Table of Contents
- Top Sports Betting Sites Summary - Best Promos & Bonuses
- DraftKings Sportsbook: Get $150 in Bonus Bets - Best Market Depth
- FanDuel Sportsbook: Get $150 in Bonus Bets - Best Betting App
- Caesars Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets
- BetMGM Sportsbook: Get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets - Best All-Around
- Fanatics Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in No-Sweat Bets - Best Rewards Program
- Bet365 Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets - Best Welcome Offer
- BetRivers Sportsbook: Get up to $500 in Bonus Bets - Best For New Bettors
- ESPN BET: Get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets - Best New Sportsbook
- Hard Rock Bet: Get up to $100 in Bonus Bets - Best Florida Sportsbook
- How To Sign Up For A Sports Betting Site
- Choosing The Right Online Sports Betting Site For You
- States Where Sports Betting Sites Are Legal
- Sports To Bet On At U.S. Betting Sites
- Benefits of Sports Betting Sites vs. Retail or Betting Apps
- Responsible Sports Betting
- Sportsbook Rankings Methodology
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus Offer | Min. Wager Requirement | Promo Code | Learn More | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
$150 | $5 (must win) | None | Learn More | ||||
$150 | $5 (must win) | None | Learn More | ||||
Up to $1,500 | None (first bet loses) | FORBES | Learn More | ||||
10 100% Profit Boosts | $1 | FORBES1000 | Learn More | ||||
Between $150 and up to $1,000 back | $5 (or first bet loses) | FORBES | Learn More | ||||
$100 to $500 | None (first bet loses) | SPORTS | Learn More | ||||
Up to $1,000 | $1 bet on first 10 days after registering | None | Learn More |
With online sports betting legal in the majority of states, sports bettors have plenty of betting sites to choose from.
However, not all betting sites are created equal. They all have different features and characteristics that make them unique (including different promos and coupons), which can make it difficult to choose one if you’re a new sports bettors.
Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and put together a list of the best betting sites to consider.
Top Sports Betting Sites Summary - Best Promos & Bonuses
- FanDuel Sportsbook: FanDuel is known for having one of the smoothest interfaces in the industry. New customers can claim $150 in bonus bets by winning your first $5+ wager after signing up.
- DraftKings Sportsbook: DraftKings is on par with FanDuel and has a Parlay Builder tool that makes it easy to assemble parlays for almost any game. New users can get $150 in bonus bets by winning their first $5+ wager after signing up.
- BetMGM Sportsbook: BetMGM also has a user-friendly layout that makes building parlays incredibly easy. New players at BetMGM can get up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first wager loses using the code FORBES.
- Caesars Sportsbook: Caesars has the most extensive array of odds boosts in the industry. New users can claim 10 100% profit boosts with the code FORBES1000.
- Bet365 Sportsbook: Bet365 is a British-based gambling company with an outstanding global reputation. New customers can claim up to $1,000 in bonuses using the code FORBES.
- Fanatics Sportsbook: Previously, PointsBet Sportsbook, Fanatics launched in 2023 and is one of the newest sportsbooks on the market. New users can earn up to $100 in no-sweat bets each day for 10 days.
- BetRivers Sportsbook: BetRivers has more of a local flavor compared to bigger-name sportsbooks. Its welcome offer varies by state and ranges between $100 and $500 in bonus bets if you use the code SPORTS.
- ESPN BET Sportsbook: ESPN BET debuted in 2023 and has quickly established itself as one of the stronger online sportsbooks on the market.
- Hard Rock Bet: Hard Rock Bet launched in 2019 and features a modern app with plenty of bells and whistles.
Below, we’ll go into each site in more detail along with which ones have the best coupons for new users.
DraftKings Sportsbook: Get $150 in Bonus Bets - Best Market Depth
If you’re familiar with sports betting or fantasy sports, you probably know DraftKings Sportsbook.
It was one of the first U.S. sportsbooks to launch in 2018 and is one of the two largest sportsbooks in the country in terms of market share along with FanDuel. It’s also a top brand in the DFS space.
What We Like / Don’t Like
DraftKings has a good sign-up bonus for new customers. It keeps existing customers returning with daily odds boosts and promotions along with a rewards program.
We like its Parlay Builder tool that makes constructing parlays easy, especially for more casual bettors.
