2023's Best Sports Betting Sites in Canada
Get up-to-the minute odds for every big game and fixture on the best Canadian sports betting sites and apps. Our recommended sites offer fantastic odds and free bets across 100s of sports like hockey, NFL and soccer. See how the sites compare, from markets and bet types, to banking and security. To start betting now, check out our list of the best Canadian sports betting sites below.
Top 10 Sports Betting Sites for Canada
The NHL Schedule
We’re here to keep you updated on the full NHL season. Take a look below for the latest schedule complete with dates and start times.
NHL schedule2022-2023
Canadian sports betting sites to avoid
While there are plenty of excellent online sports betting sites, some have been known to abuse bettors' trust and leave them out of pocket. We've listed some of the worst offenders below, so you know to avoid them. If you are concerned about the quality of a betting site, stick with our shortlisted sites, which have all passed various quality and security tests.
Canada’s Best Sports to Bet On
Betting fans in Canada enjoy gambling on a huge variety of sports in 2023, but there are eight that always prove particularly popular online. Here we’ve listed the best sports to bet on in Canada:
NHL Hockey Betting
Canadians love hockey - that's a universal truth! The NHL is the only major Canadian-facing sport to get exposure across the sportsbook industry worldwide. You’ll have the opportunity to bet on your favourite team at most Canadian sports betting sites.
NFL Football Betting
The NFL is hugely popular around the world but especially in North America, with Super Bowl betting being a huge draw. Many Canadians also enjoy following games all season in the National Football League.
NBA Basketball Betting
The NBA franchise is a power to be reckoned with. Bettors in Canada will be aware of the huge opportunities for betting when it comes to basketball, with local team the Toronto Raptors competing in the Atlantic Division.
UFC Betting
UFC has seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years and is a firm favourite with bettors in Canada. Take advantage of a great range of betting options, with over 40 events and hundreds of fights scheduled each year.
CFL Football Betting
CFL is another national favourite. Throughout the season, fans can enjoy placing their bets on the nine competing teams, with a great range of markets to choose from.
Soccer Betting
For Canadian sport fans, soccer betting is extremely popular. In Canada, you might want to bet on Major League Soccer (MLS) or the Canadian Premier League (CPL). Additionally, with international tournaments such as La Liga, the English Premier League and of course the World Cup, online sportsbooks offer tons of soccer betting markets to Canadian bettors.
College Football Betting
Football fans in Canada may not be as familiar with placing bets on college football games. The U Sports Football games are the top level of Canadian college-level play, with 27 teams competing. Also, with US-based associations like the NCAAF churning out some of football’s biggest future stars, it’s definitely worth a watch.
Horse Racing Betting
Horse racing has a rich heritage and events take place worldwide which you can bet on. Canadian bettors can put money on horses in the Canadian Triple Crown, which is Canada’s most popular horse racing tournament domestically. Internationally, it’s also worth looking into The Grand National (UK) and the Dubai World Cup (UAE).
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Advantages of Sports Betting Online vs Offline
With the increasing number of sportsbooks available online, a significant number of Canadian bettors have already fully embraced the shift to digital. However, there are still those who prefer to place their bets offline and could well be missing out on some of the advantages of online betting. To give you an idea of what you can expect from an online sportsbook, we’ve listed some of the key benefits:
- You can take advantage of welcome bonuses available when you sign up.
- You could also be offered other promotions that may boost winnings or give additional bonuses.
- Online bettors may be offered the option to cash out certain bets before the event is over.
- It’s easy to place a bet and withdraw your winnings even when you’re on to go.
- You have the option to easily switch between different providers to make the most of the different features and offers available.
How We Rate the Best Betting Sites in Canada
More and more Canadian sports betting sites are appearing on the internet in 2022 with the continuing popularity of sports betting. However, not all sites are worthy of your time and money. That’s where we can help you. We are here to guide you towards the sites that can deliver on what they promise.
In our step-by-step how we rate process, you can see specifically what it is we look out for when we put a Canadian sports betting platform through its paces, and how we choose the best sports betting sites to add to our top 10 list.
Range of Sports, Markets and Bet Types
Any sports betting site that earns our stamp of approval will be loaded with markets for the biggest sports, in North America and beyond. A variety of options for betting on the CFL, NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, EPL, UCL, and much more is required for a Canadian brand to make our shortlist. Each site we recommend will also offer a vast range of bet types. You’ll find fixed odds, in-play/live, outright, parlay, straight, and more.
Bonuses & Promotions
With increased competition among sports betting sites have come some serious wagering incentives and so called ’risk-free’ bets. Any leading site offering online betting in Canada will offer a range of free bets, bonuses and promotions and may even provide a VIP package for their most loyal customers.
