above, the following sportsbooks are among the best in Canada for 2025. Each offers a unique blend of features, making them suitable for different types of bettors.

bet365

Overview: bet365 is a global leader in sports betting, renowned for its extensive sports coverage, innovative features, and user-friendly platform. It’s a top choice for Canadian bettors due to its reliability and comprehensive offerings (The Playoffs).

Key Features:

  • Covers over 30 sports, including NHL, NBA, NFL, soccer, tennis, and niche markets like darts and cycling.
  • Live betting with real-time streaming of thousands of events (requires a funded account or recent bet).
  • Cash Out feature to settle bets early, locking in profits or minimizing losses.
  • Bet Builder+ for creating custom bets in soccer, tennis, and basketball.
  • Over 2,000 casino games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options.
  • Mobile apps for iOS and Android, offering full functionality (Download Here).
  • Payment options include VISA/MasterCard, Interac, Apple Pay, Instadebit, Paysafecard, and wire transfers (min $10).
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.

Bonuses and Promotions:

  • Sports Welcome Bonus: Bet $10, Get $50 in Bonus Bets or $1,000 First Bet Safety Net (use code TPOVIP, expires in 7 days).
  • Casino Welcome Bonus: 100% First Deposit Bonus up to $200 (TPOVIP).

Pros:

  • Industry-leading mobile app with seamless navigation.
  • Extensive live streaming enhances in-play betting.
  • Competitive odds and diverse betting markets.

Cons:

  • Limited mobile-specific promotions.
  • No loyalty program or cryptocurrency support.

User Insights: bet365 is praised for its intuitive interface and live betting features, with a 4.5/5 rating from reviewers (Canada Sports Betting). Some users note occasional geolocation issues with the app, but recent updates have addressed these (Legal Bet Canada).

Sports Interaction

Overview: Sports Interaction (SIA) is a Canadian institution, operating since 1997 as one of the first online sportsbooks for Canadians. Its focus on local sports and robust platform make it a favorite (Canada Sports Betting).

Key Features:

  • Extensive sports coverage, including CFL, NHL, NFL, lacrosse, eSports, and virtual sports.
  • Best-in-class live betting with a user-friendly interface.
  • Mobile app for iOS and Android, mirroring desktop features.
  • Payment methods include Interac E-Transfer, VISA/MasterCard, Apple Pay, and Paysafecard (min deposit $10, min withdrawal $20).
  • VeriSign SSL protection for secure transactions.
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat, email, and toll-free phone (1-888-922-5575).
  • Official betting partner of CFL teams and the National Lacrosse League.

Bonuses and Promotions:

  • No Sweat First Bet up to $400 (125% of first deposit up to $250, 6x rollover, 19+).
  • Weekly Pick ‘Em contest and Refer a Friend Bonus (Bonus Details).

Pros:

  • Trusted Canadian brand with over two decades of experience.
  • Competitive odds, especially on NFL and NHL underdogs.
  • Excellent customer support and intuitive interface.

Cons:

  • No live streaming of events.
  • Separate Ontario site due to AGCO regulations.

User Insights: SIA earns a 5/5 rating for its user-friendly design and local focus (Canada Sports Betting). Some users criticize the bonus wagering requirements, with one Trustpilot review noting a $2,500 playthrough for a $250 bonus (Trustpilot).

TonyBet

Overview: TonyBet, a European operator, has gained traction in Canada for its diverse sports offerings and cryptocurrency support. It’s ideal for bettors seeking flexibility (Canada Sports Betting).

Key Features:

  • Covers football, hockey, eSports, tennis, and more, with detailed statistics for bettors.
  • Excellent live betting with color-coded odds updates.
  • Mobile app for iOS and Android, supporting all betting functions.
  • Accepts cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, except in Ontario) and traditional methods (Interac, VISA, Skrill).
  • 24/7 live chat and toll-free phone support.
  • Licensed by Kahnawake Gaming Commission.

Bonuses and Promotions:

  • Welcome Bonus: 100% up to $700 with code CSBTB (19+, 18+ in Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba).
  • Weekly promotion: Deposit $30, predict 10 bets correctly to win $500.

Pros:

  • Crypto-friendly, appealing to tech-savvy users.
  • Strong live betting experience.
  • Extensive payment options with no withdrawal fees.

Cons:

  • Average odds compared to competitors.
  • No live streaming feature.

User Insights: TonyBet receives a 4.5/5 rating for its sports selection and crypto support, but some reviewers find its odds lackluster and the website design overwhelming (Canada Sports Betting). It’s recommended for casual bettors but may not suit those seeking cutting-edge features.

Bet99

Overview: Bet99 is a Canadian-focused sportsbook that has quickly risen in popularity due to its NHL partnership and user-friendly platform (Legal Bet Canada).

Key Features:

  • Official NHL partner, offering extensive hockey markets.
  • Wide range of prop and novelty bets.
  • Live streaming for NFL and tennis matches.
  • Supports English and French, with a comprehensive help section.
  • Mobile app for iOS and Android, ideal for in-play betting.
  • Payment options include Interac, VISA, MasterCard, and Bank Transfer (min $20).
  • 24/7 support via live chat, email (support@bet99.com), and X (@BET99Sportsbook).

Bonuses and Promotions:

  • Bonuses vary; check the website for current offers (Bet99 Review).

Pros:

  • Fast deposits and withdrawals (48-hour bank transfers).
  • Excellent odds for favorite teams.
  • User-friendly navigation with AI assistant.

