Best Sports Betting Apps: Which Betting Apps Should You Download

Looking for the best sports betting apps that make it easy to wager legally and safely from anywhere? In states where online sports betting is legal, you can download a betting app, claim a welcome bonus, and start placing bets in just minutes.

With so many sports betting options, finding the best betting apps can feel overwhelming. That’s why Odds Shark created our definitive guide to the best betting apps. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing each sports betting app for security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and an overall smooth user experience.

 FinCertified  FinCertified - We prioritize what bettors care about most—security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team. FinCertified - We prioritize what bettors care about most—security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team. : Our Seal of Approval

We prioritize what bettors care about most—security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team. We break down what matters most to bettors into clear trust factors. Every app featured in our list of the best betting apps has been FinCertified, earning the Odds Shark seal of approval from our expert team.

Our in‑depth reviews cover everything you need to know about today’s leading sports betting apps. Keep reading as we take a closer look at the best betting apps, including popular choices like FanDuel DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesarsbet365 and more, to help you find the perfect app for your sports betting experience.

Top USA Sports Betting Apps

  FinCertified Bonus

Betting App Available in:
 
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Bet365 logo
bet365
Bonus is not available in your regionAZ CO KY IA IN LA NJ NC OH PA VA TN
 
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BetMGM logo
BetMGM
$1500 First Bet OfferAZ CO DC IN IA IL KS KY LA MA MD MI NC NJ NV NY OH PA TN VA WV WY
 
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BetRivers Logo
BetRivers

Not  FinCertified 

AZ CO CT IL IN IA LA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA VA WV
 
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Borgata Logo
Borgata

Not  FinCertified 

NJ
 
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Caesars Logo
Caesars Sportsbook
Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 20 BetsAZ CO DC IL IN IA KS KY LA MA MD ME MI NC NJ NV NY OH PA TN VA WV
 
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DraftKings Logo
DraftKings
Bet $5 Get $200 + 3 months NBA PassAZ CO CT DC IL IN IA KS KY LA MA ME MD MI NH NC NJ NY OH OR PA TN VA VT WV
 
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ESPNBet Logo
ESPN Bet

Not  FinCertified 

AZ CO IL IN IA KS LA KY MA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA TN VA WV
 
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Fanatics Logo
Fanatics Sportsbook

Not  FinCertified

AZ CO CT DC IA IL IN KS KY OH MA MD MI NC NJ NY PA TN VA VT WV
 
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FanDuel Logo
FanDuel
Bet $5 Get $250 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet WinsAZ CO CT DC IL KS KY LA IN IA MA MD MI NC NJ NY OH PA TN VA VT WV WY
 
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Hard Rock Logo
Hard Rock Bet
Bonus is not available in your regionAZ IA FL OH NJ

Trusted Sports Betting Apps Updated: Nov. 6th, 2025

 FinCertified Best sports betting apps   FinCertified - We prioritize what bettors care about most—security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team.

Sportsbook
Our Experience
Bonus Offer
Ratings

#1

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Bet $5

Get $200

+ 3 months NBA Pass

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(855,718)

Google Play Rating:

4.6

/5

(184,830)

Terms and Conditions

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).

21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Fees may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 10/19/25. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 10/12/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

#2

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Bet $1,

Double Your Winnings

Your Next 20 Bets

iOS Rating:

4.7

/5

(90,465)

Google Play Rating:

4.5

/5

(31,059)

Terms and Conditions

Must be 21 or older and physically present in OH. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,059. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start.®

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

#3

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Bet $5

Get $250 in

Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins

iOS Rating:

4.9

/5

(1.9Million)

Google Play Rating:

4.6

/5

(383,838)

Terms and Conditions

New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $150 in bonus bets if your bet wins.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH. 

#4

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

50%

Up To

750 Bracco Cash

iOS Rating:

N/A

(N/A)

Google Play Rating:

N/A

(N/A)

#5

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Bet $5

Get

$150

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(204,952)

Google Play Rating:

4.6

/5

(38,119)

Terms and Conditions

You must be over 21 to play. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER.
App Exclusive Offer. Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

#6

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

$1500

First Bet

Offer

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(241,328)

Google Play Rating:

4.2

/5

(37,107)

Terms and Conditions

Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new customer offer per user. Additional terms apply.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH. 

