Alberta Sports Betting in 2024 – Best AB Betting Sites Compared
With a population of over 4 million, the Canadian province of Alberta borders British Columbia, Saskatchewan and the Northern Territories. It recently began offering single-game sports betting, becoming the 8th province to do so. With Play Alberta currently being the only legal online sportsbook, many turn to offshore bookmakers in order to meet their needs. On this page, we will discuss everything there is to know about Alberta sports betting. This will include the top Alberta sports betting sites, the legal situation and available payment methods.
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200% welcome bonus up to €25,000 + 50 Free Spins
200% welcome bonus up to €25,000 + 50 Free Spins
- Best rated new sportsbook in Canada
- Great range of esports
- Superb live betting coverage
Get INSTANT 200% deposit bonus up-to 10ETH
Get INSTANT 200% deposit bonus up-to 10ETH
- Licensed, secure Telegram casino & sportsbook
- Earn $TGC token as you play & withdraw seamlessly
- Offers an excellent welcome bonus
100% Up To C$150
100% Up To C$150
- Thousands of pre-match & live events
- Fast payouts
- Hugely competitive odds
100% up to 150 CAD
100% up to 150 CAD
- Huge selection of sports betting offers
- High odds and excellent in-play bets
- Rich variety of bonuses, reloads and specials
100% Up To $C500 Bonus
100% Up To $C500 Bonus
- Excellent sports coverage
- Live chat support available
- Fantastic live betting opportunities
100% up to 300 CAD
100% up to 300 CAD
- Regular bonuses
- Unique sports features
- Vip Program
$400 Welcome Bonus
$400 Welcome Bonus
- Variety of games
- Generous bonuses
- Easy payouts
200% welcome deposit bonus of up to $1,000
200% welcome deposit bonus of up to $1,000
- Excellent sports coverage and market depth
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Extensive choice of cryptocurrency banking options
150% Sports Welcome Offer Up To C$300
150% Sports Welcome Offer Up To C$300
- Above average competitive odds
- Great coverage of sports including cyber sports
- Midweek reload bonuses up to 25% on deposit
100% Sports Welcome Bonus Up To €500
100% Sports Welcome Bonus Up To €500
- Great coverage of US sports
- Competitive odds, especially on soccer
- Excellent live betting section
Quick Info on Sports Betting in Alberta
In 2021, Alberta became the eighth Canadian province to introduce single-game sports betting and today, gambling is regulated by the AGLC. Play Alberta is the only legal gambling platform, with the following being a breakdown of the other regulations in the province:
- Province: Alberta
- Legal gambling age: 18
- Online sports betting: Yes
- Retail sports betting: No
- Alberta sports betting launched: September 2021
- Alberta sportsbook: Play Alberta
Top 10 Sports Betting Sites in Alberta Today
The following are our top-ranked Alberta sports betting sites. We recommended them based on extensive testing and our expert knowledge of the market. You will also find the main selling point of each AB sports betting site so that you have an idea about what makes them a cut above the rest.
- Lucky Block – No.1 for Alberta sports betting
- PowBet – Leading betting odds
- 1Bet – Excellent sports coverage
- WeltBet – Best sportsbook for live betting
- Club Riches – Generous Alberta betting bonuses
- 31Bet – 30+ sports to bet on
- 1Good.Bet – Regular virtual sports events
- Rabona – Plenty of payment methods to choose from
- CobraBet – Leading site for eSports markets
- BetiBet – Regular cashback offers
The Best AB Sports Betting Sites Reviewed
If you are still unsure of which bookie best meets your Alberta sports betting needs, then be sure to check out the mini-reviews below. Here, we have taken a closer look at our top 5 betting sites, including available markets, bonuses and features. We have also listed the main pros and cons of each:
1. Lucky Block: No.1 for Alberta Sports Betting
Launched in December 2022, Lucky Block is a name you may not yet be familiar with. However, with good sports coverage, competitive odds, cryptocurrency payments and a generous welcome bonus, you should quickly familiarize yourself with this betting site. Accessible on both desktop and mobile, Lucky Block makes it possible to bet on everything from basketball and hockey to eSports and soccer.
Pre-match, live and outright markets are found, with odds being available to view in American, decimal, fractional, Hong Kong, Malaysian and Indonesian formats. Great emphasis is placed on popular North American sports, including the NBA, NFL, NHL and MLB.
The bookie has its own digital currency, known as LBLOCK. Meanwhile, deposits and withdrawals can be processed using Apple Pay, Google Pay, Mastercard, Bitcoin and many other payment methods. Payouts are often instant, with there being no processing fees to worry about.
