Legal sports betting apps are blooming across the US. With new states legalizing and launching mobile betting, and existing states expanding their offering, there are a lot of options. Here are our recommendations on how to find the best sports betting apps in the US, including the best bonus offers, promo codes, and mobile betting odds.
BetUS may have been established in 1994, but it's most certainly a new beginning for the online sportsbook. Everyone involved is determined to build a new reputation. We aren't quite sold on the bold claim of BetUS being 'America's Favorite Sportsbook', but we are excited about the revised platform. These mobile gambling apps have been extensively vetted by our team to ensure that they are safe to use for all customers that sign up. Each one offers a unique gambling experience on your mobile device and we truly believe that you won't be disappointed in any one of these that you choose to play at.
Sports betting is continuing to spread across the United States, with new states continuing to legalize and launch apps throughout 2021. Moreover, existing markets are expanding sports betting, too, by launching new apps or easing up on restrictions to expand betting options.
Some states, like New York, are working to allow sports betting apps into the market. Betting on mobile apps increases sports betting participation, making it one of the most important new trends to watch in 2021.
Best US Online Sports Betting Apps: How We Rank Them
Bettors may be overwhelmed by the number of sportsbooks offered in their state. Telling one app for sports betting from another may be challenging when there are over a dozen to choose from. Colorado hadseventeen online sports betting licenses issued by the beginning of 2021. That's a list of sportsbooks that rivals New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada.
Many of those states host the same sportsbook companies. Big brands like DraftKings and FanDuel pop up in most sportsbook markets. However, some states have their own homegrown sportsbooks. Colorado has local sportsbooks like Bet Monarch, Sky Ute Sportsbook, and Bet Wildwood. Bettors will likely find a mixture of big brands and local companies in their states–especially states that allow many sportsbooks.
Ranking The Best Betting Apps
Gaming Today ranks these sportsbooks for bettors by examining the factors most important to bettors. We compare sportsbook odds to help bettors find the best value for their wagers. Sportsbooks balance expected profit and risk differently, so bettors can find better odds on different parts of the line.
Welcome bonuses are important too. Some bettors want to know how many free credits they can get upfront. They may stick with a sportsbook that offers a generous bonus in the beginning. Reviewing any online sports betting app takes the app itself into account, too. Some apps are easier to navigate than others, and that can affect a new bettor's chance of using it.
10 Best Apps For US Sports Betting
Depending on where bettors live, most if not all of these apps may be at bettors' disposals. Here are the top ten apps bettors will likely encounter, regardless of where they live.
FanDuel Sportsbook
Visit: FanDuel Sportsbook and claim a $1,000 risk-free bet
Bettors may recognize FanDuel as a daily fantasy sports site. However, FanDuel capitalized on sports betting legalization and offered a sportsbook, too. In some states, FanDuel also offers an online casino, which seems to partner with its sportsbook and daily fantasy sites.
FanDuel considered one of the largest and most trustworthy sports betting brands. The brand is older than its sportsbook, so it's had time to cement its reputation as a legitimate operator. The FanDuel app is available in these states:
- Colorado
- Iowa
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- Virginia
FanDuel also operates a retail sportsbook in both Mississippi and New York but doesn't offer sports betting online in these states as online gaming is not legal.
Wherever FanDuel is available, bettors may be drawn to its competitive underdog odds. FanDuel doesn't have the best odds on every underdog, but that's the side of the line it tends to favor. FanDuel's app is also available on iOS and Android, making it accessible to all smartphones in states with mobile sports betting.
FanDuel offers a $1,000 risk-free bet as a welcome bonus.
DraftKings Sportsbook
Visit: DraftKings Sportsbook and claim a 20% deposit match bonus up to $1,000
DraftKings is the other fantasy sports giant on this list. Like FanDuel, DraftKings is older than its sportsbook. It's had time to become a reputable fantasy sports operator before its transition to sports wagering and, in some states, online casino offerings. DraftKings Sportsbook is available in:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Virginia
- Iowa
- Michigan
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
DraftKings' New Hampshire presence is unique. The New Hampshire lottery chose DraftKings to be the only sports betting operator in New Hampshire.
Bettors can download the DraftKings app on Android or iOS. Anyone interested in competitive odds on a line's favorite should consider creating a DraftKings account. When DraftKings has the best odds on a line, it tends to be on the favorite to win. That should give bettors who bet conservatively something to think about.
DraftKings offers a $1,000 deposit bonus at a 20% match rate as a welcome bonus.
BetRivers Sportsbook
Visit: BetRivers Sportsbook and claim a $250 deposit bonus
BetRivers is owned by Rush Street Interactive, an online gaming company. After it started its Pennsylvania website, PlaySugarHouse.com, Rush Street Interactive launched BetRivers. It's been one of the first few sportsbooks in several states, so it's established itself as a staple in the sports betting industry. Its states of operation include:
- Colorado
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Virginia
- New Jersey (under the SugarHouse brand)
- Pennsylvania
Bettors in these states may be drawn to BetRivers' rewards program. Bettors who wager consistently could unlock new bonuses and even expedited withdrawals. But BetRivers' odds are often identical to DraftKings, so they may not stand out from other sportsbooks like the other sportsbooks on this list.
Interested bettors can download their state's BetRivers app on iOS or Android. BetRivers is one of the few sportsbook brands that creates separate apps for sports betting in each legal state. The BetRivers iOS app is not available in all states in which they operate, but new states are added to the Apple iOS store regularly.
