Comprehensive PokerStars Sports review for 2024
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Best sportsbook in your area
As a leading poker room, PokerStars passes with flying colours. But we’re looking for a different kind of action when it comes to sports, and our experts are here to tell you how PokerStars’ sportsbook fares against the competition.
Our PokerStars sports review covers licensing, security features, betting markets, odds, and everything else you need to know before shopping for lines.
Pros and cons
- Partial Cash Out available
- Great loyalty scheme
- User-friendly website
- Technical issues encountered
- FAQ can be improved
- No live streaming
General ratings
General info
Launch date | 2022 |
Company behind | Flutter Entertainment |
Best alternatives to PokerStars sportsbook
Editor's note
This review is based on the operator’s current sports offer in Ontario, Canada.
Expert verdict
Players can make use of the sportsbook’s top-notch software and features and have a great user experience making bets. Therefore, they have no reason to worry about factors such as performance, security, and overall quality.
For PokerStars casino and poker to remain at the forefront of the industry, the company behind it must keep up with the latest technological developments. Fortunately, PokerStars sportsbook does this so well. Furthermore, the operator accommodates a diverse group of gamblers. This is accomplished by providing wagering opportunities across a broad variety of sporting events and categories.
When it comes to online poker and casino sites, PokerStars has long been considered one of the greatest in the world. In addition, there is a variety of features available on the PokerStars Ontario platform. This characteristic has received widespread praise from users.
To conclude, PokerStars is a great sportsbook. However, there is some room for improvement as I mentioned in previous sections of this review.
PokerStars sportsbook: 25 sports to bet on
Upon signing up, you’ll get a list of the sports PokerStars Sports Ontario accommodates. This includes Australian rules football, Cricket, Basketball, Rugby Union, and Boxing. Other options are Soccer, Cycling, Tennis, Darts, Floorball and Football. Additionally, there is Futsal, Gaelic Games, Golf, Handball, Hockey, and MMA. Finally, you have Motor Sports, Oscars, Rugby League, Baseball, Table Tennis, Esports, and Virtuals.
The site offers 24 different sports to players from Canada. It covers all the most widely played, easily accessible, and beginner-friendly online sports betting options. Altogether, this is a fantastic blend that appeals to a wide range of different types of gamblers.
Expectedly, with PokerStars sports Canada you’re able to put bets a few days beforehand. This is due to the fact that the betting schedules are available a week in advance. Additionally, you have the option to place in-play bets.
Sports facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Number of sports | 25 |
Betting markets — Basketball | 150 |
Betting markets — Ice hockey | 2+ |
Betting markets — Football | 40+ |
Esports | Yes |
Other markets (politics/event betting) | Yes |
Hockey, soccer, and basketball are by far the most popular sports in the sportsbook. You may find out more about them by scrolling down to the bottom of the page to the Help link. We will discuss this later in this PokerStars sports review. Alternatively, you may check some of the most popular links on the home page.
Featured betting markets
Available events
Sports and markets rating
- 20+ sports to bet on
- Well-organized betting options
- Mostly major leagues and events on offer
Consider this section of the PokerStars sportsbook betting review to be among the most positive. As anticipated, PokerStars sportsbook didn’t fall short of expectations. It is encouraging to see that the firm has a great deal to offer in this respect with regard to its sportsbook. Notably, the best part is that all these offers are accessible on the PokerStars sports app, and desktop site.
The website provides users with the opportunity to gamble on a total of 24 different sports. In general, this is about average for the industry. Having access to a sportsbook that covers a wide variety of sports is a wonderful luxury. However, PokerStars sportsbook is not yet at a similar level as other sportsbooks such as BetMGM and Unibet.
It would take a lot to be dissatisfied with this place. I figured that a company that’s been around as long as PokerStars would understand the importance of giving players a variety of options. Yet, it does.
Many well-liked sports are available including soccer, basketball, American football, and ice hockey. Moreover, you’ll find handball, cycling, floorball, and darts, as well as other less popular sports, are also available. That’s enough to win me over as a dedicated fan.
It’s awesome that you can wager on events in areas like esports and politics in this sportsbook. There is no need for players to explore elsewhere for these alternatives. PokerStars sportsbook, therefore, ranks higher than other gambling sites such as Bet365 and BetMGM in this aspect.
For those interested in betting on football, PokerStars sportsbook provides access to a wide range of betting options. Spreads, moneylines, and totals are some betting market choices that are available, for example.
PokerStars sportsbook is home to a plethora of different ice hockey leagues for players to participate in. Some examples include the Swedish SHL, the German DEL, the Slovakian Extraliga, the Finnish Liiga, and others.
Betting features at PokerStars Sport
When it comes to ease of use, PokerStars online sports betting site unquestionably has many positives going for it. All the wagering options you could want are available in the sportsbook. These are presented using an intuitive, and straightforward interface.