#7

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Play Now

at

Underdog

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(215,200)

Google Play Rating:

4.6

/5

(21,044)

Terms and Conditions

Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. See assets.underdogfantasy.com/web/PlayandGetTerms_DFS_.html for details. Offer not valid in MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, and PA.  Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org; NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369). 

#8

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Use Code: ProphetOS

to Earn

20% Cash Back up to $100

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(1,805)

Google Play Rating:

4.8

/5

(390)

#9

4.5

/5

4.5

/5

Play $5

Get $50 in

Pick6 Credits

iOS Rating:

4.8

/5

(14,900)

Google Play Rating:

4.7

/5

(4,754)

Terms and Conditions

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Help is available for problem gambling. Call (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org (CT). 18+ (19+ AL/NE, 21+ AZ/MA). Valid only where Pick6 operates, see dkng.co/pick6states. Void in NY, ONT, and where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. Terms pick6. 1 per new Pick6 customer. $5+ first Pick Set to receive max. $50 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Picks that expire in 14 days (336 hours). Ends 6/22/25 at 11:59 PM ET. Terms: pick6.draftkings.com/promos. Sponsored by DraftKings.

#10

4

/5

4

/5

Receive $10

with code:

"sharkbonus"

iOS Rating:

4.7

/5

(11,249)

Google Play Rating:

4.7

/5

(1,340)

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH. 

best sports betting apps In America

The experienced Odds Shark team has put all of the best US sports betting apps to the test. We analyzed the things that matter most to new and experienced bettors, such as bonus offers, payout speed, customer service, odds, unique betting features, and the overall user experience. 

After thorough testing, we’ve narrowed the list down to the best of the best: the  FinCertified    FinCertified - We prioritize what bettors care about most—security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team.  sports betting apps for 2025. Included on the list are industry leaders like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars. Down below, you’ll find summary reviews of the top online betting apps to play with today. 

You can also click on each sports betting app for even more details. For even more insight into our methodology, check out how we review betting apps.


 FanDuel LogoFanDuel Betting App

Sports betting giant FanDuel is a clear market leader. The company traces its roots back to being a pioneer in the world of daily fantasy sports. It has now become synonymous with online gaming and is regarded as a go-to destination for sports bettors across the US. FanDuel has long been known as one of the best football betting apps.

FanDuel's betting app has all of the sports and markets you could ask for. It packs it all into a user-friendly interface that’s viewed as one of the best in the industry. FanDuel makes it easy for you to get in on the action, whether you’re into props, parlays, futures, or standard pregame wagers.

Terms and Conditions

New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $150 in bonus bets if your bet wins.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH. 

Strengths
  • Same-Game Parlays
  • Generous Bet Boosts
  • Streaming Content
  • Reliable & Intuitive App
  • Fast Deposit & Withdrawal
  • Customer Support
Weaknesses
  • Competitive Odds
  • Limited Bad Beat Refunds
 
Strong Customer Service
 
Futures Options
 
Robust Betting Options
 
Same-Game Parlays

FanDuel User Experience

  • "Was initially disappointed they changed the app, but it's a big upgrade. Gives real time results and very easy to use" - LondonViking88 App Store User

  • "FanDuel and theScore Bet are the two best - because what you win you get to keep, they don't have wagering requirements. That's why I deleted bet MGM" - EZstevie App Store User

 FIND YOUR EDGE   Find Your Edge - Leveraging Odds Shark’s industry expertise, we highlight unique, expert-evaluated elements of each sportsbook to help users confidently select the platform that fits their needs

Terms and Conditions

New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $150 in bonus bets if your bet wins.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH. 


DraftKings Logo DraftKings Betting App

DraftKings is an industry leader and one of the top sports betting apps across the US. The platform is incredibly slick, delivering a smooth wagering experience whenever you log in to play. There’s a huge menu of sports and bet types, all with competitive odds and lines.

