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Sportsbetting.ag Poker Review
Best known for its sportsbook, SportsBetting.ag has also grown into a solid poker option on the Chico Network. It offers crypto-friendly banking, and beginner-friendly games running around the clock. In this review, I’ll break down its features, promos, and whether it’s worth playing if you already use the site for sports or casino.
“Long trusted for its sports betting platform, SportsBetting has also offered a solid online poker platform for many years. It is a favorite for many recreational players.” - Cliff Spiller
SportsBetting.ag Poker
I’ll be honest, the name says it all. SportsBetting.ag has been a go-to platform for me and many other sports bettors in the U.S. and around the world. It’s been around since 1991, making it one of the first online gambling sites to ever launch. What most people don’t realize is that it’s also been offering poker for quite a while.
If you’re like me, you probably see the natural crossover between sports betting and poker. It’s a long-standing tradition. That’s why SportsBetting has been a favorite destination for players who want both options in one place.
SportsBetting Poker operates on the Chico Poker Network, a trusted name in the poker business for many years. It’s a well-respected name in the poker world, known for keeping up with tech trends and listening to what players want. That’s probably why it continues to be one of the top choices for American poker players.
Rating Breakdown
My Overall Experience With SportsBetting Poker
SportsBetting Poker offers a softer, more relaxed vibe than I’m used to. I typically play games with a bit stiffer competition, so it was nice being able to play in a more relaxed environment. I tried low-stakes cash games and noticed most players were just there for fun. The sign-up process is quick, and depositing funds takes just a couple of minutes.
I also tried out a few Sit & Go tournaments, which filled up quickly, and a low buy-in multi-table tournament, which had around 100 players. One feature that impressed me was the fast-fold poker, which is called “Boost” on this site. I could fold a hand and instantly be moved to a new table with a new hand.
Overall, I really enjoyed playing poker on SportsBetting.ag. The software may not be flashy, but for a site known for sports betting, the poker software is stable and does the job well.
Pros & Cons
- Unique Six Plus Hold’em game
- Weekly and daily tournaments
- Consistent leaderboard competitions
- Multiple cryptocurrency deposit and withdrawal options
- Good for low-stakes and recreational players
- New players may struggle with navigation and lack poker lessons
- No software updates posted since 2022
- Limited mixed game options
How Valuable are the Promotions at SportsBetting.ag Poker?
SportsBetting's poker bonuses and promotions are simple, crypto-friendly, and geared toward regular players. You won’t find a complete VIP program, but key promos like the $1,000 welcome bonus, bad beat jackpot, reload offers, and the $150K Sunday tourney provides strong value. Wagering terms are fair, and there are no hidden traps.
Welcome Bonus
New players can claim a 100% poker bonus up to $1,000 by using the code NEWSB on their first deposit. The bonus is released in $5 increments for every $50 earned in rake and expires 30 days after activation. This structure favors consistent cash game and SNG players who can put in moderate volume within the window.
Bad Beat Jackpot
If you lose with Four Deuces or better at a designated Bad Beat Jackpot cash game table, the entire table shares a progressive payout. There’s no manual claim or opt-in process required, just play eligible tables and hope for the setup. A solid passive value-add for regular players.
The minimum hand requirements are as follow:
- No Limit Hold’em ($0.05/$0.10): Full House, Aces Full of Kings (AAAKK)
- No Limit Hold’em ($0.10/$0.25): Full House, Aces Full of Jacks (AAATT)
- No Limit Hold’em ($0.25/$0.50 to $1/$2): Full House, Aces Full of Jacks (AAAJJ)
- No Limit Hold’em ($2/$5 to $5/$10): Full House, Aces Full of Nines (AAA99)
- Pot Limit Omaha ($0.05/$0.10 to $0.25/$0.50): Four of a Kind Sevens (7777)
- Pot Limit Omaha ($0.50/$1 to $5/$10): Four of a Kind Sixes (6666)
Mystery Bounty Jackpot
Reload offers arrive via email or appear in your Rewards dashboard, often tied to seasonal promos or player activity. They typically range from 50% to 100% match bonuses, with playthrough terms linked to rake generation. While the structure varies, they're a worthwhile incentive for semi-regular players looking to re-up their bankroll.
