Bet365 is the Internet and telephone betting division of its parent company, Bet365 Group Limited, one of the UK’s largest betting and gaming groups. The Bet365 Group has an established history of licensed sports betting in the UK since 1974.
The strongest feature of Bet365 is the range of sports one can bet on. Amongst online sports betting websites, Bet365 offers by far one of the largest variety of sports, ranging from mainstream categories such as Basketball and Golf, to regional interests such as Cricket and Bowls. Additionally, the sportsbook has a ‘Specials’ category which includes such options as wagering on the 2004 U.S. presidential election, an interesting twist on traditional sports bets.
Registering for a Bet365 account is straightforward and doesn’t require a minimum deposit. Managing one’s account on Bet365 offers some favorable options compared to other online sportsbooks. There are far more options for deposits and withdrawals on Bet365 than on most others. These include Western Union and Wire Transfers, as well as web-based options such as NETeller and FirePal. The sportsbook hosts a comprehensive Help page outlining these options.
Where Bet365 fails is in providing sports bettors, especially first-time gamblers, with descriptive instructions on how to place sports bets and a glossary of terms associated with sports betting. Bet365 assumes that users are experienced bet placers and have a strong understanding of features such as bet ratios and spreads.
Bet365 offers several methods for securing customer support. One can send an email with specific questions, or use a Callback feature where representatives return calls within 24 hours. Instant support is available through a toll-free number for U.S. and Canadian residents. However, upon calling the number to inquire about bet limits and procedures related to sports bet placement, the customer service representative impatiently referred to the website instead of elaborating on the question. This method of support runs in line with Bet365’s assumption that only experienced online sports gamblers will use the sportsbook.
Overall, Bet365 offers a friendly interface and website layout for potential users. Bet365 appears to take second place to the parent company’s physical betting operations, and hence requires improvements in content to appeal to a wider online audience.
Upshot: Recommended for Experienced Gamblers |
