Best Betting Bonuses

No beating around the bush – let’s get straight to the point.

Whether you’re new to sports betting or a seasoned player searching for the best deals, we’ve got you covered.

Online bookmakers frequently offer exciting promotions to attract players, such as deposit bonuses, free bets, cashback rewards, boosted odds and much more.

Discover the latest sign up offers from our betting partners.

Best Betting Bonuses with Sportsbook.guru

Betting bonuses have been a fundamental part of the sportsbook industry for years, serving as an incentive for placing wagers. Bookmakers use these promotions to attract new customers and enhance the overall betting experience.

One of the most common offers is a deposit bonus, typically ranging from 50% to 200% of the deposited amount. Many sportsbooks also provide free bet promotions, where the bonus amount is often linked to the size of the qualifying deposit. These bonuses help create additional value, giving bettors more opportunities to explore different markets and betting options.

At Sportsbook.guru, we’re passionate about making sports betting more accessible. Our goal is to introduce you to some of the most exciting betting bonuses and promotions available, helping you find options that align with your interests.

Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out, we aim to simplify your search and provide inspiration for your next betting adventure. Explore what’s out there and make the most of your bets with Sportsbook.guru.

A Guide to the Different Betting Markets in Online Sports Betting

Sports betting has increasingly moved online in recent years, and as a result, betting shops are no longer as common on high streets as they once were.

Many still appreciate the unique experience of placing bets at a local bookmaker, but the convenience of online platforms has reshaped the industry.

Traditional betting markets, a wide range of new betting options has emerged. Today, online betting sites allow you to bet on almost every aspect of a match, from goalscorers to corners, bookings, total shots, possession percentages, and even throw-ins.

Understanding these core betting markets makes betting more straightforward and helps you make better-informed decisions.

1X2 Betting

1X2 betting, also known as match result betting or three-way betting, is one of the most popular and straightforward forms of sports betting. It is primarily used in football, ice hockey, and other sports where a draw is a possible outcome.

In a 1X2 bet, you predict the match result:

1 – The home team wins.
X – The match ends in a draw.
2 – The away team wins.

With its universal availability across nearly all sportsbooks, 1X2 betting is a great option for all types of bettors. Its straightforward structure makes it easy to understand, while odds comparison is simple, allowing players to find the best value for their bets.

Over/Under Betting (Totals)

Over/Under betting, also known as Totals, is one of the most popular ways to bet on sports. Instead of predicting the winner of a match, you’re betting on whether the total number of points, goals, or other key statistics will be over or under a specific threshold set by the bookmaker.

While Over/Under bets are most commonly used for total points or goals, many sportsbooks offer totals markets on other in-game statistics.

For example, in football, you can bet on the number of yellow cards or corners in a match. In basketball, you can place Over/Under bets on a player’s total assists or rebounds. This makes totals betting a versatile option for those who enjoy analyzing different aspects of the game rather than just the final score.

Asian Handicap Betting

Asian Handicap is a popular betting market in football and basketball that eliminates the draw option by giving one team a goal or point handicap. This system helps balance matches where one team is significantly stronger, offering better odds and strategic value.

How It Works:

• In football, a team with a -1.5 goal handicap must win by at least two goals for the bet to win.
• In basketball, a team with a -5.5 point handicap needs to win by at least six points to cover the spread.
• In tennis, a player with a -2.5 game handicap must win by at least three more games than their opponent (e.g., 6-4, 6-4 = +4 games).

Asian Handicap isn’t just for match results—it applies to various in-game stats as well:

• Football: Corner or pass handicaps
• Basketball: Rebound or assist handicaps
• Tennis: Set or game handicaps

This flexibility makes Asian Handicap one of the most strategic betting markets, appealing to both beginners and experienced bettors.

Moneline Betting

Moneyline betting is one of the simplest and most popular betting markets worldwide. Unlike point spreads or handicaps, a moneyline bet focuses solely on picking the outright winner of a game or match—there are no margins, point differences, or complex calculations involved.

Your task is straightforward: choose which team or player will win. If your selection wins, so do you.

Moneyline betting is particularly popular in sports that always play to a result, meaning there is no possibility of a draw. This includes basketball, ice hockey, baseball, American football, and tennis, where a winner is always determined, either through overtime or by set-based scoring in individual matches.

Thanks to its simplicity and accessibility, moneyline betting remains a go-to market for both beginners and experienced bettors, offering a clear and direct way to place wagers.