Daily Power Surge Leaderboards
Play Boost (fast-fold) cash games and earn points for every raked hand. Each day, the top players on two stake levels win $50 cash. If you win, you also get the option to gamble it in a one-hand blackjack flip for $100, or just keep the fifty.
Play & Win Monthly Leaderboards
This one runs all the time. Whether you’re playing cash games, Sit & Gos, or MTTs, there’s a leaderboard that tracks your points and pays out daily or weekly. It adds up to $150K+ per month across all categories. You’re automatically entered just by playing.
SportsBetting.ag Rewards System
Players earn points through regular play on the SportsBetting via tournaments and cash games. Regular rake contributions turn into points, which then translate into weekly rewards of random prizes with values of up to $500.
This is not a typical rewards program or VIP program for online poker, but many players prefer it for the weekly rewards and useful benefits. They can receive cash, game bonuses for cash game play, tournament tickets, or locked cash bonuses based on their play across the six available levels.
- Level 1: Must rake $25
- Level 2: Must rake $75
- Level 3: Must rake $175
- Level 4: Must rake $425
- Level 5: Must rake $925
- Level 6: Must rake $1,925
What Poker Games Can You Play at SportsBetting Poker?
SportsBetting covers the essential poker games well: Hold’em, Omaha, fast-fold Boost Poker, and Windfall Jackpot games. They just recently started offering Omaha 5 and 6 games as well which I have yet to try. There are no mixed or novelty games like Stud or Short Deck, but what’s here runs smoothly with decent traffic. The unique formats and bonus options make it more engaging than many generic US-facing rooms.
Cash Games
Cash tables run for No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha with stakes from $0.01/$0.02 up to $5/$10. Most traffic centers around low-to-mid stakes Hold’em. I liked the auto top-up, chip display options, multi-table layout, and small touches that improve grindability. Still, the lack of Limits or mixed games may disappoint some players.
'Boost Poker'
Boost Poker delivers exactly what fast-fold players want: quick hands and minimal downtime. Known as The Daily Power Surge on the site, the format is limited to Hold’em, with stakes from $0.10/$0.25 up to $0.25/$0.50. Every 12 hours, the Top 10 players take home $50 each. I would’ve liked to see Omaha added, but even as-is, Boost tables were easy to find and smooth to play.
Sit and Gos
SNGs include heads-up, 6-max, and Windfall variants with buy-ins from $3 to $30. Windfall Jackpot SNGs were the most exciting, 3-player hyper-turbos where prizes can spike up to 2500× your buy-in. The action’s fast, and while traditional formats are basic, the thrill factor is high with a potential to win $75,000!
Sportsbetting Tournaments
While most of the poker tournaments on SportsBetting Poker are Hold’em and Omaha, there are many variations and formats within those categories. Players can almost always find the buy-ins that meet their bankroll needs, and higher buy-ins usually offer satellites for all players to be able to win their way into those events. The sorting function helps players find what they want to play.
- $150K Guaranteed Sunday Tournament: This weekly flagship No-Limit Hold’em tournament guarantees a $150,000 prize pool and runs every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. ET. The direct buy-in is $109, but players can qualify through step satellites starting at just $5.50. Fields are softer than major global rooms, offering strong value for US-based MTT grinders looking for a large payout without brutal competition.
- Mystery Bounty Jackpot Tournaments: These $55 buy-in tournaments include hidden knockout prizes, with one mystery bounty holding a progressive jackpot starting at $70,000. Every KO gives you a random prize, which could be a few bucks or a huge payout. The top jackpot hits randomly when a target player is eliminated. Qualifiers start as low as $0.25, and missed qualifiers get you into a daily freeroll.
- Triple Threat Tournaments: Each Triple Threat tournament offers three ways to win: a standard prize pool, bounties for every knockout, and a jackpot KO worth at least $35,000. One random knockout during the event triggers the jackpot prize. Daily buy-ins range from $11 to $55. No code is required; simply register and start playing.