Banking & Payouts
During this part of the review process we explore the deposit and withdrawal methods that are available. We expect to see a good range of credit and debit card, e-wallet and bank transfer options as well as others, such as cryptocurrency. We also look for fast payout times, to ensure that bettors will never be left waiting to withdraw winnings.
Security, Safety & Customer Support
We only recommend sites that carry the highest standards when it comes to security, safety, and customer support. In every review we carry out an extensive background check, covering licensing, certification, and auditing practices. This is to ensure that the brand is operating legally and is providing a fair service to its users. We will also put the customer support options through a series of tests. We look for a range of methods and experienced staff who go the extra mile to provide an excellent experience.
Competitive Odds and Additional Features
One of the key things you’ll want to consider when choosing a site is the competitiveness of their odds in comparison to others. We make sure that any site we recommend is up there amongst the best, so you know that you’re getting the best bang for your buck. In addition to that, we like to see sportsbooks offer extra features such as live streaming of events, data and stats and the option to cash out your bet early.
Mobile
A huge number of bettors now use their mobile phone or tablet to access their preferred sportsbooks, so we want to ensure that they’re suitably adapted to the smaller screen. Whether it’s through a dedicated mobile app giving you quick access to your bets or a mobile website with a smooth interface, all top sportsbooks should make mobile optimization a priority.
Sports Betting Odds Explained
When looking to understand how sports betting odds work, bettors will find that different sites make use of different odd types. As the sports betting scene in Canada diversifies, some may even give you a choice of options to work with. These options will take the form of decimal, fractional, and moneyline/American. We’ve given a quick summary of each below, but for more information visit our Sports Betting Odds Explained page.
What are decimal odds?
Decimal odds take the form of straight numbers and decimals. Decimal odds detail the total payout instead of the overall profit. The figure represents the potential return, as well as the amount staked. For example, you’ll see ‘even money’ odds listed as 2 or 2.00.
Sometimes these are referred to as continental odds or European odds.
What are fractional odds?
You will always see these odds as a fractional number. The amount on the left is telling you how much profit you’ll make by staking the amount on the right. For example, you’ll find fractional odds listed as 2/1, 3/1, 4/1, and so forth. Odds of 1/1 are known as ‘even money’, like 2.0 in decimal odds.
Commonly called traditional odds, this format is most prominent in the UK. It holds a place within the Canadian sports betting market as well.
What are moneyline odds?
Listed as either a positive or negative number, often with a currency symbol attached, moneyline odds allow you to bet on specific teams to win a game by seeing who is the favourite. The favourite will have a minus sign (-), indicating the amount you will need to bet in order to win 100 for example. The underdog will have a plus sign (+). Moneyline odds show you the profit associated with the wager, so you’ll have to manually add your original stake to see your total payout.
In the US, moneyline odds are the favoured format for all major bookmakers. They are also known as American odds.
Odds Calculator
-400
American
1/4
Fractional
0.0%
Implied Probability
Profit
C$0
The Main Betting Types and Markets
Online betting in Canada provides thrills, spills, and then some, with this largely due to the sheer number of markets and bet types out there. So, how does sports betting work? If you are looking to lay your money on the line at any major Canadian sports betting site, these are the markets and bets that you should become accustomed to.
Betting Types
- Straight Bet
- System Bet
- Parlay
- In-Play Betting
Straight Bet
When you opt for a straight bet, you will wager on one outcome of a single game. This bet can be made when opting for a point spread or moneyline (depending on the sport). To win, a straight bet must cover the point spread or to at least get your money back, the game outcome must be a tie.
Straight bets are common in the NBA, NHL, NFL and MLB.
Markets
- Moneyline
- Point Spread
- Totals
- Teasers and Pleasers
Moneyline
Sometimes listed as an outright bet, a moneyline requires you to simply select the outcome of a match, race, event, game, fight, or contest – essentially, who will be the winner. Moneyline bets stand as the most popular type of bet that’s both promoted and opted on at Canadian sports betting sites.
Canadian Sports Betting Statistics
Online sports betting in Canada is thriving, with a huge number of bettors now choosing to get in on the action using their computer or mobile device. Below, you’ll find a few online sports betting statistics that will help you understand what all the fuss is about.