If you have the ability to cash out your wager, your betting slip will have a button labelled Cash Out. The button displays the amount that may be available at the time of the cash-out. Choosing this option results in immediate action from the sportsbook to resolve your wager.
You may search through the many forthcoming events using the convenient schedule that PokerStars sportsbook provides. It is always at the left far-end of each sport page. The site organizes its betting information well. All of these are presented in a clear layout and properly detailed.
Feature facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Bet Builder | Yes |
Cash Out | Yes |
Live betting | Yes |
Live streaming | No |
Live betting is available. The options and functionality are comparable to those found in good sportsbooks. It is, however, unfortunate that there is no function that allows for live streaming at this time.
Betting features rating
- User-friendly interface
- In-play betting
- No live streaming
Regarding cash-outs, the online sportsbook provides the option in certain but not all of its markets. But this is nothing new as I found most sportsbooks operate this way. Single and multiple wagers during in-play or before the match are available with the cashout feature. So, there is nothing to complain about in this aspect.
The lack of a live stream feature for events is disappointing. Nevertheless, I can say that everything else is quite intuitive and easy to use. PokerStars sportsbook may take a page from the playbooks of Bet365, BetRivers, and BetMGM with regard to the live-streaming function.
You’ll find a wide variety of average betting options at PokerStars’ Canadian sportsbook (not including the missing live stream feature). In this scenario, I think PokerStars might use some tweaks. But we do at least have a cash-out option, in-play betting, bet builder, and downloadable software.
I tested out the platforms on several devices. Interestingly, I found the choice of a device does not compromise the quality of the visual. I was also able to make in-play bets and manoeuvre easily. Impressive software.
PokerStars may not be the fanciest-looking sportsbook. But it sure does deliver which more than compensates. Despite lots of activities on each page, you’re not confused or overwhelmed by information.
Additional features: Parlays. You are allowed to connect up to 20 different options in the PokerStars sportsbook. What’s more, it’s flexible enough to cover an array of sports. The casino’s help section lays out everything you need to know in great detail. The casino also provides enhanced parlays at a price that is 10% more.
PokerStars sportsbook betting odds
Regarding sportsbooks, the odds are one of the most important components. Canadians have a choice among American, fractional, and decimal odds at PokerStars. Hence, they can enjoy the betting experience of their choice.
Occasionally, PokerStars may provide increased odds on certain matches. After all, offering odds comparable with other online sportsbooks is what separates a decent online sportsbook from a fantastic one. And, without a doubt, PokerStars is doing well.
In addition, the request a bet tool allows sports bettors in Canada a one-of-a-kind opportunity to choose their wagers based on the odds that are immediately presented by PokerStars.
Odds facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Average payout | 96.00% |
Boosted odds | Yes |
Parlay boosts | No |
Line movement | Moderate |
You may get additional information on how to request odds or modify the way that they are shown. Just go to the help page and type ‘odds’ into the search field.
Odds rating
- Competitive odds
- Lines are easy to read
- Relatively low live payouts
After checking out PokerStars, I can confidently say that it is a great spot for Major League Soccer games. However, there may be more reliable bookmakers, such as BetRivers, for other competitions.
Incidentally, it’s worth noting that for a few specific sports, you can multiply your chances by a factor of up to 10. This can be achieved by using the spin and bet function that PokerStars provides for its users.
On average, the returns are quite satisfactory. They complement PokerStars’ many offers and rewards well. It is also wonderful that other sports such as football and basketball are not lagging behind each other quite so much.
To sweeten the pot, this sportsbook offers parlay boosts to raise your profits from collected bets. Those familiar with the BetMGM gambling platform will recognise the similarities.
PokerStars’ payouts are average for the Canadian sports betting market. Because of this, bettors interested in a wide variety of sports may place their wagers with confidence. Also, they don’t have to worry about receiving less than they are due.
Payment methods: 9 options
There are a variety of payment options available to Canadian players on the PokerStars casino and sportsbook. It includes Apple Pay, direct bank transfers, instant eCheck, Interac, Mastercard, Muchbetter, PayPal, Instadebit, and Visa.
Each deposit you make at the casino must be at least C$10 using one of the available payment options. You will find this information on the page that addresses frequently asked questions. The casino does not, however, specify the minimum or maximum deposit amounts for any available payment option.
The speed with which you get your cash after that is determined by the withdrawal method you choose. But the fact that the casino provides quite a few different selections is undoubtedly one of the casino’s strongest selling points.