The betting markets and bet types at DraftKings are extensive. DraftKings is known for having a vast selection of prop bets and futures bets, making it a great option for more serious bettors with specific markets in mind.
DraftKings’ layout could be a bit cleaner, but other than that there isn’t much we don’t like about it.
Our Expert Conclusion of DraftKings
DraftKings is one of the best sportsbooks for a reason. It’s great for bettors of all skill levels and we highly recommend it.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Bet $5+, get $150 in bonus bets if first bet wins |
Promo Code | N/A |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NJ, NY, NH, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, VT, WY, WV |
Offer Expires | Jan. 5, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.5/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
FanDuel Sportsbook: Get $150 in Bonus Bets - Best Betting App
FanDuel Sportsbook rivals DraftKings as one of the biggest and most well-known brands in both sports betting and DFS.
While the two apps have much in common, both have their share of pros and cons in our eyes.
What We Like / Don’t Like
The best thing about FanDuel is its interface, which we consider the best in the industry. It stands out with its slick design and intuitive layout that make finding bets a breeze.
Like DraftKings, FanDuel offers endless betting markets. It also has a sign-up offer for new customers, daily odds boosts and reliable customer service.
The only thing it’s missing is a rewards program, which may prevent bettors from returning in the future once they’ve played through the welcome bonus.
Our Expert Conclusion of FanDuel
FanDuel is perfect for new and casual bettors, who will be able to find their bets easily. However, we recommend more serious bettors pivot to other apps with rewards programs if they play on betting frequently.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Bet $5+, get $150 in Bonus Bets + 3 Free Months of NBA League Pass |
Promo Code | N/A |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY |
Offer Expires | Dec. 17 at 11:59 p.m. ET |
Apple Store Score | 4.9/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.7/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
Caesars Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets
Caesars Sportsbook is affiliated with Caesars Resorts and Casinos. It also has a great betting site for sports bettors.
What We Like / Don’t Like
Our favorite thing about Caesars is its odds boosts. It has the most in the industry, offering dozens of boosts on a variety of sports every day.
Beyond that, Caesars offers a wide range of regular betting markets as well. It also has a sign-up promo for new customers, and we’re fans of the “FireBets” feature that makes live betting easy.
Caesars has a generous rewards program too. On top of earning points on wagers that can later be used for bonus bets, you can also enter to win trips to Caesars resorts and casinos.
However, the app can be glitchy and times out sometimes, which can occasionally lead to a frustrating betting experience.
Our Expert Conclusion of Caesars
If you love odds boosts, Caesars is the place for you. With its frequent promotions and boosts, it’s more geared toward experienced bettors rather than new/casual bettors.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Bet $1, get 10 $100% profit boosts |
Promo Code | FORBES1000 |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, PR, TN, VA, WV, WY |
Offer Expires | 11:59 a.m. local time on Jan. 27, 2025 |
Apple Store Score | 4.7/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.3/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 25, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
BetMGM Sportsbook: Get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets - Best All-Around
BetMGM Sportsbook helps raise the bar for sports betting sites with its high quality across the board.
What We Like / Don’t Like
BetMGM has a great welcome offer, plus it rewards customers with daily odds boosts and a loyalty program where users can win VIP trips to MGM properties across the country.
BetMGM has quality customer support, plentiful betting markets and a modern interface that’s easy to navigate.
The only thing we don’t like about BetMGM is that its app can feel clunky sometimes, but otherwise there’s not much to complain about.
Our Expert Conclusion of BetMGM
BetMGM excels in all areas and is a worthy sportsbook for both new and experienced bettors alike.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Get up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first wager loses |
Promo Code | FORBES |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, CO, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, PR, TN, VA, WV, WY |
Offer Expires | Feb. 10, 2025 |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.3/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
Fanatics Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in No-Sweat Bets - Best Rewards Program
Fanatics is one of the newest sportsbooks on the market, launching in 2023 after merging with PointsBet.
What We Like / Don’t Like
First off, we think Fanatics has the best loyalty program in the industry with its FanCash rewards, which gives bettors a percentage of every bet in site credit. You can then either convert that site credit into bonus bets at the sportsbook or merchandise credit at Fanatics’ retail store.
It also provides a great betting experience by tailoring the home page to your betting history, making it easy to find the sports and bet types you like to wager on.
Fanatics also has a modern interface, daily odds boosts and numerous betting markets, making it a great addition to the sports betting scene.
