Ladbrokes vs Sportsbet: Which One Really Stands Out?
Alright, let’s cut to the chase, if you’re into betting in Australia, unless you have been living under a rock you’ve probably heard of both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet. These two are basically household names when it comes to punting down under. Both have their perks, but let’s be real here, not all betting sites are created equal.
Now, if you’re like me, you don’t just want a site that gets the job done. You want the site that gives you that edge, that makes the whole experience just flow. So, let’s get stuck into it and see who comes out on top: the old guard Ladbrokes or the local favourite Sportsbet.
Ratings
| Reviewed | Ladbrokes | Sportsbet |
|---|---|---|
| App | 10 | 10 |
| Sports Odds | 9 | 9 |
| Sports Markets | 10 | 9 |
| Same Game Multis | 10 | 9 |
| Racing Odds | 9 | 9 |
| Racing Markets | 10 | 9 |
| Same Race Multis | 10 | 9 |
| Live Streaming | 8 | 9 |
| Live Betting | 8 | 9 |
| Extra Features | 10 | 10 |
| Payment Options | 8 | 7 |
| Cash Out | 7 | 8 |
| Customer Support | 10 | 6 |
| Functionality | 9 | 9 |
| Trust | 10 | 7 |
So, we recommend Ladbrokes overall; since the addition of live streaming, they have turned the tables and are now the best betting site in Australia.
History Meets Monopoly
Let’s kick things off with a bit of background. Ladbrokes has been around since 1886. That’s over 130 years in the game, and that kind of history speaks volumes. They’ve nailed the art of sports and racing betting, both here and around the globe. Now, they’ve got more payment options and Same Game Multi features than Sportsbet, which is great if you’re into maximising your bets across different markets.
Then there’s Sportsbet. Started in Australia back in 1993, they’ve built a bit of a monopoly here, in fact 50% of the Aussie market belongs to them. They’ve got over 1.25 million players, which says something about how well they’ve got punters hooked.
But here’s the kicker: Sportsbet might rule the market, but when it comes to certain categories, Ladbrokes sneaks ahead.
Mobile Apps: Both Good, But One Edges It
These days, if you’re not punting on your phone, you’re doing it wrong. Betting apps are the future. Both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet have put a ton of work into their apps, but Ladbrokes just takes the win here.
Ladbrokes App:
It’s faster. I’ve used both, and Ladbrokes feels like it’s just a step ahead in terms of speed and usability. It’s got all the same features as their website, which means you’re not missing out on anything when you’re betting on the go. That’s important because, let’s face it, no one wants to be fumbling around on a laggy app when they’re trying to place a bet 30 seconds before a race.
Sportsbet App:
Don’t get me wrong, the Sportsbet app is solid. It’s quick to load, and they’ve clearly poured a lot into making it smooth. But it can feel cluttered. The layout’s a bit confusing, and with features like Bet With Mates shoved in there, it’s easy to get lost if you’re just looking to place a quick bet.
Winner:
Ladbrokes, 10/10. Faster, cleaner, and just easier to navigate.
Sport Odds: Pretty Close Call
When it comes to odds, both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet are competitive. You might find better odds on Sportsbet one day, and then Ladbrokes will turn around and take the lead the next. But if we’re splitting hairs, Ladbrokes tends to edge out slightly more often. Not by much, but hey, a better price is a better price.
Winner:
Ladbrokes, 9/10. Marginally better odds in the long run.
Betting Markets: Variety is Key
Now, this is where Ladbrokes really flexes. They’ve got more markets to bet on across more sports than Sportsbet, and that includes everything from mainstream leagues to niche events. If you’re the type who likes to throw a few bucks on a random tennis match or something obscure like Futsal, Ladbrokes has got you covered.
Sportsbet, on the other hand, has a strong focus on local sports like AFL and NRL, and they’re great for the big events. But when it comes to sheer variety, they fall just a bit short.
Winner:
Ladbrokes, 10/10. More sports, more variety.
Same Game Multis: Ladbrokes Wins Here
Let’s talk Same Game Multis. This feature has become a massive deal for anyone who likes to up the ante and combine different bets within a single game. Ladbrokes takes the win here again because they offer it across more sports. You’ll get options for everything from AFL and NRL to soccer, cricket, and even tennis.
Sportsbet offers Same Game Multis too, but Ladbrokes just gives you more flexibility, and for a wider range of games.
Winner:
Ladbrokes, 10/10. Available for more sports, more often.
Racing Odds and Markets: Neck and Neck
For racing odds, this one’s pretty much a tie. Both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet have competitive odds that fluctuate day-to-day. If you’re a racing fan, you can’t go wrong with either one.
Same goes for racing markets. Both sites have national and international horse racing covered in spades. Whether you’re looking to bet on a local meet or something over in the UK, you’re sorted either way.
Winner:
Tie, 9/10. Both nail it for racing.
Live Streaming: Sportsbet Just Scrapes Ahead
Here’s where Sportsbet claws back a bit. They offer live streaming for not just racing but a decent selection of sports as well. You’ll get coverage of NBA games, some tennis matches, and a bunch of races across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
Ladbrokes has live streaming too, but it’s mainly focused on racing. They’ve definitely stepped up their game here, but Sportsbet still takes the win for the extra sports they stream.
Winner:
Sportsbet, 9/10. More sports, more streams.
Live Betting: Sportsbet Takes the Cake
Live betting in Australia is a bit trickier thanks to regulations, but both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet let you place bets over the phone. That said, Sportsbet offers a smoother live betting experience with their Quick Code feature, which lets you jump in fast when the action’s happening.
Ladbrokes has live betting too, but they just don’t offer quite as many options or the same ease of use.
Winner:
Sportsbet, 9/10. Quicker, easier, and more live betting options.
Extra Features: Ladbrokes for Mates, Sportsbet for Tips
Both of these bookies go above and beyond when it comes to extra features, but they’re a little different in what they offer.
Sportsbet has their Blackbook and Bet With Mates, which lets you bet in groups. It’s a cool concept, but it can be a bit clunky to manage if you’re in a rush. They’ve also got Best Bet tips, which is a nice touch for racing fans.
Ladbrokes offers Mates Mode, which is a bit like Bet With Mates but easier to use. They also have some great betting previews and predictions, plus their Easy Form selector for races, which makes things super simple if you’re not a racing expert.
Winner:
Tie, 10/10. Both have unique extras worth checking out.
Who Should You Bet With?
At the end of the day, both Ladbrokes and Sportsbet are solid options. But if we’re talking about overall performance, Ladbrokes just edges out. It’s faster, offers more betting markets, and has a slightly better app. Plus, if you’re big on Same Game Multis or looking for more flexibility in your bets, Ladbrokes is the way to go.
That said, if live betting and streaming sports are your main priorities, you might lean towards Sportsbet. It’s still a powerhouse, especially if you’re an AFL or NRL die-hard.
But for the average punter, I’d put my money on Ladbrokes. Less hassle, more features, and just a cleaner, better overall experience.