Draw No Bet Betting

Draw No Bet (DNB) is a popular and strategic betting market that eliminates the risk of losing due to a draw. If the match ends in a draw, your stake is refunded, meaning there are only two possible outcomes: a win for either team.

This makes Draw No Bet a safer alternative to traditional 1X2 betting, where a draw would result in a lost bet. It is particularly useful in tightly contested matches, where teams are evenly matched, and the risk of a draw is high.

DNB is widely used in football and other sports where draws are common, offering a balanced mix of risk and security for cautious bettors looking to protect their stake while still backing a winner.

Draw No Bet is essentially the same as Asian Handicap +0, meaning your stake is refunded if the match ends in a draw

Both Teams to Score (BTTS) Betting

Both Teams to Score, commonly known as BTTS, is a simple yet exciting betting market where you predict whether both teams will score at least one goal in a match. Unlike traditional bets, the final result doesn’t matter—all that counts is whether both teams find the back of the net.

There are two possible outcomes:

• Yes (BTTS): Both teams score at least once during the match.
• No (BTTS): At least one team fails to score.

Correct Score Betting

Correct Score betting is a high-risk, high-reward market where you predict the exact final score of a match. Unlike simpler markets such as 1X2 or Over/Under, Correct Score betting demands precision, making it one of the most challenging yet potentially lucrative betting options.

To win a Correct Score bet, you must correctly predict the exact score at full-time.

Handicap Betting (European Handicap)

European Handicap, also known as 3-way handicap betting, is a popular market that adds an extra layer of strategy to traditional betting. Unlike Asian Handicap, which eliminates the draw, European Handicap offers three possible outcomes: Home Win, Draw, or Away Win.

This market assigns a virtual advantage or disadvantage (in goals) to one team, creating a more balanced betting scenario while maintaining the standard 1X2 format.

Win to Nil Betting

Win to Nil is a popular betting market where you predict that a team will win the match without conceding a goal. This bet combines two conditions: the selected team must win, and their opponent must fail to score. If either condition isn’t met, the bet is lost.

Win to Nil bets are particularly popular in low-scoring sports, where matches often have few goals or points. This makes them a common choice in football, but they can also be used in other sports with low-scoring outcomes, such as ice hockey or rugby.

To place a First Goal Scorer bet, simply select the player you think will score the first goal of the match. The odds depend on various factors, including the player’s position, recent form, and overall goal-scoring ability.

There is also a similar market where you bet on which team will score the first goal, rather than an individual player. However, this is considered a different betting market and typically comes with lower odds due to the reduced risk.

First Goal Scorer Betting

First Goal Scorer betting is particularly popular in football and ice hockey, where predicting individual scorers can offer high-value odds, and many sportsbooks also offer betting on the Last Goal Scorer, where you predict the player who will score the final goal of the match. This market works similarly to First Goal Scorer betting, but instead of focusing on the opening goal, it applies to the game's closing moments.

However, many sportsbooks also offer a similar market in basketball, such as betting on the first player to score in an NBA game.

Anytime Goalscorer Betting

To place an Anytime Goalscorer bet, simply select a player you believe will score at any point during the match. Unlike First Goal Scorer betting, it doesn’t matter when they score—as long as they find the net at least once, your bet wins. The odds depend on factors such as the player's position, recent form, and goal-scoring ability.

There is also a similar market where you bet on a player to score multiple goals (e.g., two or more goals or a hat-trick). These bets come with higher odds but require more precise predictions.

Anytime Goalscorer betting is especially popular in football and ice hockey, where individual goal-scoring stats play a big role.

Important: Always check the bookmaker’s rules for this market before placing a bet. Some betting sites require the selected player to be in the starting lineup for the bet to be valid, while others count the bet as active as long as the player makes an appearance, even if only briefly. In rare cases, certain bookmakers may keep the bet valid regardless of whether the player takes part in the match at all, but this is uncommon. To avoid surprises, always review the terms and conditions before placing an Anytime Goalscorer bet.

Outright Betting

Outright betting involves predicting the overall winner of a tournament, league, or event. Unlike match-specific markets, this type of bet focuses on long-term outcomes, such as who will win the Champions League, the Premier League, or the FIFA World Cup.

However, outright bets are not limited to sports. Many sportsbooks also offer markets on major political events like who will become the next U.S. president, as well as entertainment-based bets, such as who will win the Eurovision Song Contest.

