How crypto is emerging as a game-changer for esports betting in 2025

Cryptocurrency and esports betting might sound like two sides of a chronically online coin, and in 2025, they’re more connected than ever. In the current era of convenience and instant gratification, crypto is becoming the go-to method for those looking for a faster, more seamless way to get in on the action. 

With more crypto platforms sponsoring esports teams and plenty of betting sites now offering crypto payment options, it’s clear that digital currencies are here to stay in the iGaming world. Here’s why so many esports bettors are making the switch to cryptocurrency over traditional methods for their bets. 

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of crypto and esports betting, let’s quickly get up to speed. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital asset that operates independently of traditional banks or governments, relying on peer-to-peer systems. Unlike fiat currency (like GBP or USD), crypto is decentralised and runs on blockchain technology, meaning transactions are recorded on a public ledger that’s transparent, secure, and tamper-proof. 

There are now thousands, if not millions, of cryptocurrencies available, from major monies like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) to meme coins like Dogecoin (DOGE) and stablecoins like Tether (USDT). As they become more widely accepted, you’ll see cryptocurrencies used for everything, from online shopping and investments to online betting. 

In 2025, the global crypto gambling market is valued at around $250 million, up from $50 million in 2019. Esports betting with crypto alone has grown by 35% since 2023, reflecting the demand and growth. While esports betting is still a bit of a legal grey area (including in the US, where it’s only legal in 19 states), crypto allows bettors to skip over the red tape of traditional banking. With faster transactions, fewer hurdles, and a borderless experience, it’s no wonder so many fans are making the switch. 

Since cryptocurrency is everywhere in 2025, there must be a reason why it’s drawing in so many punters looking for an alternative to traditional banking. Here are five key benefits to using crypto for online gambling and esports betting. 

One of the main appeals of cryptocurrency in online gambling is its global reach. Traditional betting sites often face regulatory hurdles when tackling international payments, but crypto bypasses those entirely with its borderless transactions – no currency conversions or exchange rates to worry about. 

This makes crypto particularly appealing to those in regions with limited access to mainstream financial services or restrictive anti-gambling laws. 

When paying with crypto, forget waiting five working days for your hard-won cash to come through. While traditional banking systems take several days to process transactions, cryptocurrency happens near-instantly (usually within hours or even minutes). For example, BTC transactions typically take around 10 minutes on average, according to CoinMarketCap. 

This immediate access to funds makes the experience more gratifying for most bettors, as they can access their winnings quickly and deposit just as fast. 

Who doesn’t want to keep more of their winnings in their pocket? Another main draw of cryptocurrency is the minimal transaction fees compared to credit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers. Since cryptocurrency is peer-to-peer, there’s no need for intermediaries like banks or payment processors, reducing the fees required for deposits and withdrawals. 

Fees do vary from coin to coin, though, but in general, using crypto is a much more cost-effective option for frequent bettors. This is especially noticeable when dealing with international transfers, where banks often tack on hefty exchange rates or hidden charges.

In this day and age, bettors are always looking for the best esports betting bonuses or rewards to improve their game and overall experience. Thanks to crypto, many sportsbooks can dole out crypto-specific promotions and loyalty programmes designed specifically for cryptocurrency users. This can be anything from special free bets, matched deposits in Bitcoin, cashback, and even AI-controlled VIP tiers based on betting activity. 

These rewards are often more lucrative compared to “normal” betting bonuses and promotions, making them more sought after by those looking for maximum returns and value.  

With online hacking, phishing, and fraud on the rise, security is more important than ever. Luckily, crypto transactions are encrypted and often require multi-factor authentication to proceed. Thanks to the blockchain technology powering them, it’s also easier to track and verify crypto payments. 

Cryptocurrency often provides more anonymity for users worried about privacy than traditional options. Instead of going through long KYC flows and sharing your personal information like your home address, you can just connect your crypto wallet, place a bet, and you’re good to go. 

Crypto is still very much a legal grey area in the iGaming space, but its potential is growing. With more overlap between crypto and esports betting, here’s a look at where things are heading.

A new breed of esports betting site is on the rise, led by big names like BC.Game and Thunderpick, the latter of which hosts its own annual $1m Counter-Strike 2 tournament. 

In 2025, more sites are welcoming cryptocurrency with open arms, like Rivalry, which transitioned to a crypto-native strategy late last year. These platforms come with sleek UI as well as lightning-fast transactions and a focus on gamification, community, and memes. This is a natural fit for younger, more tech-savvy bettors (the same demographic that makes up most esports fans).

In the near future, we can expect to see more “hybrid” platforms that blur the lines between betting, investing, and gaming. 

While Bitcoin and Ethereum are likely the first that pop into heads at the mention of crypto, we’re starting to see a wider range of coins accepted at esports betting sites like Thunderpick. Meme coins like Dogecoin and Pepe are gaining popularity, especially among communities that overlap with Twitch culture and internet humour. Stablecoins (like USDT or USDC) also offer the benefits of crypto without the volatility, which is perfect for bettors who want the speed and privacy of crypto but don’t want to worry about price swings. 

Since esports fans spend much of their time on Twitch, TikTok, or YouTube, any esports betting site that implements innovative, legit meme coins into its cashier could see huge success. An example is Rivalry accepting the official $TRUMP coin “less than 24 hours after its release”, and was praised for its “always-on” marketing strategy. 

As cryptocurrency and Web3 become more mainstream in the coming years, betting platforms could benefit from expanding their cashier options to include niche altcoins, community tokens, and other alternatives to fiat money. 

All in all, cryptocurrency feels like a natural fit for the esports betting world. Thanks to its lightning-speed payments, low fees, and enhanced security, crypto unlocks a whole new level of convenience and access for bettors around the globe, which is essential to an industry built on instant gratification. 

As both industries continue to evolve and overlap, expect to see more platforms doubling down and going hard on digital currency acceptance. Crypto isn’t just the future of online gambling and esports betting, it’s the here and now.