Is BookMaker Legit? Trust and Safety
Of course, before you go depositing money in a new offshore sportsbook, you should always check whether the platform is legitimate and safe. Unlike regulated sportsbooks that operate under strict government oversight, offshore operators require bettors to rely on reputation, track record, and industry standing rather than legal guarantees.
However, BookMaker has earned its well deserved trust through longevity, transparent operations, and fair treatment of winning players. For U.S. bettors in states without regulated options, BookMaker represents one of the more trustworthy offshore choices.
History
BookMaker’s roots trace back to 1985, and it’s widely recognized as one of the earliest offshore sportsbooks. It started accepting online wagers in the mid‑1990s and has maintained continuous operation ever since.
As a result, the sportsbook has maintained continuous operation for nearly 40 years, surviving industry upheavals that shuttered countless competitors. In fact, BookMaker has done exceedingly well, operating an extensive network of over 100 physical sportsbooks globally and maintaining a partnership with Buffalo Wild Wings.
Licensing
BookMaker operates from San José, Costa Rica, under what’s commonly called a “data processing license” rather than a traditional gambling license. That’s because Costa Rica does not issue formal online gambling licenses like the United Kingdom, Malta, or regulated U.S. states. Instead, gambling businesses register as commercial entities and follow general corporate laws.
And this regulatory framework differs significantly from stricter jurisdictions.
What Costa Rica licensing means:
- Companies must maintain physical offices in Costa Rica
- Businesses pay standard corporate taxes but no gambling-specific taxes
- Operations are legal within Costa Rica’s framework
- No dedicated gaming regulator oversees operations or player protection
What it doesn’t provide:
- No independent auditing of game fairness or RNG certification
- No government-enforced player protection standards
- No formal dispute resolution through regulatory bodies
- Limited recourse for players in case of disagreements
Costa Rica’s relaxed approach allows BookMaker to operate with fewer restrictions and lower overhead which they pass along to their customers. However, it also means bettors lack the protections available at sites licensed by formal gambling authorities.
Player Safety and Security
Despite the lack of regulatory oversight in the U.S., BookMaker uses industry‑standard security measures like SSL encryption and secure banking processes to protect user data and funds.
Security Protocols
- SSL encryption protects all data transmitted between users and servers
- Secure login procedures with username and PIN requirements
- Account verification processes to prevent fraud
- Transaction monitoring to detect suspicious activity
Financial Safety
- Nearly 40-year track record of processing withdrawals
- Separation of player funds from operational accounts
- Multiple banking options including cryptocurrency for enhanced privacy
- Clear terms and conditions outlining all policies
Responsible Gambling
- Self-exclusion options available through customer support
- Deposit limits can be set upon request
- Resources for problem gambling assistance
- Account cooling-off periods available
Final Verdict: BookMaker is a legitimate and relatively safe offshore sportsbook with nearly four decades of consistent operation and reliable payouts.
My Experience with BookMaker
In order to experience what real players do, I went ahead and created an account with BookMaker. These were my observations:
Sign-up Process
The registration was straightforward, requiring basic personal information without excessive verification steps. Within minutes, my account was active and ready for deposits.
Funding My Account
I chose to deposit with Bitcoin due to the flexible limits, no fees, and estimated processing time. The instructions were very clear and I saw credit hit my account almost immediately. The cashier interface, while not the most modern-looking, functioned efficiently with transparent fee information.
Placing My First Bet
Of course, we’re in the height of football season, so I decided to stick with NFL markets. The single-page layout displayed all available bet types on one scrolling page. While some might find this crowded, I appreciated having everything visible without clicking through multiple tabs. I placed a spread bet on an upcoming NFL game. The bet slip was clear about stake, potential payout, and terms. After confirming, my wager appeared instantly in the pending bets section.
Live Betting
The live betting interface performed well during a college basketball game. Odds updated smoothly in real-time, and I successfully placed an in-game wager on the point spread mid-game. And the bet graded within seconds.
Withdrawal
After building my account balance, I requested a Bitcoin withdrawal. The process required navigating to the cashier, selecting cryptocurrency payout, and entering my Bitcoin wallet address. The withdrawal was approved within 3 hours and appeared in my wallet approximately 20 hours later—faster than most offshore competitors.