It’s a popular choice among bettors who enjoy following competitions over time, offering opportunities to spot value odds before or during a season.

Half-Time/Full-Time (HT/FT) Betting

Half-Time/Full-Time (HT/FT) betting involves predicting the result at both half-time and full-time. This market is more challenging than traditional match result betting but offers higher odds due to its increased difficulty.

With an HT/FT bet, you are predicting two separate outcomes:

1. The match result at half-time
2. The match result at full-time

Since teams can perform differently in each half, this market provides nine possible betting combinations, such as:

• Home/Home (HH): The home team leads at half-time and wins at full-time.
• Draw/Home (DH): The match is tied at half-time, but the home team wins at full-time.
• Away/Draw (AD): The away team leads at half-time, but the match ends in a draw.

HT/FT betting is especially popular in football, where tactical changes, stamina, and game momentum can significantly impact first-half and second-half performances.

Live/In-Play Betting

Live Betting, also known as In-Play Betting, allows you to place wagers on a match while it’s happening. Odds update in real-time based on the flow of the game, giving bettors the opportunity to react to key moments, momentum shifts, and unexpected events.

Bookmakers provide dynamic odds for various betting markets throughout the match, including:

• Next Goal Scorer – Bet on which player will score the next goal.
• Total Goals – Wager on whether the total number of goals will go over or under a given threshold.
• Match Winner – Predict which team will win based on the current state of play.

Live betting is especially popular in football, tennis, and basketball, where game dynamics change rapidly, allowing bettors to capitalize on shifting odds and in-game momentum.

Types of Sports Betting Bonuses

Online sportsbooks offer a variety of bonuses and promotions to attract new players and reward loyal customers. These bonuses can provide extra betting funds, free bets, or risk-free opportunities, allowing bettors to place wagers with reduced risk or increased value. Below are some of the most common sports betting bonuses and how they work.

First Deposit Bonus (Cashable Bonus) – The bookmaker matches a percentage of your first deposit with bonus money, which can be withdrawn after meeting wagering requirements.

Free Bet – A risk-free wager where you keep the winnings but not the stake if your bet wins.

Risk-Free Bet – If your bet loses, you receive a refund as cash or bonus funds.

Boosted Odds - Boosted Odds, also known as enhanced odds, are special promotions where sportsbooks increase the odds on selected bets, offering higher potential payouts.

Each bonus type has specific terms and conditions, including wagering requirements, minimum odds, and expiration dates. Understanding these details helps you maximize the value of sports betting promotions.

First Deposit Bonus (Cashable Bonus)

A First Deposit Bonus is one of the most common welcome offers in sports betting. When you make your first deposit, the bookmaker matches it with bonus funds, usually by a percentage (e.g., 100% up to €100). A cashable bonus means that once you meet the wagering requirements, both the bonus money and winnings can be withdrawn. Always check the minimum deposit, wagering conditions, and eligible odds before claiming the offer.

Free Bet (No-Risk Bonus)

A Free Bet allows you to place a wager without using your own money. If your bet wins, you receive only the winnings, not the stake. Free bets are commonly given as part of welcome bonuses, promotions, or loyalty rewards. They usually come with minimum odds requirements and an expiration date, so make sure to use them before they expire.

Risk-Free Bet (Refunded Bet if You Lose)

A Risk-Free Bet gives you a safety net on your first wager. If your bet wins, you keep the winnings, but if it loses, the bookmaker refunds your stake—either as cash or a free bet. Some risk-free bets are fully cashable, while others return the funds as bonus money that requires wagering. Always check if the refund is real money or bonus funds before placing your bet.

Boosted Odds Promotions

Boosted Odds, or enhanced odds, are promotions where sportsbooks increase the odds on selected bets, offering higher potential payouts.

A bookmaker raises the odds on specific markets, such as major events or accumulator bets. For example, odds of 2.00 might be boosted to 2.50, increasing your winnings if the bet is successful.

Boosted Odds can provide better value, but always check stake limits and payout terms, as some winnings may be paid in bonus funds instead of cash.

How to Start Sports Betting – A Beginner’s Guide

Sports betting can be exciting and rewarding, but for beginners, it’s essential to understand the basics before placing real money bets. This guide covers everything you need to know, from choosing a reliable sportsbook to understanding betting markets, odds, and bonuses.

