Esports popularity has blown up in Canada. The industry is worth billions, and we see major esports events now pull in more viewers than traditional sports. Our experts have been following the rise of esports betting, and one thing is clear—Canadians love betting on esports.
That’s because esports betting is allowed in Canada, but you need to choose the right platform. That’s why we’re here, and we’ll help you find the best esports betting sites with solid esports odds, live betting options, and legit payouts.Now, buckle up and read on.
Top Esports Betting Sites for Canadians
If you’re like us, you’re probably wondering where to bet on esports. Some sportsbooks barely touch these events, while others go all-in with full esports coverage, live betting, and solid esports odds. This makes it hard to pick. That’s why we took matters into our own hands and picked the best. Here are the top esports betting sites in Canada that are actually good for esports fans.
Bet365
One of the biggest names in sports betting, bet365 has built a strong reputation for its “deep” markets (it’s the actual term). The site offers you great odds and smooth live betting options. Their esports section is no different and even caters to most of your needs.
- Offers a huge range of esports betting options
- Competitive esports odds on all major esports
- Built-in live streaming for select esports events
We like bet365 because it takes esports betting seriously. The platform provides more in-depth betting options than most, and you’ll see that the live betting experience is top-tier.
Betway
We see Betway as a well-established sportsbook with strong esports support. It’s a site that offers solid betting markets, competitive odds, and an easy-to-use interface.
- Wide esports coverage, including smaller tournaments
- Good esports odds and live betting options
- Clean mobile app for wagering on esports on the go
For us, Betway stands out not just like a traditional bookmaker—it actively invests in esports. We’ve seen them sponsor teams and tournaments, which translates into better esports betting options for players.
Betano
Betano is a modern sportsbook that puts esports betting front and center. You’ll see it offering deeper markets and a more interactive experience than most traditional bookies.
- More esports betting markets than the average sportsbook
- Unique live betting features with real-time stats overlays
- Slick, modern interface built for esports players
Why it’s different? Unlike most bookies that just tack on esports, Betano integrates advanced features like real-time data updates and more flexible live betting options.
Available Esports Betting Markets
Each site offers a different level of esports coverage (markets, odds). Some focus on major esports events, while others go deeper, covering smaller leagues and tournaments. We suggest you focus on the second!
Below is a quick look at which games you can bet on at our top picks.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Competitive Odds | Among the best for Blue Jays games |
Market Variety | Extensive MLB betting options |
User Experience | Built for Canadian bettors |
How to Bet on Esports from Canada
One of our writers (we won’t throw in names) had never placed an esports bet before. That changed when our experts walked them through it step by step. Within minutes, they had an account set up, funds deposited, and their first bet locked in on a League of Legends tournament.
If this sounds exciting and you want to start wagering on esports, too, here’s exactly how to do it.
- Choose a Trusted Esports Betting Site: Pick a sportsbook that offers strong esports coverage, live betting options, and competitive esports odds. Our recommended sites—bet365, Betway, and Betano—are great places you can check out.
- Register and Verify Your Account: Sign up by providing your email, password, and other basic info. Some sites require ID verification to comply with Canadian gambling laws (read the T&Cs).
- Deposit Funds: Head to the deposit section and choose your preferred payment method. Most sites accept Interac, credit cards, e-wallets, and even CRYPTO.
- Select an Esports Event – Browse the esports section, pick a match, and check the available esports betting options like LoL. You’ll see bet options like match winner, total maps, and live betting.
- Place Your Bet: Enter your stake amount, do not go big from the start. Confirm your selection, and place your bet. If your bet wins, you can cash out or reinvest in more esports bets.
We’ve shown you how to bet on esports, let’s take a look at the most popular esports games for betting and where to find the best odds.
Popular Esports Games for Betting
Esports like League of Legends and CS:GO isn’t just growing—it’s dominating the betting world. Millions of fans, including us, tune in to watch, and the betting action is bigger than ever.
