Sports betting in Ontario — all you need to know
Since the introduction of legal single-game wagering in Ontario, the industry’s best sports betting sites are bringing top-tier competitive action to punters in the province.
Our lineup of sports experts is ready to tackle every aspect of betting on sports online, so no curveball catches you off guard. Discover top sportsbooks and what sets them apart, from markets and odds to payments and mobile compatibility.
Recommended sportsbooks in Ontario, Canada
- 🏆 BetVictor sportsbook — Best sportsbook overall
- 🥈 Casumo sportsbook — Fastest payouts
- 🥉 BetRivers sportsbook — Best payment options and novelty bets
- PartySports — Competitive odds
- bet365 sportsbook — Most reliable sportsbook operator
- LeoVegas sportsbook — Safe and dependable bookie
- Betano sportsbook — Best for soccer and uncommon markets
| Sportsbook logo | Odds rating | Bonus | Go to sportsbook Button | Show more | T&C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1
|
91/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 88% Playscore based on |
Most reputable sportsbook
|
Play |
Good to know
4 payment methods 
|
|
2
|
91/100 Expert Rating by Dasha G. 83% Playscore based on |
Best for quick withdrawals
|
Play |
Good to know
5 payment methods
|
|
3
|
90/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 83% Playscore based on |
Great for live betting and forecasts
|
Play |
Good to know
4 payment methods
|
19+. Terms and conditions apply. Play responsibly. Connexontario.ca |
4
|
89/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 88% Playscore based on |
Best for novelty betting
|
Play |
Good to know
6 payment methods
|
|
5
|
89/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 89% Playscore based on |
Excellent betting odds
|
Play |
Good to know
7 payment methods
|
|
6
|
88/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 95% Playscore based on |
Most reliable operator
|
Play |
Good to know
9 payment methods
|
bet365 operates pursuant to an agreement with iGaming Ontario. #ad |
7
|
88/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 90% Playscore based on |
Great range of sports
|
Play |
Good to know
7 payment methods
|
19+. Terms and conditions apply. Play responsibly. Connexontario.ca |
8
|
87/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 86% Playscore based on |
Great for hockey and basketball
|
Play |
Good to know
5 payment methods
|
|
9
|
81/100 Expert Rating by Elena I. 82% Playscore based on |
User-friendly platform
|
Play |
Good to know
6 payment methods
|
Editor’s note
This overview is a work in progress based on the current offer in Ontario. There are other licensed sportsbooks in the province, and our expert analysts are working on bringing you more in-depth and unbiased reviews.
Please note that our rankings may change as we expand our coverage of the developing market.
Our top three recommendations
We’ve carefully handpicked these platforms by meticulously evaluating their offerings, ensuring they stand out in features, markets, and overall user experience.
Join us as we delve into the reasons behind our choices and provide insights into why these sportsbooks deserve your attention.
🏆 #1. BetVictor
One of the highest-rated bookies, BetVictor brings decades of experience on the international scene to Ontario. You’ll find 32 sports on offer, esports, politics, and virtual sports among them as the only non-traditional sporting options.
The platform loads fast (1.6s), filling the betslip is intuitive and seamless, and all industry-standard safety measures are in place. The only downside is the subpar site navigation, but otherwise you’re in for a reliable bookie that goes above and beyond in sports coverage.
🥈#2. Casumo
Casumo’s sportsbook is highly recommended by our reporters for exceptional customer care and the fastest withdrawals on the market (instant with MuchBetter) — all on a modern, engaging platform. Casumo sports delivers an excellent mobile app and a responsive interface as well, a priority for over 70% of our readers (tested on PC, Mac, Android, iPhone, and iOS/Android/Windows tablets).
You have 29 sports to choose from, hundreds of betting markets, competitive in-play odds, and heaps of betting perks, including odds boosts on parlays and live-bet insurance.