6.3 million
Canadians are betting on sports
Over 1/2
Ontario is home to over 1/2 of Canada's sports betting audience
1 in 5
Canadians made a sports bet within the last year
Regulated by the Government of Canada
How to Calculate Your Winnings from a Wager
When you place a bet, the goal is always to turn the wager into pure profit. This will help you to win consistently in sports betting. To do so, you will need to work out exactly how much you can expect to win from any bet on the fly. Getting your head around the numbers is actually much easier than you think, as you will see below:
Single Wager
Should you bet C$10 on a team and win at odds of 3.00, here is how things break down. Every C$1 you are betting in this case would make C$3. This means that your return would be 3 multiplied by 10, equalling to C$30 – meaning C$20 profit. C$10 of the total being the return of your original stake.
Double Wager
Doubles and parlay wagers are slightly different to singles, as there is more to the equation. Start by looking at the first leg of your bet and work it out as a single, and then do the same with the second wager. Say you've backed two teams at 3.00 and 4.00 with a C$10 total bet. From there, with C$30 predicted returns from the first bet, you then work out the second part using the returns from the first as the stake. In this instance it would be 4.00 multiplied by C$30, equalling a C$120 total return.
Free Sports Bets, Bonuses & Promotions
The online sports betting scene is exploding in Canada, with more brands in the mix than ever before. As the number of sites around has increased, the way that they compete for customers has changed. Bonuses, promotions, and incentives are now everywhere. While they are likely to entice you, it pays to know which promotions are worth your while. In the table below, we’ve listed a few promotions that you’ll commonly find offered at sportsbooks for Canada, along with examples of the best offers currently out there.
| Bonus | Bonus Description |
|---|---|
Sign-Up Bonus | Sign-up bonuses are usually awarded with your first deposit. For example, if you make an initial deposit of C$100, the sports betting site might match that figure by 50% for a bonus of C$50. |
Free Bets | After the sign-up bonus, a free bet is the most common type of online bonus. These can either require an initial deposit to be made or come as a no-deposit free bet offer. |
Cashback/Money Back | Cashback promotions simply give you cash back on a losing bet. The percentage of cashback may vary, but this type of bonus can certainly soften the loss should a bet come up short. |
Loyalty Bonus | If you consistently deposit at a Canadian sports betting site over a period of time, you may find yourself rewarded with unique, one-off loyalty bonuses. These can take the form of free bets, odds boosts, cashback, and more. |
T&Cs apply to all offers – please check at the relevant sportsbook website.
Sports Betting Tips
As the pace picks up within the world of Canadian sports betting sites, those looking to place a wager need to get up to speed quickly. Thankfully, we are here to help, as we have a few ready-to-go tips that are sure to have you fit and firing next time you step up to place a wager.
Claim a Bonus Promotion
There is no better 'try before you buy' option than an appropriately-sized bonus. Bursting onto the scene in recent years, these sign-up bonuses (with a decent set of terms and conditions) can give you some free cash to stake with. On top of this, you should also keep an eye out for free bets, cashback offers, and refer-a-friend bonuses.
Bet Within a Budget
The worst thing that any bettor can do is start acting like a bull in a china shop when it comes to placing bets. The key to long-term success is being calculated in your betting efforts, this also means working within a budget. Only ever bet what you can afford to lose, and always do your best to wager within a pre-determined budget.
Strike Early
If you really want to get ahead on the sportsbooks, it can often pay to place your bets early. The reason for this is that you can get your hands on online sports betting odds unaffected by form, injury, or potential unforeseen circumstances. Have a hunch for an upcoming match or market? Well, by moving quickly you may be able to beat the oddsmakers at their own game.
Shop Around
Canadian sports betting sites certainly don’t work in conjunction with one another, so you are not going to find the same gambling experience at every platform. The biggest differences come about through odds, bonuses, and promotions. If you don’t think that you’re getting the best possible deal at one site, don’t be afraid to shop around for another and/or register for multiple accounts.
Mobile Betting On The Go
In 2023, you can play for real cash from your mobile phone or tablet, no matter where you are. Mobile betting is hugely popular in Canada and is available at all good sports betting sites. Many providers now even offer downloadable apps, which provide a smooth interface and quick access to your account. If you prefer to access sites via a web browser, you’ll find that the sportsbooks recommended on Casino.org have also optimized their websites for mobile bettors. Whether you own an Android, iPhone, iPad or any other device, the best betting sites are compatible with them all.
Best Betting Sites in Canada 2023
| Rank | Sportsbook | Bonus Offer | Payout Speed | Bet Online |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1
| TonyBet | C$150 | 0-1 days | |
#2
| Pinnacle | Best Odds | 2-4 days | |
#3
| Betway | Get your First Deposit Matched Up To C$200 | 1-3 days | |
#4
| Sports Interaction | Up to C$1,000 | 2-3 days | |
#5
| 888 | $100 | 0-1 days | |
#6
| Casumo | C$500 | 1-3 days | |
#7
| William Hill | C$500 | 2 days | |
#8
| Bet365 | Live Odds | 1-2 days | |
#9
| 22bet | C$400 | 1-2 days |
Now that you know a little more about online sports betting in Canada, why not head to one of these recommended sites and start placing your bets? Remember to take advantage of the great promotions available as well.