Overall Impressions
Overall, BookMaker delivered a solid, no-nonsense betting experience. The platform won’t wow users with visual design, but it excels where it matters most: reliable operations, extensive markets, and quick payouts. This positions BookMaker as a workhorse sportsbook for serious bettors rather than a flashy platform for casual entertainment.
Now that we’ve established BookMaker’s legitimacy and examined its reputation, it’s time to dive into what the platform actually offers.
Bonuses and Promotions
Bonuses and promotions can significantly impact the value you receive from a sportsbook. And BookMaker’s approach to bonuses reflects its overall philosophy: conservative, sustainable, and focused on long-term value rather than flashy headlines. While you won’t find the massive 100% deposit matches or risk-free bet offers common at regulated sportsbooks and some offshore competitors, BookMaker’s promotions feature reasonable rollover requirements and genuine attainability.
Signup/Welcome Bonuses
Welcome bonuses represent your first opportunity to extract value, and choosing the right one can make a difference in your initial bankroll. Unlike many sportsbooks that offer a single welcome promotion, BookMaker provides three distinct options.
20% Crypto Welcome Bonus (Up to $500)
- Minimum Deposit: $75 (some sources indicate $100)
- Maximum Bonus: $500
- Rollover Requirement: 8x (deposit + bonus)
- Eligible Methods: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and other accepted cryptocurrencies
- Restrictions: U.S. and Canadian residents only
This bonus provides cash (not free play) that becomes withdrawable after completing the rollover requirement. And the 8x rollover is reasonable compared to industry standards.
25% Cash Welcome Bonus (Up to $500)
- Minimum Deposit: $50
- Maximum Bonus: $500
- Rollover Requirement: 8x (deposit + bonus)
- Eligible Methods: Credit cards, debit cards, person-to-person, and other non-crypto methods
- Restrictions: U.S. and Canadian residents only
This option offers a higher percentage than the crypto bonus but requires traditional payment methods. The rollover terms are identical.
100% Free Play Bonus (Up to $400)
- Minimum Deposit: $50
- Maximum Bonus: $400 in free play
- Rollover Requirement: 1x (extremely low)
- Eligible Methods: Credit and debit cards
- Restrictions: U.S. residents only
This bonus provides the highest percentage match but pays out in free play rather than cash. Free plays don’t include the stake in winnings (a $100 free play winning at +100 odds pays $100, not $200). However, the minimal 1x rollover makes this attractive for bettors who plan to meet the playthrough quickly.
How to Claim Bonuses Easily
Claiming bonuses at BookMaker is straightforward:
- Create an Account: Register with basic personal information
- Navigate to Cashier: Click the Cashier link (usually at bottom of page)
- Select Deposit Method: Choose your preferred payment option
- Enter Deposit Amount: Input the amount you want to deposit
- Select Bonus: Click “Claim Bonus” and choose from available offers
- Confirm Deposit: Complete the transaction
Important Notes:
- Bonuses must be selected during the deposit process
- Each bonus is one-time only for new customers
- Read rollover requirements before accepting
- Some bonuses may require contacting customer support
- Promotional codes are rarely needed (most bonuses are selected in cashier)
BetPoints Rewards Program
BookMaker operates a comprehensive three-tier loyalty program that covers all gambling platforms. The BetPoints Rewards Program emphasizes long-term value over flashy one-time promotions. Active bettors who stay with BookMaker accumulate significant rewards through reload bonuses, rebates, and point conversions.
How It Works:
- Every wager earns BetPoints
- Points accumulate across all BookMaker products
- BetPoints can be converted to cash bonuses
- Higher tiers unlock increased benefits
Tier Structure:
- Gold Tier (Entry Level)
- Platinum Tier (Mid-Level)
- Diamond Tier (VIP)
Additional Benefits:
- Refer-a-Friend Program: Earn up to $500 for each referred friend who joins
- Racebook Rebates: Up to 8% cash back on horse racing wagers
- Quarterly or monthly BetPoints bonuses
- Birthday and anniversary bonuses for top-tier members
Reload Bonuses
The BetPoints Rewards Program offers three tiers of reload bonuses for existing customers. These reload bonuses must be selected in the cashier during deposit and can only be claimed at intervals determined by the loyalty program (typically monthly). The increasing percentages and caps reward consistent, high-volume bettors.