The Lucky Block welcome offer is worth as much as $10,000, with 50 free spins also being up for grabs. One area for improvement is the lack of ongoing promotions. It would be nice to see some chances to earn free bets or parlay insurance. However, regular prize giveaways are held, helping to keep existing players satisfied.
In terms of additional features, live streaming is available on selected sports. However, visitors should not expect to be able to watch many events through this service. Cash out is available on most markets too. Lucky Block holds a gambling license from Curacao eGaming, with both beginners and professionals being catered for.
Pros:
- 35+ sports to bet on
- Competitive odds
- Generous welcome package
- Cryptocurrencies accepted
Cons:
- No mobile Alberta sports betting app
2. PowBet: Leading Betting Odds
Only launched in 2021, PowBet is an online bookmaker that also holds a license out of Curacao. With a modern design, leading odds and excellent sports coverage, PowBet rightly sits towards the top of our list. Bets can be placed on over 35 sports, including everything from basketball and hockey to tennis and rugby. In fact, there are 30,000+ events per month, giving you an idea of just why PowBet is so highly regarded.
Bets can be funded through a number of payment methods, including Interac, Skrill and various cryptocurrencies. You can deposit as little as $10, ideal for beginners. Those signing up can take advantage of a 100% deposit bonus worth up to $150. Meanwhile, a handful of ongoing promotions are also offered, including free bets and cashback.
In terms of additional features, it is worth noting that no live sports streaming is available. However, both full and partial cash out is available on selected markets. On top of this, 24/7 live chat support is available in both English and French, catering well for Alberta sports betting customers.
As is the case with all of our recommended bookies, PowBet is completely safe to use. This is thanks to the use of Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption and firewalls.
Pros:
- Huge number of sports markets
- Realistic bonus T&Cs
- 24/7 customer support
- Cryptocurrencies accepted
Cons:
- No sports live streaming
3. 1Bet: Excellent Sports Coverage
1Bet is one of the most experienced bookies on our list, having been established back in 2011. It is another betting site with extensive sports coverage. 70,000 pre-match and 40,000 live markets are available per month. Basketball, soccer, American football and tennis are among the most popular sports here.
1Bet is also home to virtual sports options, including horse racing. This helps to make up for the fact that there is no live-streaming service. However, cash out is available on the majority of pre-match and live markets. Live chat support is also offered day and night. Such features can all be accessed on desktop and mobile, with an app being available to download on both iOS and Android devices.
In terms of payment methods, players can deposit and withdraw funds using Interac, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, Skrill and other options. New members will be treated to a generous welcome bonus. Meanwhile, promotions are found for existing customers too, including regular reload bonuses.
As you would expect, odds are competitive and available to view in a range of formats. However, players should not expect any boosted odds, as is the case with many other Alberta sports betting sites.
Pros:
- Huge number of sports markets
- Cash out on most bets
- Bonuses for new and existing players
- Efficient mobile app
Cons:
- Cryptocurrencies not accepted
4. WeltBet: Best Sportsbook for Live Betting
Founded in 2020, WeltBet made an almost instant impact in the Alberta sports betting industry. Also regulated in Curacao, WeltBet’s sports coverage is excellent, with pre-match, live and outright markets being available. Players in Alberta can bet on events from around the world, with soccer, basketball, tennis and hockey standing out.
WeltBet also offers attractive betting odds and margins. For soccer, there is a margin of 6.75%, while eSports has a margin of 7.33%. When compared with other Alberta sports betting sites, WeltBet often comes out on top in this area. WeltBet is also mobile-friendly, despite there being no downloadable app.
New players can take advantage of a huge welcome bonus, worth 350% up to $3,500. Meanwhile, existing customers can look forward to regular reload bonuses and cashback offers. With terms and conditions being fair, there are plenty of opportunities to profit from such bonuses. Just remember to make sure that you know exactly which Alberta betting promo codes need to be used in order to claim your bonus.
In terms of available payment methods, WeltBet accepts everything from Mastercard and MuchBetter to Bitcoin and Ethereum. Deposits are instant, with payouts being processed on the same day in most cases. With 24/7 support too, WeltBet is a brand we are likely to hear much more of in the future.
Pros:
- Attractive margins for AB sports betting
- Mobile-friendly
- Large welcome bonus
- Cryptocurrencies accepted
Cons:
- High minimum withdrawal amount
5. Club Riches: Generous Alberta Betting Bonuses
Club Riches may be better known for its casino games. However, this gambling site also features plenty of sports betting options. Launched in 2021, Club Riches comes with a 150% welcome bonus worth up to $300, competitive odds and cryptocurrency payments. Sports covered here include basketball, hockey, soccer, tennis and golf. In total, there are 20+ sports.
