Ontario betting sites – Best legal sportsbooks 2024

Ontario offers a diverse and regulated online sports betting market that provides many options for sports bettors, but it is important to know how you can bet in the region, which is where I’m here to help.

As of 2024, several top-tier sportsbooks operate in Ontario, offering users a secure and legal way to place their bets.

Whether you’re looking for a mobile app to bet on, competitive odds, or a variety of sports markets, Ontario betting sites have something for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll explore the best options for sports betting in Ontario and what makes each site stand out to give you the best chance of picking a site where you’ll find the best experience for YOU.

Best online sportsbooks in Ontario per category

When you’re looking for the best Ontario betting sites, it’s important to consider different factors such as mobile app performance, live betting options, and overall user experience.

Here’s a quick look at my picks for the best Ontario sportsbooks by category:

Category	Sportsbook
📱 Best sports betting app	bet365
📺 Best live betting	Betway
🏑 Best for variety of sports	Casumo
🟢 Best for novices	bet365
👩‍💻 Best for variety of betting markets	Betway
🔢 Best odds	Casumo
⚡ Best for fast withdrawals	Betway
💳 Best for first deposits	bet365
🏅 Best betting experience	Casumo
🏦 Best banking options	Betway

Sportsbook reviews

1. bet365 Ontario

• Best feature: Extensive live betting options
• Year established: 2000
• Minimum deposit: $10
• Minimum wager: $0.10
• Withdrawal speed: 24–48 hours
• Mobile app: Yes (Available for Android and iOS)
• Online casino: Yes
• Customer support: Available via live chat, email
• Provinces and territories: ON, BC, AB, MB, QC

Overview

A dominant force in the sports betting industry for over two decades. Owned by Hillside (New Media) Ltd, bet365 offers an intuitive and streamlined website experience with a focus on live betting.

Its mobile app is highly rated on both the Google Play Store (4.3 stars) and the Apple App Store (4.5 stars) and I’ve found that it is really good to use on iOS.

The platform offers users access to a wide range of sports markets, and its live betting feature stands out in my opinion as one of the best in the business.

Mobile

bet365 provides a dedicated mobile app for both Android and iOS devices. The app is known for its sleek design, fast loading times, and ease of use. Users can enjoy seamless in-play betting on the go.

Sports coverage

bet365 covers a wide variety of sports, including popular ones like hockey, football, basketball, and soccer (across the Premier League, Bundesliga, Ligue 1, La Liga et al).

It also includes niche markets such as darts, esports, and more. This wide range makes it one of the most versatile sportsbooks available and for me stands it head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to sportsbooks in Ontario.

Payment methods

bet365 offers multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Interac, ensuring quick and secure transactions. Withdrawals are processed within 24–48 hours, depending on the method used, which is about standard across the industry.

Customer service

bet365 offers excellent customer service through live chat, email, and an extensive help section. Users can reach support 24/7, and the live chat option makes it easy to get quick responses.

Best for

bet365 is best for live betting enthusiasts and users looking for a comprehensive mobile betting experience.

Pros	Cons
Wide range of sports markets	Odds could be more competitive
Top-rated mobile app
Fast withdrawals

2. Betway Ontario

• Best feature: Comprehensive live betting options
• Year established: 2006
• Minimum deposit: $10
• Minimum wager: $0.10
• Withdrawal speed: 1–3 business days
• Mobile app: Yes (Available for Android and iOS)
• Online casino: Yes
• Customer support: Available via live chat, email (support@betway.com)
• Provinces and territories: ON, BC, AB, MB, QC

Overview

Betway is one of the most well-established sportsbooks in the global betting market, launched in 2006.

Owned by Betway Group, the platform has gained a reputation for offering a user-friendly experience with a clean, easy-to-navigate interface.

The website is designed with simplicity for potential bettors in mind, featuring all major sports categories prominently displayed, allowing you to quickly find the events you may want to wager on.

Betway offers a strong live betting experience and covers a wide range of sports and markets, which has made it popular among both novice and experienced bettors.