One issue is that Fanatics doesn’t have the variety of promotions and rewards that some of their competitors have, including no-sweat bets, parlay boosts and more. Its welcome offer also requires more work and is less convenient than other offers.
Our Expert Conclusion of Fanatics
Fanatics may take some time to warm up to, but it’s an amazing sportsbook that rewards repeat bettors and makes their betting experience easier.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Get daily $100 no-sweat bet for 10 straight days |
Promo Code | N/A |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | $1+, min. -500 odds |
Availability | AZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NY, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY |
Offer Expires | Dec. 31, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.4/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
Bet365 Sportsbook: Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets - Best Welcome Offer
Based in the U.K., Bet365 is one of the most popular sportsbooks in the world with over 90 million customers.
What We Like / Don’t Like
Bet365 is great for new users, allowing them to choose between two welcome offers rather than forcing them to use whatever’s being offered when they sign up. We appreciate the flexibility there.
It also has tons of international markets and niche sports that aren’t always available at U.S. sportsbooks, providing outstanding market depth for more serious bettors.
Bet365’s app is fairly simple, making it good for newer bettors. However, it isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing. It’s also not as widely available as other sportsbooks and doesn’t have any physical locations, making it harder to access.
Our Expert Conclusion of Bet365
Bet365 is a great option if you can access it, especially if you’re a new bettor. Unfortunately, it’s still not available in many sports betting states.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets OR get up to $1,000 in bonus bets if your first bet loses |
Promo Code | FORBES (U.S.), FORBESCAN (Canada ex. Ontario) |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | Min. -500 odds |
Availability | AZ, CO, IA, IN, KY, LA, NJ, NC, OH, PA, VA |
Offer Expires | TBD |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.6/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
BetRivers Sportsbook: Get up to $500 in Bonus Bets - Best For New Bettors
BetRivers is another popular option for sports bettors.
What We Like / Don’t Like
BetRivers has a smaller feel compared to larger sportsbooks, which makes it more manageable and easier to navigate for new users.
It also has more of a local flavor with a welcome offer that varies by state and odds boosts based on local sports teams.
That said, BetRivers lacks a lot of the bells and whistles that sports bettors have come to expect. The app also has a dated, simplistic feel.
Our Expert Conclusion of BetRivers
BetRivers covers the basics and offers a no-frills betting experience, making it a better choice for new bettors than experienced ones. It’s more of a second-tier sportsbook compared to some of the top brands listed here.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Get $100-$500 in bonus bets if your first wager loses (depending on state) |
Promo Code | SPORTS |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | Min. -200 odds |
Availability | AZ, CO, DE, IA, IL, IN, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV |
Offer Expires | TBD |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.7/5 |
Date Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Claim Bonus |
ESPN BET: Get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets - Best New Sportsbook
A newer sportsbook that launched in November 2023, ESPN BET rebranded from Barstool Sportsbook.
What We Like / Don’t Like
ESPN BET boasts a modern app with lots of great features, including a strong welcome offer, exclusive odds boosts and frequent promotions.
With tie-ins to ESPN personalities, competitive odds and a good selection of betting markets, ESPN BET is a high-quality sportsbook.
One issue we’ve noticed is that the app lags sometimes when you’re trying to place a bet, and sometimes the bet doesn’t go through. This can be frustrating during live betting. The app also randomly kicked us out from time to time.
Our Expert Conclusion of ESPN BET
ESPN BET is a great addition to the market and has a good foundation, but it still needs to work out a few kinks to perfect its user experience.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Get up to $1,500 first bet reset & 30 free days of ESPN+ |
Promo Code | N/A |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV |
Apple Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.5/5 |
Offer Expires | Feb. 10, 2025 |
Last Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
Hard Rock Bet: Get up to $100 in Bonus Bets - Best Florida Sportsbook
Hard Rock Bet debuted in January 2019 and has expanded to several states.
What We Like / Don’t Like
Hard Rock Bet has a clean, modern app that’s easy to use along with exclusive daily odds boosts, good market depth and solid promotions.
If you lose your first $10+ wager after signing up, you’ll get a bonus bet for the same amount up to $100. No promo code is required, but this welcome offer is one of the smaller ones we’ve seen.
The main issue with Hard Rock is that it isn’t widely available, so you can only access it in a few states.