Licensed in Curacao, Club Riches is completely safe. Meanwhile, 24/7 customer support is available, which is always a sign of a good bookie. Cryptocurrencies can be used to deposit and withdraw funds, along with more traditional payment methods. The majority of payments are completed in under 24 hours.
The Club Riches betting site is fully functional on mobile browsers. However, there is currently no betting app to download. Players signing up should not expect a great number of additional features at Club Riches. In fact, there is no cash out, live streaming or bet builder to speak of. However, with appealing odds and a simplistic design, Club Riches will meet the needs of many in Alberta.
Pros:
- Good sports coverage
- Attractive Alberta betting bonuses
- Cryptocurrencies accepted
- 24/7 support
Cons:
- Smaller number of total sports markets
Alberta Sports Betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Alberta?
What is the best AB sportsbook online?
Which sports betting sites are legal in AB?
Can I bet on sports in Alberta using a mobile?
What site has the best Alberta betting bonuses?
Who regulates Alberta betting sites?
Are offshore sportsbooks available to AB players?
A Comparison of the Best Betting Sites in Alberta
The table below provides a clear breakdown of the bonuses and additional features available with our top ranked sportsbooks:
Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Live Streaming Live Betting Betting App Lucky Block 200% up to $10,000 + 50 Free Spins ✅ ✅ ❌ PowBet 100% bonus up to $150 ❌ ✅ ❌ 1Bet 100% bonus up to $150 ❌ ✅ ❌ WeltBet 350% bonus up to $3,500 ❌ ✅ ❌ Club Riches 150% bonus up to $300 ❌ ✅ ❌ 31Bet 100% bonus up to €500 ❌ ✅ ❌ 1Good.bet 100% up to $100 + $10 Free Bet ❌ ✅ ❌ Rabona 100% bonus up to $150 ❌ ✅ ❌ CobraBet $100 Free Bet ❌ ✅ ❌ BetiBet 100% bonus up to $150 ❌ ✅ ❌ Is it Legal to Bet on Sports in Alberta?
The simple answer to this question is yes. However, it is worth explaining the situation in a little more detail. Like other Canadian provinces, up until not long ago it was only possible to place parlay bets. However, since September 2021, it has been legal to place single-game bets.
However, at present, PlayAlberta.ca is the only regulated sportsbook available to players. Meanwhile, in-person wagers can also be placed at Sport Select, a product of the Western Canada Lottery Corporation. Those operating online may also choose to register with an offshore brand. In doing so, you will have far more options.
An Overview of AB Sports Betting Laws
Alberta sports betting laws have changed regularly over recent years. Below, we have provided a breakdown of some of the most important points:
- The legal age for sports betting in Alberta is 18.
- There are currently no legal retail sportsbooks available.
- Legal online sports betting is only available through Play Alberta.
- Sports betting is regulated by Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis (AGLC).
- Single-game betting became legal in September 2021.
Single-Game Sports Betting in Alberta
Following the passing of the C-218 Bill in September 2021, single-game sports betting has been legal in Alberta. As such, bets can be placed on the results of many events, including those from the NBA, NFL and other competitions.
At present, the AGLC only regulates PlayAlberta, with popular platforms, such as DraftKings and FanDuel, so far remaining illegal. It is for this reason that many players are turning to offshore sportsbooks. Here, you will find a wide range of sports markets, as well as bonuses and additional features.
Who Can Legally Bet On Sports in Alberta?
While it is now legal to place sports bets in Alberta, you must be aged 18 or over in order to do so. Meanwhile, certain online sportsbooks may only accept newcomers who are 19+. Once registered, you can wager on a host of different sports, while also taking advantage of the bonuses and features on offer.
Are Winnings From Sports Bets Taxed in Alberta?
As is the case in other areas of Canada, players in Alberta are not required to pay any tax on winnings made from sports bets. This is true of all forms of gambling in the province. This means that players will take home 100% of their earnings. It would appear unlikely that any changes will occur in this area anytime soon.
Are Offshore Betting Sites Legal?
This remains something of a gray area. While offshore sportsbooks are not strictly legal, players signing up are now currently at risk of getting into trouble. This is important for players to understand. It seems unlikely that offshore betting sites will be regulated at either a federal or provincial level in the near future.