DraftKings is a great destination for all types of bettors. Standout features include a massive selection of player props, a great live betting section, and lots of same game parlay opportunities. DraftKings easily makes the cut as one of the top sports betting apps. From the NFL to MLB and everything in between, you can rely on DraftKings to deliver your betting needs. 

Strengths
  • Same-Game Parlays
  • Generous Bonuses & Bet Boosts
  • Player Friendly Refund Policies
  • User-Friendly App
  • Fast Deposit/Withdrawals
  • Robust Betting Options (by sport and bet type)
  • Excellent Customer Support
Weaknesses
  • Lack of Live Streaming Options
  • Low Limits on Odds Boosts
 
Help Center
 
My Bets Interface
 
Refer a Friend Bonus
 
Player Prop Options

DraftKings User Experience

  • "Not a better app. Wish they could implement widgets for iOS and also live sports push notifications including scores and player stats on your betas" - Babygotback78 App Store Review

  • "Very user friendly Sportsbook with great promotions & service. Quickest place to withdraw your money from. 10/10. Would recommend." - Jon Bon Jovi Google Play Store User

 

 FIND YOUR EDGE

  •  
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    Blue Line

    Stats Hub

    The “Stats Hub” tab includes data that both new and seasoned bettors appreciate. Injury updates, line movement, and betting trends for teams and players are easily found. For instance, you can see how often each team has covered a 6-point teaser leg or which NBA players have been the most profitable on particular player props.

  •  
    Image
    Blue Line

    Player Friendly Policies

    Although it’s not an intrinsic sportsbook feature per se, the platform is known to show mercy on prop bettors by refunding losing bets in extenuating circumstances ie., when star players are hurt early in games.

  •  
    Image
    Blue Line

    Boost Variety

    While DraftKings doesn’t routinely offer the best prices in the market, it more than makes up for it with bonus bets (1x rollover), no-sweat parlays, the Dynasty Rewards loyalty program, and odds boosts.


Caesars App Logo Caesars Sportsbook Betting App

While Caesars rose to prominence off the strength of its iconic brick-and-mortar destinations, the company now has many more tools in its arsenal. It’s now a powerhouse in the world of online sports betting, packing its decades of experience into a user-friendly platform that sports bettors love.

Caesars covers all of the bases with its sports betting app. From popular sports down to niche markets, same game parlays to live betting, bettors have everything they need right at their fingertips. You can also join Caesars Rewards, rack up points based on your play, and rise in tiers to claim benefits.   

Terms and Conditions

Must be 21 or older and physically present in OH. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,059. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start.®

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Strengths
  • Live streaming of NFL Games with "Watch & Bet" feature
  • Frequent Promos & Generous Offers
  • Daily "Bonus Bets" 
  • Enhanced Live Betting
Weaknesses
  • Live Chat Feature
  • Slow verification
 
Live Betting Options
 
SGP Options
 
Customer Support
 
European Sports Options

Caesars User Experience

  • "Great looking site. Prefer the dark mode. Lots of boosts, credits, etc. Signed up without knowing about first time bonus/bet credits - would appreciate an opportunity to have this corrected." - TM Abroad App Store User

  • "Quickly place in play bets without having to chase the line changes! Odds up quickly and bet placed just as quick. Not to mention the very competitive lines and unbeatable promos and rewards" - Joshomacd App Store User

 

 FIND YOUR EDGE   Find Your Edge - Leveraging Odds Shark’s industry expertise, we highlight unique, expert-evaluated elements of each sportsbook to help users confidently select the platform that fits their needs

Terms and Conditions

Must be 21 or older and physically present in OH. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,059. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start.®

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER


 BetMGM LogoBetMGM Betting App

BetMGM is another gaming company with an extensive history. It has built on that foundation with an online sports betting app that has evolved into a market leader. It regularly ranks as one of the top choices in all of the states in which it’s available.

From the NFL to volleyball, point spread to alternate lines, BetMGM's betting app covers the full gamut of options for sports bettors. There’s also a great rewards program that you can join and earn benefits, as well as a constant stream of promo offers and bet boosts.     

