This comprehensive Betdaq review explores the UK's second-largest betting exchange, which also features a traditional sportsbook. For punters, the key question is whether its unique exchange model and highly competitive low commission rate make it a superior choice to mainstream bookmakers.
Our complete Betdaq review for UK punters
Betdaq offers UK bettors a dual platform, functioning as both a peer-to-peer betting exchange and a conventional fixed-odds sportsbook. This setup provides flexibility, allowing users to back and lay outcomes on the exchange or place traditional bets. The platform welcomes new customers with a generous 0% commission offer for their first 100 days.
It covers a range of sports, with particular strengths in football betting and horse racing, and provides dedicated mobile apps for both its sportsbook and exchange services. Customer support is accessible via live chat, phone, and email, with payment methods including debit cards and major e-wallets like PayPal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Innovative exchange multiples feature | Limited number of sports compared to rivals |
| Essential for arbitrage and value betting | No bet builder function available |
| Very low standard commission rate of 2% | Dated and cluttered website design |
| Excellent Best Odds Guaranteed on UK horse racing | Poorly-rated mobile apps with stability issues |
Is Betdaq Safe and Legit?
Yes, Betdaq is legit and operates as one of the most trusted betting exchanges in the UK market. The platform is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) under licence number 34865, ensuring compliance with the strictest standards for player protection, fair play, and responsible gambling.
Betdaq is operated by Exchange Platform Solutions Limited, which is led by Irish billionaire businessman Dermot Desmond. The platform was originally founded in 2000, just months after Betfair launched, making it one of the pioneers of exchange betting. In 2013, Ladbrokes acquired Betdaq for €30 million, bringing corporate muscle to an already solid operation. Today, Betdaq handles over £75 million in bets weekly and operates as the backbone for numerous white-label betting platforms worldwide.
This gaming license from the UKGC is one of the most respected regulatory frameworks in the industry. Betdaq also holds a licence from the Alderney Gambling Control Commission for non-UK clients. The site uses advanced SSL encryption technology to protect all user data and financial transactions, and adheres to strict data protection policies including full GDPR compliance.
Betdaq provides comprehensive responsible gambling tools including deposit limits, time-outs, reality checks, session limits, and self-exclusion options. The operator provides direct links to trusted support organisations such as GamStop, GamCare, and GambleAware, ensuring help is available for those experiencing gambling-related harm. A strict KYC verification process ensures that only those of legal age can bet on the platform.
A look at Betdaq bonuses and promotions
The welcome bonus for sports betting
Betdaq's primary welcome bonus for new customers is 0% commission on all sports for 100 days on its betting exchange. This promotion is a significant draw for active traders and punters looking to maximise value.
To qualify, you must be a new UK customer aged 18 or over and use the Betdaq promo code 0COMM100 during the registration process. Crucially, this offer is only valid for users who make their initial deposit via a debit card. After the 100-day promotional period ends, the standard 2% commission rate on net winnings will apply.
Key terms and conditions
The most important terms for the welcome bonus include the restriction on deposit methods, as only debit card deposits qualify for the offer. Furthermore, the 0% commission promotion is not available to customers who use API, RDT, or other trading software to place their bets.
What about promotions for existing customers?
Betdaq's promotions for existing customers are more limited compared to other major bookmakers. However, the platform does run a recurring “Super Saturday” promotion, where commission is either reduced or completely eliminated on selected sports, offering excellent value. Occasionally, other deals become available, such as cashback on commission paid (up to £1,000) or free bet offers for virtual sports, though these often require specific promo codes to be activated.
Betdaq sports betting markets review
Betdaq provides solid coverage of major UK and international sports, though its main appeal lies in the value of its odds rather than the sheer breadth of its markets.
Its football betting offering is extensive, covering major competitions like the Premier League and the Championship, alongside a surprisingly broad range of international domestic leagues from countries as diverse as Algeria and Peru. While the coverage is wide, the depth of markets within each match may not match that of the very top-tier bookmakers.
Other major UK sports like cricket, rugby union, tennis, darts, and snooker are also available. For darts and snooker, Betdaq is a fantastic choice for odds, but the number of available markets per match is often limited to the basics. It's worth noting that while rugby union is covered, rugby league is not offered.
The platform's offerings for niche and US sports are more restricted. While you can bet on Gaelic sports and handball, the markets for American Football, Basketball, and Ice Hockey are very basic. Notably, baseball and motorsport are not currently offered at all.
Betting odds and value
The odds value proposition at Betdaq is its greatest strength. The fixed-odds sportsbook offers competitive and decent odds, but the real standout is the betting exchange, which provides fantastic odds that are often better than any traditional bookmaker.
This value is amplified by Betdaq's 2% commission rate on net winnings. This is significantly lower than the 5% charged by Betfair's default plan, leaving more profit in the punter's pocket. Users can easily switch between fractional and decimal odds presentation to suit their preference.
The betting margins on the sportsbook are competitive, though the exchange typically offers better value for serious punters willing to learn the platform.