The platform is fully licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), ensuring that all users have a safe and secure betting experience, which of course is a must.

Mobile

Betway offers dedicated mobile apps for both Android and iOS users. The app is highly rated, with a 4.7-star score on the Apple App Store and a 4.1-star score on the Google Play Store.

The app is praised by users for its smooth user interface, quick loading times, and full functionality, allowing users to enjoy all the features available on the desktop version, including live betting and casino games. I found that the iOS app was extremely user friendly and I had no frustrations navigating it!

Special features

Betway stands out for its live betting options, where users can place bets on events as they unfold. Another notable feature is the cash-out option, which allows bettors to settle bets before an event has finished, providing more control over potential losses or securing early profits.

This is usually available on most sportsbooks now, but Betway has a pretty solid cashout system that doesn’t try to lowball when it comes to cashout options.

Sports coverage

Betway covers a wide variety of sports, from popular leagues like the NHL, NFL, NBA, and MLB to more niche markets like darts, esports, and table tennis.

The platform provides plenty of betting options, including standard bets, live betting, and futures. Bettors will find an extensive list of events to choose from daily, and I was impressed by the amount of different options that there are, especially in more niche areas like esports.

Payment methods

Betway offers several secure payment methods, including Interac, Visa, MasterCard, and PayPal. Deposits are processed instantly, while withdrawals typically can take 1-3 business days, depending on the method. The platform ensures high levels of security, utilizing SSL encryption to protect financial and personal information.

Customer service

Betway offers 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. The live chat is especially useful for quick inquiries, while email support provides more detailed responses but can of course take a little longer to get a response on.

You can reach out to support whether you have an account or not, meaning that help is available at all times. However, telephone support is not available, which may be a drawback for some users and is something you should consider before registering with Betway.

Best for

Betway is best for bettors looking for a comprehensive live betting experience and a well-designed mobile app. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a wide range of sports and markets.

Pros	Cons
Excellent live betting options	Withdrawal times could be faster
Highly rated mobile app	No telephone support
Wide range of sports coverage

3. Casumo Ontario

• Best feature: User-friendly interface with an integrated sportsbook and casino
• Year established: 2012
• Minimum deposit: $10
• Minimum wager: $0.10
• Withdrawal speed: 1–3 business days
• Mobile app: Yes (Available for Android and iOS)
• Online casino: Yes
• Customer support: Available via live chat, email (hey@casumo.com)
• Provinces and territories: ON, BC, AB, MB, QC

Overview

Casumo is a versatile and innovative online gaming platform that was founded in 2012 and has gained a strong presence in Ontario since the regulated market opened in 2021.

Known for its colorful and engaging website, Casumo combines an extensive sportsbook with a well-established online casino, offering a seamless transition between the two.

The platform is owned by Casumo Services Limited and is licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), which ensures a safe and secure betting environment.

The design of Casumo’s website is sleek, with a minimalist approach that makes it easy for users to navigate between sports, casino games, and live betting.

The platform focuses on creating an enjoyable betting experience, whether you’re wagering on your favorite sports or trying your luck in the casino, but here we’re just looking at the sportsbook element so I’ll be focusing on that!

Mobile

Casumo offers a mobile app for both Android and iOS users, but both have differing ratings scores on the various app markets.

On the Apple App Store, the app scores 4.5 stars, however Google Play Store users have given it a rating of 2.4 stars, so if that is the platform you’re using it might be worth considering choosing a different betting app. 

The iOS app mirrors the smooth, intuitive design of the website and allows users to bet on sports, play casino games, and access customer support with ease.

The mobile version supports in-play betting and live casino games, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer to gamble on the go, but again if you use the Google Play Store to get your apps you should consider looking at the current reviews from other users before downloading.

Special features

Casumo’s sportsbook offers live betting with detailed statistics and live odds updates, making it a great option for bettors who enjoy placing in-game wagers with a decent amount of information at their disposal. 

Another standout feature is the platform’s integration of both casino and sportsbook functionalities, providing users with a wide range of entertainment options in one place without having to switch between apps. So if you’re someone that likes playing on both casino slot games and gambling on sports then this might be ideal for you.