BetRivers offers a $250 deposit bonus at a 100% match rate as its welcome bonus.
BetMGM Sportsbook App
Visit: BetMGM and claim a $600 risk-free bet
BetMGM is owned by Roar Digital, a joint venture between MGM Resorts and GVC Holdings. It brands itself as a luxury sportsbook, and bettors who've seen its billboards and commercials have a sense of its luxury already.
Between BetMGM's iconic golden lion and Jamie Fox's sponsorship, BetMGM pushes its Vegas-style sportsbook hard. It seems to be working. Where it's licensed, BetMGM positions itself with other states' big brands. Bettors can find their apps for sports betting in:
- New Jersey
- Colorado
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
Bettors who choose BetMGM will be able to contribute to their MGM Grand loyalty accounts. Anyone who plans to hit Vegas or any other city with an MGM Grand Resort should think about a BetMGM account. It's available on iOS and Android, so bettors who want to contribute to these loyalty accounts have convenient outlets to do it.
BetMGM's welcome bonus is a $500 risk-free bet.
William Hill Sportsbook
Visit: William Hill and claim up to a $500 risk-free bet
William Hill is the oldest sportsbook company on this list. It was founded in 1934 and has grown into a premier sportsbook company. It's a UK sportsbook company that has found a home in the United States. William Hill came to Nevada in 2012, where it became known for its betting kiosks. But as states legalized sports betting, William Hill expanded into new markets. William Hill's app for sports betting can be found in:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Nevada
- Virginia
- Washington, DC
Bettors who are intimidated by cluttered sportsbook apps will find relief at William Hill. Its app is one of the most straightforward to navigate. Apps for sports betting can become crowded with ads for bonuses and promotions. Bettors can download the William Hill app on iOS and Android too see what we mean.
William Hill offers a $500 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus in most states.
PointsBet Sportsbook
Visit: PointsBet and claim up to $2000 in two risk free bets with code BIGBONUS
PointsBet is an Australian startup founded in 2019. Seemingly overnight, it has grown into one of the most recognizable sportsbook brands in the United States. PointsBet has won awardsfor top sportsbook operator and most socially responsible operator.
Despite its novelty, PointsBet has established itself as a major player in an American industry that's only a year older than PointsBet. PointsBet's app is available in:
- Colorado
- Iowa
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Michigan
- New Jersey
PointsBet is a great app for advanced bettors with the uncanny ability to make accurate game predictions. These bettors can try PointsBetting, which allows bettors to adjust point spreads and point totals predicted during a game. If bettors are right, their stakes are rewarded exponentially. But there's no partial credit. They're risky wagers reserved for the most>Colorado
Social media-savvy bettors may find FOX Bet more engaging than other apps for sports betting. FOX Bet's many bet boosts are worth checking for bettors looking for the best value for their money. Anyone who wants to try FOX Bet can download its app on iOS and Android.
FOX Bet offers a $500 risk-free bet.
Caesars
Caesars sportsbook is another casino sportsbook available in only a few states. Bettors in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and New Jersey can download the Caesars sportsbook app on iOS and Android. It is also anticipated that Caesars will launch in Michigan in 2021.
Bettors can enjoy a sportsbook that carries the weight and reputation of the Caesars casino brand. Bettors will recognize the same opulent design in Caesars Sportsbook as Caesars Hotel in Vegas.
But Caesars Sportsbooks' attraction is its link to Caesars Rewards. Bettors can wager on Caesars sportsbook and earn points toward free entertainment, shopping, and dining. Like BetMGM, Caesars is a good option for bettors with an existing loyalty account or interest in creating one.
Caesars offers a $500 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus.
Unibet
Like the Beatles before them, Unibet is part of the British invasion of a popular American industry. Unibet was founded in London in 1997, headquartered in New York in 2018, and released its first app for US sports betting in New Jersey in 2019. Even though it's new in the industry, Unibet has a good reputation. (Being licensed by Gaming Commissions in multiple countries certainly helps.) Like Caesars, Unibet is only available in three states:
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Indiana
Bettors who want to commune with other bettors will find value in Unibet's community section. It's a blog and forum wrapped together where bettors can read advice from Unibet bloggers and other Unibet users. If bettors want a virtual gathering – or a place to dispense their sports betting wisdom – Unibet may be their go-to app for sports betting.
Unibet offers a $600 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus.
Mobile Sports Betting Basics
Mobile sports apps are convenient ways for sportsbooks to reach bettors. But newbies only need a few basics to get started. All they have to do is create an account, deposit money, then select the odds they want to bet on. Once they have all their bets, they can send them in and see how they did.
The mechanics of mobile sports betting are easy. Bettors can find popular sports like football and other sports like darts. Bets on who'll win, point spreads, and point totals are common, too.
Many apps also have live betting available, so bettors can cash in on the best odds in real-time during gameplay.
States With Legal Mobile Sports Betting Apps
Currently, online sports betting is legal in the following US states. These states include:
- West Virginia
- New Hampshire
Additionally, sports betting legislation is under consideration in more than 20 US states. With the current momentum, it's likely that more states will legalize online sports betting in the coming years.
What To Look For When Choosing The Best Sports Betting Apps
The best online betting apps have a few things in common. They're obviously available in states with favorable sports betting laws. But some online betting apps can get a boost from neighboring states, too. (A fifth of New Jersey's sports betting handle came from New York. Many New Yorkers find it easier to place mobile bets in New Jersey than retail bets in northern New York.)
