History

Founded in 1997, Sportsbook.com quickly expanded into one the web's most popular gaming and betting destinations. In July 2001, the site boasted a 50% Internet share and was acquired by Sportingbet in a $180 million transaction.

Online Research

Sportsbook.com appears to be a reputable site that people love. With so many parlay options, sports offered and bonuses up the wazoo, this site has it all. There aren't any complaints in any user forums.

First Impression

A visit to the Sportsbook.com site reveals a number of features critical to amateur gamblers and seasoned pros alike. First of all, the signup process is simple and hassle-free, requiring no deposit and allowing users to get a feel for the system and betting software prior to committing any cash. Once logged in, users note a simplistic interface that is basic in functionality but easy to navigate. Finding odds is a simple matter, as are choosing a sport and wager type and selecting a bet amount. Minimum bets are $10 with upper-end limits. There are occasional exceptions, such as large sporting events (e.g. the Superbowl or March Madness), when the limits are increased. The common vChip wagering system provides a constant visual reminder of all outstanding bets, current funds and overall results.

Deposit/Registration

There are three ways to make a deposit: Credit card, Western Union or Bank Wire, none of which assess any fee from Sportsbook.com . Users have the option to either remit funds online, via a secure server or by telephone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Unfortunately, common online payment processing sites, such as PayPal and FirePay, are not accepted. Initial deposits are given a 10% bonus (vs. 5% for all other deposits) and a $20 minimum deposit is required.

New Players Welcome!

For new players, the website's help section is comprehensive and provides details on the various wager types, bonuses and instructions on making deposits and withdrawals. The lines offered typically encompass a broad array of sports and events, ranging from US sports (Baseball, Basketball, Football, Ice Hockey, Racing) to European Soccer, Tennis and Golf.

Sportsbook.com also features sexy Brooke Burke in a tutorial on online sportsbooks. Wow, a celebrity...this site must be making the big bucks. Check out all their contests too.

Customer Service

The customer service department offers 24-hour service via telephone, email or online chat. Each of the representatives we spoke to were cordial; although, while some of them are knowledgeable about the various lines and events offered on the site, many were unclear when pressed for details on questions.

Withdrawing $$

Once the wagering is complete, withdrawing money is a relatively simple process. Users can have a check mailed to them via Priority Mail (5-10 business days), have a cashier's check FedEx'd to them (1-5 business days) or have money wired directly into their bank account (3-5 business days). The latter two of these require nominal fees, which are waived for large transactions.

Overview

With a secure system, a site rich in content features and a solid reputation, Sportsbook.com users are likely to stay with the service once they begin using it. So how is the site attracting new visitors? Perhaps the most compelling reason to visit the site is the various promotions and giveaways that separate it from other online sportsbooks. First of all, there are the 25-cent Baseball Lines to coax new users and allow bets on a number of games every day. $2,000 daily giveaways also elicit visitors to return regularly and a strong affiliate program (one that offers the ability to win a Mercedes SLK 320) also contributes to sending visitors to the site in droves.

Bottom Line

It is the combination of solid features and outstanding bonuses/promotions that makes Sportsbook.com one of the top destinations for online betting. The site is particularly recommended for new players or those looking to start with a simple process and little money.