Cons:

  • Limited payment methods compared to competitors.
  • Higher minimum deposit and withdrawal limits ($20).

User Insights: Bet99 is highly rated for its Canadian focus and live streaming, earning a 4.5/5 (Covers). Some users note the absence of eSports markets, though support confirms plans to reintroduce them.

Betway

Overview: Betway is a global brand with a strong Canadian presence, offering a vast sportsbook and high-quality mobile apps (Canada Sports Betting).

Key Features:

  • Over 30,000 betting markets, including hockey, eSports, and futsal.
  • Live betting with streaming for select events (requires positive balance).
  • Mobile apps for Android and iOS, rated 4/5 for performance.
  • Payment methods include Interac, VISA, Instadebit, and echeck (min $10).
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat, email (support@betway.com), and phone.
  • Licensed by Malta Gambling Authority and iGaming Ontario.

Bonuses and Promotions:

  • Welcome Offer: 100% deposit match up to $500 (min $10, 10x playthrough).

Pros:

  • Extensive sports and betting markets.
  • Competitive odds and live streaming.
  • Reliable customer service.

Cons:

  • Cluttered website interface.
  • No Bitcoin or PayPal deposits in Canada.

User Insights: Betway earns a 4.5/5 for its market variety and app quality, though some users find the website overwhelming (Canada Sports Betting). Customer service is generally praised, with quick response times.

Comparison Table

Sportsbook Welcome Bonus Mobile App Live Streaming Cryptocurrency Customer Support
bet365 Bet $10, Get $50 or $1,000 Safety Net Yes Yes No 24/7 Live Chat & Email
Sports Interaction No Sweat First Bet up to $400 Yes No No 24/7 Live Chat, Phone, Email
TonyBet 100% up to $700 Yes No Yes 24/7 Live Chat
Bet99 Varies Yes Yes (select) No 24/7 Live Chat & Email
Betway 100% up to $500 Yes Yes No 24/7 Live Chat, Email, Phone

How to Get Started with Sports Betting

Signing Up

  1. Choose a Sportsbook: Select one from the list above based on your preferences.
  2. Register: Visit the sportsbook’s website (e.g., bet365, Betway) and click “Register.” Provide personal details like name, email, and address.
  3. Verify Account: Submit a government-issued ID and possibly a live selfie for verification (24-72 hours for Bet99).

Depositing Funds

  • Navigate to the “Deposit” section after logging in.
  • Choose a payment method (e.g., Interac for instant deposits at Bet99).
  • Enter the amount (min $10 for bet365, $20 for Bet99) and confirm.
  • Funds are typically available instantly, except for wire transfers (1-5 days).

Placing Bets

  1. Browse Markets: Select a sport and event from the homepage or menu.
  2. Choose a Bet: Pick a market (e.g., moneyline, over/under) and odds.
  3. Enter Stake: Input your wager amount and confirm.
  4. Track Bets: Use the “My Bets” section to monitor live or settled bets.

Example: Betting on an NHL Game

Suppose you want to bet on a Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens game:

  • At bet365, you might find odds of -110 for Toronto to win. A $10 bet could return $19.09 if successful.
  • Sports Interaction might offer +120 for Montreal as underdogs, with a $10 bet yielding $22 if they win.
  • Check for prop bets, like “Auston Matthews to score” at Bet99, for added excitement.

Responsible Gambling Tips

Sports betting should be fun, but it’s essential to gamble responsibly. Here are practical tips:

  1. Set a Budget: Decide how much you can afford to lose monthly and stick to it.
  2. Avoid Chasing Losses: Don’t increase bets to recover losses, as this can lead to bigger deficits.
  3. Take Breaks: Step away regularly to maintain perspective.
  4. Use Tools: Set deposit limits, time limits, or self-exclusion periods via sportsbook settings (available at bet365, Betway).
  5. Seek Help: Contact organizations like Gamblers Anonymous or ConnexOntario (ConnexOntario) if gambling becomes problematic.

The Future of Sports Betting in Canada

Looking ahead, Canada’s sports betting market is poised for further growth. Emerging trends include:

  • Increased Regulation: Provinces like British Columbia may open to private operators, following Ontario’s model (Covers).
  • Technological Advancements: AI-driven betting insights and virtual reality betting experiences could enhance engagement.
  • Crypto Adoption: More sportsbooks may follow TonyBet’s lead in accepting cryptocurrencies.
  • Advertising Restrictions: Bill S-269, aimed at limiting sports betting ads, may impact marketing if passed before the 2025 election (National Magazine).

New sportsbooks, like Instant Sports or Coin Casino, are entering the market with innovative features, but established players like bet365 and Sports Interaction remain dominant (Cardplayer).

Conclusion

Canada’s sports betting landscape in 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for bettors, with top sportsbooks like bet365, Sports Interaction, TonyBet, Bet99, and Betway leading the way. Each platform excels in different areas, from bet365’s live streaming to TonyBet’s crypto support, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for every bettor. By prioritizing licensing, odds, and user experience, you can select a sportsbook that enhances your betting journey.

Always bet responsibly, using tools and resources to maintain control. Explore these sportsbooks, take advantage of their bonuses, and enjoy the thrill of sports betting in Canada’s dynamic market.

 

  • Tags :
Online Casinos

Stars Casino

Stars Casino: Get $100 bonus cash + 200 bonus spins

Stars Casino

Stars Casino: Get $100 bonus cash + 200 bonus spins

Top Online Bingo sites