Our Expert Conclusion of Hard Rock Bet
Hard Rock Bet is a solid option if you’re in one of its states, but it’s a cut below some of the other betting sites on this list.
Category | Description |
---|---|
Offer | Get $100 in bonus bets if your first wager loses |
Promo Code | N/A |
Requirements | New users only, 21+ and in eligible state |
Eligible Bet Types | All bet types |
Availability | AZ, FL, IL, IN, NJ, OH, TN, VA |
Offer Expires | Dec. 31, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. ET |
Apple Store Score | 4.9/5 |
Google Play Store Score | 4.8/5 |
Bet Now | 21+ Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER |
Last Verified | Nov. 26, 2024 |
How To Sign Up For A Sports Betting Site
Signing up for a sports betting website is easy, regardless of which one you choose.
Simply navigate to the home page and click on “join” or “sign up.” Follow the prompts and fill out your personal information to confirm your identity and register your account.
Make a deposit in your account using a sportsbook-specific promo code if applicable. Claim your welcome bonus if there is one.
Once you’ve created an account and funded it with money, you’re officially signed up and can start betting on whatever you want.
Choosing The Right Online Sports Betting Site For You
With so many sportsbook options available, picking one as your primary sportsbook can be tough. While that choice can eventually come down to personal preference, there are still various factors to consider when picking the right sportsbook for you.
With that in mind, here are some things we recommend thinking about when choosing the right sportsbook for you:
- Odds: Odds vary by sportsbook, and you’ll never find one sportsbook that has the best odds for everything. Small differences add up in the long run, however, so find a book with that consistently has competitive odds and lines, especially for the sports and bet types you wager on most frequently.
- Variety of Sports: All sportsbooks will offer popular sports like the NFL, NBA and MLB. However, some betting sites will have a greater selection of niche or international sports like cricket, badminton, rugby, etc. If you’re a fan of more obscure sports and enjoy wagering on them, it’s important to find a sportsbook that allows you to do so.
- Market Depth: All betting sites have standard bet types like moneyline, spread, Over/Under, etc., which is all many bettors need. However, some sportsbooks offer a much larger menu of alternate lines, prop bets and other markets for more serious bettors to explore.
- Live Betting: If you enjoy live betting, it’s important to use a sportsbook that allows you to place bets quickly during games. Odds are constantly shifting throughout a game, so any delay in your ability to place a live bet could mean the difference between favorable or unfavorable odds.
- Promotions: Most sportsbooks have some kind of sign-up offer for new customers to help them get started, along with odds boosts, referral bonuses and other coupons for existing customers. The amount and frequency of promotions vary greatly by sportsbook, so you’ll want a betting site with a big welcome offer and frequent promos to make your bets more profitable.
- Payment Methods: Every sportsbook offers the ability to withdraw and deposit funds using bank account information and debit/credit cards, but it’s still worth checking to see what other methods are available. Some sportsbooks offer the ability to withdraw and deposit funds using digital wallets like Apple Pay, PayPal or Venmo, which can be more convenient and secure than traditional banking methods. Some betting sites also pay out faster than others, so you’ll want one that gets you your money quickly.
- Interface: It’s important to pick a betting site that’s user-friendly, runs smoothly and loads quickly, either on your desktop or mobile device. You’ll want a site that is easy to navigate and intuitive so that you can find your bets quickly.
- Availability: Last but not least, choosing a betting site is largely dependent on which ones are operational in your state. The amount of legal sportsbooks varies greatly by state, so see which ones are available in your state and try them out to see which one you like best.
States Where Sports Betting Sites Are Legal
Sports betting is legal in 38 states along with Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico. See below for the full list of which states have legal sports betting.