Sports coverage

Casumo covers a broad spectrum of sports, from major leagues like the NHL, NBA, MLB, and NFL to more niche sports such as badminton, handball, and esports.

The platform offers multiple betting markets, including standard wagers, in-play betting, and futures, giving users a well-rounded betting experience and a choice of markets that you find with other operators, so it is very competitive on that front.

Payment methods

Casumo offers several secure and fast payment options, including VISA/ MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, paysafecard, Puggle Play, Switch and Solo, and Bank transfer.

Deposits are instant, but withdrawals are processed within 1–3 business days, depending on the method chosen. Security is a priority at Casumo, with SSL encryption ensuring that all transactions are protected as standard.

Customer service

Casumo provides 24/7 customer support through live chat and email. I found that their support team is responsive and knowledgeable, and that you can reach out for assistance even if you don’t have an account.

However, like many online platforms, Casumo does not offer telephone support, which again may be a downside for bettors who prefer to speak to someone over the phone if they’re having an issue.

Best for

Casumo is best for users who want a seamless experience between sports betting and casino games.

It’s also ideal for bettors looking for a simple, clean, and easy-to-navigate interface, with strong mobile app performance on iOS (but not currently on Google Play).

Pros	Cons
Excellent integration of sportsbook and casino	No telephone support
User-friendly mobile app (on iOS)	Slightly slower withdrawals compared to some competitors
Wide variety of sports markets

How to start betting online in Ontario

To start betting online in Ontario, you need to follow a few steps to register, verify your account, and make a deposit. Here is my step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Choose a licensed sportsbook: Select an Ontario-licensed sportsbook like bet365, Betway, or Casumo.
2. Register an account: Fill in your personal details, including name, email, and address.
3. Verify your identity: Complete the KYC (Know Your Customer) process by submitting your ID and proof of address.
4. Make your first deposit: Choose a payment method, such as Interac, PayPal, or credit/debit card, and make your first deposit.
5. Start betting: Once your deposit is confirmed, you can start placing bets on your chosen sports or markets.

Laws and regulations for legal Ontario sports betting

Sports betting in Ontario became fully legal and regulated following the passing of Bill C-218, which allowed single-event sports betting. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing sports betting activities in the province.

The AGCO organization ensures that all betting sites operate fairly, securely, and within the framework of Ontario’s legal regulations.

Ontario’s legal sports betting market benefits from government taxation, with revenue being used to fund public services, and this licensing system ensures that all operators have to meet strict criteria for security, responsible gambling, and fairness.

Online sportsbooks in Ontario

Online sports betting in Ontario began to take off after the passing of Bill C-218 in 2021. The first major sportsbook to launch in Ontario was bet365, followed by other international operators like Betway and Casumo.

Since then, Ontario has become one of the most vibrant and competitive sports betting markets in Canada, and it offers residents a range of platforms to bet on their favorite sports.

Land-based sportsbooks in Ontario

The legalization of online betting had a significant impact on land-based sportsbooks in Ontario. Whilst brick-and-mortar sportsbooks exist, most bettors prefer the convenience of online platforms.

However, some land-based venues, like casinos, continue to offer in-person sports betting for those who enjoy the traditional experience. These sportsbooks are now more aligned with online regulations to maintain consistency in how sports betting operates across the province.

How we ranked Ontario sports betting sites

To determine the best Ontario sports betting sites, I analyzed several critical factors to ensure that my recommendations meet the needs of bettors and what I personally like to see when it comes to different sites and what my expectations are of their services. Each sportsbook was evaluated based on the following criteria:

Security

Security is paramount when choosing an online sportsbook, so I ensured that all the sportsbooks that I have recommended in terms of Ontario betting sites are:

• Independently regulated: Licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
• Have SSL encryption: All sites must use SSL encryption to protect your personal and financial information.
• Known ownership: Trusted operators with a proven track record and clear ownership, which is what bet365, Betway and Casumo all have.

