The Best Sports Betting Apps in the US: Top Betting Apps For October 2024
Mobile sports betting is now legal in 30 states. Our sportsbook experts have put together a list of the best sports betting apps in the US. All of our recommended best betting apps are licensed, regulated and legal in the United States. The team has examined many factors, including bonuses, customer service, betting markets, mobile app features, user experience, payout speed, and banking options. Find the best sports betting apps for your needs using our in-depth sportsbook app guide and top recommended sports betting app list.
*Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms.
Fanatics Sportsbook DC is Live! Get $1,000 Bonus at Sign-Up
Fanatics Sportsbook DC is up and running! New users can Bet and Get Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets. Start things off right with your Fanatics Sportsbook bonus in the District. There is no bonus code. Just click to claim this offer.
Caesars Sportsbook DC is Live! $1,000 Welcome Offer
Join Caesars Sportsbook DC and get Up to $1,000 On Caesars If Your First Bet Loses. This offer is a great way to begin your wagering journey in Washington, D.C. Use the code LINEUPS1000 to unlock this bonus.
BetMGM Sportsbook Available Throughout DC
Bet MGM Sportsbook can now be accessed across Washington, D.C. Earlier it could only be used within a two-block radius of Nationals Park. BetMGM partners with the Washington Nationals and operates BetMGM Sportsbook at the ballpark. New users can get up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first bet loses. Click to claim this BetMGM offer.
Bet365 Launches in PA!
Bet365 PA has begun operations in Pennsylvania. New customers can get a Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 50 Spins in the bet365 Casino welcome offer. If you prefer, you can choose a $1,000 First Bet Safety Net. There is no promo code, just click to claim offer. Read more about bet365 below.
The Best Sports Betting Apps for 2024
The US is embracing mobile sports betting as it continues to launch nationwide. Sports fans can access several sports betting sites, so knowing more about each platform is essential before deciding which one to deposit your money into.
BetMGM Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook are some of the top choices for sports bettors right now. Each has something unique to offer, unique promotions, or a well-designed mobile app.
The LINEUPS.com staff has done a deep dive into the wide range of mobile sportsbooks to break down the pros and cons of each platform. This page features the top sportsbooks available in the US, with in-depth reviews, signup info and how to get the best promo codes for big bonuses.
Ranking The Best Betting Apps
- Caesars Sportsbook: Best for Promotions
- Bet365 Sportsbook: Best for Major US Sports
- BetMGM Sportsbook: Best for Rewards
- BetRivers Sportsbook: Best for Daily Bettors
- FanDuel Sportsbook: Best for Multi-Faceted Bettors
- DraftKings Sportsbook: Best Overall Sportsbook
- Hard Rock Sportsbook: Best for Customer Service
- Fanatics Sportsbook: Best for Fans of Merchandise
- ESPN Bet Sportsbook: Best for Deposit Options
Each sports betting site on the market has plenty of unique features that set it apart.
DraftKings Sportsbook has one of the best welcome bonuses in sports betting, with a maximum of $1,250 in betting credits and one of the best app interfaces.
Coming from one of the biggest names in gaming, BetMGM Sportsbook is ideal for rewards-focused bettors, as the more MGM Rewards you collect, the more likely you’ll get perks for dining, entertainment, MGM Resorts stays and much more.
Suppose you’re more focused on big promotions – in that case, you’ll want to check out Caesars Sportsbook, which consistently gives bettors various promos such as parlay boosts and bet incentives on sporting events. Similarly, BetRivers gives users plenty of profit boosts and other promos, with some focused on specific days of the week for daily bettors.
If you’re a fan of sports betting, casino gaming, daily fantasy sports and horse racing, you should look at FanDuel Sportsbook, as you can use one unified login across all its platforms.
If you focus more on the major sports leagues (NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA), you’ll want to check out Bet365 Sportsbook, which provides users with a simple interface to bet on the top US sporting events.
And if you enjoy sporting your favorite team’s gear while you are wagering, Fanatics Sportsbook might be for you. Its FanCash rewards program gives you virtual currency with every bet you make. FanCash can be exchanged for bonus bets or merchandise at the Fanatics Store.