State | Legal? |
---|---|
Arizona | Yes |
Alabama | No |
Alaska | No |
California | No |
Georgia | No |
Hawaii | No |
Idaho | No |
Minnesota | No |
Missouri | No |
Oklahoma | No |
South Carolina | No |
Texas | No |
Utah | No |
Arkansas | Yes |
Colorado | Yes |
Connecticut | Yes |
Delaware | Yes |
Florida | Yes |
Illinois | Yes |
Indiana | Yes |
Iowa | Yes |
Kansas | Yes |
Kentucky | Yes |
Louisiana | Yes |
Maine | Yes |
Maryland | Yes |
Massachusetts | Yes |
Michigan | Yes |
Mississippi | Retail only |
Montana | Retail only |
Nebraska | Retail only |
Nevada | Yes |
New Hampshire | Yes |
New Jersey | Yes |
New York | Yes |
North Carolina | Yes |
North Dakota | Retail only |
Ohio | Yes |
Oregon | Yes |
Pennsylvania | Yes |
Puerto Rico | Yes |
Rhode Island | Yes |
South Dakota | Retail only |
Tennessee | Yes |
Virginia | Yes |
Vermont | Yes |
Washington | Retail only |
Washington, D.C. | Yes |
West Virginia | Yes |
Wisconsin | Retail only |
Wyoming | Yes |
New Mexico | Retail only |
Sports To Bet On At U.S. Betting Sites
U.S. betting sites have a wide selection of sports you can wager on. Availability varies by sportsbook, but here’s a general list of which sports are offered by U.S. sportsbooks:
- Aussie Rules
- Badminton
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Beach Volleyball
- Boxing
- Canoeing
- Climbing
- Cornhole
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Darts
- Diving
- E-Sports
- Equestrian
- Fencing
- Field Hockey
- Football
- Golf
- Gymnastics
- Handball
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
- MMA
- Motorsport
- Olympics
- Rowing
- Rugby League
- Rugby Union
- Sailing
- Shooting
- Snooker
- Soccer
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Table Tennis
- Tennis
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Water Polo
- Weightlifting
- Wrestling
Benefits of Sports Betting Sites vs. Retail or Betting Apps
There are pros and cons of using sports betting sites compared to betting at retail locations or through mobile apps.
Compared to retail sportsbooks, betting at online sportsbooks is much easier and more convenient. You can bet on your computer from the comfort of your own home as opposed to going to a retail sportsbook and betting in-person.
You can also place bets, deposit money and withdraw your winnings more easily, since you only need to press a button as opposed to going to a kiosk or waiting in line. It’s a much smoother, faster experience for the user.
While mobile apps allow bettors to wager on the go and provide even more flexibility/convenience, that also makes the apps more addictive. Sports betting sites make it easier to research your bets, too, as you can simply open a new tab to look at a player’s stats or compare odds at different sportsbooks.
Responsible Sports Betting
Make sure to always bet responsibly. Set and stick to a budget, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Bet for fun on sports you know and don’t chase your losses.
You must be of a legal sports betting age and physically present in a legal sports betting state to wager.
If you feel that you may have a gambling problem or addiction, help and resources are available. You can seek help for you or someone you know by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.
Sportsbook Rankings Methodology
We’ve taken the time to sample and research numerous sportsbooks, narrowing down a list of the best in the industry. These rankings can help you decide which ones to try first.
Our rankings are based on scores in the following categories:
- App reviews
- Availability across states
- Size of welcome offer
- Ease of claiming welcome offer
- Rewards program
- In-app streaming capabilities
- Existing user promos
- Customer service options
Below, we’ll break down each category and why it’s important to your sports betting experience.
App Reviews
A quick and easy way to get a sense of a sportsbook’s quality is by comparing user reviews on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). Since ratings are out of five stars, you’ll generally want a sportsbook that’s well-regarded with an average score of at least four stars.
You can also dive into specific user comments to get a sense of what people are saying about the app and if there are any recurring complaints or issues. This can be helpful for features that are hard to gauge until you actually use the app, like lagginess or customer service.
Many commenters are there to complain, so don’t put too much stock in specific reviews.
That said, if you notice common themes throughout the comments, consider it a warning for issues you may encounter with the app.
State Availability
Each state handles sports betting differently. Some states allow both in-person and mobile sports betting, while others might only allow in-person sports betting or have a hard cap on the number of mobile sportsbooks permitted.
Accordingly, sportsbooks vary by state, as each state has to approve a sportsbook before it can launch there. No sportsbook is available in every state with legal online sports betting, but a few have launched in the majority of them.
Generally speaking, the more states a sportsbook is available in, the better. That means it’s more likely to be available in your state, a bordering state or a state you’re likely to travel to, making it easier and more convenient to use. That way, you’ll be able to take your sportsbook with you rather than needing to sign up for a new one every time you leave your state.
While smaller “local” sportsbooks usually offer profit boosts and other bonuses based on hometown teams, they’re usually only available in a handful of states at most, offering limited availability.
Size of Welcome Offer
This is an important one. How much free money will a sportsbook give you for signing up?