Gold Level (10% Cash Reload)
- Bonus Percentage: 10%
- Maximum Bonus: $500
- Minimum Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 4x (deposit + bonus)
- Availability: All Gold-tier members
Platinum Level (15% Cash Reload)
- Bonus Percentage: 15%
- Maximum Bonus: $1,500
- Minimum Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 5x (deposit + bonus)
- Availability: Platinum-tier members
Diamond Level (20% Cash Reload)
- Bonus Percentage: 20%
- Maximum Bonus: $2,500
- Minimum Deposit: $50
- Rollover: 5x (deposit + bonus)
- Availability: Diamond-tier members
For sharp bettors who’ve been burned by impossible rollover requirements or limited-winning restrictions after bonus hunting, BookMaker’s modest but fair bonus structure may actually be refreshing.
Payment Details
No aspect of a sportsbook matters more than getting your money in and out reliably, quickly, and affordably. And BookMaker’s payment infrastructure reveals a clear two-tier system. Cryptocurrency users enjoy fast, fee-free transactions with high limits. But traditional banking customers face significantly slower processing, higher fees, and lower caps.
If you’re not already using cryptocurrency for online gambling, you may want to start. The advantages are substantial and measurable.
Supported Payment Methods
BookMaker accepts a diverse range of payment options to accommodate different bettor preferences:
- Credit and Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
- Standard Banking Methods: Bank wire transfer, check, and person-to-person
- Crypto: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), and many other popular cryptocurrencies
BookMaker Deposit Options
BookMaker offers a variety of deposit options so bettors can choose whichever method is most convenient for them to fund their accounts. Each payment option comes with different minimum and maximum limits that can affect your betting experience.
| Deposit Option | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Visa | $50 | $2500 |
| Mastercard | $50 | $1500 |
| American Express | $50 | $1500 |
| Person-to-person | $100 | $500 |
| Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies | $10 | $500000 |
BookMaker Payout Review
When it comes to managing your funds, knowing how you’ll get paid is even more important than how you deposit. After all, accessing your winnings quickly and with minimal fees has a direct impact on your profits. At BookMaker, payout speed and cost depend heavily on your chosen method. Crypto withdrawals are typically the fastest and most cost-effective, while traditional banking options often come with longer wait times and steeper fees.
| Payout Option | Minimum | Maximum | Fees | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa | $100 | $2500 | $0 | Within 24 hours |
| Mastercard | $100 | $2500 | $0 | Within 24 hours |
| American Express | $100 | $2500 | $0 | Within 24 hours |
| Wire transfer | $5000 | $20000 | $600 | 5-7 business days |
| Check | $250 | $3000 | $25-35 | 5 business days |
| Person-to-person | $0 | $350 | $25-35 | 1-3 business days |
| Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies | $50 | $25000 | 1-3% | Within 24 hours |
The one-withdrawal-per-week restriction and monthly caps can frustrate professional bettors with large balances, but BookMaker has maintained these policies to manage risk. For most recreational bettors, these limits are unlikely to cause issues.
BookMaker Platform Review
A sportsbook’s trustworthiness matters little if it doesn’t provide the betting markets, features, and gambling options you’re looking for. So let’s go ahead and answer some practical questions: What can I actually bet on? What features does the platform provide? And does BookMaker offer enough variety to meet my gambling preferences?
Whether you’re a single-sport specialist or a multi-product gambler, this breakdown will show you exactly what to expect from the BookMaker experience.
Gambling Verticals
BookMaker provides multiple gambling products beyond traditional sports betting:
- Sportsbook: The sportsbook is BookMaker’s primary offering. It features comprehensive coverage of all major U.S. sports, international sports, combat sports, golf, tennis, and motorsports.
- Casino: BookMaker operates an online casino with slots, table games (blackjack, roulette, baccarat), video poker, and live dealer games.
- Poker: BookMaker offers a dedicated poker room with various stakes and tournament options, connecting players to a broader network.
- Racebook: BookMaker features an extensive racebook covering thoroughbred and harness racing from tracks worldwide.