- The Catch-22 Bounty Series: This is a recurring tournament series where every event has a $22 buy-in and uses a progressive bounty format. The schedule typically includes over 100 events with guarantees exceeding $400,000. Knockouts count toward a series-long leaderboard. You get rewarded for both winning and playing aggressively.
- Money Builders: Every day of the week, SportsBetting offers Money Builder tournaments with low buy-ins and guarantees. The tournaments start every hour as rebuy tournaments and a great way to build on a bankroll without breaking the bank.
- Progressive Bounties: Players love PKO tournaments these days. The ability to win bounties for knocking out opponents is a way to make money during a tournament before the money bubble bursts. There are Hold’em and Omaha options every day and night of the week, with most buy-ins ranging from $1.10 to $55.
- Sunday Majors: The list of Sunday majors for tournaments has some big guarantees, but there are buy-ins from $22 to $215. The range of structures includes everything from PKO to turbos, many with rebuys and reentries to keep the action going. The most popular Sunday events are:
- $109 buy-in Main Event with $150K GTD
- $55 buy-in NLHE with $20K GTD
- $215 buy-in NLHE with $40K GTD
- $22 buy-in Mini Main Event with $10K GTD
- Week Days: No matter the day of the week, SportsBetting has daily tournaments that start every hour on the hour. Rebuy tournaments start half-past each hour. And buy-ins span from just $1.10 to $215, with something for everyone and satellites for the larger events.
How Tough is the Competition at Sportsbetting Poker?
In general, the games are not very tough at SportsBetting Poker’s cash game and tournament tables. There are some pro players and semi-pros in the mix, but the majority of the players are there for fun and to learn, not to make a living from the games.
Some of the bigger tournaments and series draw better players, but the low buy-in events tend to offer soft fields. And since most of the games are Hold’em in tournament series, the non-Hold’em games draw in many new players, making those fields softer than usual as well.
That being said, Sportsbetting.ag is softer compared to some of the other bigger poker sites. There are a couple of reasons for this.
- Crossover traffic. Players from the sports and casino side will spill over to the poker tables. They are easy marks because they just want to gamble and show off. On top of that, they’re not going to understand pot odds, hand equities, and ranges.
- Sportsbetting.ag accepts US players. That adds more players to the pool, naturally making the games softer.
- There are fewer pros. Since the site has less traffic, you don’t have to worry about the tables being infested with good players. Pro players stick to sites with more traffic to ensure there are always games running.
Ultimately, during our Sportsbetting review, it was clear that this site was catered to the more recreational player. So if you’re looking for a soft site to learn how to play poker and make money from, Sportsbetting.ag is a good site for that.
SportsBetting Poker Traffic and Network
With SportsBetting Poker sharing its platform with BetOnline Poker, the traffic on the network is enough to host quite a few cash games and tournaments. The overall traffic can be up to 1,000 players on a weekday, but higher on evenings and weekends. When the network runs a tournament series, the traffic peaks.
In the overall scheme of poker sites around the world, Chico Poker Network ranks in the top 20, though peak hours and special events can boost the site further up the rankings.
There is a total of players on the site at all times at the bottom of the poker lobby. That number is also reflected in the number of cash games and tournaments running at that time.
Breaking Down SportsBetting’s Poker Software
As mentioned, SportsBetting shares a poker platform with BetOnline, and the Chico Poker Network hosts both poker rooms. The software is continually upgraded to provide the latest features for its players.
Anyone logging on to play poker at SportsBetting.ag will find that they can log in to the classic version of the site via any web browser. A download of the Sportsbetting.ag app is optional but does bring up the most updated version of the site, a more modern lobby, and faster action. Mobile devices (iOS and Android) are supported as well.
The classic version of SportsBetting Poker has all of the bells and whistles that is expected of today’s online poker, complete with hand histories, statistics, tournament reentries and late registration, and fast-fold poker.
The downloadable site helps players avoid the lag time that can come with an overloaded web browser or a slowdown when too many tabs are open. Most players who log on through SportsBetting.ag prefer downloading the app.
The poker software is also connected to the rest of SportsBetting’s offerings. Players can seamlessly transition from the poker tables over to the sportsbook or racebook, or open the casino to play some table games or online slots.
Chico’s poker software capabilities also present the opportunity for features that players at all bankroll levels enjoy.