Most sportsbooks have welcome offers to entice new customers, but it’s important to know how these offers work. Just because an offer has a higher dollar amount attached to it doesn’t necessarily make it better.
Some sportsbooks have “bet and get” promotions where you receive bonus bets (site credit) just for wagering a small amount of money. For example, you might get $200 in bonus bets just for placing a $5 wager. You’re essentially getting free money to bet with.
Other sportsbooks have “no-sweat” offers that give a bonus bet only if your first bet loses.
For example, if you place a $20 bet after signing up and it loses, you’ll receive a $20 bonus bet, similar to a refund.
These offers tend to wow bettors with larger amounts than “bet and get” promos, often going up to $1,000 or $1,500. However, you’ll only receive a bonus bet if your first wager loses, in which case you’ll need to use the bonus bet to try to win your money back. If your wager wins, you’ll receive your cash winnings like a normal wager but won’t receive any bonus.
Accordingly, “no sweat” offers generally aren’t as good as “bet and get” promos.
When comparing sportsbooks, it’s better to focus on welcome offers with guaranteed bonuses that give you site credit no matter what.
Ease of Claiming Welcome Offer
The size of the bonus offer won’t matter if it’s difficult to claim.
The best sportsbook bonus offers are as easy to claim as they are generous, being simple and straightforward without requiring you to jump through hoops.
The best bonuses are guaranteed and hit your account instantly as soon as you place your first bet. They’ll also be easy to follow and won’t require you to check a bunch of boxes to get your bonus.
Some sportsbook bonus offers require you to make multiple wagers or wait days or weeks to unlock your full bonus. This can be inconvenient, especially if you’re trying to get your full bonus ahead of a major sporting event like the Super Bowl or March Madness.
More complex offers can be a pain, so we prefer simplified offers with fewer requirements.
Rewards Program
If you bet often and are planning to use a sportsbook frequently, a strong rewards program is essential.
Loyalty programs differ by sportsbook. Some give you rewards points for each bet, which can then be converted into bonus bets or other rewards. Others offer big rewards like free trips, hotel stays, tickets to sporting events and more.
On the other hand, some sportsbooks don’t have any rewards. That might not be a big deal for casual bettors, but it can make a difference for frequent sports bettors.
It’s like paying for something with cash versus a credit card. If you place a bet at a site without a loyalty program, you’re missing out on points elsewhere.
In-App Streaming Capabilities
While bigger sports like football or basketball are usually only available to watch via traditional cable or streaming services, some sportsbooks offer the ability to stream smaller sports in the app, which is a benefit for bettors.
For example, FanDuel‘s app often streams tennis matches, which makes it easier to follow the action and place live wagers.
Beyond just offering live streaming, we also considered how laggy the stream was, how much battery it used and the amount of events available to stream in the app.
Existing User Promos
Most sportsbooks have some type of welcome offer to get new customers in the door, but where they really differ is with their promotions for existing customers.
Some sportsbooks offer a slew of daily promotions like odds boosts, no-sweat bets, bonus bets and more to keep customers coming back every day. Others only offer these sparingly, however, if at all.
One key existing user promo to consider is the referral bonus. Many sportsbooks have some type of referral bonus for getting someone else to sign up, but the amount can differ ($50 per person, $100, $200, etc.). If you’re planning to bet with friends or family, this can be a great way to score bonus bets for you and them.
Similar to a rewards program, you’ll want a sportsbook with frequent offers for existing customers if you plan to bet frequently.
Customer Service Options
Strong customer service options are a must for any sportsbook considering most disputes or calls involve someone’s money.
High marks were given to any sportsbook that offered 24/7 customer service (sporting events often end at night, after all), while points were deducted if a sportsbook relied on a FAQ page as a key part of its customer service profile. The more options for contacting customer service (email, chat, phone, etc.), the better.
Customer support is essential to guaranteeing a smooth sports betting experience. If a problem arises, it’s important to have it handled quickly and effectively.
AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most trusted sports betting site?
If an online sportsbook is licensed in your state, it is trusted. Your funds are safe and secure, the sportsbook will honor your winning bets, and you will have customer service to contact if needed. Trusted sports betting sites include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Fanatics, Caesars, BetRivers, Hard Rock Bet, ESPN BET and Bet365, among others.
Which sports betting site is the most popular?
