Understanding Esports Betting Markets: How to Make Smarter Bets

Wagering on esports is one of many people’s favorite leisure activities. Thousands of esports matches go on every day, with bookmakers giving odds on everything involved in competitive action. While esports gambling can be fun, it also has its own set of challenges. Placing bets can raise excitement levels, but losing runs can be frustrating.  If you want to improve your odds of success in esports betting, keep on reading to learn more about how to make smarter decisions, and explore the latest betting options at slotoro.bet.

Bet on Games You Understand the Most 

When it comes to esports betting, focusing on the games you have intimate knowledge of can significantly increase your odds of success. This knowledge gives you a significant advantage, helping you bet smarter. Prioritizing familiar esports titles, whether by closely keeping an eye on the competitive field or firsthand play, lets you understand team dynamics, strategic elements, and player styles:

  • Dota 2: This complex MOBA features high-stakes tournaments.
  • League of Legends (LoL):  This MOBA features international events and regional leagues.
  • CS2 (Counter-Strike 2): This tactical FPS has a strong competitive landscape.
  • Valorant:  This rising FPS boasts a fast-rising esports scene.

It’s also critical to stay up to date on the changes and news in your games of choice. Pay attention to recent performances, roster changes, and any other factors that could affect match results. With this strategy, you’ll ensure your bets are backed up by the latest insights.

Stay Informed

It’s important to stay up to date with the latest esports news because that will help you identify weaknesses in favorites and unearth underdogs with the most potential. Staying informed is your best bet when it comes to esports betting. Keep an eye on team results, strategies, dynamics, internal changes, and injuries. The more you’re informed, the better wagering decisions you’ll make. 

For example, you can:

  • Watch esports live matches on YouTube and Twitch.
  • Keep an eye on rosters, coaching changes, and player changes because they can all impact performance.

Make the Most of Betting Markets

Understanding how betting markets work is key to developing a winning strategy. Odds aren’t just numbers—they reflect both the bookmaker’s assessment and public sentiment. By analyzing these markets smartly, you can uncover opportunities others might miss. To find bets that offer value, you can do the following:

Explore Different Esports Bets

Researching the range of available wagering options is a crucial step when betting on esports. Options can vary depending on the game, so researching recent or current tournaments can give you information about what bets are on offer. Examples include:

  • Match winner (this bet is the simplest by far);
  • Total maps (Under/over);
  • Map handicaps (for example, -2.5, +2.5);
  • Live betting ( placing bets on in-game events);
  • Prop bets (e.g., total kills, first blood).

It’s also wise to learn about totals, spread betting, and other kinds of wagers. Placing a couple of practice wagers or exploring live betting can help you understand the betslip system better. Being well-prepared ensures you can make fast, informed live-staking choices as the tournament unfolds.

Don’t Bet on Favorites Blindly 

Backing the favorite can get you a win, but it’s usually a small profit. If you want to win big, take a chance on underdogs with huge potential. Sometimes oddsmakers overlook specific characteristics or advantages a team can have, which might make a significant impact on the tournament. Go for trusty underdogs instead of blindly following the favorites. 

For instance:

  • Team 1 (odds: 1.50) vs. Team 2 (odds: 4.50);
  • If Team 2 has a 45% chance of winning, the odds of 4.50 represent better value.

Compare Odds from Different Bookmakers 

Visit odds comparison websites to find the best prices for esports matches. Different bookmakers may offer slightly different odds based on their analysis of teams, games, and recent performances. Over time, consistently choosing better odds can significantly boost your overall profits in esports betting.

Effectively Manage Your Bankroll

Speculating can be exciting, but it’s important to keep it in check. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it—never bet more than you’re comfortable losing. It’s all about knowing when to walk away, whether you’re on a winning streak or having a rough day. A good rule is to break your bankroll into smaller chunks and only wager a small percentage on each bet. This way, you can enjoy the thrill of betting without putting everything at risk. At the end of the day, it’s about having fun while being smart with your money.

Keep reading to find more ways to sharpen your esports betting game:

  • Place small-sized bets: It’s advisable to consistently place small bets throughout the tournament instead of going for broke on a couple of high-stakes games. This strategy lets you spread your risk instead of putting everything on the line. 
  • Avoid emotional bets: Avoid doubling down after losing, as this can lead to further losses. And unless the odds are in your favor, don’t be led by emotions to wager on your beloved team
  • Apply the 1 to 5% rule: According to this rule, you should never wager over 1 to 5% of your betting budget on one bet. For example, if you have a bankroll of $1,000, you should only spend $10 to $50 per bet. 
  • Analyze your results: Successful esports betting requires gauging your results from time to time. Analyze where things went well and where they didn’t, and don’t make the same mistakes. Keep a comprehensive record of your wagers and evaluate them before proceeding to your next betting session.
  • Take advantage of bonuses: Getting started with esports wagering could be easier if you have extra cash, especially if it is offered in the form of free bonuses. Sportsbook bonuses can add great value to your bankroll, letting you make more informed bets and take extra chances in tournaments. Esports betting platforms often offer:
    • Free bets;
    • Deposit bonuses;
    • Reload bonuses;
    • Cashback promotions.

Make Smarter Esports Bets Today!

Betting on esports can be a fun and rewarding adventure when done with smart, well-informed strategies. Focus on games you’re familiar with the most, leverage live betting strategically, stay informed about your favorite teams, and always stay within your budget.

Remember, you should treat staking as a form of entertainment rather than a way to make ends meet. Embrace the thrills and spills of esports, practice responsible betting, have fun, and win big!