App | Bonus Description | Link | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 |
Offer Currently Unavailable |
Place a qualifying £25 fixed odds bet at odds of 1/2 or greater. Qualifying bet cannot be placed in-play or cashed out early. A first free £5 fixed odds bet will be credited upon settlement of the qualifying bet. 4 x following £5 free fixed odds bets will be added to your account on consecutive days. After each of your first two free fixed odds bet you will also get a free £5 Total Goals spread bet. Free bets and spins must be claimed within 28 days of opening. Free bet/spin stake not included in any winnings. Ts&Cs Apply. 18+ begambleaware.org | |||
#2 |
0% commission for 60 days |
Use code COMMFREE to trade with 0% for 60 days. New UK, IE & Malta users only. Min. £10/€10 first deposit only using Card or Instant Banking. Full T&Cs apply. | |||
#3 |
Up to £25 in Free Bets |
New customers Only. Cash stakes only. Min £10 stake required for initial £5 free bet. Min odds ½. Max £25 in free bets. 13 settled bets required to receive full £25 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed on sportsbook within 30 days of opening account. One free bet offer per customer, household or IP address only. Free bets expires after 7 days. Payment method restrictions apply. T&C's apply. Please Gamble Responsibly. | |||
#4 |
Bet £20 Get £10 Free Bet |
UK Only, 18+, Sign Up using the Promo Code b20g10 and make a minimum deposit of £20. Then place a minimum £20 bet with minimum odds of Evens (2.00) and receive a £10 free bet upon bet settlement. T&Cs apply | |||
#5 |
Get £10 in Free Bets |
New customers only. This offer is valid for 7 days from your new account being registered. Min Deposit: £10. First deposit matched up to £10. 1 x wagering at odds of 1.75+ to unlock Free Bet. Debit Card deposits only (exclusions apply). Free bet will expire 7 days after the 1st deposit. 18+. BeGambleAware.org. Bet The Responsible Way. Full Terms apply | |||
#6 |
Bet £10 Get £30 in Free Bets |
Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Registration required. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. | |||
#7 |
Bet £10 get £50 Free Bets |
New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply | |||
#8 |
Bet £10 get £10 in Free Bets |
New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Mobile exclusive. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Payment method restrictions. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. 18+. T&Cs apply | |||
#9 |
Bet £10 Get £20 in Free Bets |
*New members. £10 min deposit & bet on sportsbook, placed & settled at 1.5 min odds within 14 days of sign-up. Win part of E/W bets. 2 non-withdrawable £10 Free Bet Tokens: accept in 7 days, valid for 7 days from crediting (ex. E/Ws & Multiples), stakes not returned. Click here for Rules & Exclusions. Bet Responsibly. BeGambleAware.org | |||
#10 |
Bet £10 to Get £40 in Free Bets |
New customers only. 7 days to place qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 football, 1 x £10 horse racing & 2 x £10 Bet Builders. Free Bets cannot be used on e-sports and non UK/IE horse racing. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+ |
10 Betting Apps Similar to Betfair

The Betfair app is best known for its betting exchange. This feature allows punters to bet against each other, while featuring better odds in certain situations. There are also other betting apps like Betfair that also offer exchange-style betting which are perfect for those looking for a similar experience.
I enjoy using betting exchanges for types of bets that traditional sportsbooks may not cover. For example, entertainment categories like Eurovision and WWE can have more niche betting markets available on the exchanges.
If you like using betting exchanges and would like to check out a similar betting site like Betfair, there are a few licensed alternatives that are worth a try. Betfair is arguably the best betting exchange site and there are only a few platforms that feature a betting exchange, so we decorated our list with some all-rounder picks as well.

1. Spreadex
Spreadex is a betting exchange app like Betfair, with even more versatility to offer. Spreadex specialises in spread betting, and the platform also allows users to participate in financial markets.
Spreadex’s welcome bonus is quite appealing, and it has a wide market coverage, especially when it comes to football and horse racing categories. Considering the multi-functional approach of Spreadex, you can find various offers on its promotions page.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Great bet builder | The interface could be confusing for new comers |
Decent coverage of sports markets | Lack of ewallet support, meaning no PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Apple Pay, or PaysafeCard. |
Spread betting |
Place a qualifying £25 fixed odds bet at odds of 1/2 or greater. Qualifying bet cannot be placed in-play or cashed out early. A first free £5 fixed odds bet will be credited upon settlement of the qualifying bet. 4 x following £5 free fixed odds bets will be added to your account on consecutive days. After each of your first two free fixed odds bet you will also get a free £5 Total Goals spread bet. Free bets and spins must be claimed within 28 days of opening. Free bet/spin stake not included in any winnings. Ts&Cs Apply. 18+ begambleaware.org

2. Smarkets
Smarkets is another solid alternative as it’s a betting app like the Betfair exchange. Smarkets is equipped with its own exchange, similar to Betfair, and takes pride in its low trading commissions. While it may not be noticeable, trading fees can eat up a noticeable amount of capital for frequent punters, and lower fees make that more bearable.
Smarkets lacks a competitive welcome bonus, but instead, it has a 0 percent commission offer for the first 60 days after signing up for the platform.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Low trading commissions | The exchange-focused nature requires time to adjust |
Great infographics and visuals | Verification processes could be faster |
Personalised multi bet experience |
Use code COMMFREE to trade with 0% for 60 days. New UK, IE & Malta users only. Min. £10/€10 first deposit only using Card or Instant Banking. Full T&Cs apply.