- All-in Cash Out: This was a feature that players wanted for a long time, and SportsBetting implemented it in recent years. The All-In Cash Out function allows a player to see the value of a hand with which they moved all-in. For a 1% fee, the player can see the probability of winning the hand and simply cash out for that value instead of sweating the hand and possibly losing via a bad beat.
- Anonymous Observation: When looking at the poker lobby, players are not listed by their screen names. This is a feature started by Chico to keep players anonymous. The purpose is to keep pro players or bots from detecting players that may not be winning players. This practice is illegal on the site, but the anonymity of players in the lobby keeps pros from targeting opponents that they perceive to be weaker. Players screen names only become available at the actual tables.
- Poker Odds Calculator: One of the reasons that poker is often called a skill game rather than one of chance is that players can calculate the odds of winning hands. Pot odds are used by most skilled players, but getting used to calculating those odds with every hand is tough for new players. The poker odds calculator is free, and players can attach it to any cash game or tournament table to see the odds. This is helpful in making decisions.
- Straddle: More players are getting used to straddling in cash games. Many new players and recreationals don’t love it, but it is an option on SportsBetting Poker. The person just to the left of the big blind can place a straddle bet, which puts them in the position to act last before the flop and increases the pot. This is a cash game feature at some tables, which are marked as such in the lobby.
Straddle: More players are getting used to straddling in cash games. Many new players and recreationals don’t love it, but it is an option on SportsBetting Poker. The person just to the left of the big blind can place a straddle bet, which puts them in the position to act last before the flop and increases the pot. This is a cash game feature at some tables, which are marked as such in the lobby. - Throwables: Throwables became popular with virtual reality gaming, and some poker software, like that used by Chico, can offer the feature. Essentially, it gives players the option to use emojis and even throw things at opponents, like fruit.
Web Version vs Poker Client
The SportsBetting software basically plays the same whether in the downloaded software or through a web browser. There are only a few differences that primarily depend upon the player’s setup and preferences, though speed can play a role and slow down play in a browser.
The downloaded version of the poker room is its own entity. Not only is it faster than the browser version, it offers more setting options. It also prevents accidental closure of the browser tab while playing.
Deposits and Withdrawals at Sportsbetting.ag
Sportsbetting.ag’s deposit options include: person to person, Visa, Visa (person to person), book to book, money orders, bank wires and checks. Deposit limits range from $50 to $25,000 for the majority of options. There are a few options that have no limits.
Your withdrawal options include: checks, bank wires, person to person and book to book transfers. Withdrawal limits vary from $100 to $8,000.
Deposit Limits
| Deposit Method | Minimum Deposit | Maximum Deposit | Deposit Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | $50 | $500 | None |
| Bitcoin | $20 | $5,000 | None |
| Cash transfer (WU) | $50 | $700 | Credited back to player’s account for deposits of $300 or more |
| Cash transfer (MG) | $50 | $600 | Credited back to player’s account for deposits of $300 or more |
| Bank wire transfer | $1,000 | N/A | Credited back to player |
| Cashier’s check | $1,500 | N/A | None |
| Money order | $300 | N/A | None |
| Book to book | $500 | N/A | None |
How to deposit on Sportsbetting Poker with Bitcoin
It is important for our readers to be able to use cryptocurrency at their chosen poker site, and during our Sportsbetting review, we were not disappointed. If you’re looking for a good site to gamble with Bitcoin, they are a great option. Aside from bonuses, Sportsbetting gives you an additional bonus when you deposit with Bitcoin. It also accepts a number of other cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin Cash.
There are no fees and deposits and withdrawals are always speedy. All you have to do is select the site’s Cryptocurrency option on the deposit screen. You can even use a QR code to scan and deposit crypto. If you have any problems, the site has a Bitcoin 101 to help you get your coins on the site.
