Polymarket vs Betfair: Which is Better in 2025?
Key takeaway: Betfair operates under regulatory oversight, accepts traditional currencies, and appeals to sports betting enthusiasts. Polymarket functions as an unregulated, blockchain-powered platform specializing in political forecasting and real-world event markets. For those tracking European political developments, Polymarket delivers superior market depth and selection.
The prediction market landscape in Europe centers on two major contenders: Betfair (the established betting exchange pioneer) and Polymarket (the blockchain-integrated forecasting venue). What distinguishes them?
At a glance
| Feature | Polymarket | Betfair |
| Founded | 2020 | 2000 |
| Regulation | Unregulated (decentralised) | FCA, Malta, Gibraltar licensed |
| Currency | USDC (stablecoin) | GBP, EUR, AUD |
| Market types | Politics, crypto, science, culture | Sports, politics, entertainment |
| Fees | ~2% (spread-based) | 2–5% commission on winnings |
| Deposits | USDC, MoonPay | Card, bank transfer, PayPal |
Where Polymarket wins
- Political markets: Polymarket commands substantially greater trading volume across US electoral contests, European parliamentary races, and international affairs compared to Betfair
- Transparency: Blockchain-based resolution ensures complete auditability; Betfair's settlement procedures lack this level of openness
- Market variety: Digital asset valuations, technological breakthroughs, and academic research outcomes find homes on Polymarket; Betfair's catalog excludes these categories
- No bookmaker margin: User-driven price discovery replaces operator-imposed spreads
Where Betfair wins
- Sports markets: Live sports wagering represents Betfair's foundational offering; Polymarket provides minimal coverage of athletic competitions
- Fiat deposits: Betfair eliminates barriers by accepting conventional payment methods without cryptocurrency prerequisites
- Regulation: FCA authorization provides statutory safeguards and player protection mechanisms
- Track record: Two decades of continuous operation establishes institutional credibility and proven conflict resolution frameworks
Our verdict
For those focused on political forecasting venues, Polymarket emerges as the superior choice. PolyGram streamlines participation in Polymarket without requiring technical blockchain expertise. Start trading on PolyGram →