3. Paddy Power
Paddy Power is Betfair’s sister site. The two have the same owner, but Paddy Power lacks the betting exchange. However, if you enjoy using Betfair, you can expect a similarly good experience on the Paddy Power app.
Paddy Power’s welcome bonus is generous and easy to claim, which also makes it one of the best betting apps with five pound minimum deposit. I generally check Paddy Power’s promotions tab whenever there’s a special sporting event as it can even have deals for esports.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Decent promos | Could be considered too UK-focused |
Quick verification process | Lacks betting exchange despite being sister sites with Betfair |
Fast payments |
New customers Only. Cash stakes only. Min £10 stake required for initial £5 free bet. Min odds ½. Max £25 in free bets. 13 settled bets required to receive full £25 free bet. Qualifying bets must be placed on sportsbook within 30 days of opening account. One free bet offer per customer, household or IP address only. Free bets expires after 7 days. Payment method restrictions apply. T&C's apply. Please Gamble Responsibly.

4. NRG
The NRG app is a decent Betfair alternative with its easy-to-navigate user interface. It's optimised for mobile usage and core features like the bet builder are top notch. NRG is more of a newcomer to the UK betting scene compared to its rivals, but it closed the gap quickly with great in-play betting variety and a vast sportsbook.
NRG’s welcome bonus isn't the most competitive offer out there, but it still has one of the best betting apps experiences when it comes to user experience.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Optimised mobile experience | Needs to support more payment methods |
Easy-to-navigate interface | Could benefit from a stronger welcome offer |
Wide sportsbook |
UK Only, 18+, Sign Up using the Promo Code b20g10 and make a minimum deposit of £20. Then place a minimum £20 bet with minimum odds of Evens (2.00) and receive a £10 free bet upon bet settlement. T&Cs apply

5. Betway
The Betway app is similar to Betfair in terms of its market coverage of UK sports. Betway is more global, though, and this makes it easier for punters to use the app outside of the UK. Betway may not have the most diverse sportsbook, but the level of depth it offers for the categories featured on its platform is unmatched.
Betway’s welcome offer is decent, and it also allows punters to test out other portions of the platform, like the casino. Both the mobile and the desktop interface feature simple designs, but they could certainly benefit from some modern touch ups.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Decent coverage of UK sports | The design could use a refresh |
Global brand | Customer service is slightly difficult to navigate |
Weekly rewards |
New customers only. This offer is valid for 7 days from your new account being registered. Min Deposit: £10. First deposit matched up to £10. 1 x wagering at odds of 1.75+ to unlock Free Bet. Debit Card deposits only (exclusions apply). Free bet will expire 7 days after the 1st deposit. 18+. BeGambleAware.org. Bet The Responsible Way. Full Terms apply

6. Bet365
If you enjoy using the Betfair app, there’s a decent chance you’ll feel right at home with the Bet365 app. Bet365 is arguably the most popular betting brand in the world and it’s packed with features like cash-out, a robust bet builder, and a great in-play betting interface.
Bet365’s sign up bonus offers decent value. It may not have a betting exchange, but it certainly makes up for its absence by being the best at every other aspect.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Excellent bet builder | Could support more ewallets |
Great in-play betting options with super infographics | There’s room for more innovative promos |
Cash-out options |
Min deposit requirement. Free Bets are paid as Bet Credits and are available for use upon settlement of qualifying bets. Min odds, bet and payment method exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Registration required. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

7. Betfred
The Betfred app is a staple choice for many UK punters, and it’s for a good reason. If most of your betting activity concentrates on football and horse racing, Betfred will be a decent Betfair alternative.
Betfred also features one of the most high-value betting bonuses. The platform excels in live streaming as well, and Betfred has been my go-to betting app if I’m also looking to spectate the games on my bet slip.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Reputable brand | The mobile interface could benefit from a visual update |
Excellent horse racing and football coverage | Could extend its niche market coverage |
Plenty of payment options |
New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply

8. BoyleSports
The BoyleSports app is another great Betfair alternative with excellent live streaming coverage. The design on the BoyleSports mobile app is easy-to-use and clean.
The BoyleSports app rotates around a couple of welcome bonuses throughout the year and most offer decent value. BoyleSports supports a variety of payment options so onboarding the platform is relatively simple.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Great live streaming coverage | Shop-only promos could be difficult to claim for online-only users |
Simple and easy-to-use mobile design | Could increase the level of variety in niche markets |
Decent variety of payment options |
New UK customers (Excluding NI) only. Mobile exclusive. Min stake £10. Min odds Evs. Free bet applied on 1st settlement of any qualifying bet. 30 days to qualify. Free bets expire in 7 days. Cashed out/Free Bets won’t apply. Payment method restrictions. 1 Free Bet offer per customer, household & IP Address only. 18+. T&Cs apply

9. LiveScore Bet
The LiveScore Bet app is a solid pick as a Betfair replacement with a superb interface and a large range of markets. Before stepping into the betting world, LiveScore bet was already a prime destination for many punters looking to get live score updates. The app continues the brand’s signature simple design.
LiveScore Bet’s sign up bonus offer is decent and the platform’s website is as good as its mobile app when it comes to the overall user experience.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Decent infographics | Could benefit from adding more payment options |
Simple interface both on mobile and desktop | Needs more engaging promos |
Live streaming availability |
*New members. £10 min deposit & bet on sportsbook, placed & settled at 1.5 min odds within 14 days of sign-up. Win part of E/W bets. 2 non-withdrawable £10 Free Bet Tokens: accept in 7 days, valid for 7 days from crediting (ex. E/Ws & Multiples), stakes not returned. Click here for Rules & Exclusions. Bet Responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

10. BetMGM
The BetMGM app entered the UK market strongly. BetMGM is quite easy to navigate around both on desktop and mobile. The sportsbook covers all the essentials and there are also plenty of promotions for existing users. Considering the level of activity when it comes to promos on the BetMGM app, it emerges a worthy competitor Betfair.
BetMGM’s welcome bonus is one of the better ones out there and it rewards punters with credits that can be used on different categories on the app.
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Reputable name in the global entertainment industry | Despite a simple layout, the website could be slow to load at times |
Great welcome bonus | Needs to add more payment options |
Excellent promos to retain user engagement |
New customers only. 7 days to place qualifying bet of £10 at 1/1 (2.0) to receive 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 x £10 football, 1 x £10 horse racing & 2 x £10 Bet Builders. Free Bets cannot be used on e-sports and non UK/IE horse racing. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+
What is a betting exchange?

A betting exchange allows users to bet against each other. This creates a peer-to-peer system when it comes to setting odds, so the model typically leads to better value for users.
Betting exchanges are more flexible and they can also feature markets which aren't available in sportsbooks. As a general rule of thumb, you may also want to check in with betting exchanges before placing a bet on a sports book to see whether there are better odds available.
How does a betting exchange work?
A betting exchange works by matching two people who want to bet on opposite outcomes. One person backs a result (bets that it will happen), while the other lays the same result (bets that it won’t happen). The exchange pairs these bets and charges a small fee on any winnings.
In the most basic terms, participants in exchange betting cover each other’s potential winnings.
Betting Exchange vs. Traditional Bookmakers — Which one should you use?
Betting exchanges give punters more control. You can often find better value on betting exchanges, especially on platforms with lower bookmaker fees. You should use betting exchanges if you prioritise flexibility, better odds, or just to bet on niche markets not offered by standard sportsbooks.
Traditional betting apps, on the other hand, are easier for beginners. You should use a traditional bookmaker if you want the level of simplicity where you just pick an outcome and place the bet. Such bookmakers also tend to be more generous with promos, so they can offer decent value in the long-run as well.
Pros and Cons of Betting Exchanges
Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
---|---|
Can have odds than traditional bookmakers | More complex to understand for beginners |
More options in certain betting markets | Liquidity issues in low-traffic markets |
Lower commission fees vs. bookmaker margin | Limited promotions and bonuses |
Better flexibility in setting your own odds | Slower bet matching during off-peak hours |
Tips and Tricks While Using Betting Exchanges

Betting exchanges become easier to use once you learn the ropes. If you’re just getting started, though, the following tips and tricks should help you get the most out of betting exchanges:
Beware of low-liquidity betting markets: Avoid placing large bets on unpopular events with limited users.
Watch market movements: Odds on betting markets can fluctuate based on user sentiment. If you’re looking to bet on an outcome, acting early could help you secure better odds.
Always compare odds: Even while using a betting exchange, you should continue to compare odds with other platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
Betting Exchange FAQs
The best betting exchange in the UK is Betfair and it also tops its close competition in other areas as well, like ease-of-use and sportsbook coverage.
Yes, betting exchanges are legal as the platforms have to follow lots of compliance rules. You should only use betting exchanges that are offered by fully regulated betting apps.