Even our pros play, watch, and sometimes bet on their favorite esports events. But if you’re new, you must understand which are the top games to bet on. Let’s check them out together:
League of Legends (LoL)
One of the most-watched esports games in the world, LoL features intense 5v5 battles and strategic depth (it’s our favourite game). This game, as you’ll later see, has tons of regular tournaments like:
🟢 Top tournaments: LoL World Championship, LEC, LCS, LPL, MSI
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2)
A legendary first-person shooter which we, probably you, likely everybody player. It’s a game where teams compete in high-stakes tactical battles.
CS2 is popular as it has some of the best live betting options due to its round-based structure.
🟢 Top tournaments: ESL Pro League, BLAST Premier, PGL Majors
Dota 2
This one we know for its insane prize pools. But Dota 2’s esports scene is built around deep strategy and intense team fights. Its odds can be unpredictable, making it a great option for high-value esports bets and risk-loving bettors.
🟢 Top tournaments: The International, DPC Majors, ESL One
Valorant
A newer FPS that blends CS-style shooting with hero (agent) abilities. Its fast-paced matches make it a favorite for live betting fans like you and us.
🟢 Top tournaments: VCT Champions, Masters, VCT Regional Leagues
Overwatch
A “high-energy” shooter where teams of heroes battle for control points. Overwatch betting is all about team synergy and momentum swings. If you wager on it—learn the team and characters’ behaviours!
🟢 Top tournaments: Overwatch League, Overwatch World Cup
Call of Duty (CoD)
A fan-favorite FPS with massive viewership and strong betting markets. Esports bets focus on match winners and major esports events like CDL.
🟢 Top tournaments: Call of Duty League (CDL), CoD Champs
There are many other esports games you can bet on. These include Fortnite, WoW, Starcraft, Smite, and many others.
Major Esports Events in 2025
If you ask us, esports in 2025 is looking stacked. Whether you’re into Dota 2, Valorant, or PUBG Mobile, there’s no shortage of tournaments to bet on. Our team has already circled a few must-watch events—here’s what’s coming up.
- The International 2025 – The biggest event in Dota 2 esports, expected in Fall 2025. Insane prize pools, wild plays, and legendary rivalries make this one a must-watch.
- VCT 2025: Masters Toronto – Finally, a Valorant major in our backyard. Kicking off in June, the world’s best teams will battle it out in Canada.
- tv Austin Major 2025 – One of the biggest CS2 tournaments of the year, happening in June with 32 teams fighting for the title in Texas.
- Esports World Cup 2025 – A summer mega-event in Saudi Arabia, featuring CS2, Honor of Kings, PUBG Mobile, and even Chess (yes, esports Chess is a thing).
- PUBG Mobile World Cup 2025 – Part of the Esports World Cup, this event brings top PUBG Mobile teams together for an all-out battle.
So what now, are you pumped up for the BLAST.tv Austin Major and VCT Masters Toronto like us? You better be since some Canadian teams could make a deep run! We may see something worth betting on.
Which Canadian Esports Teams Can You Bet On?
Canada has some killer esports teams, and YEP, you can bet on them. Here are the ones worth watching (according to us):
- Luminosity Gaming — One of the OG Canadian orgs, with teams in CS2 and Fortnite.
- Vancouver Titans — Holding it down in the Overwatch League.
- Toronto Defiant — Another solid Overwatch League team, repping Toronto.
- Toronto Ultra — Competing in the Call of Duty League, these guys know how to grind.
- Shopify Rebellion — A rising squad with teams in Rocket League and StarCraft II.
These teams aren’t just here to fill a bracket, in our eyes, and not only—they’re contenders. And with the right odds, betting on them could be a smart move.
Esports Markets & Features to Look For
Ready to jump into esports betting? Here’s what we advise you to keep an eye on to make the most of your experience.
- Live/In-Game Betting Availability
Yes, live betting on esports is possible and adds a thrilling layer to your wagering. Benefits include:
- Real-Time Engagement: Place bets as the action unfolds, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
- Informed Decisions: Watch the gameplay to gauge momentum before placing your bet.