- Esports: You can find Esports betting on popular games including League of Legends, Dota 2, CS:GO, Valorant, and major tournaments and regional competitions.
Sports Leagues
BookMaker covers a wide range of sports markets with early odds and competitive pricing compared with many offshore peers. Markets include pro and college leagues, futures, props, and live betting.
Major U.S. Sports
- NFL: All games, extensive props
- NBA: Regular season and playoffs
- MLB: Full season coverage
- NHL: Comprehensive markets
- NCAA Football: All FBS conferences
- NCAA Basketball: Division I tournaments
International Sports
- Soccer: English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League, MLS, and 50+ leagues worldwide
- Cricket: International Test matches, ODIs, T20, and IPL
- Rugby: Union and League competitions
- Australian Rules Football
- Handball, Volleyball, and Field Hockey
Combat Sports
- UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
- MMA (Mixed Martial Arts)
- Boxing (major promotions)
- Bare Knuckle Fighting
- PFL (Professional Fighters League)
Other Sports
- Golf: PGA Tour, European Tour, and major championships
- Tennis: ATP, WTA, and Grand Slams
- Motorsports: F1, NASCAR, and IndyCar
- Cycling: Tour de France, and Grand Tours
- Olympics and World Championships
Betting Markets
BookMaker provides extensive betting market depth:
- Standard Markets:
- Moneylines (straight win/loss)
- Point Spreads (handicaps)
- Totals (over/under)
- First Half/Quarter lines
- Team Totals
- Live In-game Betting
- Advanced Markets:
- Extensive Prop Bets (player and team props)
- Alternate Lines (buy points)
- Futures (championship winners, season wins)
- Parlays and Teasers
- Round Robins
- If-Bets and Reverse Bets
More than Just Sports
BookMaker extends betting beyond traditional sports to entertainment and political events:
- Political Betting: U.S. presidential elections, congressional races, international political events, referendum outcomes, and party leadership contests.
- Entertainment Betting: Academy Awards (Oscars), Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, Golden Globes, reality TV outcomes, and celebrity news/events.
- Special Events: Financial markets, weather-related props, current events, business and technology announcements, and miscellaneous novelty bets.
These alternative markets provide action during sports off-seasons and appeal to bettors interested in prediction markets beyond athletics.
Sportsbook Features
Beyond simply offering a wide range of sports and markets, what truly distinguishes one sportsbook from another are the features and tools that enhance the betting experience. BookMaker has built its reputation not on flashy gimmicks, but on fundamental features that serious bettors value most:
- It’s the first to market with lines.
- It accepts high-stakes action.
- And it provides deep betting options.
Early Line Posting
BookMaker’s most distinctive feature is posting opening lines before any other sportsbook. For NFL games, lines typically appear Sunday around 4PM for the following week. College football lines post Saturday around 4PM. This gives sharp bettors first opportunity to find value before public betting influences the odds.
High Betting Limits
BookMaker’s limits far exceed most offshore and regulated sportsbooks. NBA games accept wagers up to $40,000+ per bet. NFL, MLB, and other major sports have similarly high thresholds. BookMaker rarely limits winning players, a significant advantage for successful bettors.
Extensive Props
There are hundreds of proposition bets available on major events. NFL games feature 100+ props on game day. The Super Bowl offers 300+ prop betting options. Props cover player performance, team stats, game flow, and novelty outcomes.
Live In-game Betting
BookMaker offers real-time betting on NFL, college football, NBA, college basketball, NHL, MLB, UFC, tennis, and other sports. Odds update constantly based on game action. Bets grade within seconds, with winnings credited immediately to accounts.
Alternate Lines
Alternative point spreads and totals appear approximately one hour before game start. These allow bettors to buy or sell points at adjusted odds, providing additional strategic options.
Teaser Betting
There are multiple teaser options available, though football teaser odds are less favorable than basketball. On the one hand, NBA 5-point teasers at -110 offer reasonable value. But on the other, football teasers have been adjusted to less-favorable payouts.
Parlay Builder
Users can construct custom parlays combining multiple sports and bet types. The platform calculates payouts automatically and supports up to 12-leg parlays with progressive payouts.