But the best sportsbook apps also have some of the best odds. Sportsbooks balance expected profit against great bettor odds. Each one strikes this balance differently, so bettors should do a little research on sportsbook odds before committing to one. Some sportsbooks, like DraftKings, have a large catalog of sports available to bet on. Smaller local sportsbooks may not have that same selection, limiting bettor choices.
Finally, bettors may be swayed by how easy sportsbook apps are to navigate. Some are covered in promotions for their ongoing bonuses. Others use the space for betting lines and little else. There's more to sportsbook apps than these few factors, but this will get new bettors started as they judge sportsbooks for themselves.
Mobile Sports Betting Apps Versus Online Sportsbook Sites
Since most sportsbook apps have their website counterparts, bettors may be wondering what the differences between them are. If bettors are just placing bets and using the app's core functions, the website differences will be cosmetic. Online sports betting apps offer a less immersive experience than a retail sportsbook. But that shouldn't be surprising. Take away the TV's, lounge, and bar, and suddenly sports betting feels more strategic than social.
Bettors should watch whether sportsbook apps are offered on iOS and Android. Most major sportsbook brands do. Some smaller brands do not.
Download Apple iOS Sports Betting Apps
Getting an app for sports betting onto the App Store requires operators to jump through a few hoops. For example, sportsbook operators had to change their code from HTML5 to iOS. (That's the least technical way to explain it, anyway.)
Gambling apps must also come with a 17+ rating, which is a much smaller obstacle than a new expensive coding requirement. That's bad news for apps like BetRivers that have separate apps for each state they're allowed to operate in. It was unsustainable before that requirement, but this new policy could push them to eventually adopt a single app.
The highest-rated apps for sports betting are sportsbooks with complementary media presences. Barstool Sportsbook has the best fans because they rate Barstool Sportsbook at a 4.7 on the app store.
Download Android Sports Betting Apps
Google doesn't allow sportsbook apps on the Google Play store. That may seem like an insurmountable obstacle. However, sportsbooks provide convenient workarounds. Bettors can download the Android app from sportsbook sites.
Most major sportsbook brands will offer Android apps, but smaller brands may not. The Apple Store has fewer barriers to entry than the Google Play Store. Consequently, some of the best Android betting apps will come from big brands like DraftKings and FanDuel.
Betamerica App
How To Download And Use A Mobile Sportsbook
Getting setup with a new sportsbook is usually a quick and painless procedure. Here are the steps bettors need to go through to place their first bets on a sportsbook app.
- Download the sportsbook app from the App Store or the Android link on the sportsbook's website.
- Select 'Register' and complete the registration process. Usually, this consists of creating a username and password, then providing an email, social security number, and a few other pieces of identifying information. But sometimes sportsbook apps will ask for more verification steps, like sending a utility bill. (Something to research before selecting a sportsbook.)
- Deposit funds by going to the account section, selecting ‘Deposit', then a payment method and amount.
- Place a wager, but pay attention to bonus terms. Risk-free bets are often only good for the first bet. Deposit bonuses can come with funky terms, too. Check the fine print before trying to use a bonus.
- Withdraw winnings, bet again, or take a break as appropriate.
Best Bonus Offers On Online Sports Betting Apps
Bettors will encounter two main types of bonuses: deposit bonuses and risk-free bets. Deposit bonuses award site credits proportional to bettor deposits and wagers. Risk-free bets refund lost wagers up to a certain amount in site credits.
Bettors shouldn't rely on redeeming these bonuses at retail sportsbooks, though. Bonuses are tied to individual accounts. So, if a retail sportsbook doesn't let a bettor sign in to an account, there's no reason to think a bettor would be able to use an online bonus at a retail sportsbook.
Online sportsbooks offer ongoing bets that award free credits for (often) risky wagers in certain popular leagues. Bettors will also find bet boosts that either offer better odds on (usually) risky wagers. They're smaller than welcome bonuses, so don't expect to rake in thousands of dollars on them.
Pros & Cons Of Sports Betting On Mobile Devices
Mobile sports betting is the most convenient way to place a sports bet. Bettors can make wagers from their phones during post-pandemic get-togethers to make Sunday night football more interesting.
But wagering on a phone can limit how many lines bettors can view at once. It's easier to take in the vast amount of information on a desktop. The bigger screen clears the layout to move around the sportsbook more efficiently. But it's hard to beat mobile sports betting's convenience. That outweighs the clarity that a larger screen can bring to a sportsbook app.
States With Retail Sportsbooks
Generally, sports betting can be broken into two categories: online and retail. When a state legalizes sports betting, it may choose to legalize both categories or only one category. With the exception of Tennessee (which allows only online sports betting), it's by far more common to see states legalize retail sports betting without online options.
Typically, a retail sportsbook is a brick-and-mortar location inside of a casino where bettors can place bets in-person on sports games and events. While the idea behind an online sports betting app is essentially the same, it allows you to place bets remotely from anywhere within state lines.
Here are the states in which retail sports betting is legal:
- Oregon
- Nevada
- Colorado
- Montona
- New Mexico
- Arkansas
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Mississippi
- West Virginia
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- New Jersey
- Washington, DC
- Delaware
- Rhode Island
- New Hampshire
- Washington State
- South Dakota
- Louisiana
- North Carolina
- Virginia (although none have launched yet)
- Maryland
FAQs: Best Sports Betting Apps In The US
Yes. All states have been allowed to regulate sports betting since the US Supreme Court ruled PASPA unconstitutionalin 2018. Now states can choose whether to legalize sports betting. Consequently, mobile gambling apps are legal in states where mobile gambling is allowed. As long as bettors are eligible to use them, there's no legal issue.