Payment facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Number of payment methods | 9 |
Popular payment | PayPal |
Minimum deposit | C$10 |
Maximum deposit | N/A |
Average deposit time | Instant |
Minimum withdrawal | N/A |
Maximum withdrawal | N/A |
Average withdrawal time | 72 hours+ |
Deposit fees | None |
Withdrawal fees | None |
When you need quick access to your funds, using an electronic wallet is your safest bet. This includes options like MuchBetter and PayPal, among others. The best part is PokerStars offers enough options for people to use their preferences. On the other hand, the typical time for a bank transfer is several business days which is common.
Deposit methods
Withdrawal methods
Payments rating
- Nine solutions to choose from
- Accepts PayPal and Apple Pay
- eCheck only for withdrawals
- Payments-related help sections are glitchy
When it comes to this particular area of the casino, I found it to be nothing short of the ideal. The available payment methods are adequate. Moreover, the sportsbook accommodates a wide variety of clients.
The casino completes transaction processing in a fair length of time and at no additional cost to the customer. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is that certain payment methods may make things more complicated. For instance, they cannot be used for both making deposits and withdrawing funds.
With its variety of funding methods and minimal deposit fees, PokerStars Sports is not lacking in this department. However, I would have appreciated it if the casino had provided more information about its withdrawal and deposit details for the various payment options.
All you need to do is navigate to the Deposit and Withdrawal links and then click on your desired payment method. The casino offers basic information on each payment method (not including deposit and withdrawal fees). Although this is okay, it is not enough for me.
The casino offers a sufficient number of payment methods. However, it can still add more options like what BetMGM offers. Additionally, I would like to see increased levels of openness in this part of the casino.
Safety features at PokerStars
PokerStars’ legit operation has the authorisation to do business in a variety of jurisdictions. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario has issued the business with a licence to conduct operations in the province. In addition, iGaming Ontario has approved it for business.
All relevant online gambling jurisdiction icons are on display at the page footer for your confirmation. With only the European Union licence from the Malta Gaming Authority, you may be certain that your betting service is legitimate.
Everything indicates that the operator provides a secure and honest gameplay experience in accordance with the requirements set out by the regulatory body.
Safety facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Auditing seals | Gambling Lab |
Responsible gambling seals | ConnexOntario, Gambling Therapy, GamCare, RGC, CAMH |
Licences | The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario |
SSL encryption | 128-bit |
Two-factor authentication | Available |
Ever blacklisted? | No |
Deposit, wager, time, and loss limits | All available |
Self-exclusion | Available |
Cooling-off period | Available |
The PokerStars sports betting site has a commendable focus on promoting ethical gambling. And this is a major selling point. One can find at the bottom of the main page some information about the firm. This is followed by a link to some information on responsible gaming.
Licensed by
Trusted by
Safety rating
- Multiple seals of trust
- Encrypted website and app
- Regularly audited to ensure fairness
- No eCOGRA seal of approval
- Slightly weaker security protocols than competition
The bookmaker offers its clients a number of different account limitations to choose from if they experience gambling addiction. It is imperative I emphasize how easily available all of this information is. To me, it exemplifies the most admirable quality of the PokerStars site — its openness.
PokerStars users have the option of imposing many constraints on their accounts, including caps on deposits. The sportsbook also collaborates with legitimate gaming organizations that are licensed to help those who have a problem with gambling.
Players do not have anything for which they should be concerned. They can entirely rely on both the integrity of the programme and the security of the gaming environment. In addition, the sportsbook is up to date with the latest events and matches. It is always providing useful information that bettors can take into consideration.
The operator uses secure sockets layer (SSL) encryption to keep all your PokerStars account data and financial transactions safe and confidential. This is made abundantly obvious by the many methods of payment that may be used on the site.
One may self-exclude, set loss caps, or institute cooling-off periods. In addition to this, PokerStars is completely open and honest about this section of the sportsbook. Sadly, they don’t have anything special to offer. Nonetheless, I think these metrics are rather satisfactory.
Customer support
The overall quality of PokerStars’ support team may need some work. Unfortunately, neither a phone number nor an email address are available for players to contact the sportsbook.
If you have any questions or concerns about the casino, you may reach out to their support staff. This is possible even if you haven’t signed up for an account. However, the only means of communication offered is a live chat feature.
If you take some time to read through the casino’s help section, you may be able to obtain the answers you need without contacting customer service at all. Simply click the Contact Us button at the bottom of the Help page to get in touch with an agent who can answer your questions.
Support facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Customer support availability | 24/7 |
Live chat | Yes |
N/A | |
Contact number | N/A |
On-page support | Help section |
The live chat feature itself is convenient since it can be accessed at any time. When I tried the live chat, I received prompt and helpful responses within a short amount of time.
Support rating
- Support is available 24/7
- Fast response times
- No email or phone support
When I tried to use the live chat feature for the first time, I was connected to a representative who was friendly and helpful. Additionally, he provided prompt responses rapidly.