🥉#3. BetRivers
BetRivers is a reliable bookie known fair terms, rewarding play, and 33 sports on offer (with sub-categories in esports, motorsport, and winter sports). BetRivers also offers round-the-clock house specials and other props, offering one-of-a-kind bets on world events like the Olympics, run-of-the-mill sporting matches, and other novelty markets.
The 11 tiers of iRush Rewards (BetRiver’s loyalty programme), is one of the best currently on offer in Ontario, packing rewards like tickets to exclusive VIP events, expedited withdrawals, luxury gifts, merch, and dozens of on-site perks and boosts.
Sports betting resources
This curated collection of articles delves into essential topics that matter most to sports bettors.
Whether you’re seeking top-notch betting sites, reliable payment methods, insights into in-play betting strategies, or a deep dive into soccer betting, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our expertly crafted articles to further your understanding and proficiency in sports wagering.
Sports that you can bet on
We get it; sometimes, online sports betting can be overwhelming. And that’s because there are a lot of betting options out there. You can bet on sports such as football, hockey, basketball and more in Canada.
The best betting site will make sure that you can bet on a variety of sports and events. A top online sportsbook won’t just offer sports; some will offer world events and even award ceremonies like the Oscars.
Ice hockey
Hugely popular in Canada, there is a massive selection of different tournaments to go for here. However, the top event is the winner of the Stanley Cup.
Basketball
In another popular sport, there are many leagues to bet on, but the NBA remains the top option. College basketball betting is also popular here, and in-play bets can be made.
Football
Both American and Canadian football leagues and tournaments are prevalent in Canada. However, the Super Bowl is the big draw. Parlays are one of the top options and the opportunity to engage in single-game wagering.
Baseball
The MLB is the biggest tournament in baseball for Canadians. It also has a wide array of betting lines and the chance to participate in live bets.
Soccer
There are numerous bet options when it comes to soccer. Some of the most popular include the English Premier League, Bundesliga and other European leagues.
Esports
These are teams or individuals competing against each other in video games, including Counter-Strike and League of Legends.Leagues and events
Embarking on a journey through Canadian sports passion, we delve into the leagues and events that deeply resonate with Canadian fans.
The below popular events, including NHL and NFL, shape the landscape of Canadian sports culture and foster a sense of unity among fans who share an unwavering devotion to the game.
NHL
NHL betting sites are online platforms where users can bet on National Hockey League (NHL) games. They offer various betting options and markets, enhancing the hockey experience with dynamic wagering opportunities.
NFL
The NFL, or National Football League, is a popular American football league with teams across the U.S. It remains popular among Canadian bettors, attracting massive viewership and significant sports betting engagement.
MLB
MLB, or Major League Baseball, is a prestigious professional baseball league with teams from the U.S. and Canada. Its rich history and popularity make it a prime focus for sports enthusiasts and bettors.
NBA
The NBA, or National Basketball Association, is a premier professional basketball league with prominent games, superstar players, and a competitive spirit that attracts substantial viewership and sports betting engagement.
Best sports betting apps
Discover the finest betting apps tailored for Canadian bettors. With user-friendly interfaces, diverse betting options, and secure transactions, these top-notch apps cater to both seasoned bettors and newcomers.
🏆#1. LeoVegas
LeoVegas’s app is a top choice for Canadian bettors, available on iOS and Android devices. This versatile app delivers live betting and live streaming capabilities directly to your mobile, allowing you to engage with ongoing matches while placing bets on the go. LeoVegas’s seamless integration of live features on mobile creates an immersive and dynamic betting experience for Canadian sports enthusiasts.
| 🏒Sportsbook | 📱App type | 🟩 Operating system |
|---|---|---|
| LeoVegas | Native | iOS, Android |
🥈#2. PartySports
The PartySports sportsbook app provides a user-friendly interface for effortless navigation. Its rapid loading speed enhances the efficiency of placing bets and accessing markets, making it a top choice for those seeking a seamless mobile wagering experience. From live betting to in-depth statistics, the app brings all the functionalities of the sportsbook site directly to your phone.