Partially. Bettors cannot place wagers in a state where online sports betting is illegal. However, bettors can create accounts, deposit and withdraw funds, and perform other administrative tasks. Bettors just won't be able to bet until they're within a legal state's borders. It's generally legal for a bettor to register with a betting app and then travel to a state with legal betting to officially place that bet.
Security. Licensed sportsbooks are subject to strict industry rules that protect bettors. For example, some state Gaming Commissions set required cash reserves for sportsbooks so they never run out of money to pay bettors. Illegal sportsbooks have no regulatory body. So, if they run out of money, bettors aren't entitled to compensation. (And that's assuming illegal sportsbooks feel obligated to pay bettors who win.)
It depends. The best odds will come from either bet boosts or betting exchanges. That could be sportsbooks like FOX Bet or SBK, which gets its odds from a betting exchange in London. DraftKings and FanDuel offer some of the best bonuses. Bettors have to decide what's important to them, then choose accordingly.
DraftKings, which has a statistics hub where bettors can see team performance histories. These insights could help strategic bettors decide how to place the most promising bets. (It should go without saying, but betting on a team because they're your favorite team is a poor strategy.) DraftKings has a reputation for being one of the best football betting apps.
Yes. Sportsbooks make plenty of money off bettor losses. Charging bettors to download an app would create a barrier between bettors and the vig. Sportsbook lines have 'house advantages' built into them, so if the favorite comes through, the sportsbooks make money. They're more than happy to invite bettors in for free and entice them to spend money later.
If you want to bet, then yes. Bettors can create accounts and browse sportsbook lines without making a single deposit. But bettors can't place bets for free. If you want to reap the rewards of an underdog win, then you need to put some skin in the game.
Betus App Online
Infrequently. If you're like most people, you won't even know when your apps update. Sportsbooks and smartphone companies are staggeringly unlikely to require bettors to manually update apps. (What is this? 2007?) But sportsbooks can update one to four times a month. Debugging is a never-ending process, after all.
Update (September 2020) – We are pleased to report that BetUS has undergone a total relaunch since we reported the issues outlined on this page.
The old team has been kicked to the curb, with new management and new investors in place to breathe new life into the brand. BetUS may have been established in 1994, but it's most certainly a new beginning for the online sportsbook. Everyone involved is determined to build a new reputation. We aren't quite sold on the bold claim of BetUS being 'America's Favorite Sportsbook', but we are excited about the revised platform.
Read our BetUS review to discover why we now consider this sportsbook a premier destination for US bettors.
BetUS has a notorious history in the offshore industry and has taken players for hundreds of thousands of dollars at minimum since their inception in 1994. The book has a terrible reputation with US-based online sports bettors and has been one of the major offshore targets for their vitriol in the last decade plus.
In this article, we go over just some of the scams and tactics used by BetUS's management over the years. There have been so many problems and complaints regarding this sportsbook that we could write three separate articles on their poor business practices and deception.
From reneging on bonus offers, changing terms and conditions on the fly and confiscating winnings from players with little explanation – this book is truly shameless.
Enticing Bonus and Website
We almost feel like a broken record when writing about these scam sportsbook articles, because we keep warning players about the same things over and again.
Like we've said about other scam sportsbooks in the past, appearances can be deceiving. BetUS has one of the nicest looking websites which offers a sleek and professional look[1] Their betting engine is excellent, and they have a large array of betting options, including live betting and mobile wagering.
On top of all that, they offer a litany of different deposit bonuses based on the amount players wish to deposit. The bonuses could go as high as $5,000 depending on how much a player makes with his first deposit.
But, BetUS does not stop there. They offer frequent reloads and VIP membership rewards program, as well.
Wow, it sure sounds like we're shilling out BetUS to sports bettors, but that could not be further from the truth. BetUS touts to their players that they have the 'the biggest bonuses in the business' which may be true, at least on paper.
However, players that win will realize they will have a hard time collecting their money from BetUS. All these bonus amounts and promotions do not cost the book anything unless they actually have to pay. Something that BetUS seems to pride itself in not doing.
Avoid scams & view our selection of
The Best US Sportsbooks.
Last updated: February 2021
Even A Scam In The Heyday
Many online betting sites that were once industry leaders in the early to mid 2000s are now closed, and some have run off with player funds. Don't get us wrong, there are still many active in the industry, but the UIGEA and the US DOJ's crackdown on online sports betting seriously hurt the business.
Before the UIGEA passage in 2006, the online gambling world was growing at an exponential rate and online sportsbooks had been taking in hundreds of millions of bets each year. Oddsmakers who played it safe and understood the industry has a much better chance of being successful back then compared to today. That's not to say that there were not still excellent options for US players now, but they were much better 10 years ago.
Even back then, circa 2004, BetUS was known as a scam sportsbook with a poor reputation. SBR first began reporting on BetUS in 2002 and had complaints of the book slow playing players. Even in this time of quick and simple payment processing for US players, (Neteller, other e-wallets) BetUS was regularly weeks or months late with withdrawal requests to players.
This news article on The RX details a situation where a player had $25,000 in funds in limbo with BetUS and had to settle for a deal for 2/3rds of his balance out of fear of losing the whole thing.[2] It also goes into the history behind BetUS and the two brothers that were once a part of NASA Sports but now both ran separate sportsbooks. One went on to run BetUS and the other BetOnSports.
