With more licensed Australian sportsbooks launching each year, punters are spoiled for choice — but not all betting sites are created equal. Whether you’re after racing, sports, or social betting, picking the right bookie can make all the difference.
In this comparison guide, we break down three of Australia’s most talked-about platforms: Dabble, PlayUp, and Picklebet. Each offers something unique, but which one fits your punting style best? Read on as we compare features, odds, app experience, markets, and more.
Overview of the Bookmakers
Dabble – The Social Betting Pioneer
Dabble combines traditional betting with a social twist. It lets punters follow and copy bets from influencers and friends, share bet slips, and build a feed much like social media. It’s ideal for users who want a more community-driven experience, particularly on mobile.
PlayUp – The Straight Shooter
PlayUp is a clean, no-fuss bookmaker focused on fixed odds for racing and sports. It’s fully licensed in Australia and offers strong odds across most codes. PlayUp is especially known for its smooth desktop platform, quick bet placement, and sharp prices.
Picklebet – The Esports Innovator
Picklebet started as Australia’s first dedicated esports betting platform but has since expanded into mainstream sports and racing. Its niche focus still appeals to gamers, but with growing AFL, NRL, and racing markets, it’s become a viable option for casual and hybrid punters too.
Platform and User Experience
Dabble stands out on mobile. The app is modern, quick, and clearly built for social-first users. It includes a feed of bets, profiles to follow, and an interactive community. That said, it can feel overwhelming for punters who just want to bet and move on.
PlayUp, on the other hand, is refreshingly minimal. Its platform is easy to navigate, both on desktop and mobile. No distractions — just racing, sports, odds, and betslips. It’s ideal for experienced users who value clarity and speed.
Picklebet’s interface leans into gaming culture with a clean, dark-mode aesthetic. It works well on both desktop and mobile, and navigation is smooth. It’s great for tech-savvy users and younger punters who like customisation.
Sports and Racing Markets
When it comes to market depth, PlayUp takes the lead. It covers a wide range of local and international racing, along with popular sports like AFL, NRL, cricket, soccer, and basketball. It’s a solid all-rounder for traditional punting.
Dabble also covers all the major codes but leans slightly more into racing and social multis. The market range isn’t as deep as PlayUp’s, but it offers the added layer of shared bets and copied tips, which many punters love.
Picklebet originally focused on esports — and still does it better than anyone in Australia — but now also includes mainstream sports and a limited racing offering. If you bet on CS:GO, Dota 2, or League of Legends, Picklebet is a standout.
Odds and Pricing
All three bookmakers offer competitive odds, but with a few key differences:
- PlayUp tends to offer the most consistently strong pricing across racing and sport.
- Dabble occasionally runs promotions and social boosts that give value, but standard odds are average.
- Picklebet offers excellent esports pricing and decent odds on selected sports, though it may lack depth on smaller markets.
If value is your top priority, especially for line betting or multis, PlayUp is hard to beat.
Promotions and Unique Features
- Dabble: Home of social betting. Unique features include bet copying, group chats, and trending bet slips. The community vibe sets it apart.
- PlayUp: Promotions are straightforward but frequent — including boosted odds and racing specials. The main draw is value and reliability.
- Picklebet: Offers tailored promos for esports fans and custom multis for gamers. It’s the only bookie in Australia with a clear esports-first identity.
Pros and Cons
Dabble
Pros:
- Unique social features
- Sleek mobile app
- Copy betting from tipsters
Cons:
- Less suited to serious punters
- Lighter on niche sports
PlayUp
Pros:
- Strong odds across the board
- No-nonsense user interface
- Great racing depth
Cons:
- Lacks modern app features
- Not as appealing to younger users
Picklebet
Pros:
- Best esports offering in Australia
- Clean and modern design
- Expanding into mainstream sports
Cons:
- Limited racing markets
- Not ideal for traditional punters
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Each of these Aussie bookies shines in its own way — the right one depends on how you like to punt.
- Choose Dabble if you love the idea of betting with mates, following tipsters, and engaging with a punting community.
- Choose PlayUp if you value strong odds, simple design, and a trusted, no-nonsense platform.
- Choose Picklebet if you’re an esports fan or a digital-native punter looking for something modern and niche-friendly.
Still not sure which one’s right for you?
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