With the rapid expansion of legal sports betting across the United States, choosing the right online sportsbook can feel overwhelming. FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, bet365, and Caesars are just a few of the top names competing for your attention. Our team has meticulously analyzed platforms like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetRivers to ensure you access the sharpest odds, fastest payouts, and most enticing promotions. With years of expertise backed by hands-on experience in the industry, we aim to provide you with reliable recommendations you can trust.
The online sports betting industry is currently experiencing remarkable growth, marked by the entrance of numerous new legal US sportsbooks, each aiming to establish a foothold in this competitive market. To capture the attention of potential customers, these sportsbooks often employ compelling promotional strategies, such as lucrative sign-up bonuses and other exclusive offers. We conducted an in-depth review of more than a dozen sportsbooks, examining them across several critical categories, including Bonuses & Promotions, Website & Mobile App functionality, Banking methods, Betting Options variety, Safety & Security measures, and a thorough Competitor Comparison analysis. Below, we provide a detailed breakdown of how each sportsbook performed in these categories and highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
What is the number 1 online sportsbook?
When it comes to online gambling in the U.S., FanDuel is the clear front-runner, boasting a market-leading sportsbook, a thriving DFS site, an acclaimed racebook, and a top-tier online casino. While competitors like DraftKings, Bet365, and BetMGM are noteworthy, the decision is simple: Choose FanDuel for the best experience—tailored to your preferences, promotions, and state laws.
Best Sports Betting Apps List Based On App Store User Ratings
| 📲 Sportsbook | 🍎 iOS Store Rating | 📱 Play Store Rating | ⭐ Avg User Rating | ⭐ ATS.io Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | 4.9 | 4.6 | 4.75 | 5.0 |
| DraftKings | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.75 | 4.8 |
| bet365 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.70 | 4.8 |
| BetMGM | 4.8 | 4.5 | 4.65 | 4.5 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.65 | 4.0 |
| ESPN BET | 4.8 | 4.3 | 4.55 | 3.5 |
| Caesars Sportsbook | 4.7 | 4.3 | 4.50 | 4.0 |
| BetRivers | 4.7 | 4.2 | 4.45 | 4.0 |
Top 8 Online Sportsbook Reviews By ATS.io Staff
Our goal here at ATS is to cover the US online sports betting industry from all angles. We have daily game picks and previews and prop betting predictions for all the major sports, including NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, College Basketball, College Football, and other sporting event betting predictions, to set you on the right path when it comes to handicapping.
Perhaps most importantly, we have online sportsbook reviews. We give you an idea of what to expect when you download and sign up on a sports betting site. We also highlight the bonuses and promotions offered by the online sportsbooks we have endorsed because they do things the right way. Read on to see reviews and analyses of every sportsbook we have covered to date.
1. Bet365 Sportsbook
Those that have been part of the sports betting industry, as bettors, observers, or reporters, are fully aware of bet365 and the presence that this global gaming giant has across the world. Those that are new to it or those that have only started paying attention to legal US sports betting may not be as familiar.
All you need to know is that bet365, a privately-owned company that started in the United Kingdom, has arrived in the US, bring its heavy coverage of soccer, golf, tennis, and other European and Asian markets to the masses. With increased demand across all sports, bet365 also has extensive betting odds collections for the major North American sports, including the NFL and NBA.
Currently available in New Jersey only, look for bet365 to expand as quickly as possible across the United States as a trusted, reputable sportsbook app with a long history of taking bets and treating customers fairly.
2. BetMGM Sportsbook
MGM was already well-established in the United States before the landmark supreme court decision to overturn PASPA and make sports betting legal and available for all. With its retail betting sites in several states across the country, it was only a matter of time before BetMGM took hold in places that adopted the legal sports betting legislation.
Because mobile sports betting was already legal in the state of Nevada, MGM already had a polished betting site & mobile app to put out there onto the market. Recently, BetMGM has made a much stronger push in its marketing to attempt to grab a bigger share of what has been a sports betting market dominated by some of the other online sportsbooks and those types of things are always to the sports bettors benefit.
Being on the BetMGM sports betting app means access to a lot of the new player promotional offers that keep coming out. It also means the safety, security, and peace of mind that comes from being associated with a titan of the gaming industry. This is one of those apps that is reliable. It is always there. It is like an old pair of jeans. You put them on and you feel comfortable. You fire up the BetMGM online betting app and you feel comfortable because this is a sports betting company with decades of experience and trustworthiness in the gambling realm.
3. DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings had already built up a lot of trust in the DFS landscape and was going to be the perfect gateway for a new player crop of sports bettors that was unfamiliar with the biggest names in worldwide sports betting. Convenience was a big thing, too, as most already had the app or had accounts to play sports online.
DraftKings is a top-rated spot for bettors big and small, high limit, low limit, professionals and novices, hobbyists, weekend warriors, and for you. All of the major sports betting markets are offered, and this is an online sportsbook app with one of the top live betting experiences in the game.
In short order, DraftKings has created one of the top reputations in the sports betting industry and offers a very easy path to getting signed up, and has a lot of deposit and withdrawal options for its sports bettors. Add in the plentiful promos and bonuses, and you will have all you need in a one-stop shop app for sports betting.
By the time PASPA was overturned by the supreme court in May 2018, we knew that there were going to be some really big online-only players in the legal sports betting space. The DFS operators were going to move quickly and DraftKings did make a seamless transition to integrate legalized sports betting alongside its fantasy sports interface in the blink of an eye.
4. FanDuel Sportsbook
Trust and reputation mean so much in the sports betting world and few operators have built up as much of that kind of goodwill as FanDuel. FanDuel sportsbook is currently legal in 17 states: Arizona, Connecticut, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Wyoming and Canada. FanDuel is considered one of the “Big Three” top online sportsbooks in terms of sports betting market share. This is a top sports betting app in so many ways and one that should be at the top of your list.
5. Caesars Sportsbook
Like MGM, it was a foregone conclusion that the Caesars app would be at the front of the pack among those with retail betting sites that were already well-versed in sports betting. Caesars has properties in states across the country, which is especially helpful in states where interested users have to register in person before they can bet.
The Caesars name is synonymous with sports betting, as we all know, which is why it should be no surprise that this is one of the most advanced sports betting sites in the business. It has to be because so many have used it for so long and years of feedback in the state of Nevada have forced the technological partners to iron out any wrinkles and make sure that peak performance isn’t a goal, but rather a standard.
Caesars is also great because it offers extremely low minimum bets and fast payouts. That makes this app a perfect learning tool for anybody just getting started in the sports betting space and there are a lot of people doing that in this post-PASPA world.
6. BetRivers
BetRivers was something of a newcomer to the sports betting scene when it launched, but now SugarHouse has also been absorbed by the Rivers brand to make for a true industry titan. There are retail Rivers Sportsbooks in Pennsylvania in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh and BetRivers has expanded to additional states as well.
This is one of the sleekest and sharpest sports betting apps in the business. It won’t be hard to find what you are looking for in the BetRivers app and you won’t be able to put it down either. BetRivers partnered with Rush Street Interactive to bring users a top-notch experience that would provide everything that you would expect in a online sportsbook.
Betting on sports – NBA, MLB, NHL, NFL, baseball, college basketball, college football, and hockey – are part of the BetRivers app, to go along with niche markets like soccer, tennis, UFC, NASCAR, darts, and several other European-facing sports and leagues. The convenience of the app is only matched by the convenience of the deposit and withdrawal methods.
BetRivers doesn’t get the same accolades as a DraftKings or a FanDuel because it wasn’t thriving on the market because of daily fantasy sports, but just because you are first, doesn’t mean you are the best and BetRivers has proven that some of the best things come when you least expect it.
7. ESPNBet
ESPN and Penn National Gaming came to an agreement in August 2023. Penn National sold its interest in Barstool and now Barstool sportsbook will be rebranded as ESPN Bet.
ESPN’s target demographic is also a popular one in the sports betting world and Penn National Gaming will look to take advantage of that with its décor and its operations of various retail and online sportsbooks in several different jurisdictions.
The sky is the limit for Penn National with ESPN’s media presence and rabid fan base.
8. Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics, no longer in its beta phase, has officially marked its presence in states like Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Tennessee. Its meteoric rise in the North American sports merchandising sector can be attributed to the robust licensing agreements it holds with every prominent sports league.
On January 20, 2023, Maryland witnessed a significant moment in sports betting history. Fanatics Sportsbook commenced its operations at FedExField, securing its unique spot as the pioneer betting operator located inside an NFL stadium.
Full list of Online Sportsbooks available in the US and reviewed by ATS staff
Online Social Sports Betting Sites
A social sportsbook is a modern innovation in online gambling, allowing users to engage in sports wagering without the traditional requirements of a real money bankroll. Unlike conventional betting platforms, social sportsbooks foster a community-centric approach, enabling players from various locations to interact, share insights, and place wagers using virtual currencies or points. This makes it possible to enjoy the thrill of sports betting in a legal and often free-to-play environment. As a result, social sportsbooks like Fliff are rapidly growing in popularity in the US and beyond, providing a unique blend of social interaction and sports wagering.