The article did not have much nice to say in regards to the two Rizzo brothers, Joey and Tommy.
Best Us Appliance Brands
An anonymous sportsbook owner stated, ‘In this business, your word is your bond, if you say you are going to do something, you do it. THESE guys did not honor their word with me. After that, I wanted nothing more to do with them. The last thing I wanted was to have someone accidentally affiliate myself or my company with them.'
Players were forced to forfeit some of their winnings due to supposed non-recreational play and winning too much from bonuses or free plays – even though there were no restrictions on how much they could win via their bonus. Management also accused players of syndicate play or non-leisure play, another charge that came with almost no evidence.
Bettors were forced to negotiate for their fairly won balance with BetUS – because if they did not – they risked getting stiffed for the amount, even their original deposits. Players settled for substantially fewer amounts than they were entitled to receive. One player reportedly settled for $40,000 despite being owed a small six figure sum.
Scam Copycat Site
BetUS once owned and operated a domain at 'bestsportsbookreview.com' which was designed to be a Sportsbook Review knockoff site. The site, not so shockingly, heavily promoted BetUS and picked them as their top recommended bookmaker.
The site was run directly from the sportsbook themselves and had a fake affiliate or advertiser as a cover up to their true intentions. This is a disgusting way to do business and without a doubt misled thousands of players into depositing at BetUS.
More Problems and One Dastardly Scam
In the next several years, forums and watchdog sites were full of complaints from players who had funds suck at BetUS or felt the wrath of management. This included altering bets after the wagers had been settled, voiding bonuses and winnings from bonuses and much more.
However, there was one tactic pulled by BetUS that might be the worst display of behavior we've ever seen from a rogue online sportsbook.
This story broke via SBR, and there was a lengthy discussion at Covers Forum in regards to BetUS' scam[3][4]. A handicapper named John Morrison, the man behind the 'John Morrison Chase Betting System' was working with BetUS.com to scam players. We assume the two had a lucrative affiliate type deal where Morrison received a large percentage of the players' losses to BetUS.
Referring players to an online sportsbook for a percentage of the profits is perfectly respectable and how many webmasters make their living today. But, if that was all John Morrison and BetUS we would not be talking about them.
BetMGM's welcome bonus is a $500 risk-free bet.
William Hill Sportsbook
Visit: William Hill and claim up to a $500 risk-free bet
William Hill is the oldest sportsbook company on this list. It was founded in 1934 and has grown into a premier sportsbook company. It's a UK sportsbook company that has found a home in the United States. William Hill came to Nevada in 2012, where it became known for its betting kiosks. But as states legalized sports betting, William Hill expanded into new markets. William Hill's app for sports betting can be found in:
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Nevada
- Virginia
- Washington, DC
Bettors who are intimidated by cluttered sportsbook apps will find relief at William Hill. Its app is one of the most straightforward to navigate. Apps for sports betting can become crowded with ads for bonuses and promotions. Bettors can download the William Hill app on iOS and Android too see what we mean.
William Hill offers a $500 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus in most states.
PointsBet Sportsbook
Visit: PointsBet and claim up to $2000 in two risk free bets with code BIGBONUS
PointsBet is an Australian startup founded in 2019. Seemingly overnight, it has grown into one of the most recognizable sportsbook brands in the United States. PointsBet has won awardsfor top sportsbook operator and most socially responsible operator.
Despite its novelty, PointsBet has established itself as a major player in an American industry that's only a year older than PointsBet. PointsBet's app is available in:
- Colorado
- Iowa
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Michigan
- New Jersey
PointsBet is a great app for advanced bettors with the uncanny ability to make accurate game predictions. These bettors can try PointsBetting, which allows bettors to adjust point spreads and point totals predicted during a game. If bettors are right, their stakes are rewarded exponentially. But there's no partial credit. They're risky wagers reserved for the most>Colorado
Social media-savvy bettors may find FOX Bet more engaging than other apps for sports betting. FOX Bet's many bet boosts are worth checking for bettors looking for the best value for their money. Anyone who wants to try FOX Bet can download its app on iOS and Android.
FOX Bet offers a $500 risk-free bet.
Caesars
Caesars sportsbook is another casino sportsbook available in only a few states. Bettors in Pennsylvania, Indiana, and New Jersey can download the Caesars sportsbook app on iOS and Android. It is also anticipated that Caesars will launch in Michigan in 2021.
Bettors can enjoy a sportsbook that carries the weight and reputation of the Caesars casino brand. Bettors will recognize the same opulent design in Caesars Sportsbook as Caesars Hotel in Vegas.
But Caesars Sportsbooks' attraction is its link to Caesars Rewards. Bettors can wager on Caesars sportsbook and earn points toward free entertainment, shopping, and dining. Like BetMGM, Caesars is a good option for bettors with an existing loyalty account or interest in creating one.
Caesars offers a $500 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus.
Unibet
Like the Beatles before them, Unibet is part of the British invasion of a popular American industry. Unibet was founded in London in 1997, headquartered in New York in 2018, and released its first app for US sports betting in New Jersey in 2019. Even though it's new in the industry, Unibet has a good reputation. (Being licensed by Gaming Commissions in multiple countries certainly helps.) Like Caesars, Unibet is only available in three states:
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Indiana
Bettors who want to commune with other bettors will find value in Unibet's community section. It's a blog and forum wrapped together where bettors can read advice from Unibet bloggers and other Unibet users. If bettors want a virtual gathering – or a place to dispense their sports betting wisdom – Unibet may be their go-to app for sports betting.