Sports and betting markets

The variety and availability of sports and betting markets were also key in my rankings, and here’s is specifically what I considered:

• Variety of sports: The sportsbook should offer a wide range of sports, including hockey, basketball, football, soccer, and niche sports.
• Availability of different markets: More markets give bettors flexibility and options, including props, futures, and in-play betting, so I kept that in mind when choosing the best Ontario sportsbooks.
• Competitive odds: Odds should be competitive across the board to maximize the potential for winnings.
• Ease of use: The site’s interface should make it easy to navigate to avoid frustration and place bets quickly.

Payment methods

A smooth payment process is essential for a good betting experience, and my evaluation also looked at the following:

• Available payment methods: Each sportsbook was checked for a variety of deposit and withdrawal options, such as Interac, credit cards, and e-wallets like PayPal. The more options available the better in that sense!
• Security levels: Payment methods must ensure security and protect user data to have been considered in my picks.
• Fast deposit and withdrawals: The best sites allow quick deposits and withdrawals, with minimal processing time, so I’ve included that as a requirement in my selections.

Customer Care

Customer support is another critical factor that I considered when picking the best sportsbooks in Ontario, especially when problems arise. I evaluated sportsbooks based on:

• Data protection: How well the site protects your personal information.
• Safety and wellbeing: Does the site promote responsible gambling and offer easy access to help? They absolutely HAVE to for me to consider suggesting them to potential bettors because your safety is more important than anything.
• Easy access to support: Customer support should be available 24/7, and bettors should have access to multiple support channels like live chat, email, or phone.
• Speedy and informed solutions: Customer service agents must be knowledgeable and able to resolve issues promptly.

Mobile apps

Many bettors prefer betting on the go, so mobile app functionality is important. I considered the following when it came to the apps available from sportsbooks in Ontario:

• The availability of iOS and Android apps: If the sportsbook has both then that is a major bonus.
• User reviews on app stores, focusing on design, navigation, and functionality, which all three of the sportsbooks I’ve suggested have a good review average.
• I also like to see features such as live streaming and in-play betting, making the mobile experience just as engaging as on a desktop.

Stand-out features

Some sportsbooks offer special features that enhance the user experience, and I wanted to make sure that my choices reflected the following standards of modern-day betting operators:

• Live streaming: Watch games directly on the platform while betting.
• In-depth statistics: Access to detailed sports stats helps bettors make informed decisions and I wanted to make sure that the sportsbooks I suggested had these.
• Cash-out options: The ability to cash out before the event finishes can reduce losses or lock in early wins, and that is a massively important element of modern-day betting.

Responsible gambling

Promoting responsible gambling is a legal requirement and a priority for any regulated sportsbook. Having said that, I wanted to make sure that the sportsbooks I suggested had the best-in-show features for your safety, so I considered the following:

• KYC (Know Your Customer): Ensures all users are verified to prevent fraud and underage gambling.
• Deposit limits: Bettors can set deposit limits to manage their spending.
• Loss limits: Tools that allow users to set loss limits to avoid chasing losses.
• Self-exclusion: Options for users to self-exclude from betting for a certain period if needed.

Why trust my reviews?

I’ve reviewed each sportsbook based on real user experiences, regulatory standards, and in-depth research from my own use of each operator.

My focus is on providing bettors with accurate, up-to-date information to help them choose a platform that suits their needs.

From security and licensing to user experience and support, my goal is to make sure you have all the necessary details to make an informed decision, so I hope that I am able to help with that!

Advantages and disadvantages of Ontario sports betting

Sports betting in Ontario has its pros and cons. Below, I’ll break down both sides to give you a full understanding and things to consider before betting in the region:

Advantages of sports betting in Ontario

• Legal and regulated market: Ontario’s regulated market provides a safe environment for bettors.
• Wide selection of sportsbooks: Bettors have access to many sportsbooks, each with their own unique features.
• Variety of sports and betting options: With a large variety of sports and markets, Ontario bettors can choose what suits their preferences.
• Safe and secure transactions: Licensed sportsbooks offer secure deposit and withdrawal options.