Blacklisted Online Sportsbooks
In selecting a new online sportsbook in 2024, it is imperative to prioritize trustworthiness by opting for an established and reputable company, such as one of the industry’s leading US sportsbooks, versus an offshore sportsbook. This ensures that players receive their winnings and enjoy a seamless experience. It is worth noting that not all betting platforms offer the same level of reliability as these sportsbooks listed below once popular online betting sites are no longer recommended.
Are online sportsbooks safe?
When it comes to online sportsbooks, safety is paramount. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your peace of mind:
- Check for Licensing: First and foremost, make sure the online sportsbook is licensed in your state. This is a key indicator of trustworthiness. Licensed sportsbooks are regulated and held to high standards.
- Fund Security: Your funds should be safe and secure with a reputable sportsbook. Look for platforms that use encryption technology to protect your financial information.
- Honor Winning Bets: Trustworthy sportsbooks will always honor your winning bets. They have a vested interest in maintaining a fair and transparent betting environment.
- Responsive Customer Service: Access to customer service is essential. Reliable sportsbooks offer responsive customer support to address your concerns and questions promptly.
- Recommended Options: Some well-known and trusted online betting sites include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPNBet, and Bet365. These platforms have built solid reputations for safety and reliability.
In summary, prioritize licensed sportsbooks, ensure fund security, and choose platforms with a history of honoring bets and offering excellent customer service. Your online sports betting experience will be safer and more enjoyable as a result.
Payment Options For Online Sportsbooks
Online sportsbooks offer a wide range of payment options to suit the needs of every bettor, from depositing funds to withdrawing winnings. Most platforms accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express (AmEx), and Discover. Some sportsbooks also feature their own Play+ cards—reloadable, FDIC-secured cards tailored specifically for online gambling transactions. For added convenience, many users prefer digital payment options like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Venmo, or direct transfers via online banking and VIP Preferred e-checks. Another unique option is requesting cash payouts at the sportsbook’s nearest retail location.
It’s essential to note that deposit and withdrawal limits, transaction times, and fees can vary depending on the chosen payment method and sportsbook. While options like PayPal and Play+ support both deposits and withdrawals, others, such as credit cards and Apple Pay, are often restricted to deposits only. E-wallets like Skrill, ACH online banking, and VIP Preferred are versatile choices that typically support speedy and secure transactions for both deposits and payouts. Top sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and bet365 prioritize user security, offering reliable payment systems that allow bettors to manage transactions directly from their mobile devices. Whether you’re funding your account or collecting winnings, these sportsbooks ensure your financial details remain protected while delivering a seamless banking experience.
Responsible Sports Betting
Problem gambling can affect individuals and their loved ones, but help is readily available through a variety of national organizations. These resources provide crucial support, from education on responsible gambling to personalized assistance for those dealing with gambling addiction. Here are some of the leading organizations that offer support and connections to local resources across the United States.
National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) serves as a central hub for information and assistance. Their website offers extensive resources, including links to state-specific organizations that provide localized support. The NCPG operates the National Problem Gambling Helpline Network, available 24/7 at 800-522-4700, or via live chat at ncpgambling.org/chat. Whether you’re seeking immediate help or looking to learn more about gambling addiction, the NCPG is an excellent starting point.
Gamblers Anonymous
Modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous provides a structured 12-step program designed to help individuals overcome problem gambling. With local chapters hosting meetings across the U.S., this organization offers a supportive community for those in recovery. To find meetings near you, visit the Gamblers Anonymous website or call their 24/7 helpline at 855-222-5542. The organization’s peer-focused approach creates a safe space for individuals to share their struggles and progress.
Gam-Anon
Gam-Anon is tailored for the family members and friends of individuals struggling with gambling addiction. The organization offers a supportive fellowship and connects participants with trained professionals, including counselors and healthcare providers. Gam-Anon provides valuable tools to help loved ones cope and understand problem gambling’s impact. Visit their website to explore meeting locations and resources in your area.
GamTalk
GamTalk is an online forum where problem gamblers can find mutual support and connect with others facing similar challenges. This digital resource is ideal for those seeking anonymity or a virtual community. GamTalk also serves as a directory for treatment centers, helplines, and state government resources, making it a versatile platform for anyone affected by gambling addiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, these national organizations provide accessible and reliable help. Whether through helplines, support groups, or professional connections, you can find the tools needed to navigate the challenges of problem gambling and take the first steps toward recovery.