| 🏒Sportsbook | 📱App type | 🟩 Operating system |
|---|---|---|
| PartySports | Native | iOS, Android |
🥉#3. bet365
The bet365 mobile app boasts over 35 sports, catering to diverse sports enthusiasts. It seamlessly mirrors the comprehensive betting features of the sportsbook site, offering everything from live betting to in-depth statistics. With its wide range of options and full functionality, bet365 sportsbook app is the ultimate choice for convenient and feature-rich mobile betting.
| 🏒Sportsbook | 📱App type | 🟩 Operating system |
|---|---|---|
| bet365 | Native | iOS, Android |
Legal online sports betting in Canada
Recently, in Canada, sports betting took a massive step forward with the legalization of single-game wagering. Bill C-218, the regulated sports betting act, began in 2021. However, since then, sports gambling has only taken off in Ontario. Single-game betting in Ontario is now fully live and accessible to players in that province, meaning there are many legal sports betting sites to try out.
Throughout the rest of Canada, online sports betting is also growing. Six other provinces have also legalized and currently allow single-game wagering in their territories. The difference between sports betting in Ontario and other provinces is that single-game wagering across the latter is restricted to a single approved platform in each province, like PlayNow and ALC. No matter where you are in Canada, there remains a minimum age limit of 19 to access a sportsbook, just like online casinos.
| Territory | Is single-game sports betting legal? |
|---|---|
| Ontario | Yes |
| Quebec | Yes – restricted |
| British Columbia | Yes – restricted |
| New Brunswick | Yes – restricted |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Yes – restricted |
| Nova Scotia | Yes – restricted |
| Prince Edward Island | Yes – restricted |
| Manitoba | Yes – restricted |
| Alberta | Yes – restricted |
| Saskatchewan | No |
| Nunavut | No |
| Yukon | No |
| Northwest Territories | No |
How to bet on sports: step-by-step guide
If you’re ready to dive into sports betting in Ontario, the next step is to sign up with a betting site. We’re here to simplify this process for you.
To start placing sports bets online, choose a sportsbook from the above sportsbook list or explore based on our ratings. Once on the site, follow our step-by-step guide below, and you’re good to go!
- Choose your preferred sportsbook
- Make an account and verify your identity
- Deposit funds using your preferred payment option
- Choose a sport, match, and line you’d like to bet on
- Select your bet and verify your betslip
- Wait for lines to close and the match to wrap up; your bets will be processed shortly after
Understanding bet types and odds
Based on the sports event, Canadian betting sites have various bet types available. A wide array of options are available, especially now that single-game sports betting is on offer in Ontario. Canada sports betting most commonly offers moneyline bets where you choose which team or player will win. But, if the teams are evenly matched, point spreads are better.
Other options include over/under bets, where you try to guess the number from a game statistic, such as the total number of touchdowns scored. But there are many more options, too. Additionally, you also need to understand how odds are written. Single-game betting lines are commonly written as American, fractional, or decimal odds. Understanding these is the key to getting the best odds and good payouts. Check out the different bet types and how to read them.
Straight
The most basic of bets is a bet on one team or player to win. The most common straight bets involve simply betting on a team to cover the point spread. Your chosen team must win by the specified points to pay out.
System
Similar to a parlay, system bets also contain multiple legs. But, unlike a parlay, you don’t need to guess all legs correctly to get a payout.
Parlay
This type of bet ups the excitement. By taking on parlay bets, you combine multiple straight bets into one. However, all bets need to come true if the parlay is to payout.
In-play/live
Live betting includes an array of different bet types. The only difference here is that these bets can be placed during a match rather than before it. Additionally, you can adjust your bets and cash out early as the game unfolds.
Decimal
Reading decimal odds is easy as these are shown as a single number. This is simply the amount a winning bet would get on a C$1 bet. If the odds are seven, you’ll get C$6 plus your original C$1 bet.