How to Choose a Trustworthy Sportsbook

Selecting the right sportsbook is the first and most important step in betting. A licensed and regulated betting site ensures fair play and secure transactions. Here’s what to look for when choosing a sportsbook:

1. Licensing and Security

A sportsbook should have a valid license from a recognized regulatory authority, such as:

• UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) – One of the most respected licenses, ensuring strict player protection.
• Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – A widely accepted license in Europe, known for high compliance standards.
• Curacao eGaming – Popular among international sportsbooks, though with fewer player protections.
• Estonian Tax and Customs Board – An emerging license with strong European regulations.

You can usually find license information at the bottom of the website. Betting on unlicensed sites can be risky, as they may not follow industry regulations.

2. Competitive Odds and Betting Markets

Not all sportsbooks offer the same odds. Higher odds mean better potential payouts, so comparing different platforms can help maximize your winnings. Also, ensure the sportsbook covers a wide range of sports and markets, including:

• 1X2 betting (Win-Draw-Win)
• Moneyline (Straight win bet)
• Over/Under (Totals betting)
• Asian Handicap (No-draw market)

3. Bonuses and Promotions

Many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses, free bets, and risk-free bets, but always check the wagering requirementsbefore claiming a promotion. A good bonus has:
-Low wagering requirements (e.g., 5x–10x)
-Fair minimum odds restrictions
-No hidden terms

Understanding Betting Odds and Probability

Betting odds indicate how likely an event is to happen and determine potential winnings. The lower the odds, the higher the probability—and vice versa.

Why Probability Matters in Betting?

Understanding probability helps you:

- Identify valuable bets – Compare bookmaker odds to actual chances.

- Make informed choices – Avoid betting on overpriced or unrealistic outcomes.

- Manage risk – Bigger payouts come with lower probabilities, so bet wisely.

Mastering betting odds and probability improves your decision-making and increases your chances of long-term success.

Maximizing Value with Bonuses and Promotions

Sports betting bonuses and promotions are a great way to boost your bankroll and reduce risk. Welcome bonuses, free bets, and boosted odds can provide extra value, allowing you to place bets with less personal investment. Always check the wagering requirements and terms to ensure you get the most out of each offer.

Common Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid

-Not Comparing Odds – Always check multiple sportsbooks for the best odds to maximize payouts.
-Ignoring Terms and Conditions – Read the fine print on bonuses, promotions, and withdrawal limits.
- Chasing Losses – Set a betting budget and stick to it to avoid making emotional decisions.
- Betting Without Research – Look at team form, injuries, and head-to-head stats before placing bets.

Final Thoughts – Start Smart and Bet Responsibly

Sports betting is fun and can be profitable if done wisely. The key to success is understanding how odds work, choosing a trusted sportsbook, and betting on markets you’re familiar with. Take advantage of bonuses, compare odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

History and evolution of betting - from antiquity to online betting

Many seasoned bettors still remember the days when placing a bet meant physically visiting a local bookmaker, convenience store, or petrol station to fill out a betting slip by hand.

Betting has been part of human history for thousands of years. From Ancient Greece to medieval card games to modern online betting, the evolution of betting reflects people's interest in excitement and entertainment.

Ancient betting - from the Olympics to gladiatorial fights

Betting has its roots in ancient Greece, where it was practised in particular in connection with sporting events such as the Olympic Games. Winning bets on running races and martial arts such as boxing and wrestling were popular.

In Rome, betting was strongly linked to gladiatorial fights, where the public would place bets on their favourite fighters. In these events, betting was not only entertainment, but also a way of showing loyalty and understanding of fighting skills.

Medieval betting - card games and horse racing

In the Middle Ages, betting began to move from ancient sporting events to new forms. Horse racing became one of the most popular betting destinations, and Newmarket Racecourse in England, for example, became a centre for betting in the 1600s and 1700s.

Card games also became popular as a form of betting. Popular games included Primero, Naipe and Landsknecht. These games often involved high stakes, and although the church was critical of card betting, they remained popular throughout the centuries.

The rise of modern betting - from sports to online betting

In the 20th century, sports betting developed further and expanded into various sports such as football and boxing. In particular, betting systems were built around horse racing, which are still popular in many countries.

The 1990s saw the biggest revolution in betting with the emergence of online betting sites. This made it possible to bet anywhere and anytime, and today players can bet on hundreds of different websites. In addition to traditional sporting events, betting has expanded to include politics, entertainment and other special events.

Want to improve your betting strategy? Sportsbook.guru offers expert betting tips and the best bonus offers to help you get more out of your betting experience!