Strengths
  • Lucrative Promos and Oddsboosts
  • Early Cash Outs
  • MGM Loyalty Rewards
  • Live Streaming (including MLB)
  • Responsible Gambling Policy
Weaknesses
  • Limited Sports in Certain Regions
  • Competitive Odds
 
Matchup Page
 
Customer Support
 
UFC Options
 
Futures

BetMGM User Experience

  • "When it comes down to simplicity, design, promotions and just overall experience this is by far the best Sportsbook!" - Saks 5th App Store User

  • "Best site out there. Makes it easy for beginners. Glad they worked the bugs out for determining location. Love this site" - Dcbbo App Store User

 FIND YOUR EDGE     Find Your Edge - Leveraging Odds Shark’s industry expertise, we highlight unique, expert-evaluated elements of each sportsbook to help users confidently select the platform that fits their needs


 bet365 boxbet365 Betting App

The app from bet365 is a global behemoth in the world of online sports betting. The company continues to make a name for itself in US markets, featuring one of the most user-friendly interfaces you’ll find. As the Odds Shark team sees it, bet365 stacks up incredibly well with the competition. With a loaded selection of player props, bet365 is quickly being considered one of the top football betting apps. 

It’s easily one of the best legal betting apps on the market today. The clear-cut navigation makes it easy to find what you’re looking for in an instant. For additional highlights, bet365 is a fantastic place for live betting, while also offering a recurring menu of bet boosts and parlays. 

Strengths
  • Generous Boosts and Super Boost
  • Early Payouts
  • Parlay Boost Initiative
  • Fast Deposit/Withdrawal Options
  • Great Customer Service
  • Great Platform Design
Weaknesses
  • Competitive Odds
  • Location Issues
  • Props Hidden in Menu
 
Robust Betting Options
 
Responsible Gambling
 
Futures Markets
 
Matchup Hubs

bet365 User Experience

  • "The set up of the app is super easy to use. I also enjoy the free pools you can join to win and have never had a problem with payouts" - Eric223232 App Store User

  • "Best app. Has live streaming faster than cable on your TV, best in game betting and quick updates. In game cashout option actually works and is widely offered. Withdrawals are almost instantaneous, within a few hours the money is in your account. A+" - WaddleCat App Store User

 FIND YOUR EDGE     Find Your Edge - Leveraging Odds Shark’s industry expertise, we highlight unique, expert-evaluated elements of each sportsbook to help users confidently select the platform that fits their needs


Hard Rock square  Hard Rock Bet Betting App

Hard Rock Bet is another top betting app that has become a go-to spot for scores of bettors in its available states. Hard Rock's main drawback is that it's not available to bettors in most states but if you're lucky enough to have access to it, we suggest downloading it. The intuitive interface makes it a breeze to get down to business whenever you log in to play. The search function is on point, letting you locate what you want in a flash. 

You also see trending bets front and center, giving you some immediate insight into what’s capturing attention. Not liking what you see? Hit the “build your own” button and get after crafting your own multi-leg wager. Hard Rock Bet delivers and deserves a spot in your rotation.

Strengths
  • Great User Interface
  • Excellent Live-Betting Set-Up
  • Generous Bet Boosts & Promotions
  • Comprehensive Loyalty Program
Weaknesses
  • Somewhat Limited Sports Selection 
  • Not Available While Traveling Through Nearby States
 
Parlay Flex
 
Matchup Pages
 
Front Page
 
Customer Service

Hard Rock User Experience

  • "Easy to navigate, bonuses came through instantly hoping the Cash-Out/Withdrawal process is as easy as it is to Deposit 🤞🤞" - Timothy Jones Google Play Store Review

  • "Loving this app. Better than all the rest. Literally all the player props can be done in my SGP! Fanduel could only dream of such a feat. Best design & player prop offering. Their product team should be serenaded for such a joyous experience. Would give it 10 stars if I could. Simply the best." - Jon Bon Jovi Google Play Store User

 

 FIND YOUR EDGE


Other top betting apps to know for 2025

If you’re looking to try something different outside of the biggest names on the block, we have you covered there as well. To round out our list of the best US betting apps for 2025, here are four sports gambling apps worth checking out. 