Fractional
These odds have two numbers to look at. The bottom number is the bet amount, while the top is the winnings. So, if your odds are 4/5, then your bet is C$5, and you’d win C$4.
Moneyline or American
These odds have positive and negative signs before the numbers. A positive sign denotes the underdog, while the favourite has a negative. So, if a team is +150 this means that when you bet C$100 you can win C$150. However, if the odds are -150, you must bet C$150 to win C$100.
Tips for success in online sports betting
In Canada, sports betting and single-game sports betting are growing in popularity. So, we thought we would take the time to provide some top tips for playing online. If you decide to start sports betting in Ontario, you should first make sure you are playing at an online casino registered within the province. We have a list of the best sports betting sites here.
Also, we recommend finding a site with the best betting odds, so you instantly get a chance at a good payout. Additionally, we recommend choosing in-play betting so that you can watch the action unfold. However, we thought we’d put it out there, but with single-game betting, you don’t need to be an expert in the sport to succeed. Here are some more tips:
Shop for lines
Choose a site that offers competitive and fair betting lines.
Diversify
Select a sportsbook with a wide range of betting options.
Pick what you know best
Pick a sport you’re more interested in, and don’t make uninformed predictions.
Manage your bankroll
Make a betting budget and stick to it.
Gamble responsibly
Remember, betting is for fun — don’t chase losses.
Pros and cons of online Ontario sports betting
Online sportsbooks have much to offer, but how do they compare to placing bets offline? For starters, online sportsbooks can generally provide a vastly wider array of bets. This often means you can find more unusual betting options online, too.
However, playing in person at an offline bookie brings a more communal feel as you chat and bet with a real person. However, online sports betting platforms can provide more competitive odds as they have fewer overheads. Your winning payout is often bigger than when betting at a land-based venue.
Finally, let’s look at the pros and cons of online betting sites right here.
- Convenient and accessible betting
- Easy-to-use betting sites and apps
- A diverse range of sportsbooks
- Wide selection of sports
- A variety of betting features
- Internet connection required
- Withdrawals can take up to 7 days
All you need to know about sports betting
Navigating the world of online sportsbooks can be daunting due to the multitude of options available. To simplify your online betting experience, we evaluate and rate sports betting platforms based on several key criteria.
These include factors like odds, security, and available markets. Our transparent ranking methods empower you to make informed decisions or even create your own evaluations of sports betting sites.
Sports betting markets/events
When evaluating online sportsbook reviews, focus on the betting market variety. Look for sites offering at least 20 diverse sports to bet on, including non-professional options like college basketball. Ensure major sports leagues from around the world are represented. Avoid sites with less than 10 events for limited diversity.
Odds
Betting odds are key in sports gambling. They indicate potential payouts for winning bets. Understand different odds formats and choose bookmakers with competitive odds and updated lines. Reputable sites offer options like American, fractional, and decimal odds. Avoid sites with poor odds.
Payments
For successful betting, a variety of payment methods is essential. A top platform offers 10+ options, including e-wallets, cards, and bank transfers, ensuring fast and fee-free transactions. Beware of sites with fewer than five methods, slow transactions, and hidden fees. Choose wisely for seamless sports betting.
Safety
Prioritizing your security is paramount. Confirm whether the betting site holds a valid Ontario license to ensure you engage with safe sportsbooks. If not, seek licensed alternatives. For Canadian betting sites offering legal sports betting, assess their data security measures. Reputable platforms feature strong encryption, such as 256-bit SSL (128-bit is acceptable). Also, check for a locked padlock icon in the URL bar. Avoid sites without these security indicators. Focus on platforms that share your commitment to security.
Mobile
Understanding the importance of mobile sportsbooks and apps is key. Not all platforms offer both, so ensure mobile access. If a site has a mobile option, prioritize seamless betting. Look for platforms with easy bet placement, clear game info, smooth navigation, and in-game betting. Avoid sites with weak mobile versions lacking features compared to desktop sites.