- Dynamic Odds: Odds shift with the game’s progress, offering unique opportunities.
- Game-Specific Prop Bets
Beyond standard match winners, prop bets like “first blood” or “map winners” offer fun and strategic alternatives, diving deeper into specific in-game events.
- Early Cash-Out Options
Some platforms let you cash out before a match ends, allowing you to secure winnings or minimize losses based on the game’s direction.
- Tournament Coverage
Major tournaments are the pinnacle of esports betting. Here’s a snapshot of key events in 2025:
Type | Regulated by Canada | More Betting Options | Exclusive to Canadians |
---|---|---|---|
Provincial Sites | ✅ Yes | ❌ Limited | ✅ Yes |
Offshore Sites | ❌ No | ✅ More markets & promos | ❌ Open to global players |
- Fantasy Esports Options
Similar to traditional sports, fantasy esports lets you draft virtual teams of professional players, earning points based on their real-world performance. It’s a fun way to test your gaming knowledge and compete against others.
Exclusive Esports Betting Bonuses for Canadians
We know you’re probably looking to boost your esports betting experience. That’s why we’ve picked several sportsbooks that offer bonuses tailored for Canadian bettors. Here’s a breakdown of what’s often available:
Types of Esports Bonuses:
- Welcome Offers: Initial bonuses for new users upon signing up.
- Esports-Specific Promotions: Special deals focused on esports events.
- Free Bets: Complimentary bets are provided under certain conditions.
Below is a comparison of current offers from top sportsbooks:
Payment Method | Deposit Speed | Withdrawal Time | Min-Max Deposit | Fees | CAD Support |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Interac e-Transfer | Instant | 24-48 hours | C$10-C$10,000 | None | Yes* |
Cryptocurrency | 10-30 minutes | 1-24 hours | C$10-C$50,000 | Network fees | No** |
Credit/Debit Cards | Instant | 2-5 business days | C$10-C$5,000 | Possible bank fees | Yes* |
E-Wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller) | Instant | 24-72 hours | C$10-C$10,000 | Varies by provider | Yes* |
Bank Wire Transfer | 1-3 business days | 3-7 business days | C$50-C$100,000 | Bank fees apply | Yes |
Esports-Specific Promotional Types
We all know that regular sportsbook promos are nice, but esports betting sites can offer even better unique bonuses tailored for the esports fans. These deals can add extra value to your wagers and make betting even more exciting.
Here are some of the most popular esports-specific promotions:
Tournament Bracket Challenges
Some sportsbooks let you fill out a tournament bracket for major esports events, like The International or LoL Worlds, with cash prizes for the most accurate predictions.
Stream Betting Bonuses
Certain sites reward bettors who place wagers while watching live esports coverage on their platform, offering free bets or boosted odds for in-game bets.
First Esports Bet Insurance
If your first bet on an esports event loses, some sites refund it as a free bet—perfect if you’re just starting out.
Game Launch Specials
When new esports titles drop (think Counter-Strike 2’s launch), sportsbooks offer boosted odds or free bets to celebrate.
Combo Boost
Parlay multiple esports bets together, and if they all hit, the sportsbook adds an extra percentage to your winnings.
Live Betting Bonuses
Some sites offer free bets or cashback on live betting options, encouraging more in-game wagers.
Loyalty Programs
Frequent bettors earn points for placing esports bets, which can be redeemed for free bets, bonus cash, or other rewards.
These promos can help maximize your bankroll—so always check for them before placing your next bet!
Terms to Watch For
Esports betting bonuses sound great, but the fine print matters (we assure you of that). Before claiming any offer, make sure you understand these common terms:
- Bonus Code Requirements – Some esports promotions require a promo code during signup or deposit. If you forget to enter it, you might miss out on the bonus.
- Game Restrictions – Not all bonuses apply to every esports event. Some are locked to specific games like League of Legends, CS2, or Dota 2, so check before placing your bet.
- Maximum Winnings Caps on Free Bets – Free bets are great, but many sportsbooks limit how much you can win from them. If you hit big, you might not be able to cash out the full amount.
