Betfair is a pioneer in online sports betting and today processes over five million transactions a day. But, not content with being a giant in that field, Betfair has expanded into poker and casino operations. Applying its characteristic flair for excellence, Betfair has twice been named the UK's "Company of the Year" by the Confederation of British Industry and currently employs over 2,000 people spread amongst its operations.

An Online Poker Giant

This means that Betfair is definitely one of the big boys on the block. Launched in May 2004, Betfair Poker originally operated as a standalone site and went it alone. It had great success, with a large player base and plenty of traffic. However, in July 2010 Betfair Poker made a strategic move to the Ongame Network, becoming the second largest partner on this network.

Software

There is download software compatible with both PC and Mac and there are some nice features, such as unlimited multi-tabling and a mini-table view that allows you to play up to 15 concurrent tables on even a standard sized monitor. Player friendly features include the ability to mouse-over and see a folded hand and a free "poker buddy" widget that allows you critique your hand history without having to fire up a program like Poker Tracker.

Tournament Traffic

Mostly micro and low limit players populate cash games and the vast majority can be found at the Texas Hold'em tables. Following the lead of most other sports book poker sites, the action here is fast and furious and the players overall are weak. Tournament offerings are varied with solid guarantee tournaments each weekend, as well as some daily offerings.

The Betfair Poker download software has generous offerings of live tournament qualifiers, giving away seats to events around the world. From the WSOP to the EPT you will find opportunities to play in all of these events at Betfair. Sit and Go traffic is good for the lower limits but if you're looking for a range of games and limits you may find yourself waiting for quite some time to fill a table at the middle and higher limits.

Poker Formats

The standard games being spread at Betfair are:

• Texas Hold'em (No Limit, Limit and pot Limit)
• Omaha (Limit and Pot Limit)
• Seven Card Stud (including Hi-Lo)
• Five Card Draw

Loyalty Programme

Betfair Poker points are the currency for their loyalty program and are earned by playing a raked hand of poker or entering a tournament or SNG. The Ongame Network is rakeback free so Betfair is no longer offering rakeback. However, its great VIP program does offer valueback which provides you with a boost to your Betfair Poker points. Players currently enjoying rakeback from the old system can opt into the new scheme by contacting customer support.

Mobile

If you’re an iOS device user, you’ll be able to download the Betfair Poker app straight from the Apple Store. For Android users, whether you have a smartphone or a tablet, you’ll need to head to the Betfair website and download the app directly from there. Either way, it’s easy and straightforward to do, and will let you play in no time.

For the inexperienced player, the Betfair mobile app is fantastic. You’ll be able to practice your skills and learn about the basics of poker games until you feel ready to gamble with your real money. Whatever your skill and ability, you’ll be entitled to play a huge range of Texas Hold’em variations including Speed Poker. This gaming option is one of the best for those of you with limited time to play on your mobile device while on the move. You can also participate in many tournaments, including Twister SNG and Multi-Table Tournaments.

The Betfair Poker app will allow you to use similar bonuses to those found on the desktop browser version. Once you create an account, you’ll get access to the 200% Welcome Bonus of up to €1000. To qualify, all you need to do is deposit €10 into your poker account. Then you’ll be ready to use your Welcome Bonus!

Customer Support

Support is great with live operators on the telephone, via chat, and email offering live help. There's also a comprehensive FAQ available for common questions.

Summary

While Betfair doesn't accept US players at this time (in the past they allowed them) you may find this a good site if you live elsewhere. Traffic is decent and if you prefer Hold'em or Omaha you'll find a decent game selection. Overall the site is a good offering with some additional perks you won't find at other sites. Download Betfair Poker today!

Reviewed By: Pokersites.com