  • BetRivers: Available in 16 states to date, BetRivers is widely regarded as one of the best apps for sports betting. It flies slightly under the radar compared to the heavyweights, but still packs a punch and makes for a good time. Top highlights include a great rewards program where you can rack up redeemable points with every wager. 
  • Borgata: It’s much more than a high-profile destination in Atlantic City. Borgata's sports betting app covers all of the bases with sports and bet types. Its reach is limited to New Jersey, making it a go-to spot for locals but prevents it from becoming a true national powerhouse. 
  • ESPN Bet: The sports media giant has linked arms with PENN Entertainment. The result is ESPN Bet, which essentially took over the slot that Barstool betting app had under the same umbrella. While it hasn’t been challenging for the crown in terms of the most popular betting apps around, ESPN Bet is still a solid place to play.   
  • Fanatics Sportsbook: The apparel giant has leapt into sports betting in a big way following its acquisition of the US arm of PointsBet. The app has been steadily gaining attention, featuring a solid interface and very strong rewards program. Fanatics has been steadily rising up the charts as one of the best sports betting apps.  

how we rank sports betting apps

Our sports betting app reviews are built on thorough, hands-on testing by our industry experts who prioritize what bettors care about most: security, competitive odds, fast payouts, and a smooth user experience. We break these down into a series of Trust Factors that have been FinCertified, by receiving the Odds Shark fin seal of approval from our expert team.

Our structured evaluation process ensures that only the best and safest sports betting apps make the cut. Each sports betting site undergoes rigorous testing, from signing up and collecting bonuses to placing bets and withdrawing funds. (Nobody said our job isn't fun!)

Odds Shark  FinCertified Trust Factors

  •  
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    OddsShark

    User Experience: We are looking for sports betting sites that make the betting process seamless. If we have a hunch on a game, we want the odds for that game at our fingertips. Easy-to-access Bet Slips, intuitive Parlay Features, and a detailed Betting History, are just a few of the user experience criteria our experts require from a top sports betting app.

  •  
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    OddsShark

    Bonus Availability: We look for sports betting apps that offer real value in their customer deals. Not some snazzy marketing lingo, but real dollars available for you to collect. From killer welcome bonuses and promo codes with realistic conditions, to lucrative everyday customer offers, Bet Boosts, rebates, and VIP programs. Betting sites must offer something we can understand and can reasonably collect upon, or we won't recommend them to you.

  •  
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    OddsShark

    Payment Process: We all want to be able to fully realize our winnings and take our money home. Too many betting sites make it so difficult to withdraw your funds, that you are forced to bet again, seemingly indefinitely. At Odds Shark, we only recommend betting apps that our experts are comfortable holding their own bankroll. The best betting apps in the United States offer a variety of reliable deposit methods with reasonable payout speeds, so that you aren't the friend that can't buy dinner because "all my money is in my betting account".

  •  
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    OddsShark

    Sport Odds Variety: We champion sites that provide extensive odds across a huge range of global sports. Sports betting sites must prove they are ready to promote big events properly. It isn't going to matter whether a betting site has Korean Baseball odds, if they can't get the Super Bowl right, but we know the way those popular betting markets are juiced. Every now and then, our Odds Shark handicappers have a gut feeling on a European handball match at 5am on a Wednesday. We want a betting site that lets us ride that out with them.

  •  
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    OddsShark

    Safety & Security: Odds Shark takes player safety very seriously. We only recommend betting sites that match our high degree of safety and security standards. That means a site must operate 256-bit SSL or TLS encryption as standard. They also need to provide fair, transparent Terms & Conditions for all players.

 

 

how to sign up with a top sports betting app

Creating an account at the best sports betting apps is as straightforward as signing up on most websites. Most sites welcome new users with enticing bonuses, which can be easily claimed after a quick registration and ID verification.

Below, we’ve laid out a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the sign-up process with top sports betting apps smoothly. From entering basic personal details to unlocking your welcome offer, here's your guide. 

  1. Register 📲

    Fill out the required information to register your account and claim your welcome bonus — this includes your location, phone number, email address, and more.

  2. Profile Verification ✅

    Complete the account verification process by providing any necessary identification documents to comply with regulatory requirements, such as age and identity verification. Most sports betting apps require you to provide a piece of government ID.

