The sports betting and gambling industry is constantly changing and evolving, as technological advancements give the developers endless possibilities. Because of that online betting industry has seen some massive growth in past decade. Almost all sportsbooks moved their focus from the brick and mortar places, to the virtual world. However, Vegas sportsbooks are still very much alive, and it seems that they will not give up the fight that easy.
So, the main question to many sports bettors is where is the better betting experience? At Online sportsbooks or in Vegas sportsbooks? In this article we will try to dissect this question and to give you our objective opinion.
Betting at Online Sportsbooks
The first online sportsbook in the world was Intertops. They were established in 1983 and in January 1996 they accepted the first ever online wager from a Finnish player, Jukka Hunkavarra. And there is not the end of their pioneer role in sports betting industry. Intertops was the first sportsbook to introduce the mobile betting in 2000.
Since then the number of online operators has risen astronomically and now there are tausends of online sportsbooks that offer their services to the bettor around the world. Many old sportsbooks that managed to adopt to the new technology still operate today, and most of them are still market leaders, as players love to bet at respected and regulated sportsbooks.
Betting online has many advantages, as bettors can make wagers from the comfort of their own home, and don’t need to go into the crowded rooms full of people. Also, the online sportsbooks give to the bettors a lot of interesting features, such as highly competitive odds, wide scale of betting markets, variety of banking options, and a lot of exciting Bonuses and Promotions.
How to Place a Bet Online
Once you’ve picked an online sportsbook you’ll need to open an account. The sign-up process is usually pretty simple. It only takes a few minutes and is completed by entering in a few personal details. You’ll then be asked to make your first deposit to your account and you’re ready to rumble!
Before you make your first withdrawal, most sportsbooks will require you to prove your ID by providing them with copies of a photo ID and a document proving your current address. You can usually find the details of what the sportsbook requires in their Help section.
Deposit and withdrawal processing times can vary depending on the payment method you choose and/or the sportsbook. Another thing just to bear in mind when you are signing up.
Pros of Betting Online
- Better lines and more betting options
- Bet from the comfort of your own living room
- Bet on the go with mobile, from anywhere at anytime
- Cash out from anywhere
- Place bets instantly
- Big bonuses just for signing up
- VIP and loyalty reward schemes
Cons of Betting Online
- Sign up processes can be lengthy—sending off copies of ID and documents
- Some online sportsbooks are restricted in the USA
- Some withdrawal methods can take a week to process
- Risk of hacking
- Some of the bonuses have high wagering requirements to be met before you can withdraw cash
Vegas Sportsbook
You can’t go to the State of Nevada and not visit Vegas! It’s like the spiritual birthplace of gambling. If you reside in the area or are just there for a visit, you can legally make a bet at any of the Vegas sportsbooks.
Nevada was the first state to legalize sports betting in 1949. Before that, the activity was operated by organized crime syndicates. Nowadays, you can find a wide range of betting options for the most popular sports, and the list is steadily growing.
The type and scope of the sportsbooks on offer in Vegas vary depending on the resort. Some will have multiple and massive screens, while others will be a couple of TVs and a betting window, and others may be a simple kiosk.
Betting at a Vegas Sportsbook
Making a bet for the first time at a Vegas sportsbook can be intimidating, but it’s pretty simple. There will be a large board or printed daily sheets, showing the games and odds available along with a ‘rotation number’. This is unique to the team, athlete or sport and should be used when you go to place your bet
Some of the top Vegas sportsbooks do also offer mobile betting, but you need to stay within the state to access them. Others also offer tablets where you can place your wager from your table instead of waiting in line at the cashiers.
Vegas Experience
The best thing about placing a bet at a Vegas sportsbook is that you can stick around for a little while and soak up the real Vegas atmosphere. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere at Westgate SuperBook during a major event like the Super Bowl or March Madness when everyone goes nuts! You just can’t replicate this at home.
Some Sportsbooks offer free drinks, depending on the amount you bet. Otherwise, buy your own, get comfy, watch the game, maybe even treat yourself to a slap up dinner.
Pros of Betting at a Vegas Sportsbook
- It’s Vegas!
- 100% Vegas experience
- More social—go with friends, meet new people
- Entertainment value
- Simple transactions
- No long sign-up process
- Instant cashout
- Don’t need to be tech-savvy
Cons of Betting at a Vegas Sportsbook
- If you lose your winning ticket, no cash
- If you win but live out of state, you either have to return to the sportsbook to cash in or photocopy ticket and post it and wait for a returned cheque.
- Limited betting options
- Standing in line to place bets
- Have to be in the state of Nevada to place a bet
Online betting is probably the best choice for the busy punter. However, if you do happen to get the chance to go to Vegas, then no trip is complete without placing a bet. It’s worth it for the experience alone. Whatever platform you choose, remember, always bet responsibly!