Disadvantages of sports betting in Ontario

• Restrictions on bonuses: Due to local laws, certain promotions or bonuses are not available to Ontario players.
• Tax implications for professional bettors: While casual betting winnings aren’t taxed, professional bettors may need to report earnings.
• Limited land-based options: Though land-based sportsbooks exist, they are fewer compared to online platforms.

Advantages of sports betting in Ontario

Sports betting in Ontario covers a wide range of local and international teams.

It’s fully legal to bet on Ontario’s professional teams, including those in major leagues such as the NHL, NBA, MLB, and MLS. Below are some of the most popular Ontario teams that you can bet on.

Toronto Maple Leafs

One of the oldest and most iconic franchises in the NHL, the Toronto Maple Leafs attract a huge number of bets, especially during the Stanley Cup Playoffs (if they get there!). Bettors can place wagers on a wide range of betting markets, including game outcomes, player props, and futures, so there are a lot of options.

Ottawa Senators

The Ottawa Senators, another major and prominent NHL team, are a popular choice for bettors. Again you can wager on everything from in-game plays to futures on how the team will perform throughout the season, just like with the Maple Leafs.

Toronto Raptors

As the only Canadian team in the NBA, the Toronto Raptors have a massive fanbase in Canada and plenty of betting action. Bettors can place wagers on regular-season games, playoff outcomes, and individual player performances, so if you’re looking at betting on the NBA and keeping it based in Canada then the Raptors are the choice for you!

Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays are Ontario’s sole representative in Major League Baseball (MLB). With a long season and numerous games, there are plenty of opportunities to bet on game results, player stats, and futures, just like in the NHL and NBA.

Toronto FC

As part of Major League Soccer (MLS), Toronto FC gives bettors a chance to wager on one of the top teams in Canadian soccer. You can bet on match outcomes, goals, and player performances throughout the MLS season, again in the same way that you can do across the aforementioned sports franchises.

Other types of gambling in Ontario

Besides sports betting, Ontario offers several other forms of gambling, each with its own set of rules and markets. Here’s a breakdown of the different types that are currently available in Ontario as of writing:

Casino

Online casinos are widely available in Ontario, offering a variety of games such as slots, blackjack, roulette, and more. Many sportsbooks also offer casino sections, allowing players to switch between betting on sports and trying their luck at casino games.

Horse Racing

Horse racing remains a popular gambling option in Ontario. The province has a long tradition of horse racing, and bettors can place wagers on local and international events.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)

DFS is legal in Ontario, allowing players to build fantasy teams and compete for prizes based on real-world performance in various sports, including the NFL, NBA, NHL, and more.

Poker

Online poker is another form of gambling widely available in Ontario. Players can join various poker rooms to play against others in games like Texas Hold’em and it remains one of the most popular casino games globally.

What can you bet on in Ontario? 

On top of what is considered “traditional” sports betting, potential Ontario bettors have access to various alternative markets that enhance overall experience and give you more choice overall. These include esports, politics, and entertainment.

However, there are also restrictions on specific types of wagers which involves compliance with local regulations. Below, I’ll outline each betting market in more detail and highlight what is not allowed under Ontario’s sports betting laws.

Esports betting

Esports betting has gained immense popularity in Ontario, offering a chance to wager on competitive video gaming events. Games like League of Legends, Dota 2, Valorant and Counter-Strike 2 are some of the top esports titles right now, with betting markets available on each of these depending on the operator. 

Bettors can place wagers on outcomes such as match winners, tournament results, and individual player performances. Esports tournaments attract large audiences, making it an exciting option for those looking to bet outside of traditional sports like hockey, soccer, football etc.

Betting on politics

Ontario residents can place bets on political events both within Canada and internationally. These bets can include predictions on election outcomes, party leadership contests, and even referendum results.

Political betting markets can cover everything from U.S. presidential elections to Canadian federal elections, allowing bettors to engage with the latest political events in a unique way.

However, due to the unpredictable nature of politics, this type of betting often requires in-depth knowledge and research, so be wary of getting into it if you do not really know the market.

