- Live streaming at bookmakers allows customers to watch real-time sports events through betting websites or mobile apps.
What is Live Streaming?
Live streaming in the context of bookmakers refers to the real-time broadcast of sports events via betting websites or mobile apps. This feature allows customers to watch live sports events online, enhancing their betting experience by providing up-to-the-minute action.
System Requirements
The requirements for live streaming can vary based on the bookmaker and device. Here are general guidelines:
- Internet Connection: A stable, high-speed connection is crucial. Bookmakers typically recommend a minimum speed of 1.5 Mbps for standard definition (SD) streaming and 3.0 Mbps for high definition (HD) streaming.
- Device Compatibility: Live streaming is often available on desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Specific operating systems or web browsers may be required.
- Screen Size and Resolution: While optimised for larger screens, such as desktop monitors and tablets, mobile-optimised options are also available. Streaming resolutions usually range from 480p to 1080p.
- Software Requirements: Some bookmakers might require additional software or plugins, such as Flash or HTML5 plugins, or specific media players.
Are Live Streams Delayed?
Live streams from bookmakers can experience delays ranging from a few seconds to several minutes due to data transmission time, internet connection quality, server distance, and technical processing.
Additionally, bookmakers may introduce intentional delays to prevent players gaining an advantage. These delays negatively impact the live betting experience, where timing is crucial.
Bettors should be aware of potential delays and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Best Bookies For Live Streaming
1. Bet365
Bet365 streams a wide variety of sports, including football, netball, horse racing, volleyball, darts, cricket, baseball, ice hockey, and basketball, with extensive coverage for each. They offer over 30 football leagues, major tennis events, and many UK and Irish horse races. To access the streams, users need a funded account or to have placed a bet in the last 24 hours.
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2. William Hill
William Hill’s live stream feature (WHTV) attracts many customers thanks to their streaming partnership with At The Races. The availability of live streaming events depends on sports schedules, but mostly centres on horse and greyhound racing. To use WHTV, customers need to log into their accounts and either have a positive account balance or have wagered within the last 14 hours.
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3. Unibet
Unibet offers live streaming for football, tennis, basketball, and horse racing. Customers need a positive account balance or to have wagered within the last 24 hours to access live streaming for most sports. For horse racing, a specific bet amount must be placed, as indicated in the streaming window.
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4. Betfred
Betfred’s In Play page features a “Watch Live” option for streaming sports events, which includes horse and greyhound racing, basketball, snooker, and tennis. Live commentary is available for several sports. To access the streams, users need to be logged into their accounts and have a positive account balance.
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5. Boylesports
Boylesports offers live streaming for selected events in sports such as football, tennis, basketball, and esports. Customers simply need to be logged in to access the live streams, with no requirement for a positive balance or a recently placed bet.
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Pros & Cons Of Live Streaming
While live streaming at bookmakers can enhance the betting experience for customers in many ways, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Here are the pros and cons of live streaming.
Pros
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Enhanced Viewing Experience
Watch sports events in real-time for a more immersive and engaging experience, aiding informed betting decisions.
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Wide Range of Events
Bookmakers often stream a variety of sports, including football, basketball, tennis, horse racing, and more. This includes events not always available on traditional TV channels.
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Convenience
Live streams can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy for customers to watch events on-the-go.
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Additional Betting Options
Live streaming enhances live betting betting, allowing customers to place bets on specific outcomes or events during the course of a game.
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Free Service
Many bookmakers offer live streaming for free, providing additional value to their customers at no extra cost.
Cons
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Geographic Restrictions
Due to licensing agreements and legal restrictions, live streaming may not be available in all countries/regions.
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Limited Coverage
While many sports are covered, many popular events are reserved for specific broadcasters. Less popular sports may not be available at all.
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Technical Issues
Live streaming relies on a stable internet connection, so customers might experience buffering, delays, or other technical difficulties that can disrupt the viewing experience
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Bet Requirements
Some bookmakers require customers to place a bet on an event or have a positive account balance to access live streams. This can be a barrier for those who simply want to watch without betting.
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Cost
Although many bookmakers offer free live streaming, some may charge a subscription fee or impose specific betting requirements to access their streams.
Major Bookmakers With Live Streaming
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More Betting Features
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