Want to Play Now? Check Out The #1 Sports Betting Site in Canada
Canadian Sports Betting FAQ
Is online sports betting popular in Canada?
Yes. There are plenty of traditional Canadian sport to bet on, not least the NHL. Because of this, there are many popular sports betting sites Canadians players can access, catering for every kind of bettor and for whatever sport you choose.
Is sports betting legal in Canada?
Yes. It is legal to place sports bets online in Canada, but the laws surrounding sports betting sites state that any gambling website based and located in Canada must hold a government-issued gambling license.
Which sports can I bet on in Canada?
You can choose from a wide variety of provincial, national and international sports and sporting events. Such as, ice and field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, American football, rugby, tennis, basketball and many more.
Which sports do Canadians like to bet on?
Worldwide sports such as NBA basketball, soccer, NFL football and golf are popular with Canadian fans. However, the most popular sport in the country by far is ice hockey. The National Hockey League (NHL) is a prime example of this. Other popular sports in Canada are curling and lacrosse. Sportsbooks have also seen an increase in popularity of Canadians betting on cricket and horse racing.
How do sports betting odds work?
Sports betting odds gives you an idea of how likely it is that any given team/competitor will win an event or competition. They also indicate how much money you could make with a successful bet on that outcome. In other words, you can use them to get a quick idea of the underdog and the favourite.
To decide what odds to offer, bookmakers look at a range of factors. This can include everything from what other sportsbooks are offering through to the results of previous matchups. They’ll adjust those odds in real time, based on factors like injuries and the weather, as well as the amount of money staked by bettors on each outcome.
How are the odds set?
Sports betting odds are set by a bookmaker. This can be the casino or any other place where you bet. First, a line is drawn based on the analysis of the outcome of an event (be it a match, race etc), then the line will move accordingly to how players place their bets.
Basically, the goal for the bookmaker is to attract action on both sides of the betting line which’ll make their risk as low as possible – not to give players an accurate picture of reality.
Can I get a bonus when betting at Canadian sportsbooks?
Yes. Canadian online betting sites offer a lot of exciting real money sign-up bonuses and promotions for new and existing customers.
Which are the best betting sites in Canada?
Our top picks for Canadian players in 2023 include the shortlisted gambling sites you can see on this page. They all promise you a high-quality sports betting experience and a full variety of events and tournaments to wager on.
How do I place bets into a bet slip?
When you’ve found a market and bet of interest, select it. This should add the bet to your bet slip, which will usually be displayed to either the right or bottom of your screen. Should you add further bets to your bet slip, you will be able to freely adjust the bet type using on-screen options: double, triple, parlay, system, and so on.
How can I win consistently in sports betting?
There is no way to legitimately guarantee that you’ll win consistently in sports betting. However, there are a number of ways to provide yourself with an improved chance of winning regularly:
- Sports betting research can go a long way when you're deciding on what bets to place. Whether it's statistical data or following tips, it never hurts to do your homework.
- Finding good value bets is key, especially in competitive markets. Converting odds into probability will give you an idea of how much value there is in those odds. For example: 3/1 odds can be converted into 1/4 (take the bottom number over the sum of both numbers) to get the implied probability, which would be 25%. Also, taking in other factors such as the form of a team, can reveal a bet to be much more valuable than it may look.
- Bet regularly, but sensibly. The more bets you place, the more familiar you will be with the odds being offered and what that means for your potential returns. Don’t get put off if you don’t win straight away, but also avoid falling into the habit of chasing your losses.
What is the safest sport to bet on?
There is no real answer to this, as sports can be so variable. What we would advise is that you bet on sports that you know most about, so you can factor in your knowledge of the competitors when assessing the odds. With sports that are more popular in Canada, you may find that the promotions and offers relating to them are also more attractive.
Can you place sports bets online in Canada?
Yes, you can place sports bets online in Canada with complete confidence in 2023. Online sportsbooks in Canada are legal, secure and offer excellent odds for the most part. Get the best online sports betting odds by choosing one of our top recommended sportsbooks to play at.
Where can you bet on sports in Canada?
In Canada you can bet on sports at any of the online sportsbooks recommended by our experts. You can bet from the comfort of your own home, or be anywhere in Canada if you’re betting from your mobile device. If you want to place a sports bet in a land-based venue, you can buy betting tickets for Sport Select (or your local equivalent) at a variety of places, from gas stations to convenience stores.
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