Betfair vs Bet365 vs Paddy Power: Which is best for UK punters?

Betfair, Bet365, and Paddy Power dominate the UK sports betting scene — but which one suits your betting needs best? This guide breaks down the core features, odds, promotions, and pros and cons of each site. Whether you’re a casual punter or a seasoned pro, we’ll help you decide where to place your next bet.

Betfair, Bet365, and Paddy Power are among the biggest names in UK sports betting. Each has a loyal following, distinct features, and offers plenty for punters. But which one is the best fit for your betting style? In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of each, looking at odds, features, bonuses, and overall user experience — to help you make the smartest choice.

Also Read: How to avoid common mistakes in football betting: Tips for smarter punting

Betfair, Bet365, and Paddy Power: Why the comparison matters

With so many UK betting sites available in 2025, choosing the right one can impact your odds, promotions, and daily punting experience. Betfair is famous for its exchange, Bet365 leads in in-play betting, and Paddy Power is known for entertainment and offers. But your ideal bookie depends on what you value most.

1. Betfair: Great for serious punters and value hunters

• Strengths: Betting Exchange, Value odds, Cash out and trading
• Weaknesses: Not beginner-friendly, Limited promotions

Ideal for: Experienced bettors who want more control and better odds.

2. Bet365: The all-rounder with the best live betting

• Strengths: In-play king, User interface, Consistent odds
• Weaknesses: Generic promos, Bet builder limits

Ideal for: Everyday punters looking for strong live betting and a hassle-free experience.

3. Paddy Power: Fun, fast, and full of offers

• Strengths: Big on promos, Top for football accas, Entertaining brand
• Weaknesses: Lower odds on average, Fewer niche markets

Ideal for: Casual punters who love a deal and bet on football or big events.

Which one should you pick?

• For best odds and exchange betting: Go with Betfair
• For live betting and a polished app: Choose Bet365
• For fun promos and football bets: Try Paddy Power

Some punters use more than one site to get the best of each world — backing long shots with Paddy Power promos, trading on Betfair, and using Bet365 for live markets.

Also Read: Is sports betting legal in the UK? What you should know before putting your bets

Final word: Know your betting style

Each bookmaker suits a different kind of punter. If you want top-value odds and don’t mind a learning curve, Betfair delivers. If you want reliability and the best live coverage, Bet365 is unbeatable. For light-hearted fun and great offers, Paddy Power is hard to ignore.

Whichever you choose, always bet responsibly and shop around before settling on a single bookie.

FAQs

Which site has the best odds?

Betfair generally offers better odds due to its exchange model where users bet against each other.

Which is best for in-play betting?

Bet365 is considered the leader in live betting with excellent coverage and live streaming options.

Are all three sites licensed in the UK?

Yes, Betfair, Bet365, and Paddy Power are fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.

Can I use more than one betting site?

Absolutely. Many punters use multiple sites to maximise promotions, odds, and features.

Which one offers the most promotions?

Paddy Power is well known for frequent promos, money-back specials, and novelty bets.