  3. Deposit funds 💰

    After your account is verified, deposit funds using the payment method of your choice.

  4. place a bet! 🥳

    Once the funds have hit your account, you can start exploring the sports betting apps offerings and place your first bets!

Essential Betting App Information

Having the latest odds at your fingertips and being able to place bets in an instant from your mobile device is no longer some kind of futuristic fantasy. Thanks to the legal sports betting boom, it’s now a reality for scores of users in dozens of states across the US

Over the past several years, sports betting apps have continually evolved. Some sports betting apps have emerged as market leaders, while others are picking up scraps. Odds Shark has taken a deep dive into all of the sports betting apps out there. We gladly share what we know and help guide you to the best betting apps. 

The Current Landscape for Mobile Betting Apps

Since the Supreme Court decided that individual states could decide what to do about sports betting on their own, the legal sports betting landscape has grown exponentially. In 2018, states such as Delaware and New Jersey took the ball and ran with it. Many more have followed suit. 

Online sports betting sites and sports betting apps are now legally accessible in dozens of states. The top betting apps have continued to evolve every step of the way. The steady stream of innovations won't be slowing down, giving users plenty of choices on apps to bet on sports.  

Is Mobile Sports Betting Legal?

Yes, mobile sports betting is legal! Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, mobile betting has become a cornerstone of the industry, offering unparalleled convenience and accessibility via sports betting apps. 

Gone are the days when sports fans had to drive to a physical sportsbook or fly to Las Vegas to place their wagers. Thanks to the legalization of sports betting across much of the United States, online betting apps have revolutionized how Americans bet on sports.

  1. The Federal Wire Act (1961)

    Originally designed to curb interstate gambling, this law still prohibits mobile betting across state lines. Bets must be placed within the borders of a legal betting state.

  2. PASPA Repeal (2018)

    The Supreme Court’s decision in Murphy v. NCAA gave states the power to legalize and regulate sports betting, paving the way for mobile betting.

  3. New Jersey Pioneers Mobile Betting

    As one of the first states to embrace mobile betting, New Jersey demonstrated the potential for apps to dominate the market, with over 80% of wagers now placed online.

  4. Rapid Expansion

    States like Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Michigan have followed suit, with mobile betting becoming the primary driver of sports betting revenue nationwide.

  5. The Pace Slows

    Sports betting of at least some kind is now legal in 38 states plus Washington, DC. The pace of new markets opening has slowed as we patiently await expansion in the remaining states. 

What's next for legal sports betting apps?

Since the floodgates opened in 2018, legal sports betting of at least some kind has become available in 38 states plus Washington DC. The majority of the markets on that list allow users to place wagers via online sports betting apps.

The rate of expansion has started to slow down, but several large markets, such as Texas and California, have yet to make substantive progress. Looking ahead to the next likely domino to fall, Missouri is a leading candidate to legalize sports betting apps before too long.  

how to stay up to date on Sports betting apps

The days of sports betting being discussed with a wink and a nod are all but over. Today, it’s a topic that generates a ton of coverage. You can pick and choose where to stay on top of what’s happening, ranging from legacy media companies to discussions on social media. 

To stay ahead of the game, let the experienced Odds Shark team serve as your guide. We cover the latest news, have dozens of guides and reviews at your disposal, and are regarded as a top destination for checking out sports betting odds from multiple books at a glance.

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Betting Apps FAQ

Are betting apps legal?

You can download a sports betting app that is legal in one jurisdiction, but that doesn’t guarantee that the app will work in another. Smartphone apps confirm your location within a legal betting area prior to permitting you to place any bets. If you’re outside of any legal borders, you will be prohibited from betting.

Is there real money available in betting apps?

Yes, there is real money available in betting apps. Almost every single real money betting site has a mobile betting app or they have a mobile site that functions just as well as a betting app would. Sports bettors can place bets, make deposits and withdrawals, as well as receive big bonuses with betting apps.

What is a sweat-free bet?

A sweat-free bet is a particular type of betting promotion in which an online sportsbook will refund a wager up to a certain dollar amount if a bettor loses their first real-money qualifying wager that they place. These refunds usually come in the form of a free bet or some other kind of site credit.

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