Online vs. Offline Betting

Maybe you have only ever placed wagers online, or perhaps you have only ever dealt with local bookies in the past.  Either way, if you are thinking about trying something new, you may wonder about the differences between betting online and betting offline.  What are the unique considerations?  What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each? 

Firstly, in terms of safety and trust, there are some misconceptions.  Online punters tend to believe that betting in person with local bookies is dangerous, and bettors who go through local bookmakers tend to believe the exact same thing about the Internet.  In reality, both are dubious prospects in general.  There are a lot of scammers both online and offline, but you will only fall victim to these scam artists if you do not do your homework.  There are actually many trustworthy bookies both online and offline.  Look up the features of online bookmakers, the types of bets they allow you to place, the sports you can wager on, and customer reviews to see if they are reliable and offer the flexibility you need. 

Another key difference involves credit.  With your online betting site, you are generally expected to put the money up right away.  This is not always the case with local bookies, who may actually allow you to wager on credit.  If you lose, you have to pay up at that time.  For some bettors this may be an advantage, while for others, it may be a disadvantage.  It all depends on your level of discipline and your money management abilities.  It is easier to lose track of your wagers when you do not actually have to put the money down right away. 

Another disadvantage of dealing with local bookies is that they can figure out what your betting habits are over time, and odds are you will be going through the same bookies for years.  Once they figure out your habits, they may adjust the odds on you to give themselves an edge.  You never have to worry about this when you bet online. 

If local bookies have an advantage over online betting sites, it is that they are negotiable.  Sometimes they will be willing to give you a half point.  You are never going to get a UK betting site to adjust the odds for you. 

In general, betting online is a more predictable experience.  It may also be better for you if you are an introvert, and would rather just place your wagers quickly and easily through an online interface.  The interface makes it easy to keep track of the wagers you are already in.  Betting locally does have its benefits, however, especially if you know your bookie well and can negotiate the odds now and again.  Which is best?  You will just have to inventory your own needs and figure out what the best fit is for you.  You might even try a little of both, and see what you like best!