College sports betting

Unlike many U.S. states where college sports betting is heavily restricted, Ontario allows betting on college sports. This includes events from both Canadian and U.S. college leagues such as football, basketball, and hockey.

Bettors can place wagers on game outcomes, point spreads, and player performances. College sports betting adds another layer of excitement for fans of amateur athletic competitions, though some events may have betting restrictions depending on the jurisdiction, so bear that in mind before you look at which games you might want to bet on.

Betting on entertainment and award ceremonies

Ontario sportsbooks also offer markets for entertainment events, including award ceremonies like the Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys.

Bettors can wager on categories such as Best Actor, Best Picture, or Album of the Year, which can make award seasons feel a little bit more interactive. In addition to these, sportsbooks may provide betting options for reality TV shows and other pop culture events, allowing fans to predict winners of popular reality competitions or talent shows.

Banned betting markets in Ontario

While Ontario has a wide range of betting options, certain markets are off-limits. Banned markets include betting on minor league sports, underage athletes, and specific local amateur events.

Additionally, while betting on political events is allowed, markets that involve direct betting on criminal cases or other legally sensitive matters are strictly prohibited. These restrictions are in place to ensure responsible betting and protect the integrity of certain competitions, which is more than welcomed.

Responsible gambling in Ontario

Ontario takes responsible gambling seriously, and there are a variety of measures are in place to help bettors manage their gambling activities. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) promotes responsible gambling practices through resources and tools that are specifically designed to protect players.

Bettors are encouraged to set personal limits, take breaks, and seek assistance if their gambling becomes problematic. Licensed operators in Ontario are required to provide access to responsible gambling tools, such as self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and loss limits.

If you or someone you know needs help, ConnexOntario is a resource that provides confidential support for gambling-related issues.

For more details, visit the AGCO Responsible Gambling page.

FAQ about Ontario sports betting

Ontario sports betting can seem complex, especially with new regulations in place. Here, I will answer some of the most common questions to clarify the key points and help you to understand some of the more common issues.

1. What is the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario?

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing gambling activities in Ontario, including sports betting, casinos, and lottery operations.

The AGCO ensures that all licensed operators comply with provincial laws, protect consumers, and promote responsible gambling practices.

2. Is sports betting legal in Ontario?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Ontario. With the passage of Bill C-218 in 2021, single-event sports betting became legal across Canada, and Ontario launched a fully regulated market for online and retail sports betting. Bettors can legally place wagers on various sports and events through licensed sportsbooks.

3. How many online sportsbooks are licensed in Ontario? 

As of 2024, there are over 25 licensed sportsbooks operating in Ontario, all regulated by the AGCO.

These sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting markets and provide a safe, secure environment for bettors. Operators such as Betway, bet365, and Casumo are among the top platforms in the province.

4. What’s the legal age for sports betting in Ontario? 

The legal age for sports betting in Ontario is 19 years old. Bettors must verify their age and identity when registering with a sportsbook to ensure they meet this requirement. This applies to both online and land-based betting operations.

5. Are there retail sportsbooks in Ontario?

Yes, there are retail sportsbooks in Ontario. While online betting is more popular, retail sportsbooks operate within casinos, providing in-person betting opportunities for sports fans. These venues are regulated and must comply with AGCO standards.

6. Are sports bet winnings taxable in Ontario? 

For casual bettors, sports betting winnings are not taxable in Ontario. However, if you are a professional bettor who earns income primarily from gambling, your winnings may be subject to taxation. It’s advisable to consult a tax professional if you believe this applies to you.

7. Are Ontario sports betting sites accepting cryptocurrencies? 

Currently, cryptocurrencies are not widely accepted by licensed sportsbooks in Ontario. Most sportsbooks offer traditional payment methods such as credit/debit cards, Interac, PayPal, and e-wallets. However, as the market evolves, this could change in the future.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the casino offers featured in this article may result in a payment to talkSPORT. 19+. T&Cs apply. Responsible Gambling Council

Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chase their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Responsible Gambling Council – https://www.responsiblegambling.org/

For help with a gambling problem, call the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health on 1 800 463-2338.