The live betting experience
Betdaq's live betting experience is a tale of two halves. From a value perspective, it's excellent, with the fantastic odds of the exchange carrying over into the in-play betting markets. However, in terms of features and presentation, the interface is widely considered “basic” and lacks the polished feel of more modern platforms.
The cash out feature is available on selected markets, though functionality depends on market liquidity and may not always be available for all bets or sports.
A significant limitation is that live streaming is only available for UK and Irish horse racing and greyhounds, far less extensive than competitors like Betfair.
Bet builder and special features
A major drawback for modern punters is that Betdaq does not have a functional bet builder. While some feature lists may confusingly mention it, in practice, the tool is absent.
This popular feature, which allows users to combine multiple markets from a single event into one bet, is a notable absence. On the positive side, Betdaq offers other valuable features, including its innovative exchange multiples, odds boosts, and acca insurance.
Other products available at Betdaq
Casino games
Betdaq hosts a casino section featuring over 300 slot games and around 60 live dealer games. The library is powered by top industry providers, including NetEnt and Evolution Gaming, ensuring a high-quality gaming experience.
Virtual sports
A dedicated virtual sports section is also available, offering markets on events like virtual horse racing and football. Betdaq sometimes runs specific promotions for this area, such as a “Bet £10, Get £10” free bet offer for new virtuals customers.
The Betdaq site experience
Website design and navigation
The user experience on the Betdaq desktop site often draws criticism. The design is commonly described as “dated,” “basic,” and can feel cluttered, with some users comparing it to a “complex spreadsheet.” Despite the unrefined aesthetics, the site is functional, and it is relatively simple to navigate the menus to find the sports and markets you are looking for.
The mobile betting experience
The Betdaq app is available as two separate mobile apps for both iOS and Android users: one dedicated to the Sportsbook and another for the Exchange. The Betdaq app download is available from the App Store and Google Play.
These apps have received poor user ratings in their respective app stores, with customers frequently citing glitches and stability issues. For those who prefer not to use the apps, the mobile betting browser version of the site serves as a functional alternative, mirroring the experience of the desktop platform.
Betting limits
Betdaq accommodates various staking levels. On the exchange, minimum stakes can be as low as £0.50. The maximum payout limits are generous for major sports:
- Football: Up to £1,000,000
- Horse Racing: Up to £250,000
- Tennis: Up to £100,000
How we rate the customer support
Betdaq provides customer support through live chat, phone, and email ([email protected]). A key limitation is that support is not available 24/7. Operating hours vary slightly depending on the day and contact method but are generally within the 9 am to 8 pm window.
Our testing found the support agents to be responsive and helpful. However, punters should be aware that calls to the UK support number may be charged at 13p per minute.
Betdaq payment methods
How to deposit
Depositing funds into your Betdaq account is a straightforward process. Available methods include debit cards (Visa, MasterCard), e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), and bank transfers. The minimum deposit is £10 for debit cards and bank transfers, but can be as low as £5 for e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. All deposits are processed instantly and are free of charge.
How to withdraw
Withdrawals can be made using the same methods available for deposits. The processing times vary by method; e-wallets are the fastest option, with funds typically arriving within 24 hours. Debit card and bank transfer withdrawals take longer, generally processing within 2-5 business days. All withdrawals are free of charge, but you will need to complete account verification before you can cash out.
Betdaq vs Competitors: How Does It Compare?
To help you decide is Betdaq worth it, we've compared it against four other popular UK betting platforms: Betfair, NetBet, Matchbook, and Smarkets. Here's how Betdaq stacks up in key areas.
| Feature | Betdaq | Betfair | NetBet | Matchbook | Smarkets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome Offer | 0% Comm 100 Days | Bet £10 Get £50 | £20 + 25 Spins | 0% Comm 110 Days | 0% Comm 60 Days |
| Exchange? | Yes (2nd Largest) | Yes (Largest) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Commission Rate | 2% | 2-5% | N/A | 2% | 2% |
| Mobile App | iOS & Android | iOS & Android | iOS & Android | iOS & Android | iOS & Android |
| Live Streaming | UK/Irish Racing Only | Extensive | Good | Limited | None |
| Best Odds Guaranteed | Yes | No (Sportsbook) | No | No | No |
| Exchange Multiples | Yes | No | N/A | No | No |
| Bet Builder | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Customer Support | 9am-8pm | 24/7 Live Chat | Live Chat & Email | 9am-2am | Email Only |
| UKGC Licensed | Yes (#34865) | Yes (#39439) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Betdaq vs Betfair
Betfair is the world's largest betting exchange and Betdaq's primary competitor. Betfair's welcome offer (Bet £10, Get £50 in Free Bet-Builders using code ZSKAON) provides immediate bonus value, while Betdaq's 0% commission offer rewards active traders over time.
The key difference is liquidity. As the market leader, Betfair has significantly more money available in most markets, meaning bets are matched more quickly and at better prices, especially for niche sports or in-play betting. Betfair's live streaming covers hundreds of thousands of events annually, compared to Betdaq's racing-only streams.
