Overview
Matchbook is a betting exchange founded in 2004 and owned by Triplebet Ltd. It occupies the same space as Betfair and Betdaq but is considerably smaller, with limited liquidity on most markets. Its commission rates — 1.5% standard, with promotional 0% periods — are the lowest of any UK-licensed exchange, which is its principal selling point.
Commission Rates
Matchbook's 1.5% standard commission is the lowest in the UK exchange market, significantly below Betfair's 5% and Betdaq's 2%. For bettors who generate consistent exchange profits, the saving over Betfair can be substantial. Their periodic 0% commission promotions effectively make exchange winnings entirely free of charge.
Liquidity Limitations
The fundamental challenge with Matchbook is the same as Betdaq — liquidity. Matchbook is a niche exchange and matched money on many markets is thin. Even on major Premier League fixtures, available liquidity may be a fraction of what's available on Betfair. For larger stakes or fast in-play trading, Matchbook is generally unsuitable.
Best Use Cases
Matchbook is best used for markets where your required stake is modest (under £100–200) and you can be patient waiting for your price to be matched. Pre-event betting on major football and horse racing in these circumstances can generate meaningful commission savings versus Betfair.
Mobile and Platform
Matchbook's platform and mobile app are dated and functional rather than polished. The app holds a 3.5★ App Store rating. Core exchange functions — backing, laying, viewing the order book — work correctly but the overall experience is below Betfair's standard.
Alternative Exchanges
For UK bettors building an exchange portfolio, the optimal setup is usually: Betfair (primary, maximum liquidity), Smarkets (secondary, 2% commission), and Matchbook or Betdaq (tertiary, for specific markets where liquidity is adequate and commission saving is meaningful).
Matchbook is a niche tool for value-focused exchange bettors who are sensitive to commission costs and can work within the liquidity constraints. It should be a tertiary exchange account at most, used selectively where the commission saving justifies the additional account management.