As such, they are licensed in Curacao for the most part, an authority with a decent reputation within the industry. Offshore sportsbooks are increasingly catering for players across Canada, making them an attractive option.
The Advantages of Betting at Offshore Sportsbooks
It should not come as a surprise that an increasing number of players in Alberta are registering with offshore sportsbooks. This is because they come with a host of benefits.The following are the main advantages of such betting sites:
- Variety of Sports – At PlayAlberta.ca, it is only possible to place single-game bets on selected sports. However, with offshore bookies, players will have many more options. Pre-match, live and outright markets are found, surrounding everything from basketball and hockey to MMA and eSports. As such, you will never be short of betting opportunities.
- Bonus Offers – Alberta betting bonuses are few and far between at PlayAlberta. However, a variety of promotions are available with offshore sportsbooks. These include free bets, deposit bonuses, cashback, price boosts and parlay insurance.
- Extra Features – When signing up with an offshore sportsbook, it may well be possible to utilize a range of additional features. Common features include live streaming, cash out and bet builders. Such services certainly add to the user experience, while also potentially boosting your chances of winning.
- Payment Methods – Visa, Mastercard and Interac are the accepted payment methods at PlayAlberta. However, offshore sportsbooks accept many more options. As such, deposits and withdrawals can be processed using e-wallets, cryptocurrencies and more.
How to Get Started at the Best Betting Sites in Alberta
The performance of our recommended offshore sportsbooks makes it easy for players in Alberta to get started. Using Lucky Block as an example, the following is a step-by-step guide to follow:
Step 1: Sign Up
Enter the sportsbook in question on desktop or mobile. Spend a few minutes familiarizing yourself with the design, including where different markets and features are found. When ready, select the “Register” button, located in the top-right hand corner of the page. Enter the relevant personal details in order to complete the registration form. This includes your full name, date of birth and email address. New players will also need to create a password at this time. Select “Confirm”, before verifying your account via the link found inside your welcome email.
Step 2: Deposit Money
Login to your account using your email address and password. Enter the banking page and select your preferred payment method. Enter the deposit amount, along with your payment details. Upon confirming the deposit, wait a few seconds for money to appear in your account balance.
Step 3: Place Bets
Enter the sportsbook, before browsing available markets. Look at the odds for both pre-match and live markets, focusing on sports that you follow closely. Add selections to your bet slip as you wish, before entering your stake. When satisfied, click/tap on the “Place Bet” button to confirm your wager. Be sure to keep a close eye on the progress of your picks.
The Most Popular Sports to Bet On
Next, we’ll take a look at a few examples of the most popular sports to bet on in AB as well as which sites we recommend for each.
Basketball
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. The NBA is followed across Canada, including in Alberta. While there are no NBA teams in the province, this does not stop many placing bets on the competition. Popular markets include moneyline, total points and props. When it comes to basketball betting, Lucky Block is our no.1 pick.
American Football
There are currently no Canadian NFL teams. However, a huge number of bets are still placed on American football. Again, moneyline and total points markets are available online. Meanwhile, handicaps and props are also found with most sportsbooks. Bets can be placed on all regular season and Playoff games, as well as the Super Bowl. PowBet is our favorite sportsbook for American football.
Ice Hockey
The Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers are NHL teams based in Alberta. As such, it should come as no surprise that ice hockey is hugely popular here. The sport is covered in great detail by many bookies. However, perhaps none more so than WeltBet. Here, you can place pre-match, live and outright hockey bets, including total goals, highest scoring period and moneyline.
Baseball
The Toronto Blue Jays are currently the only Canadian MLB team. However, this does not discourage players from placing bets on the competition. Baseball betting markets include over/under goals, double chance and moneyline. You can also wager on the winner of the Stanley Cup months in advance of the event. 1Bet is our recommended bookie for baseball fans.
Soccer
Whether it be the World Cup, Champions League, MLS, English Premier League or another competition, soccer betting is available with all leading sportsbooks. Popular markets include total goals, first goalscorer, double chance and draw no bet. CobraBet is our preferred bookie for soccer.
Tennis
Canada’s 2022 Davis Cup win saw tennis grow yet further across the country. Bets are placed on pre-match, live and outright markets. These include correct score, 1st set winner, total games and tournament winner. 31Bet is home to hundreds of daily tennis markets.