Despite the good help I received, I am surprised by the fact that there is no help accessible by phone or email. You’d think PokerStars Sports Canada would make this sort of thing impossible. But here we are.
The available support resources are easy to locate. The FAQ section provides thorough and helpful responses to common inquiries. So, it seems fair to give the casino a big thumbs up for this. To me, there is no issue left uncovered in the help centre section.
I must mention that this area of the casino in question is in desperate need of an update. The only thing that keeps this aspect of the sportsbook together is the support team and the help centre. Therefore, PokerStars Sports Canada needs to provide players with additional support options.
Since the live chat is available 24/7, the sportsbook can offer other contact options that will be available during certain hours of the day. All contact options available at certain times of the day will be better than nothing.
Platform and usability
Anyone familiar with PokerStars will tell you that it has an exceptionally well-designed interface. In this respect, the sports betting part of the website is not unlike other parts of the site. Very notable among these are the high-quality poker site or the PokerStars casino.
The bookmaker has taken pains to guarantee that its PokerStars Sports betting app is simple to use so that its clients can place wagers on the go. Upon visiting the site, you will be met with three options: PokerStars casino, poker, and sports.
A brief window appears where you may enter all the information required to register. This makes the process fast and painless. Once you’ve done that, all you have to do is make a deposit, and you’ll be good to go.
Platform facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Mobile app | Yes |
Ease of navigation | Very easy |
Filters | Yes |
Search function | Yes |
Loading speed | 0.3 sec |
UI and UX rating | Excellent |
Other products | Casinos, esports |
Another feature that’s impressive is the quality of the smartphone app. In fact, there’s little difference between any of the supported platforms. It’s surprisingly pleasant and simple to use.
Play on these devices
Platform rating
- Clean user interface
- Intuitive navigation
- Sports section works well
- No search bar
- Multiple support pages down for maintenance or glitchy
I could easily find a link at the very top that took me through all PokerStars Sports Canada’s current deals in one scrolling window. In addition, there are more links that take you to the PokerStars shop and the rewards section.
The interface is intuitive and does not overwhelm users with unnecessary features. So, unlike some other sportsbooks. Neither the website nor the mobile app provides anything particularly novel or innovative. But they are simply great.
I think it’s wrong to have people strive to learn the basics. The platform’s organization into several areas for different kinds of sports is something I like. Fortunately, it seems that my outlook is similar to the folks at the PokerStars sportsbook.
Did I mention that there is no search bar on the main sports page? Could the reason be that the sportsbook has all its available options displayed right at the top of the page? Hence, they figured that the search function was unnecessary. I found this potentially confusing.
Overall, this part of the casino is good. Where the sportsbook lacks in some areas, it makes up for it in others. So maybe that is why I cannot complain much. Honestly, I did not struggle with anything.
FAQs
Is PokerStars Sports a safe sportsbook?
PokerStars has the necessary licences and approvals to operate legally in a few countries and regions. You can be sure that your betting service is authentic since it has been granted a licence by the Malta Gaming Authority, which is valid across the European Union. It has also been granted authorisation to operate in Ontario by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission. PokerStars has also been given the green light by iGaming Ontario. All these licences apply to all PokerStars platforms (PokerStars casino and sportsbook included).
Can I wager on sports at PokerStars Sports in Ontario?
Canadian users may place wagers on 24 different sports on the site. When you sign up with PokerStars Sports Ontario, you’ll get a list of the sports that the site supports. This includes Baseball, Australian rules football, Cricket, Basketball, MMA, Boxing, Cycling, and Esports. More options are Darts, Floorball, Gaelic Games, Football, Hockey, Futsal, Handball, Golf, Oscars, Motor Sports, Tennis, Rugby League, Table Tennis, Soccer, Rugby Union, as well as Virtuals. However, there is no chess or horse racing.
What types of banking methods are available at PokerStars?
Canadian players may choose from several payment methods including Apple Pay, direct bank transfers, quick eChecks, Interac, Mastercard, Muchbetter, PayPal, and Visa. Utilizing a trustworthy electronic wallet is the best option when you want rapid access to your money. The casino includes options such as MuchBetter and PayPal here. However, keep in mind that payment methods such as bank transfers usually take several working days.
What devices is PokerStars Sports Ontario accessible on?
In terms of accessibility, the sportsbook is available on any desktop or mobile device through the PokerStars sports betting app. This also applies to the PokerStars casino and poker room. I tried the platforms on a variety of devices. Fortunately, I discovered that using different devices did not affect the quality of the images in any way. This increased confidence in my ability to place in-play bets and make strategic moves.
How fast are deposits and withdrawals at PokerStars Sports?
Generally, processing times depend on your chosen payment method. PayPal deposits, for example, are instant. Bank transfer withdrawals, on the other hand, may take several business days to process.
PokerStars sportsbook review
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