While there are many legal online sports betting sites across the U.S., DraftKings and FanDuel are the most popular in terms of market share. Not only are they well-known, established brands with strong marketing campaigns, but they also built up a large customer base through daily fantasy sports for years before sports betting became legal.
DraftKings and FanDuel are also the most widely available, operating in more states compared to their competitors.
What is the best sports betting site for beginners?
For new bettors, all online betting sites regulated by a jurisdiction in the U.S. are good choices for beginners. They are all designed to be straightforward to use. Your user experience will vary, but it depends largely on your aesthetic preferences. DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, BetRivers, Hard Rock Bet, ESPN BET and Bet365 are top picks for beginners because of their first-time user bonuses and highly rated user experiences.
Which sports betting site has the best sign-up bonus?
Many welcome offers are comparable, so it’s hard for one sports betting site to have the best. Furthermore, sports betting sites frequently change their sign-up bonuses, so an offer may not last for long.
As mentioned above, it’s also important to note the difference between offers. Just because an offer has a larger dollar value doesn’t necessarily make it better.
For example, a sportsbook may give you a bonus bet up to $1,500 if your first wager loses. If your first bet wins, however, you won’t receive a bonus.
On the other hand, some sportsbooks offer a smaller amount in guaranteed bonus bets. The bonus might be smaller ($100 or $200), but you’re guaranteed to get it regardless of how your first wager turns out.
Since guaranteed bonus bets are essentially free money to play with, those types of offers are usually better unless you’re planning on wagering a lot of money on one bet.
How do you sign up for a sports betting site?
Once you’ve picked a betting site to join, registering is easy.
- To start, simply download the app to your mobile device or go to the website.
- Enter your personal information to verify your identity.
- Enter your promo code (if applicable) to claim your welcome bonus.
- Make a deposit using a verified payment method.
- Once you’ve made a deposit and have money in your account, you can start betting on whatever you want.
Registering for an betting site only takes a few minutes. Once you’ve set up your account and added some funds, you’re good to go.
Which sports betting site has the best rewards?
In terms of rewards, Fanatics is probably the best thanks to its unique FanCash program.
Fanatics gives bettors a percentage of every bet (up to 10%) in FanCash depending on the odds of your wager. The higher the odds, the more FanCash you’ll receive. The more you bet, the more FanCash you accumulate.
You can cash out FanCash whenever you want, and can choose to cash it all out or just a portion. You have two options with your FanCash, as you can convert it into bonus bets to use at the sportsbook or redeem it for site credit at Fanatics’ retail site, where you can put it towards buying merchandise or apparel of your favorite team.
FanCash doesn’t expire, so you can save up for a big bonus bet or a big purchase like a jersey. Either way, the program’s flexibility is a plus.
What are the payment options at sports betting sites?
Once you’ve registered for a betting site, there are plenty of ways to safely fund your account.
These options vary by state and operator, but here are some of the most common deposit methods:
You can choose which option is the best and most convenient for you.
Similarly, there are a number of ways you can withdraw money from your account as well.
- Bank Transfer
- Debit Card
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Check By Mail
Online sportsbooks protect your banking information, so you don’t have to worry about it being stolen when you’re making transactions.
What is the easiest sports betting site to cash out?
All sports betting sites regulated in the U.S. must honor your cash-out requests. The time it takes to receive your funds depends on the withdrawal method. The fastest you can get your money is usually 1-3 days. There are usually no fees for cashing out.
What is the easiest sports betting app to win on?
No betting site is the easiest to win on. That said, promotional offers, which include first-time bonuses and odds boosts, increase your chances of turning a profit. These promos vary based on the sportsbook and change throughout the year.
Is FanDuel or DraftKings Better?
They are essentially the same quality, and we recommend both for sports betting. FanDuel and DraftKings offer new user promotions, and you can claim both.
Which sports betting site has the most accurate odds?
No betting site has the most accurate odds, as odds change as sportsbooks take action. Furthermore, no sportsbooks consistently have the best odds for a specific betting market. We recommend shopping around for the best odds for the bet you’re looking to make.
Which sports betting site is the best?
No single sports betting site is the best. It’s all about the user experience, and every user has a different experience.
There are numerous online sportsbooks worth checking out. You’ll find the ones you like best by trying different options and figuring out which best fits your betting habits and preferences.
The bottom line is that the “best” sportsbook can depend on many factors, including the state you live in (or can most reasonably visit), promotions and market depth.