However, Betdaq has several advantages. Its standard 2% commission is lower than Betfair's default 5% (though Betfair offers a 2% Basic plan for high-volume traders). Betdaq uniquely offers exchange multiples – you can place accumulators at exchange odds, which Betfair doesn't allow. Betdaq's sportsbook also offers Best Odds Guaranteed on UK racing, which Betfair's Sportsbook lacks. For football and racing punters who want lower fees and BOG, Betdaq is excellent. For maximum liquidity and features, Betfair wins.
Betdaq vs NetBet
NetBet is a traditional bookmaker that has been operating since 2001. Their welcome offer using the NetBet bonus code NETGROUND provides £20 in free bets plus 25 free spins when you bet £10 at minimum odds of 1/1 (2.0) – a straightforward bonus for casual bettors. NetBet covers over 20 sports with competitive odds (96%+ average payout) and offers dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android.
The fundamental difference is that Betdaq offers a betting exchange while NetBet is a traditional bookmaker only. This means Betdaq users can typically access better odds through peer-to-peer betting and can lay bets (bet against outcomes), which is impossible at NetBet. Betdaq's exchange typically offers superior odds value for serious punters.
However, NetBet offers a more user-friendly experience with a modern interface, a functional bet builder, and simpler mechanics for casual bettors. NetBet's live streaming is also more extensive than Betdaq's racing-only offering. For beginners or casual punters, NetBet is easier to use. For value-focused bettors willing to learn exchange mechanics, Betdaq provides better long-term returns.
Betdaq vs Matchbook
Matchbook is another betting exchange competitor, founded in 2004. Matchbook offers a flat 2% commission rate on net winnings for UK customers – identical to Betdaq's standard rate. Matchbook's welcome offer provides 0% commission for 110 days (10 days longer than Betdaq) plus a “Bet £20 Get £30” free bet offer. Matchbook is licensed by both the UKGC and Alderney Gambling Control Commission.
Both exchanges charge the same 2% commission, but there are notable differences. Matchbook has no Premium Charge (a potential advantage for highly profitable bettors), while Betdaq offers exchange multiples (accumulators at exchange odds) that Matchbook doesn't. Betdaq's sportsbook includes Best Odds Guaranteed on racing, which Matchbook lacks.
Liquidity is comparable for major sports, though Matchbook has stronger liquidity for US sports and Asian Handicaps, while Betdaq is stronger for UK/Irish racing. Matchbook's interface is generally considered more modern than Betdaq's dated design. For Asian Handicap specialists, Matchbook edges ahead. For UK racing punters wanting BOG, Betdaq is better. Both are solid exchange alternatives to Betfair.
Betdaq vs Smarkets
Smarkets is a newer betting exchange that has grown rapidly since launching in 2010. Smarkets offers a flat 2% commission rate – identical to Betdaq – with a welcome offer of 0% commission for 60 days (shorter than Betdaq's 100 days). Smarkets is particularly known for its clean, modern interface and strong political/entertainment betting markets.
The key differences favour different types of bettors. Betdaq offers exchange multiples and Best Odds Guaranteed on racing through its sportsbook – features Smarkets lacks entirely. Betdaq also has live streaming for UK/Irish racing, while Smarkets offers none.
However, Smarkets has a significantly better user experience with a modern, intuitive interface compared to Betdaq's dated design. Smarkets' mobile app is also more highly rated. Smarkets offers superior political and entertainment betting markets, making it popular for non-sports events. Customer support at Smarkets is email-only, while Betdaq offers live chat and phone.
For horse racing punters, Betdaq's BOG and streaming make it the better choice. For those who prioritise a modern interface and political betting, Smarkets wins. Both charge identical commission rates.
Why choose Betdaq for sports betting? Our final verdict
Betdaq stands out for one primary reason: outstanding value. For punters who prioritise price, the betting exchange is a top-tier destination, offering excellent odds and a market-leading low 2% commission rate that significantly boosts potential returns. This value is particularly evident in its horse racing markets, which are further enhanced by an exceptional Best Odds Guaranteed (BOG) offer on its sportsbook.
However, this focus on value comes at the expense of user experience and modern features. The platform's significant weaknesses cannot be ignored: the website is dated, the mobile apps are poorly-rated, and the absence of a bet builder is a major drawback for many bettors. Furthermore, liquidity on niche sports can be lower than on rival exchanges.
Betdaq is best suited for value-conscious punters, serious sports traders, and those who specialise in arbitrage betting. It is an ideal platform for anyone focused on mainstream sports like football and horse racing who is willing to overlook a clunky interface in exchange for better odds and lower fees. For this group, it’s an excellent choice. For casual punters who value a slick design and features like bet builders, Betdaq is likely better used as a secondary account for securing the best price.
Betdaq FAQs
Betdaq is operated by Exchange Platform Solutions Limited, which is led by Irish businessman Dermot Desmond.
Yes, Betdaq is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission under license number 34865, making it a safe and secure platform for UK customers.
Yes, Betdaq offers an excellent BOG promotion on all UK horse racing. What makes it stand out is that the guarantee applies from any time on the day of the race, which is a better offer than many rivals provide. BOG is not available on greyhound racing.
The standard commission rate on the Betdaq exchange is 2% of net winnings. This is one of the lowest rates available and a key advantage over many of its competitors.