Who doesn’t like the odd flutter here or there? Most people have been prone to having the occasional bet now and again. Temptation has never been higher in these uncertain times with people looking to make money or unemployed people having too much time on their hands. The availability to do so with land-based bookmakers and their online counterparts is noticeable. But which is more popular? And why? In recent years, online gambling has taken off. In this article, we will have a look at a few reasons for this.
Covid – 19 Pandemic
Since the pandemic started, the vast majority of people’s lives have changed forever. Restrictions have played havoc with all types of businesses and the social aspect of life. Along with all other outlets of entertainment and fun, gambling was hit hard by the pandemic. Seemingly due to the online option, interest in gambling and the profits for the companies involved were not affected. However, for high street betting shops, restrictions meant a lot of closures as they were not deemed essential businesses.
Even when they were allowed to reopen, special measures were implemented such as consistent cleaning and social distancing. While a lot of people probably miss the noise and banter of the bookies, it all sounds a lot easier and safer for everyone, if they must bet, to do so online where contact with others is nonexistent.
Easy Access
Instead of having to make your way to the bookies, which can involve many decisions and difficulties, you have the option of logging in from any location. All you need is a device, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop, and internet service. Be it through wireless connection or 4g connection, this is relatively common and easy to do these days. Most bookmakers have online sites or apps, that can be looked at in an instant or downloaded directly to your phone or tablet to ensure you have constant access. As most people now have a device of some sort, the convenience of placing bets has helped to boost the use of online gambling sites.
Vast choice of bookmakers
Once you head online, you will encounter a large list of bookmakers. You are no longer limited to the one bookies in your town, or even just the closest one to your location wise. This can give you a massive advantage in choosing who you wish to play with. Which site strikes you as the most user friendly? Or has a great choice of all your favorite games? Instantly, they have a head start on other sites. Sites that are not easy to navigate are often overlooked straight away, regardless of the games or offers they have. Who wants to struggle to play when trying to have fun?
Variety of games
The variety of games online is much broader and exciting than contained in the dull insides of a confined space land-based bookmakers. Traditional bookmakers tend to stick to the old long-standing favorite events like horse racing, greyhound racing, and of course, football. With online gambling, you can have all this and much, much more. All the regular sports, but also a full-on casino experience online. Anything you are looking for is probably available.
The choice of games can be vast, and surprising at times, given the fact that you could be playing on the move or from the comfort of your own home. Games like roulette, still the most played table game, and card games like poker and blackjack can be enjoyed. New and popular casino games such as Eye of Horus or Cash Frenzy bring bright lights and easy to play games to your screen. Also, we must not forget what still ranks as the favorite game offering from any casino site, slots! While maybe not the same as pulling the lever in real life, online slots are now so realistic and exciting you will be amazed at the fun you can have gambling online at your leisure!
Better deals online
Often, many players have noticed, the best deals and offers actually take place online as opposed to the normal bookies. First of all, even signing up for a new online gambling account usually consists of some type of bonus, completely free. Constant offers and promotions, known as reloads can keep the player interested and entertained. Deals such as placing a certain number of bets and receiving a free bet are certainly not available at the high street bookies.
Odds advertised online tend to be more generous than on the high street. This is another factor drawing punters online as they want to get the best available payout available for their stake. Also nowadays, there are sites that compare odds such as OddsChecker. This compiles odds for different markets and highlights the best bookmaker for your chosen market, thus saving you from having to search around.
Cost-effective
Even before the Covid – 19 pandemic, the cost of running online bookmakers was considerably cheaper. Less staff are needed, thus ensuring fewer salaries to be paid and fewer issues with time off or sickness. In general, all-round expenses are lowered by doing an online business. If a bookmaker has many premises, expenses such as rent or construction in the first place do not exist as the operation is a lot smaller, more compact, and easier to look after.
Ease of depositing/withdrawing
Online accounts can make carrying around wads of cash to place bets a thing of the past. Also, a big win in the shop could potentially make you feel very nervous about your cash winnings. Depositing online could not be easier, with the most popular method being linking your bank debit card to the betting account. This can be done quickly and easily and the details are stored for future use. Other methods include prepaid cards, wire or bank transfers, or eWallets.
In these difficult times, where everyone is stuck inside with too much time available, if you feel you or a member of your family or a friend is developing a gambling problem, please don’t hesitate to contact GameStop GamCare gambling aware.