BetPoints Rewards
Every wager earns BetPoints that can be converted to cash bonuses or used for perks. The three-tier system (Gold, Platinum, Diamond) provides increasing benefits based on betting volume. Points accumulate across their sportsbook, casino, poker, and racebook.
These features demonstrate exactly why BookMaker has maintained its position as a preferred platform for sharp bettors despite its dated interface.
These features demonstrate exactly why BookMaker has maintained its position as a preferred platform for sharp bettors despite its dated interface.
Platform Design and Accessibility
A sportsbook can offer the best odds and highest limits in the industry, but if the platform is difficult to navigate or inaccessible, those advantages become frustrating to leverage. And for BookMaker, this is where the platform’s age shows. Its design and accessibility is the most glaringly obvious distinction between BookMaker and its modern competitors.
For some bettors, an ugly but reliable interface is perfectly acceptable; for others, it’s a dealbreaker.
Desktop Experience
The BookMaker desktop site employs a straightforward, utilitarian design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The homepage features a simple layout with main gambling categories displayed prominently across the top navigation bar.
In the sportsbook section, BookMaker utilizes a single-page design where all betting options for a sport appear on one scrolling page. Game lines, quarter lines, half lines, props, and futures are stacked vertically rather than separated into different tabs. While this provides comprehensive visibility, it can feel cluttered for users accustomed to modern compartmentalized interfaces.
Despite its age, the platform loads quickly and responds immediately to user inputs. Pages aren’t bogged down with heavy graphics or animations. And its snappy performance makes up for some aesthetic shortcomings, particularly for bettors prioritizing speed over style.
Mobile Website Experience
The mobile version maintains the same functionality as desktop but reformats content into a vertical scrolling layout. Pages load quickly, and the mobile site performs well across various devices and connection speeds. In fact, the simplified layout actually works better on mobile than desktop, as the single-column format feels more natural on smaller screens.
While the mobile website is functional, it lacks some features common in native apps such as biometric login (Face ID, fingerprint), push notifications for bet results, and native device optimization.
App
BookMaker offers a mobile app listed on Google Play for Android devices. However, this app is primarily a live odds viewer rather than a full-featured betting platform. The app displays real-time odds, schedules, scores, and lines across major sports, but does not allow bet placement directly within the app. However, users can create their own “app” using a progressive web app:
- Visit BookMaker.eu on your mobile browser
- Tap the browser menu (three dots)
- Select “Add to Home Screen”
- Name the shortcut and confirm
This creates an icon on your home screen that opens the mobile site in a streamlined browser view, functioning similarly to an app with faster load times.
The Bottom Line: BookMaker’s platform proves that ugly can still be effective. The platform excels in areas that matter to serious bettors while lagging in modern design and user experience features.
Customer Support
BookMaker provides multiple customer support channels with 24/7 availability:
Live Chat
- Access: Click the “Live Chat” link at the bottom of any page on the website. A chat window opens immediately without requiring login (though providing your username helps representatives access your account).
- Availability: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
- Language: English (primary), Spanish support available
- Response Time: Typically instant to 2 minutes during peak hours
- Quality: Representatives are knowledgeable about platform features, bonus terms, and technical issues. They can handle account questions, deposit/withdrawal assistance, and general betting inquiries. Responses are professional and efficient.
- Best For: Immediate assistance with account issues, deposit problems, or quick questions about features
Phone
- Number: +1-877-827-1463 (toll-free from U.S. and Canada)
- Availability: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
- Response Time: Vary depending on time of day; typically 2-5 minutes during peak hours, often immediate during off-peak
- Quality: Phone representatives can handle complex issues, provide detailed explanations, and access account information securely. Some users prefer phone support for withdrawal requests or account verification.
- Availability: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week
- Primary Support: customerservice@bookmaker.eu
- Specialized Departments:
- Payouts: payouts@bookmaker.eu
- Technical Issues: technical@bookmaker.eu
- VIP/High-Roller Support: vip@bookmaker.eu
- Response Time: Typically 4-24 hours, depending on issue complexity
- Best For: Non-urgent matters, detailed questions requiring research, documentation submission, formal complaints
Additional Support Resources
BookMaker also maintains a FAQ section covering common topics including:
- Account registration and verification
- Deposit and withdrawal procedures
- Bonus terms and conditions
- Betting rules and grading
- Technical troubleshooting
Bottom Line: We give BookMaker’s customer support positive marks for availability, knowledge, and responsiveness. Their live chat is consistently the fastest and most effective channel for immediate needs. We found phone support best for complex issues requiring detailed discussion. And email is good for non-urgent matters.