Unibet offers a $600 risk-free bet as its welcome bonus.
Mobile Sports Betting Basics
Mobile sports apps are convenient ways for sportsbooks to reach bettors. But newbies only need a few basics to get started. All they have to do is create an account, deposit money, then select the odds they want to bet on. Once they have all their bets, they can send them in and see how they did.
The mechanics of mobile sports betting are easy. Bettors can find popular sports like football and other sports like darts. Bets on who'll win, point spreads, and point totals are common, too.
Many apps also have live betting available, so bettors can cash in on the best odds in real-time during gameplay.
States With Legal Mobile Sports Betting Apps
Currently, online sports betting is legal in the following US states. These states include:
- West Virginia
- New Hampshire
Additionally, sports betting legislation is under consideration in more than 20 US states. With the current momentum, it's likely that more states will legalize online sports betting in the coming years.
What To Look For When Choosing The Best Sports Betting Apps
The best online betting apps have a few things in common. They're obviously available in states with favorable sports betting laws. But some online betting apps can get a boost from neighboring states, too. (A fifth of New Jersey's sports betting handle came from New York. Many New Yorkers find it easier to place mobile bets in New Jersey than retail bets in northern New York.)
But the best sportsbook apps also have some of the best odds. Sportsbooks balance expected profit against great bettor odds. Each one strikes this balance differently, so bettors should do a little research on sportsbook odds before committing to one. Some sportsbooks, like DraftKings, have a large catalog of sports available to bet on. Smaller local sportsbooks may not have that same selection, limiting bettor choices.
Finally, bettors may be swayed by how easy sportsbook apps are to navigate. Some are covered in promotions for their ongoing bonuses. Others use the space for betting lines and little else. There's more to sportsbook apps than these few factors, but this will get new bettors started as they judge sportsbooks for themselves.
Mobile Sports Betting Apps Versus Online Sportsbook Sites
Since most sportsbook apps have their website counterparts, bettors may be wondering what the differences between them are. If bettors are just placing bets and using the app's core functions, the website differences will be cosmetic. Online sports betting apps offer a less immersive experience than a retail sportsbook. But that shouldn't be surprising. Take away the TV's, lounge, and bar, and suddenly sports betting feels more strategic than social.
Bettors should watch whether sportsbook apps are offered on iOS and Android. Most major sportsbook brands do. Some smaller brands do not.
Download Apple iOS Sports Betting Apps
Getting an app for sports betting onto the App Store requires operators to jump through a few hoops. For example, sportsbook operators had to change their code from HTML5 to iOS. (That's the least technical way to explain it, anyway.)
Gambling apps must also come with a 17+ rating, which is a much smaller obstacle than a new expensive coding requirement. That's bad news for apps like BetRivers that have separate apps for each state they're allowed to operate in. It was unsustainable before that requirement, but this new policy could push them to eventually adopt a single app.
The highest-rated apps for sports betting are sportsbooks with complementary media presences. Barstool Sportsbook has the best fans because they rate Barstool Sportsbook at a 4.7 on the app store.
Download Android Sports Betting Apps
Google doesn't allow sportsbook apps on the Google Play store. That may seem like an insurmountable obstacle. However, sportsbooks provide convenient workarounds. Bettors can download the Android app from sportsbook sites.
Most major sportsbook brands will offer Android apps, but smaller brands may not. The Apple Store has fewer barriers to entry than the Google Play Store. Consequently, some of the best Android betting apps will come from big brands like DraftKings and FanDuel.
Betamerica App
How To Download And Use A Mobile Sportsbook
Getting setup with a new sportsbook is usually a quick and painless procedure. Here are the steps bettors need to go through to place their first bets on a sportsbook app.
- Download the sportsbook app from the App Store or the Android link on the sportsbook's website.
- Select 'Register' and complete the registration process. Usually, this consists of creating a username and password, then providing an email, social security number, and a few other pieces of identifying information. But sometimes sportsbook apps will ask for more verification steps, like sending a utility bill. (Something to research before selecting a sportsbook.)
- Deposit funds by going to the account section, selecting ‘Deposit', then a payment method and amount.
- Place a wager, but pay attention to bonus terms. Risk-free bets are often only good for the first bet. Deposit bonuses can come with funky terms, too. Check the fine print before trying to use a bonus.
- Withdraw winnings, bet again, or take a break as appropriate.
Best Bonus Offers On Online Sports Betting Apps
Bettors will encounter two main types of bonuses: deposit bonuses and risk-free bets. Deposit bonuses award site credits proportional to bettor deposits and wagers. Risk-free bets refund lost wagers up to a certain amount in site credits.
Bettors shouldn't rely on redeeming these bonuses at retail sportsbooks, though. Bonuses are tied to individual accounts. So, if a retail sportsbook doesn't let a bettor sign in to an account, there's no reason to think a bettor would be able to use an online bonus at a retail sportsbook.
Online sportsbooks offer ongoing bets that award free credits for (often) risky wagers in certain popular leagues. Bettors will also find bet boosts that either offer better odds on (usually) risky wagers. They're smaller than welcome bonuses, so don't expect to rake in thousands of dollars on them.
Pros & Cons Of Sports Betting On Mobile Devices
Mobile sports betting is the most convenient way to place a sports bet. Bettors can make wagers from their phones during post-pandemic get-togethers to make Sunday night football more interesting.