5 Tips for Responsible Sports Betting and Gambling
Sports betting and gambling can be an enjoyable pastime, but it’s essential to engage responsibly to avoid potential negative consequences. Here are five practical tips to help you maintain a healthy balance while participating in these activities.
1. Evaluate Your Habits
Understanding your gambling behaviors is the first step toward responsible betting. Gambling stimulates your brain’s reward system, much like other addictive activities, which can sometimes lead to compulsive behaviors. Take time to reflect on your habits over the past year. Ask yourself questions such as whether you gamble more frequently or with larger sums, hide your betting from others, or feel compelled to chase losses. Acknowledging patterns like stress or guilt related to gambling is critical. For added perspective, consider taking a quick self-assessment quiz to identify areas that may need adjustment.
2. Set Limits on Time and Money
Establishing clear boundaries can prevent financial strain and promote mindful play. Set specific time and budget limits for gambling, and resist the temptation to exceed them. Tools like site-based trackers and budgeting apps can help monitor your spending. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and never use funds intended for essential needs. Additionally, avoid borrowing money or using credit to place bets, as this can lead to compounding financial problems.
3. Maintain Balance in Your Life
To foster a healthier relationship with gambling, integrate it as one part of a balanced lifestyle. Engage in other hobbies or interests and limit the time spent on gambling platforms using tools like Bet Blocker or GamBan. Avoid betting when emotionally distressed or under the influence, as these states can cloud judgment and lead to riskier behavior. Stepping away regularly allows you to maintain perspective and control.
4. Share and Learn from Experiences
Honest conversations about gambling, including both wins and losses, can offer valuable insights. Encourage friends to discuss their betting habits and ask reflective questions, such as how betting impacts their enjoyment of sports or their views on its risks. Sharing experiences helps you identify what works and what doesn’t, while also normalizing discussions about challenges and promoting a more balanced approach.
5. Seek Support if Needed
If gambling begins to negatively affect your finances, relationships, or mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help. Compulsive gambling, characterized by an uncontrollable urge to bet despite the consequences, can escalate quickly. Resources like counseling services, self-help programs, and support groups are available to provide guidance. Recognizing the signs early and reaching out can help you regain control and rebuild healthier habits.
By evaluating your habits, setting boundaries, fostering balance, engaging in open conversations, and seeking support when necessary, you can enjoy sports betting and gambling responsibly while minimizing risks.
A History Of Sports Betting In The US
In some states, progress has been fast. In some states, progress has been slow. In some states, there has been no progress. Whether or not your state has adopted legalized sports betting, you should have options close by. If you don’t, just sit tight because more and more states are taking wagers with each passing year.
The landmark Supreme Court decision in Murphy v. NCAA that officially overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) opened the door for states to make their own decisions on whether or not they want to accept bets on sports events. Most states started with retail sportsbooks (brick-and-mortar) only but then graduated to taking online and mobile bets via sports betting websites and apps shortly thereafter.
Policymakers and legislators in states across the country are considering the financial impacts of legalized sports betting on a daily and weekly basis in those jurisdictions that have yet to dive in. At present, 38 of the 50 states offer some sort of wagering, whether it is through the state lottery, through any number of operators, online, mobile, or retail.
Here at ATS.io, we cover the industry in a lot of different ways. Not only do we stay on top of the news and update our readers on the comings and goings of the betting business, but we also provide analysis, suggestions, and tips for upcoming sporting events and also provide some of the most comprehensive sportsbook reviews in the industry.
In this all-encompassing state by state betting guide here, we take a look at the sports that accept bets on sports so that you can see exactly what that means for you as a resident of a state that takes bets, a resident of a bordering state, a resident of a state that is behind the times, but should be coming to its senses sooner rather than later, or a resident of a state that will never take bets, but we’ll tell you where you can go.
Is The US Sports Gambling Market Still Growing?
In 2022, the global sports betting market size stood at USD 83.65 billion. The gambling market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% from 2023 to 2030. Several key factors such as regulatory shifts in the global gambling sector, penetration of connected devices, and advancing digital infrastructure are driving the upsurge in sports betting demand.
Learn about online sportsbook banking options
- Depositing & Withdrawals
- Visa Sportsbooks
- Mastercard Sportsbooks
- PayPal Sportsbooks
- Venmo Sportsbooks
- Apple Pay Sportsbooks
- Play Plus Sportsbooks