Regarding BookMaker’s Online Reputation
During our review, we found user sentiment across independent platforms like Trustpilot to be mixed but generally positive, especially regarding betting odds and payout reliability. Some users praise the sportsbook for competitive live betting markets, while others note slower or inconsistent customer support experiences.
Positive feedback:
“Not sure why all the bad reviews. I’ve been using them for awhile now. They never cancelled bets like others have claimed. I’ve always got my withdrawal requests. They give the best odds than any other book I have used before. It’s a great sportsbook.”
“I have been betting on this site for 20 years and I do sometime manage to win and collect my winnings and payout is very quick.”
Negative feedback:
“Withdrawal caps were arbitrarily enforced: $25,000 per day and $100,000 per month — despite the ability to deposit $500,000 per day.”
As a result, BookMaker’s reputation varies significantly depending on the user and situation. Professional bettors and long-term users generally provide positive feedback, while casual players and casino users report more mixed experiences.
Is BookMaker the Best Sportsbook for Me?
That answer depends entirely on you. BookMaker is certainly a legitimate and trustworthy offshore sportsbook. Founded in 1985, it’s one of the oldest and most well established sportsbooks accepting U.S. players. That doesn’t mean, however, that it caters to any and all bettors.
As with any financial venture, you have to play to your unique betting style. So it’s important to understand what you need out of your sportsbook partner so you can maximize the benefits and minimize the risks.
So if you’re considering opening an account with BookMaker, consider the following pros and cons.
BookMaker is a good fit if you:
- Want a long-established offshore sportsbook: BookMaker has been in business since 1985 and has a proven track record spanning decades.
- Prefer wide betting markets: BookMaker offers something for everyone including mainstream US sports, niche leagues, props, horse racing, etc.
- Need flexible funding options: If you’re big into crypto or alternately want flexible payment options (crypto, bank wire, card), BookMaker has you covered.
- Consider yourself a sharp bettor: If you bet big, value high betting limits, and prioritize early lines, BookMaker is known for setting the industry standard.
- Value function over form: If you don’t mind a no frills, utility-first interface and are comfortable navigating a slightly dated website, BookMaker is for you.
You may want to consider another sportsbook if you:
- Need strong regulatory protections or consumer safeguards: Remember, offshore sportsbooks are not state-licensed like their regulated counterparts.
- Prefer a modern user experience or dedicated mobile app: If you value accessibility and an intuitive, user-friendly design, BookMaker may strike you as antiquated.
- Are a casual bettor: BookMaker’s suite of features may feel like overkill to bettors more interested in simplicity or small stakes.
- Hate min-maxing bonuses and promos: BookMaker offers many, generous promos to users, but you have to put in the time and effort to get the most out of them.
BookMaker vs Other Offshore Sportsbooks
One of BookMaker’s most outstanding qualities is the fact that it lives up to its slogan “Where the Line Originates”. It is objectively the first sportsbook to post betting lines on U.S. sporting events. Other offshore books and Las Vegas sportsbooks monitor BookMaker’s opening lines and adjust their own odds accordingly.
| BookMaker | Everygame | BetOnline | Bovada | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensing | Costa Rica Data Processing | Curaçao eGaming | Panama Gaming Commission | Curaçao eGaming |
| Reputation | Excellent | Very good | Good | Good |
| Crypto Options | 8+ | 10+ | 16+ | 8+ |
| Payment Speed | 1-24 hrs (crypto) | 1-2 business days (crypto) | 1-24 hrs (crypto) | 1-24 hrs (crypto) |
| Bonuses | Conservative | Moderate | Generous | Moderate |
| Verticals | Sports Casino Racebook Poker Esports | Sports Casino Poker | Sports Casino Racebook Poker Esports Contests | Sports Casino Racebook Poker |
| Design | Dated, but functional | Modern | Dated, but functional | Modern |
| Features | Standard | Decent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Betting Limits | Very high | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Crypto Support | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
BookMaker vs Regulated Sportsbooks
One of the most important decisions bettors face is choosing between offshore sportsbooks and state-regulated options. While offshore books offer nationwide accessibility and fewer restrictions, regulated sportsbooks provide legal protections, regulatory oversight, and recourse through state gaming commissions.
