Crypto users - what are the main downsides when betting with crypto?

What are the main downsides when betting with crypto? Are there any disadvantages? Are there specific things that you look for in a bookie before signing up? Things you wish would change?

Hey there, it sounds like you are interested in sports betting rather than casino games, right?

I'm just asking because sports betting is really not my thing.

Well, generally speaking, the best-known crypto advantage is also its complete disadvantage when issues arise.

As an untraceable and deregulated currency, if the money never makes it through the transfer to reach the recipient, you have virtually no one to turn to for help. No regulation, no chargeback, and no bank support.

I hope others will share their insights too, I bet you could use more hits. 🙂

Thanks, Radka! Actually, I would be interested in crypto payments at casinos, too. Does it ever happen that a transaction gets lost or never makes it through?

By the way, do you generally find that fees at casinos are lower for crypto transactions than other types of payments?

No problem 🙂

I must admit, I usually tend to see the cons more intensively than the possible pros when it comes to crypto. I bet it's caused by all those complaints I've witnessed along the way - discussed here on the forum.

Honestly, now that I'm thinking of it again, I'm not convinced it happens very often. But when it does, well, that's bad.

Fees! That's another interesting topic, frankly, and I don't want to sound like I'm avoiding straight answers; it may be a bit complicated. Fees may arise on both sides: the recipient and sender, or the transaction processor may apply fees. As far as I can tell, it depends on the wallet you prefer and its charges. Additionally, the casino itself may set other fees associated with several rules (total amount of deposit/withdrawal, and so on).

I must add that I do not use crypto very often, especially in casinos, so I hope someone more capable will notice this thread soon. 🤞🤞

I'm sorry 🤔

Please don't apologize, I really appreciate all of your input. This has been very insightful and has given me a much better understanding of what to consider when gambling with crypto.🙏 I wish you all the best and the best of luck when playing games! 🙂

That's very kind of you! 🙂

And if you ever find anything worth sharing with the community or just have any kind of question, come back. We'll be here. 😉

May luck stay with you!

Sone Casinos don't have any fees for some payment methods. It depends on location of player and location where the casino or 3 party company handles the payments. If player is in Europe and Casino as well they probably offer bank transfer which most of times has no fees. Just check each site you want to deposit first.

Are crypto fees at casinos less? Read reviews. Some casinos just added crypto as another payment method and you still have to wait days recieving payment but paying high fees. Others are setup as pure crypto casinos and have low fees. Some provide exchange from fiat to crypto. Even when the crypto fees are less you need to remember that you already paid fees to coinbase or other when getting the crypto you want to use in the casino.

Can't find any disadvantages of depositing in crypto. Especially you make small deposits and use LTC for example - the commission is so small that I can make a dep every 20 minutes. But on the other hand I don't like to dep in BTC cuz of the big commissions - maybe it make sense if you dep 1000eur or more, but on small deposits - its a big disappointment.

Thanks for your insight. Do you prefer to deposit in crypto? What casino do you use where you deposit using it ? 🙂

Thanks for this, Frankey!

Understood, thanks!

All good. One of the easiest ways to make a deposit as for me.

I think some players would agree with you. 

However, what casino do you use where you deposit with crypto ? Do you use this method for withdrawals as well ? 🤔😎

It depends a lot on location as well. The EU made anonymous crypto transactions illegal. For all transactions going in the EU, inside and outgoing. You sent 10 or 100 £€ worth in crypto from a self hosted wallet to your niece for her 16 birthday , you are officially under suspicion of money laundering. Both of you are. Here in Germany, gambling wins are tax free. Casino, sports betting, lottery, bingo.... no matter if you win 1€ or 60Million. As long it's fiat. Do I win in crypto I can take a certain amount. The rest has to stay 6 months in the wallet before I can take it tax free

The fee might be small, but before you make small deposits every 20 minutes you should consider something else. We jet have to find a way mining Crypto currencies that is sustainable.

Yes, I read about this not so long ago and I just came across the case of Germany, because I did not know that gambling winnings are tax free when it comes to fiat. 

Of course you always need to know how things work in your own country and inform yourself about everything and have an overview because these details change quite often. And certainly nobody wants to have any problems with that. But thanks for your addition to the conversation. 🙂

There are definitely some advantages to betting with crypto (like fast transactions and anonymity), but it's not all upside. Here are the main downsides to watch out for:

Volatility

Crypto prices can swing wildly — your winnings (or even your bankroll) could lose value overnight. If you’re holding in BTC or ETH, for example, a market dip could wipe out a chunk of your gains, even if you win your bets.

Lack of Regulation / Protection

Many crypto betting sites operate in grey or unregulated areas. If the platform disappears with your funds or refuses to pay out, you might have little to no legal recourse. There’s no FDIC or chargeback mechanism like with traditional banking.

Scams and Fake Sites

The crypto gambling space is flooded with shady operators. Some look legit but are rigged, or just outright scams. It’s easy to fall for a sleek-looking site that doesn’t actually pay out.

Limited Responsible Gambling Tools

Traditional betting sites are often required to provide tools to help you manage your gambling (deposit limits, self-exclusion, etc.). Many crypto sites skip this entirely, which can be risky if you’re trying to gamble responsibly.

Legal Uncertainty

Depending on where you live, using crypto to gamble could be in a legal gray area — or outright illegal. It's your responsibility to know the laws in your jurisdiction, and crypto doesn’t make you immune to them.

Privacy Concerns (surprisingly)

While crypto is often touted as anonymous, most blockchains are public and traceable. If your wallet is ever linked to your identity, your gambling history could potentially be traced back to you.

TL;DR: Crypto betting is fast and convenient, but the downsides include volatility, lack of regulation, scams, and legal risks. Do your research, and don't bet more than you can afford to lose — both in crypto value and in gambling losses.