But wagering on a phone can limit how many lines bettors can view at once. It's easier to take in the vast amount of information on a desktop. The bigger screen clears the layout to move around the sportsbook more efficiently. But it's hard to beat mobile sports betting's convenience. That outweighs the clarity that a larger screen can bring to a sportsbook app.
States With Retail Sportsbooks
Generally, sports betting can be broken into two categories: online and retail. When a state legalizes sports betting, it may choose to legalize both categories or only one category. With the exception of Tennessee (which allows only online sports betting), it's by far more common to see states legalize retail sports betting without online options.
Typically, a retail sportsbook is a brick-and-mortar location inside of a casino where bettors can place bets in-person on sports games and events. While the idea behind an online sports betting app is essentially the same, it allows you to place bets remotely from anywhere within state lines.
Here are the states in which retail sports betting is legal:
- Oregon
- Nevada
- Colorado
- Montona
- New Mexico
- Arkansas
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Mississippi
- West Virginia
- Pennsylvania
- New York
- New Jersey
- Washington, DC
- Delaware
- Rhode Island
- New Hampshire
- Washington State
- South Dakota
- Louisiana
- North Carolina
- Virginia (although none have launched yet)
- Maryland
FAQs: Best Sports Betting Apps In The US
Yes. All states have been allowed to regulate sports betting since the US Supreme Court ruled PASPA unconstitutionalin 2018. Now states can choose whether to legalize sports betting. Consequently, mobile gambling apps are legal in states where mobile gambling is allowed. As long as bettors are eligible to use them, there's no legal issue.
Partially. Bettors cannot place wagers in a state where online sports betting is illegal. However, bettors can create accounts, deposit and withdraw funds, and perform other administrative tasks. Bettors just won't be able to bet until they're within a legal state's borders. It's generally legal for a bettor to register with a betting app and then travel to a state with legal betting to officially place that bet.
Security. Licensed sportsbooks are subject to strict industry rules that protect bettors. For example, some state Gaming Commissions set required cash reserves for sportsbooks so they never run out of money to pay bettors. Illegal sportsbooks have no regulatory body. So, if they run out of money, bettors aren't entitled to compensation. (And that's assuming illegal sportsbooks feel obligated to pay bettors who win.)
It depends. The best odds will come from either bet boosts or betting exchanges. That could be sportsbooks like FOX Bet or SBK, which gets its odds from a betting exchange in London. DraftKings and FanDuel offer some of the best bonuses. Bettors have to decide what's important to them, then choose accordingly.
DraftKings, which has a statistics hub where bettors can see team performance histories. These insights could help strategic bettors decide how to place the most promising bets. (It should go without saying, but betting on a team because they're your favorite team is a poor strategy.) DraftKings has a reputation for being one of the best football betting apps.
Yes. Sportsbooks make plenty of money off bettor losses. Charging bettors to download an app would create a barrier between bettors and the vig. Sportsbook lines have 'house advantages' built into them, so if the favorite comes through, the sportsbooks make money. They're more than happy to invite bettors in for free and entice them to spend money later.
If you want to bet, then yes. Bettors can create accounts and browse sportsbook lines without making a single deposit. But bettors can't place bets for free. If you want to reap the rewards of an underdog win, then you need to put some skin in the game.
Betus App Online
Infrequently. If you're like most people, you won't even know when your apps update. Sportsbooks and smartphone companies are staggeringly unlikely to require bettors to manually update apps. (What is this? 2007?) But sportsbooks can update one to four times a month. Debugging is a never-ending process, after all.
Update (September 2020) – We are pleased to report that BetUS has undergone a total relaunch since we reported the issues outlined on this page.
The old team has been kicked to the curb, with new management and new investors in place to breathe new life into the brand. BetUS may have been established in 1994, but it's most certainly a new beginning for the online sportsbook. Everyone involved is determined to build a new reputation. We aren't quite sold on the bold claim of BetUS being 'America's Favorite Sportsbook', but we are excited about the revised platform.
Read our BetUS review to discover why we now consider this sportsbook a premier destination for US bettors.
BetUS has a notorious history in the offshore industry and has taken players for hundreds of thousands of dollars at minimum since their inception in 1994. The book has a terrible reputation with US-based online sports bettors and has been one of the major offshore targets for their vitriol in the last decade plus.
In this article, we go over just some of the scams and tactics used by BetUS's management over the years. There have been so many problems and complaints regarding this sportsbook that we could write three separate articles on their poor business practices and deception.
From reneging on bonus offers, changing terms and conditions on the fly and confiscating winnings from players with little explanation – this book is truly shameless.
Enticing Bonus and Website
We almost feel like a broken record when writing about these scam sportsbook articles, because we keep warning players about the same things over and again.
Like we've said about other scam sportsbooks in the past, appearances can be deceiving. BetUS has one of the nicest looking websites which offers a sleek and professional look[1] Their betting engine is excellent, and they have a large array of betting options, including live betting and mobile wagering.
On top of all that, they offer a litany of different deposit bonuses based on the amount players wish to deposit. The bonuses could go as high as $5,000 depending on how much a player makes with his first deposit.
But, BetUS does not stop there. They offer frequent reloads and VIP membership rewards program, as well.
Wow, it sure sounds like we're shilling out BetUS to sports bettors, but that could not be further from the truth. BetUS touts to their players that they have the 'the biggest bonuses in the business' which may be true, at least on paper.
However, players that win will realize they will have a hard time collecting their money from BetUS. All these bonus amounts and promotions do not cost the book anything unless they actually have to pay. Something that BetUS seems to pride itself in not doing.