Below, we highlight the fundamental differences between BookMaker’s offshore model and the regulated marketplace. That way, you can weigh the trade-offs between the two options.
| BookMaker | DraftKings | FanDuel | BetMGM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Licensing | Costa Rica Data Processing | State-by-state | State-by-state | State-by-state |
| Reputation | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Payment Options | 8+ crypto | 6-8 standard | 6-8 standard | 6-8 standard |
| Payment Speed | 1-24 hrs (crypto) | 1-5 business days | 1-5 business days | 1-5 business days |
| Bonuses | Conservative | Very generous | Very generous | Very generous |
| Verticals | Sports Casino Racebook Poker Esports | Sports Casino DFS | Sports Casino DFS Racebook | Sports Casino Poker |
| Design | Dated, but functional | Premium | Premium | Premium |
| Features | Basic | Excellent | Excellent | Very good |
| Betting Limits | Very high | Low to moderate | Low to moderate | Moderate |
| Crypto Support | Excellent | None | None | None |
| Availability | 47+ states, excluding NJ, OH, and TN | 20+ states where licensed | 20+ states where licensed | 20+ states where licensed |
Advantages of BookMaker:
- Available nationwide (except New Jersey) vs. limited state availability for regulated books
- Higher betting limits for serious bettors
- More cryptocurrency options with faster payouts
- Often better odds with reduced juice
- Early line posting for futures bets
- Fewer betting restrictions (can bet on credit)
Advantages of Regulated Sportsbooks:
- Full consumer protection through state gaming commissions
- Legal recourse if disputes arise
- More stringent security and fairness testing
- Native mobile apps with superior interfaces
- Promotional offers that comply with strict fairness standards
Bottom Line: Consider BookMaker if you’re a professional bettor, need high limits, prefer crypto banking, or live in a state without legal options.
So, Is BookMaker a Good Sportsbook?
Yes, BookMaker is a good sportsbook for the right bettor. By our strict standards, yes. BookMaker is a safe, trustworthy sportsbook that offers many benefits to players looking to explore the offshore betting space. With nearly 40 years of operation, BookMaker has proven itself as one of the most reliable offshore options for U.S. bettors.
The platform excels in areas that matter most to experienced and professional bettors: early lines, high limits, fast crypto payouts, and fair treatment of winners. If you’re a sharp bettor in a state without legal options, BookMaker represents one of the safest and most capable offshore choices available.
But it’s important to note that it is an international platform, and with that comes specific inherent risks. Unlike its regulated counterparts (Caesars, BetMGM, DraftKings, etc.), BookMaker does not offer U.S. consumer protections. So you are still taking a limited risk when you choose to partner with them. However, this lack of government oversight does allow BookMaker more freedoms which they pass along to their users. For those comfortable with the tradeoffs, it’s among the strongest established offshore options in 2026.
Final Recommendation: BookMaker is a reliable, time-tested offshore addition to your sportsbook portfolio.
Alternative Betting Sites
If BookMaker doesn’t fit your betting style, consider these trustworthy offshore alternatives:
The definition of a very large, well established sportsbook offering the most betting options.
Best for beginners with a cleaner, more intuitive interface and strong reputation since 2011.
Premium option for serious bettors with reduced juice lines, high limits, and professional interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BookMaker legal in the United States?
BookMaker operates from Costa Rica and is not licensed by any U.S. state. The legality of using offshore sportsbooks varies by state and is generally considered a legal gray area. Federal law (UIGEA) targets payment processors and operators, not individual bettors. However, some states have laws against placing bets with unlicensed operators. Users should research their local laws and understand the legal implications before using any offshore sportsbook.
How long does BookMaker take to pay out?