Customer support
Regarding customer support at sportsbooks, you need to know that most betting sites prioritize a smooth experience for Canadian bettors. However, dependable assistance is crucial when you need it. Top platforms offer multiple contact options, including fast-response live chat, email, and phone support. A single contact method lowers the ranking, and the lack of 24/7 support or slow response times further impacts the site’s rating. The goal is prompt issue resolution to get you back to wagering quickly.
Usability
You’re looking for a site that’s a breeze to navigate. Picture this: a clean layout, pleasant colours, nothing jarring. Think clear menus with all the key sections neatly listed, accessible with a simple click. And when it comes to sports betting, finding sports, tournaments, leagues, and betting options should be a piece of cake. Avoid sites with messy layouts, excessive graphics, and hard-to-read fonts. Stick to platforms that make betting stress-free and straightforward.
Player reviews
When considering sportsbooks, evaluating the opinions of the gambling community is a vital step. Considering what fellow Canadian sports enthusiasts say about various sports betting platforms is important. Reading player reviews helps you assess the reliability of each sportsbook. Prioritizing sites with positive feedback over those with negative comments ensures that the recommended options truly align with your preferences.
Betting features and overall offer
Understanding the importance of betting features is key. These elements can greatly enhance your betting experience. From loyalty programs to quick cashouts, top sites offer various benefits. In today’s landscape, in-play betting and live streams are essential. Beyond mainstream sports, sites that provide options like esports and novelty bets create a more diverse experience. These features make your time on the platform more exciting and enjoyable.
FAQs
Which are the best online sportsbooks in Canada?
Sports betting in Canada is growing, which means more and more betting sites. But choosing the best betting site can be hard if you don’t know what to look for. We have a number of specific criteria you can use to rate the different sportsbooks out there. Alternatively, you can pick a site from our top list. Whatever you do, always make sure it holds an Ontario iGaming licence.
What are betting odds?
Betting odds are the numbers placed on the likelihood of an outcome in a game. Depending on where you are, odds can be represented in a number of ways, such as fractional, decimal or moneylines. Essentially, odds tell you how much you can expect to win if you bet on a specific outcome. The lower the odds, the more likely the event is to occur, but the smaller the payout and vice versa.
What sports can I bet on in Canada?
Excitingly, a wide array of sports are available in Canadian sportsbooks. Some popular sports wagers available are those for Major League Baseball (MLB), basketball, the National Football League (NFL), and hockey. There are a huge number of American sports betting options to be found on Canadian betting platforms. Additionally, you can enjoy horse racing, college football and various global sports such as soccer, tennis, golf and F1.
How can I bet online in Canada?
In Canada, sports betting is getting very big, which makes it easy to place sports bets online. All you need to do is find a site that offers sport. You will then need to make an account on your chosen site. Top sites will require that you verify your account, and once that’s done, you’ll be able to link a payment method, make a deposit and start betting.
What exactly is sports betting?
Sports betting is where you place a bet on the outcome of a sporting event. This can be anything from a football game to an esports event. You can place a range of bets, boosting the excitement of watching a game. As well as watching your favourite team, by placing a bet, you also have a personal stake in the outcome.
What types of bets are there in sports betting?
A range of different bet types are available, and understanding them is key to your playing success. For instance, there are now single-event sports betting options, which means placing a bet on just one tournament or league event. Within this overarching bet type, there are myriad different options. You can place parlays where you can combine multiple bets, props where you bet on team or player events within a game, outright on the final game result and many more.
When was it legal to bet on sports in Canada?
Canada legalized sports betting back in 1996 when it was permitted for players to place bets on three to six sporting events at one time. However, it wasn’t until much more recently that players have been able to place single-game bets on sporting events. This change occurred in early 2021 when the new bill, C-218, was passed. Ontario is the only province with access to single bets, but most other provinces have legalized it. Implementation is likely only months away.
Sources
- https://www.igamingontario.ca/en
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/canada-sports-betting-1.6138865