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The Best US Sportsbooks.
Last updated: February 2021
Even A Scam In The Heyday
Many online betting sites that were once industry leaders in the early to mid 2000s are now closed, and some have run off with player funds. Don't get us wrong, there are still many active in the industry, but the UIGEA and the US DOJ's crackdown on online sports betting seriously hurt the business.
Before the UIGEA passage in 2006, the online gambling world was growing at an exponential rate and online sportsbooks had been taking in hundreds of millions of bets each year. Oddsmakers who played it safe and understood the industry has a much better chance of being successful back then compared to today. That's not to say that there were not still excellent options for US players now, but they were much better 10 years ago.
Even back then, circa 2004, BetUS was known as a scam sportsbook with a poor reputation. SBR first began reporting on BetUS in 2002 and had complaints of the book slow playing players. Even in this time of quick and simple payment processing for US players, (Neteller, other e-wallets) BetUS was regularly weeks or months late with withdrawal requests to players.
This news article on The RX details a situation where a player had $25,000 in funds in limbo with BetUS and had to settle for a deal for 2/3rds of his balance out of fear of losing the whole thing.[2] It also goes into the history behind BetUS and the two brothers that were once a part of NASA Sports but now both ran separate sportsbooks. One went on to run BetUS and the other BetOnSports.
The article did not have much nice to say in regards to the two Rizzo brothers, Joey and Tommy.
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An anonymous sportsbook owner stated, ‘In this business, your word is your bond, if you say you are going to do something, you do it. THESE guys did not honor their word with me. After that, I wanted nothing more to do with them. The last thing I wanted was to have someone accidentally affiliate myself or my company with them.'
Players were forced to forfeit some of their winnings due to supposed non-recreational play and winning too much from bonuses or free plays – even though there were no restrictions on how much they could win via their bonus. Management also accused players of syndicate play or non-leisure play, another charge that came with almost no evidence.
Bettors were forced to negotiate for their fairly won balance with BetUS – because if they did not – they risked getting stiffed for the amount, even their original deposits. Players settled for substantially fewer amounts than they were entitled to receive. One player reportedly settled for $40,000 despite being owed a small six figure sum.
Scam Copycat Site
BetUS once owned and operated a domain at 'bestsportsbookreview.com' which was designed to be a Sportsbook Review knockoff site. The site, not so shockingly, heavily promoted BetUS and picked them as their top recommended bookmaker.
The site was run directly from the sportsbook themselves and had a fake affiliate or advertiser as a cover up to their true intentions. This is a disgusting way to do business and without a doubt misled thousands of players into depositing at BetUS.
More Problems and One Dastardly Scam
In the next several years, forums and watchdog sites were full of complaints from players who had funds suck at BetUS or felt the wrath of management. This included altering bets after the wagers had been settled, voiding bonuses and winnings from bonuses and much more.
However, there was one tactic pulled by BetUS that might be the worst display of behavior we've ever seen from a rogue online sportsbook.
This story broke via SBR, and there was a lengthy discussion at Covers Forum in regards to BetUS' scam[3][4]. A handicapper named John Morrison, the man behind the 'John Morrison Chase Betting System' was working with BetUS.com to scam players. We assume the two had a lucrative affiliate type deal where Morrison received a large percentage of the players' losses to BetUS.
Referring players to an online sportsbook for a percentage of the profits is perfectly respectable and how many webmasters make their living today. But, if that was all John Morrison and BetUS we would not be talking about them.
Betus App Download
Things took a turn for the worse when players discovered that BetUS was offering alternate lines to John Morrison referred clients. For instance, if Morrison's service pick was New York +7, BetUS would offer a line of +5 or +5.5 to those were referred by Morrison.
SBR verified that the alternate lines were only on picks that were released by Morrison's service and always hurt the players that followed and paid for the picks. Because of BetUS's line movement in relation to this play, bettors were being charged an effective price of -140 for their wagers as they were at least 1.5 points off the market price.
This despicable scam is a massive breach of players' trust and highway robbery for a criminal tout in John Morrison and criminal sportsbook, BetUS.
The Future for BetUS?
BetUS is still receiving loads of complaints from players from lack of payment to bait n' switch bonus scams and everything in between. Thankfully, for players, complaints are becoming less and less common as BetUS has absolutely spoiled any shred of dignity they had in the offshore industry.
Avoid BetUS at all costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BetUS safe?
No and there are much better sportsbooks to use in the US. There are many examples of BetUS scamming their customers and we recommend visiting one of our top US Sportsbooks.
Betus App Sign Up
What is an alternative to BetUS?
We strongly recommend using proven betting providers with good reputation. At SBO.net our team prepared a list of the best sportsbooks for US users based on factors like licensing, reputation and bonus
Are US sportsbooks legal?
US sportsbooks are legal, but they are only permitted to take bets in certain states e.g Nevada. Many states across the US are currently reviewing their gambling laws so it's becoming more common to bet legally.
What should I know before I start betting online?
Despite most sportsbooks being trustworthy, there are some that are an exception to the rule. We recommend you do a small background check before you start betting. The key things to look out for include licensing, reputation and customer service. These are all thing our team consider before recommending sites.
Betus App
Refrences
Betus App Scam
[1] www.betus.com.pa – BetUS Homepage
[2] Angelciti / BetUS Saga More Insatiable Than… – The Rx Forum
[3] Sports Betting & Handicapper Scam: SBR investigates – SBR Newswire
[4] BetUS and John Morrison scam exposed – Covers Forum