Cryptocurrency withdrawals typically process within 1-24 hours and are the fastest option. Traditional methods like checks and bank wires take 5-10 business days. Person-to-person transfers process in 1-3 business days. BookMaker allows one withdrawal per week, and first-time withdrawals require identity verification.
What is the minimum deposit at BookMaker?
The minimum deposit varies by payment method: $10 for cryptocurrency, $50 for credit/debit cards, $100 for person-to-person transfers, and $300 for bank wires and money orders.
Does BookMaker offer live betting?
Yes, BookMaker provides extensive live in-game betting on major sports including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, UFC, tennis, and soccer. Odds update in real-time throughout games, and bets grade within seconds.
Can I use BookMaker on my phone?
Yes, BookMaker offers a mobile-optimized website that works on smartphones and tablets through any browser. However, there is no full-featured betting app for iOS or Android. The mobile odds viewer app on Android only displays lines but doesn’t allow bet placement.
What bonuses does BookMaker offer new customers?
New customers can choose from three welcome bonuses: 20% crypto bonus (up to $500), 25% cash bonus for traditional methods (up to $500), or 100% free play bonus (up to $400). Only one welcome bonus can be claimed per customer.
How do I verify my BookMaker account?
Account verification is required before your first withdrawal. You’ll need to provide a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport), proof of address (utility bill or bank statement less than 90 days old), and possibly photos of payment methods used. Documents can be submitted via email or through the cashier interface.
Does BookMaker limit winning players?
BookMaker has a reputation for being one of the few sportsbooks that doesn’t limit or ban winning players. The platform is known for accepting sharp action and high-limit wagers. However, some high-volume winners have reported withdrawal restrictions (monthly caps, weekly frequency limits) rather than betting limits.
What sports can I bet on at BookMaker?
BookMaker covers all major U.S. sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA), international sports (soccer, cricket, rugby), combat sports (UFC, boxing), golf, tennis, motorsports, esports, horse racing, and entertainment/political markets. The sportsbook offers extensive props, futures, and live betting options.
Is BookMaker safe and trustworthy?
BookMaker has operated continuously for nearly 40 years without major scandals or widespread payout failures. The platform uses SSL encryption, maintains separation of player funds, and has a strong track record among professional bettors. However, as an offshore, unregulated sportsbook, it lacks government oversight and consumer protections available at state-licensed operators. Users should understand these risks and start with smaller amounts to build trust.
What makes BookMaker different from other sportsbooks?
BookMaker’s primary distinguishing features are: (1) posting opening betting lines before all other sportsbooks, (2) accepting very high betting limits ($40,000+ on major sports), (3) welcoming sharp bettors rather than limiting winners, (4) nearly 40 years of operational history, and (5) fast, fee-free cryptocurrency withdrawals. These features appeal primarily to professional and experienced bettors.
Can I play casino games at BookMaker?
Yes, BookMaker operates an online casino with slots, table games, video poker, and live dealer options. However, user reviews suggest the casino has more reliability and fairness concerns than the sportsbook. Several reviews specifically warn against casino play while praising the sports betting platform.
How does the BetPoints loyalty program work?
BetPoints are earned on all wagers across sportsbook, casino, poker, and racebook. Points can be converted to cash bonuses. The three-tier system (Gold, Platinum, Diamond) provides increasing benefits including reload bonuses of 10%, 15%, and 20% respectively. Higher tiers also offer enhanced earning rates, priority support, and exclusive promotions.
What is the best withdrawal method at BookMaker?
Cryptocurrency (especially Bitcoin) is the best withdrawal option with zero fees, 1-24 hour processing times, and maximum limits of $25,000 on weekdays ($5,000 weekends). Traditional methods charge $50 fees, take 5-10 business days, and have lower limits of $2,000-$3,000.
Does BookMaker accept players from my state?
BookMaker accepts players from most U.S. states. However, bettors should verify their local laws regarding offshore sports betting, as legality varies by jurisdiction. Some states explicitly prohibit using offshore sportsbooks, while others remain in legal gray areas.
Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only. OddsTrader does not encourage illegal gambling. Users should verify local laws regarding online gambling and offshore sportsbooks before participating. BookMaker is not state-regulated and does not provide U.S. consumer protections. Bet responsibly and never wager more than you can afford to lose.