Golf
Golf has long been one of the most popular sports in Canada, in terms of both participation and betting. Both the men’s and women’s tours are covered by bookies today. As such, you can place bets on weekly tournaments, including all Grand Slams. Top 5 finish, outright winner and to make the cut are among the available markets. BetiBet is one of the many bookies to cover golf in great detail.
eSports
The eSports industry continues to grow, with betting on games such as Counter-Strike, Dota 2 and League of Legends being accessible to all in Alberta. Popular markets include total kills, match winner, map winner and tournament winner. With live streaming and competitive odds, CobraBet stands out when it comes to eSports.
Rugby
Canada has made great strides over recent years when it comes to rugby. You can now bet on both international and domestic rugby competitions. Sportsbooks cover the World Cup, Six Nations, European Cup and much more. Again, Lucky Block covers the sport in great detail, with markets here including handicap and winning margin.
Live Betting at Online Sportsbooks in Alberta
While live betting is available through PlayAlberta, the number of in-play markets increases greatly with offshore sportsbooks. In-play markets often offer better value, especially when betting on favorites from the world of sport.
For example, you can bet on Novak Djokovic to beat Taylor Fritz after losing the first set or the Calgary Flames to win in overtime. Prices are constantly updated, based on what is taking place on the field, court, ice or track.
Exciting Betting Bonuses to Look Out For
Part of the appeal of sports betting in Alberta is the range of bonuses that are on offer. Different bonus types are available, catering for both new and existing customers. Below are the most common promotions that you will come across, along with the key terms and conditions to be aware of.
Deposit Bonus
This is the most common type of welcome offer available to sports bettors in Alberta. With many offshore bookies, you will earn yourself a bonus after depositing for the first time after signing up. For example, claim a 100% bonus up to $100. It is likely that you will need to meet wagering requirements before any winnings can be withdrawn.
Free Bet
Free bets can be won by both new and existing players. How you qualify will vary. For example, a bet $10 get $30 in free bets welcome offer may be found. Alternatively, your chosen bookie may use free bets to reward loyalty. Any winnings made will likely be withdrawable immediately. Meanwhile, the stake itself is returned to the bookie.
Risk-Free Bet
With this type of offer, you can wager with more freedom, knowing that you will receive a refund if you are not successful. Offered to new players by selected bookies, it is likely that there will be a maximum refund amount, of around $10-$20.
Ongoing Promotions
Players can also take advantage of offers after claiming their welcome bonus. Free bets, price boosts, parlay insurance and money-back specials are among the most common ongoing promotions. Some are specific to a particular sport, while others are more generic.
Payment Methods Available at Sports Betting Sites in Alberta
Unlike some other forms of gambling, it is not possible to place free sports bets. As such, players must first deposit money. On most sites, a host of payment methods are available, including both traditional and modern options. The following are the most common for players in Alberta:
Credit Cards
Both credit and debit cards are accepted on the vast majority of betting sites. Whether it be Visa, Mastercard, American Express or another provider, bank cards facilitate both deposits and withdrawals. This remains a popular method of payment. This is because of the convenience, speed and security.
E-Wallets
E-wallets are known to offer some of the quickest deposits and withdrawals on the web. PayPal, Skrill, Neteller and Interac Online are some of the standout platforms for players in Canada. However, be sure to check the bonus terms and conditions first, with e-wallets sometimes being restricted.
Cryptocurrencies
Digital currencies are used by an increasing number of people in Alberta. On sports betting sites, it may well be an option to use the likes of Bitcoin. Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin and Tether to deposit and withdraw funds. While offering instant payments, it is important to note that the value of crypto can alter by the day.
Mobile Sports Betting in Alberta
There is no need to miss out on placing a potentially lucrative bet simply because you are away from your computer or laptop. This is because the best offshore sportsbooks can all be accessed on mobile.
Whether it be via your mobile browser or a dedicated betting app, you now have 24/7 access to sports markets and features. Given the proportion of bets that are now placed on smartphones and tablets, sportsbooks must ensure that they cater well to mobile players.
Sports Betting in AB Compared to Neighboring Provinces
Alberta became the 8th province to make single-game betting legal back in 2021. It is now similar to British Columbia sports betting, in that just a single regulated online sportsbook is available. The similarities don’t stop there, with no retail sportsbooks being available either. The good news is that both Alberta and British Columbia have a range of alternative sites to choose from, such as the ones listed in this guide.
Conclusion
Sports betting in Alberta is now big business. This has been recognised by many brands that cater specifically to Canadian players. While an increasing number of sportsbooks are available, it is Lucky Block that we recommend in particular.
Founded at the end of 2022, Lucky Block offers excellent sports coverage, a variety of payment methods and generous bonuses, making it an appealing platform for players in Alberta. Be sure to check them out for yourself, with a link to the Lucky Block betting site being found below.
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