- Time Limits on Using Bonus Funds – Some esports betting options, especially tournament-specific promos, expire quickly—sometimes within 24 to 72 hours.
- Regional Restrictions – Not all bonuses are available across Canada. Some offers are province-specific due to local regulations.
Reading the terms can save you from missing out on potential winnings—so always double-check before claiming a bonus!
Esports Betting Tips for Canadians
Betting on esports isn’t just about picking your favorite team and hoping for the best. The smartest bettors dig into the details. These are game mechanics, team strategies, and even how a tournament is structured. If you want to improve your esports bets, and be like the pros, keep these in mind:
- Understanding Game Mechanics – Each game has unique elements that affect betting. CS2 is round-based, making comeback bets interesting, while LoL and Dota 2 have snowball mechanics where early leads often secure wins.
- Team Composition & Meta Considerations – The in-game meta (most effective strategies) changes regularly. Some teams adapt well, others struggle. Always check whether a team’s playstyle fits the current patch.
- Patch/Update Impact – A major game patch can completely shift power dynamics. A previously weak team might become stronger due to buffs to their preferred strategies.
- Regional Strength Differences – Some regions dominate certain games. Korea and China tend to dominate League of Legends, while Europe and CIS teams excel in CS2.
- Tournament Format Considerations – Double-elimination formats give teams a second chance, while single-elimination means one bad game can send a favorite home. This impacts betting odds and risk.
- Pro Player Transfers & Team Changes – Roster moves can make or break a team. If a star player just left, that team might not be the same powerhouse anymore.
- Map Selection & Advantages – In games like CS2 and Valorant, some teams are stronger on specific maps. Betting on map winners instead of overall match results can be a smart play.
- Bracket Format & Impact – Early group-stage matches are often best-of-one, leading to more upsets, while finals are best-of-five, favoring stronger teams. Adjust your bets accordingly.
Legal Landscape for Canadian Esports Bettors
Esports betting in Canada is legal—we’re sure about this. Still, the rules depend on where you live.
Federally, there are no laws against betting on esports, but each province handles licensing differently. Some, like Ontario, have regulated sportsbooks, while others rely on offshore sites. But which are better?
Licensed provincial operators follow strict regulations, offering a safe and legal way to bet. Offshore sites, while widely used, operate in a gray area—not illegal, but not under Canadian law either. To stay safe, stick to sportsbooks that are licensed, offer secure payments, and have a solid reputation. If a site looks sketchy, it probably is.
Popular Payment Methods for Esports Wagering in Canada
Funding your esports bets in Canada is straightforward, with several reliable payment options available. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular methods:
Sportsbook | Sportsbook | Rollover Requirement | Min Odds | MLB-Specific Promotions | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betano | Betano | 5x | -200 | Blue Jays boosted odds, C$10 free bet on Jays games | |
Betway Canada | Betway Canada | 10x | 1.75 | Not Stated | |
Sports Interaction | Sports Interaction | 6x (deposit + bonus) | 1.50 | Not Stated |
Mobile Betting Experience
Betting on the go is a must for many Canadian esports enthusiasts. Here’s how some top bookmakers stack up when it comes to mobile betting:
Betting Platform | App Availability | Live Betting Experience | Payment Methods | Customer Support | Overall Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bet365 | iOS, Android, Web | Seamless live betting with streaming | Credit/Debit Cards, Interac, PayPal | 24/7 live chat, email support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Betway | iOS, Android, Web | In-play betting with real-time updates | Interac, Credit/Debit Cards, PayPal | 24/7 live chat, email support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Sports Interaction | iOS, Android, Web | User-friendly live betting interface | Interac, Credit/Debit Cards | 24/7 live chat, phone support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Casumo | iOS, Android, Web | Engaging live betting with Bet Builder feature | Interac, Credit/Debit Cards, Neosurf | Live chat, email support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Bet99 | iOS, Android, Web | Comprehensive live betting options | Interac, Credit/Debit Cards | Online agent support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |