We’ve tested all of the best online sportsbooks out there: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics… the list goes on and on. While doing that, we looked at important factors like bonuses, odds pricing, payout times, customer support, licensing, security, and a whole lot more.
Below, we’ll tell you what we found and help you figure out which one of the top U.S. sports betting sites is a good fit for you.
Top 10 Online Sportsbooks at a Glance
| 🏈 Sportsbook | 🎁 Welcome Bonus | 📍 Legal States | 🏆 Best for… | ⭐ ATS.io Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇1. FanDuel | Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins! | AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY | Pretty Much Everything | 5.0/5.0 |
| 🥈2. bet365 | Bet $5 Get $150 In Bonus Bets (Win or Lose) | AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA | Ongoing Promotions | 4.9/5.0 |
| 🥉3. DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets If Your First Bet Wins | AZ, CO, CT, DC, IN, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA (select parishes), MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV or WY | Fast Withdrawals | 4.7/5.0 |
| 4. BetMGM | Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Back if your First Bet Does Not Win | AZ, CO, IN, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, DC, WV, WY | Live Betting | 4.5/5.0 |
| 5. Caesars | Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 20 Bets | AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NV, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WY, WV | Daily Odds Boosts | 4.3/5.0 |
| 6. Fanatics | Bet & Get Up to $2000 in No Sweat Bets | AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY, & DC | Loyalty Rewards | 4.2/5.0 |
| 7. BetRivers | Second chance bet up to $500 | AZ, CO, IN, IA, IL, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV | Customer Service | 4.2/5.0 |
| 8. Bally Bet | Bet $10 Get $50 in Bonus Bets | AZ, CO, IN, IA, MD, MA, NJ, NY, OH, TN, VA | Parlay Bets | 4.2/5.0 |
| 9. Hard Rock Bet | Bet $5 Get $150 If You Win | AZ, CO, FL, IL, IN, NJ, OH, TN, VA | Mobile Betting | 4.2/5.0 |
| 10. Prime Sports | 100% Deposit Match Up to $250 | KY, NJ, OH | Odds Pricing | 3.5/5.0 |
Mini Reviews of the Best Online Sportsbooks
In this section, you’ll learn more about the 10 best sports betting sites and apps in the U.S. today. Each “mini-review” will share some key info about the sportsbook’s top features, along with its biggest strengths and weaknesses.

1. FanDuel Sportsbook: Best Overall
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins!
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: Click To Claim
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 5.0/5.0
FanDuel is the No. 1 online sportsbook in the U.S. by market share, and it makes sense if you’ve ever used the app. It’s fast, easy to navigate, and great for both new and experienced bettors.
You’ll find pretty much every type of wager you could want: moneylines, spreads, props, live bets, same-game parlays, all of it… plus daily promos that actually provide real value. It’s also available in more states than most competitors and continues to roll out new features ahead of everyone else.
Learn more in our full FanDuel Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- YourWay: FanDuel YourWay lets you adjust lines, customize player props, and get instant odds on markets that aren’t available anywhere else.
- Bet Protect: FanDuel Bet Protect provides a 100% refund in bonus bets if the NFL player you bet gets injured in the first quarter.

Pros
- Daily Profit Boosts & Parlay Insurance
- Easy-to-Use, Beginner-Friendly Mobile App
- My Spend (for Win/Loss Tracking)
Cons
- No Sportsbook Rewards Program
- Bad Teaser Prices

bet365 might surprise some people at No. 2, but it’s quickly growing into one of the top online sportsbooks in the U.S. today. It’s already one of the biggest gambling brands in the world, and it’s starting to become a major player here too.
The app offers a wide range of betting options (including international leagues most other books barely touch), and there’s a ton of live streaming so you can actually watch what you’re betting on.
But the real standout feature is its ongoing sportsbook promos: Super Boosts, Early Payout offers, and rotating daily deals that make it worth checking in every day. Get more info in our full bet365 Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Same Game Parlay+: bet365’s SGP+ feature lets you combine several same-game parlays bets into one.
- Early Payout: bet365’s Early Payout offers automatically grade your bet as a win if the team you’re backing takes a big enough lead.

Pros
- Tons of Player Prop Markets in NBA & NFL
- Great for Live Streaming Games
- 24/7 Live Chat Support
Cons
- No Sportsbook Loyalty Program
- Quick to Limit Winning Bettors

3. DraftKings Sportsbook: Best for Fast Withdrawals
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets If Your First Bet Wins
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: Click To Claim
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.7/5.0
DraftKings sits at No. 3 on our list, though there’s a real case for it being higher. It’s one of the most established sportsbook apps in the U.S., and you can tell the moment you open it. The layout is clean, everything loads quickly, and it’s easy to find your bets without clicking through a bunch of menus.
Live betting is where DraftKings really separates itself. There are a ton of in-game sports markets to choose from, the live odds always refresh pretty fast, and it handles those big “everyone’s betting at once” moments better than most other apps.
Another thing DraftKings does well is withdrawals. Most of the time, your money hits your account pretty much immediately, and even when it’s not instant, it doesn’t take more than a couple of hours. We break this down (and more) in our full DraftKings Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Dynasty Rewards: Earn Crowns with every wager you place on the DraftKings sports betting app. You can redeem these for extra bonus funds, merch, and other rewards.
- My Stat Sheet: A built-in tool that shows your net wins and losses over time. It’s very helpful for keeping track of all your play.

Pros
- Most Withdrawals Are Instant
- Elite Live Betting Experience
- Daily Profit Boosts & Game of the Week Promos
Cons
- No Real Live Chat Support (Only Chatbots)
- Lots of Juiced Odds in Secondary Markets

4. BetMGM Sportsbook: Best for Live Betting
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: ATSBONUS
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.5/5.0
BetMGM is another top online sportsbook that a lot of people are familiar with. And there’s a lot to like about it.
The app is well-designed, the welcome offer for new players is pretty generous, and deposits and withdrawals are easy. It also has a special feature called “Edit My Bet,” which lets you adjust certain straight or parlay bets if Cash Out is available. That’s something most sports betting apps don’t offer.
But what stands out to me is the live betting experience. BetMGM gives you a lot of in-game wagering options across the major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL), plus plenty of smaller and international sports. And the app has live streaming built in for select events, so you can watch while you bet.
Interested? Read our complete BetMGM Sportsbook to learn more.
Key Features
- MGM Rewards: Every time you place a real-money bet, you earn points through the BetMGM Rewards program. You can trade those in for bonus bets, hotel stays, meals, or other rewards at MGM properties around the country.
- Auto Cash Out: BetMGM also lets you choose a number ahead of time where you’d be happy to cash out. If your bet reaches that value during the game, it can automatically cash out for you (no need to watch every second or make the decision on the fly).

Pros
- Plenty of Pre-Built Parlays & Same-Game Parlays
- Competitive Odds
- Great Reputation & Trusted Brand
Cons
- Slow Loading Times on Mobile App
- Limited Ongoing Promotions

5. Caesars Sportsbook: Best for Daily Odds Boosts
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 20 Bets
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: BONUSMIX20X
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.3/5.0
Caesars Sportsbook is another one of the best online betting sites. And you can feel confident using the platform since it’s backed by Caesars Entertainment, one of the largest casino and hospitality companies in the country.
The Caesars sports betting app is easy to navigate, payouts are quick, and it’s available in a wide range of states. The loyalty program is great too. You can earn Caesars Rewards credits that carry over to hotel stays, dining, and more.
What really stands out to me, though? It’s the odds boosts. Caesars Sportsbook runs a ton of them every day, across almost every sport you can think of (NFL, NBA, NHL, soccer, UFC, golf, all of it).
You’ll also get a lot of “custom” boosts you can apply to any market you want, which adds a lot of flexibility. You can learn more in our full Caesars Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Caesars Rewards: Place wagers at Caesars Sportsbook and earn rewards points. Then, turn them into bonus bets and real-life rewards (hotel stays, dining, VIP experiences) at Caesars properties across the U.S.
- Quick Picks: Caesars Sportsbook has dozens of premade parlays for you every day. You can easily sort through them based on odds (Under +1000, +1000 to +2500, 2500+ to +5000, & Over 5000+).

Pros
- Unique Welcome Offer
- Solid Odds for Teasers
- Integrated with Caesars Racebook (in Eligible States)
Cons
- Fewer Props & Alternate Lines Than Competitors
- Mobile App Layout Could Be Better Organized

6. Fanatics Sportsbook: Best for Loyalty Rewards
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet & Get Up to $2000 in No Sweat Bets
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: Click To Claim
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.2/5.0
Fanatics Sportsbook has been getting more attention lately, and the main reason is FanCash Rewards. Every bet earns you FanCash… win or lose. You can use that credit for bonus bets, or you can put it toward buying fan gear for your favorite team from the Fanatics store (jerseys, hats, the whole deal).
It adds up quietly while you’re betting and ends up being something you can actually use, not just points sitting in an account.
Payouts are pretty quick here as well. The Fanatics sports betting app shows each step of the withdrawal process, so you always know where things stand and when the money should arrive. You can read more in our full Fanatics Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Fanatics Fair Play: If you bet on a player prop and the athlete leaves the game early with an injury, you’ll receive a full refund in cash.
- Lightning Bets: In sports like the NFL and NBA, Fanatics Sportsbook’s Lightning Bets let you bet on individual moments in the game (things like the outcome of the next play, drive, possession, or shot).

Pros
- Earn FanCash for Bonus Bets & Merchandise
- Widely Available in the U.S.
- Trusted, Reputable Brand
Cons
- No Desktop Site (Only on Mobile)
- Quick to Limit Winning Bettors

7. BetRivers Sportsbook: Best for Customer Support
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Second chance bet up to $500
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: BONUSPLAY
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.2/5.0
BetRivers is owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive, a Chicago-based company. And it comes in at No. 7 on our list of the top sportsbooks. You’ll find a wide range of betting options and plenty of player props across all the major sports: NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, soccer, tennis, golf, all of it.
But my favorite thing? BetRivers Sportsbook is the No. 1 best sports betting app when it comes to customer support. Live chat is available daily from 9:30 AM to 2 AM EST, and you usually get a real person within a couple of minutes.
Phone and email support are there too if you’d rather go that route, which isn’t something everyone offers. Read our full BetRivers Sportsbook review for more details.
Key Features
- iRush Rewards: Wager real money and earn Bonus Store Points automatically. Redeem these points in the Bonus Store for cruises, concert tickets, sports tickets, and (of course) bonus bets on the apps.
- 1x Wagering Requirements: All sportsbook promos at BetRivers come with just a 1x playthrough requirement. That makes it pretty easy to turn your bonus into real money winnings.

Pros
- Huge Safety Net on Your First Wager
- Daily Profit Boosts & Parlay Insurance Offers
- Most Withdrawals Are Instantly Approved
Cons
- Available in Less States Than Competitors
- Limited Withdrawal Options

8. Bally Bet: Best Sportsbook for Parlays
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $10 Get $50 in Bonus Bets
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: None Needed
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.2/5.0
Bally Bet is the next online wagering app we’ll look at. It’s one of the newer names on this list, but it’s been around a few years now and has already proven to be a pretty solid place to bet on all the major sports.
Where Bally Bet really stands out is parlays. Their Parlay Zone includes hundreds of pre-built parlays across single games and multi-game combos, with some pretty big payouts if you hit.
There’s also a Builder section where you can put your own parlay together in seconds by filtering different sports and bet types. And if you don’t feel like building anything, the “Generator” will keep creating new parlay ideas until you land on one you like.
Read our full Bally Bet Sportsbook review for more details and key info.
Key Features
- Daily Specials & Profit Boosts: Get boosted odds every day on select betting markets in the NBA, NHL, NFL, college football, college basketball, and other popular sports leagues.
- In-App Insights From Betting Experts: Get picks and insights from expert sports bettors inside the app. You can decide if you want to tail them or fade them.

Pros
- User-Friendly Mobile App
- 24/7 Live Chat Support
- Daily Odds Boosts, Second Chance Bets, & Other Promos
Cons
- Available in Less States Than Competitors
- Limited Banking Options

9. Hard Rock Bet: Best Mobile App
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 If You Win
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: None Needed
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 4.2/5.0
Hard Rock Bet comes in at No. 9 on our list. The platform doesn’t get talked about as much as the bigger names, but it’s quietly one of the best out there.
It actually has the highest average rating of any licensed sportsbook in both the App Store and Google Play Store, and a lot of users point to how quick it loads and how easy it is to move around in the app.
They’ve also been adding a lot of useful features lately (things like live streaming, Flex Parlays, and a Stats Hub (for tracking trends and prop angles). It feels like a sports betting app that’s being actively worked on, not something that was launched and left alone.
You can read more in our full Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Flex Parlays: Give you an opportunity to win parlay bets even if one or more legs lose. It comes with an adjustable slider that you can toggle to adjust the potential payout structure on your parlay.
- Stats Hub: Provides valuable insights for player props and other types of bets. You’ll find trends, streaks, hit rates, line moves, and lots more.

Pros
- Live Streaming for Basketball, Football, Soccer, Darts, & More
- Wide Range of Player Props & Alternate Lines
- Happy Hour Promotions & Overdrive Boosts
Cons
- Available in Less States Than Most Competitors
- Quick to Limit Winning Bettors

10. Prime Sportsbook: Best Odds Pricing
- 🎁 Welcome Bonus: Bet $10 Get $100 in Bonus Bets
- 🎉 Exclusive Promo Code: None Needed
- ⭐ ATS.io Rating: 3.5/5.0
Last on our list of the top sportsbooks is Prime. It’s a little different from the others we’ve covered.
The platform is built around reduced juice, which means you get better odds and keep more of your winnings over time. Prime Sportsbook also allows higher deposit limits and doesn’t shy away from sharp sports bettors, which is the opposite of how many sportsbooks operate.
You won’t find as many promos or as many niche sports betting markets here. The focus is on providing a simple, straightforward platform with fair odds that give you a real chance to win over the long run. You can read more in our full Prime Sportsbook review.
Key Features
- Prime Rewards: Earn Prime Points on any wager settled as a win or loss (pushes don’t count). Redeem Prime Points for bonus bets and advance into higher tier levels to unlock other benefits.
- No “Sucker” Bets: Prime Sportsbook doesn’t offer “sucker” bets or any wagers that skew the odds heavily in favor of the house. They want to make sure customers have a fair chance at winning.

Pros
- Reduced Juice (Lower Vig)
- High Deposit Limits
- Doesn’t Limit Winning Bettors
Cons
- Available in Less States Than Most Competitors
- Limited Betting Markets Beyond Traditional Options
How We Rank Online Betting Sites & Apps
You might be wondering why the top 10 list in the last section looks the way it does. We talked about some of the things we liked about each one, but what actually makes these online sportsbooks the best of the best?
Well, our team at ATS.io looks at a bunch of different factors when evaluating sports betting sites and apps. These include:
Licensing & Security
We only recommend sports betting sites that are fully licensed and regulated in the states where they operate. That means they’re required to follow strict rules around fairness, player protections, and secure transactions. If it’s not regulated, we don’t recommend it.
Payout Times & Banking Options
Getting paid quickly matters. We look for sportsbooks that process withdrawals fast (ideally within 24 hours) and offer reliable options like PayPal, Venmo, online banking, and debit card withdrawals. We also avoid betting apps that charge unnecessary fees or like to drag their feet on payouts.
Odds Pricing
The difference between winning long-term often comes down to the odds. We prefer sportsbooks that keep the vig (house edge) reasonable on standard markets.
For example, -110 (or better) on both sides of a spread is what we consider fair pricing. If a sports betting app consistently inflates odds, it’ll slide down our rankings.
Betting Markets
We look for online betting sites that don’t just offer the basics. They should have props, live betting markets, futures, parlays, and some depth beyond just the main leagues. More options usually means more ways to find value.
Mobile App & Performance
If the app is slow or hard to use, it doesn’t matter how good everything else is. We prefer sportsbooks with apps that load quickly, are easy to navigate, and hold up well when you’re trying to live bet a game.
Ongoing Bonuses & Promotions
A betting app having a big sign-up bonus is fine (and always appreciated), but we also look at what comes after that. Odds boosts, parlay insurance offers, and other regular promos matter more long-term than one big upfront deal.
Customer Support
If something goes wrong, getting an answer shouldn’t feel like fighting a battle. We favor sportsbooks that respond quickly, actually want to help you out, and try to make everything easier for you.
Reputation & Long-Term Trust
Some online sports betting apps have been around for years and have built real trust. Others show up, offer flashy promos, then quietly disappear after a year or so. We weigh consistency, responsible gambling tools, and how each brand treats customers over time.
Full List of the Sportsbooks We’ve Reviewed
We try to review as many online betting sites and sportsbook apps as possible. After all, it wouldn’t make much sense to put together a “top 10” if we haven’t actually tested everything ourselves. Below is the full list of sportsbook reviews our team at ATS.io has worked through so far:
How Real Users Rate the Best Sports Betting Apps in 2025
Wondering what everyday bettors think? Listed below are the top sports betting apps in the USA, ranked based on real user ratings in the App Store and Google Play Store:
| 🏆 Sports Betting App | 🍏 iOS Rating | 🤖 Google Play Rating | ⭐ Avg. Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Hard Rock Bet | 4.9/5.0 (263K Ratings) | 4.7/5.0 (58.7K Reviews) | 4.80/5.00 |
| T2. FanDuel | 4.9/5.0 (2M Ratings) | 4.6/5.0 (384K Reviews) | 4.75/5.00 |
| T2. BetRivers | 4.9/5.0 (28K Ratings) | 4.6/5.0 (11.2K Reviews) | 4.75/5.00 |
| T2. DraftKings | 4.8/5.0 (893K Ratings) | 4.7/5.0 (198K Reviews) | 4.75/5.00 |
| T2. Fanatics | 4.8/5.0 (174K Ratings) | 4.7/5.0 (37.7K Reviews) | 4.75/5.00 |
| 6. ESPN BET | 4.8/5.0 (205K Ratings) | 4.6/5.0 (17.5K Reviews) | 4.70/5.00 |
| T7. bet365 | 4.8/5.0 (231K Ratings) | 4.5/5.0 (43K Reviews) | 4.65/5.00 |
| T7. Caesars | 4.7/5.0 (96K Ratings) | 4.6/5.0 (32.5K Reviews) | 4.65/5.00 |
| 9. BetMGM | 4.8/5.0 (246K Ratings) | 4.1/5.0 (38K Reviews) | 4.45/5.00 |
| 10. Bally Bet | 4.6/5.0 (31K Ratings) | 4.1/5.0 (11.7K Reviews) | 4.35/5.00 |
Where Are Online Sportsbooks Legal in the U.S.?
Here’s the main thing to know about online sportsbooks in the USA: what’s legal for you depends on your state. There isn’t one national or federal rule that covers everybody.
When the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in 2018, the federal ban was removed, and states were more or less told to handle it themselves. And they’ve all handled it a little differently.
Some states moved quickly and approved a bunch of online sports betting sites. Other states only allowed one or two companies to operate, usually because of specific deals or agreements in place.
And there are still states where online sports betting just isn’t legal yet (no mobile apps, no betting from your laptop, nothing).
State-by-State Availability
Check the table below to see what the situation looks like in your home state. I also added some links to our state-by-state guides, so you can see which sportsbooks (or alternatives, if needed) are actually available where you live.
Alternatives to Traditional Online Sports Betting Sites
Let’s say you live in a state where online sportsbooks aren’t legal. Or maybe you’ve already signed up with all the regulated apps in your state and just want somewhere new to place bets. Either way, there are still some options out there.
Here are a few alternatives that people in the U.S. commonly use when they don’t have access to (or don’t want to rely only on) licensed online sports betting platforms:
Offshore Sportsbooks
Offshore sportsbooks are what a lot of people use when their state doesn’t have legal online sports betting. These are based outside the U.S., and they’re not licensed by any U.S. state gaming authorities.
You’ll probably recognize a few of the names: Bovada, MyBookie, BetOnline, BetUS, and so on. Because they operate overseas, they don’t have to follow U.S. gambling rules.
That’s why it’s said that offshore sportsbooks operate in a legal “gray area.” They usually accept American players, but there’s no U.S. oversight holding them accountable. People do use offshore betting sites, and in many cases, things work out fine. But there are some real risks to be aware of:
- No guaranteed payouts if a site decides not to pay
- No state regulator to help if there’s a dispute
- Player safety and fairness standards vary a lot from site to site
Basically, you’re relying on the site’s reputation rather than U.S. consumer protections. Some sports bettors are okay with that trade-off. Others aren’t.
Still a bit confused? Check out our article on legal U.S. sportsbooks vs illegal offshore sportsbooks. It breaks down the differences and how to tell which is which.
Social Sportsbooks
Another alternative to regulated betting sites is social sportsbooks (sometimes also called “sweepstakes sportsbooks”). They work a lot like social or sweepstakes casinos, if you’ve seen those before.
Instead of betting real money, you use virtual coins to place your bets. One type of coin is just for fun, and the other (often called “Sweeps Coins”) can be redeemed for cash prizes through a promotional sweepstakes system.
Because of that setup, it’s not classified as “real-money gambling” in most states… though the rules vary and a few states have pushed back on these types of platforms.
If you’re interested, you can check out our full guide to social sportsbooks. We’ve also reviewed several of these apps ourselves, and you’ll find those reviews listed below.
List of Sweepstakes Sportsbooks We’ve Tested & Reviewed
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
Another option people go with is daily fantasy sports, or DFS, which is considered different from traditional sports betting. In a lot of U.S. states, it’s viewed as a skill game, so it ends up being legal even in places where online sports betting isn’t.
You’ve probably seen or heard of some of the most popular DFS apps already: DraftKings, FanDuel, PrizePicks, Underdog, Sleeper, and so on.
With these, instead of betting on a team to win, you’re picking players and how you think they’ll perform in different stats (points scored in basketball, passing yards in football, things like that).
And if your picks are right, you win real money. Pretty straightforward. If you want to look into it more, we put together a guide to the best DFS sites. It walks through how each app works and what you can expect before getting started.
Sports Prediction Markets & Event Contracts
The last alternative to regulated sportsbooks that we’ll talk about today? Sports prediction markets.
These platforms let you buy and sell event contracts tied to different sports outcomes, like which team will win a game or which player will win the MVP award. There are even markets for non-sports-related events like political elections.
Two of the more popular options in this group right now are Kalshi and Polymarket. Basically, they just give you another way to get action on a game, structured a little differently than a traditional bet.
If you want to see how these sites and apps work in practice, we put together a guide to sports prediction markets that walks through the basics and what to expect.
Best Online Sportsbook Bonuses for New Bettors
If you live in a state where sportsbooks are legal and you haven’t signed up with all of the top sports betting apps yet, it’s definitely worth doing.
Why? Because every sportsbook offers a sign-up bonus to new users when they first create a betting account. That means extra value right away, plus a chance to actually try the app, see how it works, and figure out whether it’s one you want to stick with.
I’ve listed and compared all of the best sports betting promos currently available in the table below.
| Sportsbook 🏟️ | Sign Up Bonus 🎁 | Wagering Requirements 🔁 | Days Before Expiration ⏱️ | Minimum Deposit 💰 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets If Your First Bet Wins | 1x | 7 Days | $5 |
| FanDuel | Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins! | 1x | 7 Days | $5 |
| bet365 | Bet $5 Get $150 In Bonus Bets (Win or Lose) | 1x | 7 Days | $10 |
| BetMGM | Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Back if your First Bet Does Not Win | 1x | 7 Days | $10 |
| Caesars | Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 20 Bets | 1x | 14 Days | $5 |
| Fanatics | Bet & Get Up to $2000 in No Sweat Bets | 1x | 7 Days | $10 |
| BetRivers | Second chance bet up to $500 | 1x | 7 Days | $10 |
Types of Sports Betting Promotions
- Bet & Get Offers: Place a small qualifying bet (usually just a few dollars), and the sportsbook gives you bonus bets automatically as a result. Sometimes the bet has to win to trigger the bonus. But other times, it doesn’t matter either way.
- Deposit Matches: Your deposit is matched with bonus funds up to a certain amount. The percentage varies, but a full match (100%) is pretty common.
- No Deposit Bonuses: You get some site credit or bonus funds just for creating a sportsbook account. No deposit required. These aren’t available that often (except at sports betting sites that use a sweepstakes model), but it’s always great when you find one.
- Bet Insurance: Your bet comes with a safety net. If it loses, the site refunds you in bonus bets instead of making you take the full loss like you normally would
- Odds Boosts: The sports betting app increases the payout on select bets or parlays (so you get a slightly better return than the standard odds).
Sports You Can Bet on at Legal Online Sportsbooks
Sportsbooks really do give you a lot to choose from once you’re inside the app (or on the website). Here are some of the different sports markets and leagues you’ll see almost everywhere:

NFL
You can bet on the spread, total points, or who wins outright. Player props are also pretty common (like a quarterback’s passing yards), and most NFL sportsbooks also offer season markets such as Super Bowl winner or MVP.

NBA
Bets often include game lines, team totals, and player stat props (points, rebounds, assists). Same-game parlays are popular on NBA betting sites too because of how many individual performance markets are available.

MLB
Typical markets include the moneyline and run line, along with totals. You’ll also find props on pitchers (strikeouts) and hitters (total bases). Futures like division winners and Cy Young are usually listed too when you’re using one of the best MLB sportsbooks.

NHL
You’ll see moneylines, the puck line, and goal totals. Some NHL betting sites offer props on shots, saves, or points, depending on the game and players involved.

College Sports
Most sportsbooks have markets for college football and basketball. Some states place limits on certain college wagers (for example, no betting on in-state schools or no college player props). The sports betting site will simply hide anything that isn’t allowed where you live.

UFC & MMA
You can bet on who wins the fight, how the fight ends (KO, submission, decision), and how long it lasts. Major cards usually have more prop options than smaller events.

Soccer
Most online betting sites cover domestic leagues like MLS and international leagues like the Premier League and Champions League. Common soccer betting markets include match result, total goals, and goal scorer props.

Horse Racing
This is usually offered through pari-mutuel wagering. You’re betting into a shared pool rather than fixed sportsbook odds.
Some sports betting apps include racing directly, while others use a separate platform for horse race betting (DK Horse, FanDuel Racing, Caesars Racebook).

Esports
Availability varies by state. But where it’s allowed, the best sports betting sites generally offer match winner and map/round markets for major titles like League of Legends, CS2, and Dota 2.
Wagering Options on Sports Betting Apps
All of the top betting sites and apps give you plenty of flexibility in how you place a wager. You can keep things simple if you want, or you can get more creative and go for bigger potential payouts. Here’s what to expect:
Basic Bet Types
Moneylines are the straightforward “who wins” bets. Point spreads are there when you want to account for the expected margin of victory.
Totals (Over/Under) let you lean towards a higher- or lower-scoring game. You’ll also see props (some tied to individual players and others tied to team performance).
Advanced Bet Types
Parlays let you join multiple picks together for the possibility of a bigger payout. Same-game parlays are the same idea, just built from bets inside a single matchup. A lot of people use these for NBA games because of how many stat lines are available.
Live betting markets are another option you’ll find, where odds move as the game plays out and you’re reacting in real time. Futures are the long-range bets on season outcomes.
And most online betting apps also offer alternate lines for spreads and totals if you want to play things safe or take some extra risk for a shot at a larger win.
Banking Options at Online Sportsbooks
All of the best sports betting apps make it pretty easy to add money to your account and withdraw your winnings when you’re ready. The exact payment methods can vary by state and by sportsbook, but the options below are the ones you’ll see most often.

Credit & Debit Cards
Most online sportsbooks accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover for deposits.
Credit cards are usually deposit-only, while many debit cards can also be used for withdrawals if the bank supports instant transfer networks like Visa Direct or Mastercard Send.

Online Banking
Online bank transfers are one of the most reliable ways to move money in and out of your betting account. You connect your checking account directly through the sportsbook website, and both deposits and withdrawals are generally smooth and quick.

PayPal
PayPal is popular because it’s fast and secure for both deposits and withdrawals. As long as your PayPal account is linked to a valid bank account, the process is usually straightforward.

Venmo
Venmo works a lot like PayPal (they’re owned by the same company), and it’s starting to appear as a payment option on more and more sportsbooks. It’s convenient for deposits and often works for withdrawals as well, though availability varies by app.

Apple Pay
Apple Pay is commonly offered by mobile betting apps for quick and easy deposits on iPhone and iPad. Withdrawals usually can’t be sent directly to Apple Pay, so cash-outs are typically routed through another method like online banking.

Play+
Play+ is a prepaid account that you can fund with your bank card, then use at the sportsbook. It’s especially helpful if your bank blocks gambling transactions. You can also withdraw funds back to your Play+ account and then move them to your bank from there.

Cryptocurrency
Legal online sports betting sites do not accept crypto deposits or withdrawals. You’ll only see crypto offered at offshore sportsbooks, not licensed ones. This could change in the future, but as of now, regulated platforms just stick to traditional payment methods.
Responsible Gambling Resources for Sports Bettors
All of the top sports betting sites offer resources to help you gamble responsibly. Look in your account menu for something like “Responsible Gaming” or “Limits” to find the responsible gambling tools available to you:
- Deposit Limits – Set a maximum deposit amount over a designated time period.
- Wager/Loss Limits – Set a maximum amount of money you can bet or lose.
- Time-Out/Cool-Off Periods – Temporarily lock your account for a short period of time.
- Self-Exclusion – Lock your account for an extended period of time.
- Account History Review – Review your results over time.
For additional information and confidential support, you can use any of the following resources (all are 100% free):
- 1-800-GAMBLER (National Problem Gambling Helpline)
- National Council on Problem Gambling
- Gamblers Anonymous
Online Sportsbook FAQs
In May 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed PASPA, a federal law banning sports betting. Since then, states have been able to decide for themselves whether or not to allow betting on sports. That’s why some states have legal online sportsbooks now and others don’t.
FanDuel is the best sportsbook for anyone who’s new to sports betting. It is easy to navigate around in the app, and it doesn’t feel overwhelming or confusing to place a bet. They also typically have one of the best welcome bonuses for new users, which is a great way to boost your betting bankroll while you’re still learning the ropes.
Yes. You can use the same account for any sportsbook that operates in more than one state… you don’t need to create a new account for each state.
All legal, regulated sportsbooks are required to verify who is using their app. It’s to ensure that you’re old enough to bet and to prevent things like multiple accounts or fraud.
Legal sportsbooks are licensed and regulated by U.S. states, while offshore betting sites are based outside of the U.S. and have no state oversight or guaranteed player protections.
No single sportsbook offers the best odds on every game. Sports betting odds can vary from site to site, so a lot of people like to use multiple apps and compare prices before they wager. That’s called line shopping, and it’s one of the easiest ways to get better value over time.