Withdrawals
| Method | Min Withdrawal | Max Withdrawal | Fees | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin | $20 | $5,000 | 2% | 1-24 Hours |
| Express Courier Check | $500 | $2,500 | $50 | 10-14 Days |
| Courrier Check | $500 | $2,500 | $35 | 18-21 Days |
| Regular Check | $500 | $2,500 | $25 | 40-50 Days |
| Cash transfer (MG) | $50 | $400 | Depends on amount | 5-7 Days |
| Reloadable ATM Card | $100 | $2,500 | $25 for each load and $80 to issue the card | 1-2 Days-Per-Load |
| Bank wire | $500 | $24,900 | Varies | 18-21 Days |
| Skrill | $25 | $9,900 | $20 | 1-2 Days |
| NETeller | $25 | $9,900 | $20 | 1-2 Days |
What is Missing from SportsBetting?
SportsBetting tries to stick to the basics, offering as much Hold’em and Omaha as players would like. However, many of today’s players want to try new games, explore mixed game tournaments, and new variants. They deserve more options, especially in today’s poker environment.
While SportsBetting Poker is almost identical to the BetOnline poker setup, it would behoove them to set themselves apart from their sister site. Of course, sports betting is the prime draw on the site, given its name, but it could offer more promos and draw a bit more attention to its poker offering.
Finally, the site could and should be more transparent about the steps it takes to combat bots, cheaters, and advantage players who try to prey on “weaker” opponents. Players should know that they’re safe and that the site is taking concrete steps to protect new and recreational customers.
SportsBetting Poker Network & License Information
The Chico Poker Network operations are based in Panama, with the poker sites calling Panama City home. However, this prevents access to gambling licenses maintained under the Panama Gaming Control Board (Junta de Control de Juegos). This regulatory agency does not appear to show a license for SportsBetting Poker or its sister sites or network online.
There is also no proof of a certificate of RNG (random number generator) usage for poker. BetOnline says its poker software is approved by Gamin Laboratories International (GLI), but the site does not show the trademark for verification.
Are 3rd Party Programs Supported?
SportsBetting says that any software, artificial intelligence, or tools used to gain an unfair advantage in play are prohibited. This includes hand charts and odds calculators from third-party software providers. The network does not provide a thorough list of banned products. If there are questions about the ability to use some software, it is best to check with a customer service representative first instead of risking being banned from the site.
Customer Support Options
When playing online, it’s important to know help is readily available. I was impressed with the 24/7 availability and the multiple options for assistance. Here’s a breakdown of support options available at SportsBetting:
- Live Chat: Using the live chat on SportsBetting Poker is the quickest way to get help, and it is also available 24/7.
- Email: For less urgent matters, SportsBetting offers support via email. In particular, they have a poker-specific support email, cspoker@sportsbetting.ag, in addition to the general support address
- Phone: SB Poker also offers phone support via a toll-free number: 1-888-843-9027, allowing you to speak with a live representative. It’s available 24/7 as well, and I can see it being really useful if you ever prefer talking to someone directly to resolve a complex issue.
- Help Center / FAQ: In addition to direct contact methods, SportsBetting offers a Help Center on the website, which serves as an FAQ knowledge base. You will find lots of articles on account management, deposits and withdrawals, poker rules, and troubleshooting. It’s a good first stop for common questions.
My SportsBetting Poker Verdict
Some players believe that SportsBetting Poker is a treasured find in the massive world of online poker sites. With the number of newer and amateur players at the tables, those who study and improve their game through practice and training can get a leg up on their competitors.
Fans of this poker site and network also say that it is a great place to find any low-stakes action, the perfect place to try new strategies, and improve as an overall player.
The decades of experience behind the SportsBetting and BetOnline teams give players confidence that their funds are protected. The sites pride itself on fast payouts and timely responses to customer service inquiries. Players trust the poker site because of that experience, which includes employees who have been with the company for long periods of time. It instills confidence in the product. US players are always welcome at SportsBetting Poker.
Best Bonus 100% up to $1,000
- Unique Six Plus Hold’em game
- Weekly and daily tournaments
- Consistent leaderboard competitions
Poker Sites Similar to SportsBetting.ag
SporsBetting.ag Key Details
| Available Country |
USA
|
| Phone | 1-888-843-9027 |
| Number of payment methods | 9 |
| Number of available games | 2 |
| Tournaments | Yes |
| Licensing | Antigua and Barbuda |
| Compatibility | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows |