In this guide to CS2 Handicap bets, we give you all the intel you need. We’ll list the best CS2 handicap betting sites, explain how the CS2 bet works and share our top tips.

Top CS2 Handicap Betting Sites

Any esports betting site worth using will provide CS2 handicap odds for the Counter-Strike matches it features. All of the platforms featured in our rankings of the top CS2 betting sites will provide handicap odds.

CS2 Handicap Betting Explained

Handicap bets work by applying a handicap to a team or player before an event starts. It allows you to get better odds on the favourite by putting them at a disadvantage or giving the underdog a headstart, but you’ll get worse odds.

The vast majority of betting sites will have CS2 ‘Match Handicap’ odds for the overall match, but the most esports-friendly platforms may also offer a ‘Round Handicap’. Handicap betting is a great way to get better odds on elite CS2 teams that enter most matches as betting favourites.

For example, let’s say a big org like Fntic is heavily favoured to win their next match, you could bet on them with a -1.5 handicap. You’ll get better odds on them, but they’ll have to win the match 2-0 for you to get your cash. If the other side snatches a map, and the final score is 2-1 to Fnatic, you’ll still lose.

There are two main kinds of CS2 handicap bet. A ‘Match Handicap’, which we’ve described in the example above, and a ‘Round Handicap’. This second type is for one map in a match. For you to win, the team you bet has to claim that map by more rounds than the handicap you apply.

CS2 Handicap Tips

Now that we’ve explained what CS2 Handicap betting is all about, you’ll need to know how to spot a potential winner. Implement our top CS2 handicap betting tips, and your winning percentage should improve!

Do Your Research

The most important tip we can give is to research each matchup before placing a CS2 handicap bet. Diligent research is the key to increasing your chances of winning any CS2 bet.

We recommend heading over to our match histories, results or stats pages to get the intel you need. For example, you can check out both teams’ match histories and look at their previous clashes to see if you can spot any trends or patterns.

Using A Staking Method

Sticking to an effective staking method is extremely important when betting online. Some staking methods are riskier than others, but yours should be based on your personal budget. Never risk more money than you can afford to lose.

For example, using a percentage-based staking method allows you to stretch out your betting balance over more events. The more CS2 handicap bets you place, the more likely you are to win and increase your balance in the long term.

Get The Best CS2 Odds Possible

You should always be on the lookout for the best odds possible. If you’re confident you’ve found a potential winning handicap bet, having an account on multiple betting platforms allows you to shop around and get the best possible odds.

If you’re backing a team that’s short odds, even with the handicap applied, you could add the CS2 handicap into a multiple bet with one of your other picks to get better odds. Many esports gambling sites now offer some form of ‘Bet Builder’ or ‘Same Game Parlay’, which allows you to build a multiple based on a single CS2 match!

Understanding The Variables

Handicap betting is predominantly a pre-match affair, meaning both the map veto and the map order in a match are unknown. This should factor into how much you’re willing to bet on each CS2 handicap. Roster changes, team head-to-heads, and player form are all variables you should also consider.

While there’s no guarantee any CS2 bet will win, consistently implementing these tips should increase your overall winning percentage!

Other CS2 Bet Types

• CS2 Match Betting – The easiest way to bet on CS2. Learn how to bet on CS2 matches and the best sites to use.

• CS2 Maps Betting – CS2 maps are a massive factor in elite competition, and their effect on CS2 betting is just as significant. This guide reveals how Counter-Strike maps should factor into your betting decisions.


• CS2 Prop Bets – Prop bets offer fun and unique ways to wager on competitive Counter-Strike.

• CS2 Live Betting Guide – Live betting often means you can get fantastic odds, and our guide shows you how.

Responsible CS2 Gambling

Whether you’re betting on CS2, other esports or anything else, practising responsible gambling is critical. CS2 gambling should be fun. If you feel it’s having a negative effect on you, just stop. 


You can take the Gamalyze self-assessment test to learn more about how you gamble and discover the responsible gambling tools available at online betting sites. We’ve also got a wealth of other resources for additional support. 


Here are some of our in-depth HLTV responsible gambling articles:


• Time Management – This page focuses on the time management tools you can use while betting on CS2.


• Money Management – Discover the money management tools available at most betting sites.

• HLTV Responsible Gambling Promise – Read more about responsible gambling and HLTV’s commitment to promoting it.


Always practice responsible gambling. You must be 18+ to play.

CS2 Handicap Betting FAQs