Independent expert comparison — 77/100 vs 79/100
| Feature | PokerStars | PointsBet |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Welcome Bonuses | ||
| Casino Bonus | 200% up to $2,000 | 400% up to $4,000 |
| Sports Bonus | 125% up to $2,500 | Risk-free first bet up to $500 |
| Promo Code | START150 | JOIN125 |
| ⚽ Sports Betting | ||
| Live / In-Play | ✔ | ✖ |
| Esports | ✖ | ✔ |
| Racebook | ✖ | ✔ |
| Max Bet / Event | High limits | $5K/event |
| ♠️ Poker | ||
| Anonymous Tables | ✔ | ✔ |
| Live Casino | ✔ | ✔ |
| Poker Guarantee | No poker room | $10K GTD |
| ₿ Banking | ||
| Bitcoin | ✖ | ✔ |
| Ethereum | ✖ | ✔ |
| Litecoin | ✔ | ✔ |
| VISA | ✔ | ✔ |
| Amex | ✔ | ✔ |
| 📋 Platform Info | ||
| Founded | 2003 | 2016 |
| License | MGA (Malta) | Panama-facing offshore |
| Overall Score | 77/100 | 79/100 |
Through rigorous independent testing, our team scored PokerStars at 77/100 and PointsBet at 79/100 across eight independently weighted categories.
PokerStars (60/100) covers all major US leagues with competitive lines and a solid live-betting interface. Live in-play wagering is supported. Maximum stake per event: High limits.
PointsBet (57/100) runs a well-stocked sportsbook with competitive juice and a responsive in-play platform. The platform does not currently offer live in-play betting. Esports coverage is part of the offering. Bet limits reach $5K/event per event.
PokerStars (96/100) offers hundreds of slots from leading software providers plus a strong live casino section. The live dealer studio streams HD tables around the clock.
PointsBet (90/100) hosts an extensive library of slots, table games and a polished live dealer studio. A dedicated live casino section is available.
PokerStars leads on poker (90/100). Anonymous tables prevent HUD-based player tracking — a key advantage for recreational players. Weekly guaranteed prize pools reach No poker room.
PokerStars welcome offer: 200% up to $2,000 casino bonus; sports: 125% up to $2,500. Use code START150. PointsBet counters with 400% up to $4,000 casino; sports: Risk-free first bet up to $500. Use code JOIN125. Terms and conditions apply. Bonus values and requirements are subject to change without notice.
PokerStars (est. 2003, licensed: MGA (Malta)) offers flexible payment processing with reasonable withdrawal timelines and low fees. Crypto support: Bitcoin ✗, Litecoin ✓. VISA ✓, Amex ✓.
PointsBet (est. 2016, licensed: Panama-facing offshore) handles transactions through both established banking channels and modern cryptocurrency. Crypto: Bitcoin ✓, Ethereum ✓, Litecoin ✓. VISA ✓, Amex ✓.
PokerStars scores 91/100 for responsible gaming, featuring Cooling-off periods available. PointsBet earns 90/100 with Basic timeout tools. Both platforms link to NCPG resources. If gambling is affecting you, free help is available 24/7: 1-800-522-4700.
PointsBet wins this comparison — 79/100 vs 77/100 for PokerStars. It is a close contest. Your choice should depend on which single category matters most to you. Always set a firm budget before you play.
PokerStars operates under a MGA (Malta) licence and PointsBet under Panama-facing offshore. Always verify the gambling laws in your state before depositing.
PokerStars scores 60/100 on sports; PointsBet scores 57/100. PokerStars edges ahead on sports betting.
PokerStars does not currently accept Bitcoin. Check the cashier page for available crypto options.
PointsBet currently offers 400% up to $4,000 as a welcome promotion. Promo code: JOIN125. Verify wagering requirements before claiming.
Both platforms process crypto withdrawals within 24 hours typically. PokerStars is licensed in MGA (Malta); PointsBet in Panama-facing offshore. Credit card withdrawals may take 3–7 business days.
PokerStars does not currently offer a dedicated poker room.
PokerStars scores 85/100 on mobile; PointsBet scores 93/100. PointsBet delivers the stronger mobile experience. Both are compatible with iOS and Android browsers.
PokerStars scores 62/100 for trust and longevity (founded 2003, licensed MGA (Malta)). PointsBet scores 62/100 (founded 2016, licensed Panama-facing offshore). PokerStars has the stronger regulatory track record.

Gambling should always be entertainment, never a way to make money. If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, free confidential help is available 24/7.
📞 National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-522-4700