Contents
The Best Betting Apps & Mobile Sportsbooks Reviewed
With the rapid growth of the sports betting industry, many different sportsbooks have entered the market. Each sportsbook has something unique to offer, especially regarding the signup promos.
Here are the current best online sportsbooks available:
1. Caesars Sportsbook Betting App
Caesars Sportsbook is the third sportsbook, along with DraftKings and FanDuel, to have an exclusive partnership with the NFL. Caesars has a ton of retail casinos, but you don’t need to visit one of them to bet now as the brand’s mobile application allows users to bet from anywhere, so long as they are within the confines of one of the states where Caesars Sportsbook has launched.
Caesars Sportsbook is a great option for all bettors, particularly those who plan to make an initial deposit as the bonus bet is one of the largest in the industry at $1,000 in most states in which it operates. Caesars Sportsbook is particularly great for users looking to bet on international sports. The partnership with William Hill has allowed Caesars to offer a wide range of European soccer, golf, tennis and more. Caesars Sportsbook provides excellent customer support and seamless banking options
Caesars Sportsbook has potentially the best signup offer in the sports betting industry in most states it operates with a $1,000 first bet on Caesars when you wager your first $50 after signing up. Use the promo code “LINEUPS1000” to access this excellent offer.
2. Bet365 Betting App
Founded in 2000 by Denise Coates, Bet365 is a popular international betting company. Coates assembled the platform and a trading team, with the official online launch in March 2001, over 20 years ago. Although the platform has expanded into the US, Bet365 has branches in Australia, Bulgaria, Malta, Manchester, and Gibraltar.
If you’re a fan of the four major sports in the US. (NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB), you’ll find what you need with Bet365. However, Bet365 is also an ideal spot for sports that won’t pop up on every platform. For example, you can wager everything from cricket and cycling to darts and snooker. The sportsbook also offers parlay bonuses on sports like tennis and soccer and parlays across multiple sports.
Just sign up with this link during registration and individuals will have the choice between their first bet being covered up to $1,000 or a bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets (win or lose) offer.
3. BetMGM Betting App
While DraftKings and FanDuel have parlayed their strong customer base from DFS into their mobile sports betting platforms, BetMGM Sportsbook has a strong foundation in the MGM International and GVC Holdings companies. MGM is a globally recognized betting brand, and its sportsbook features the luxury its customers have grown accustomed to. BetMGM features some of the most extensive banking features and a great offering of rewards and loyalty programs associated with the greater MGM brand.
BetMGM features some of the best promotions in the sports betting industry, including its Lions’ Boost, one of the best odds boosts out there. BetMGM also offers such promotions as insured prop bets, long-term challenges, parlay profit boosts and more. Those make for an awesome platform for bettors who love long-term and daily boosts. With a wide range of sports, an immersive selection of prop bet markets, and tons of live-betting features, BetMGM has one of the most extensive betting selections.
BetMGM offers new users a bonus of a $1,500 for the sportsbook. Up to $1,500 in bonus bets paid back if your first bet does not win. *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Additional terms. BetMGM also has a $1,000 deposit match for its online casino + $25 on the house. Use the promo code “LINEUPSMGM” to access this offer.
4. FanDuel Betting App
FanDuel has become a major player in the sports betting industry as its mobile betting app is live in over eight states. While it started as a top DFS provider, FanDuel’s mobile sportsbook is now an even bigger product. Lineups.com has been working with FanDuel since 2013, and we recommend it as one of our favorite sports betting platforms. FanDuel offers a wide range of sports and is working on adding even more markets. The mobile application for FanDuel is arguably the best in the industry, combining an efficient presentation with seamless functionality.
FanDuel Sportsbook is an excellent choice for several different types of bettors. With FanDuel’s Same Game Parlays, bettors who want to be fully immersed in one specific game can have the most personalized and unique experience. FanDuel provides arguably the most extensive prop bet markets in the industry, meaning each game on the schedule has tons of betting potential.
To go with its excellent features, FanDuel Sportsbook has decided to provide one of the best signup offers in the industry. New users can access a Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets promo.
5. Fanatics Betting App
Fanatics Sportsbook is the newest venture for the iconic brand synonymous with sports apparel and memorabilia. Fanatics Sportsbook differentiates itself with its FanCash loyalty program. Bettors receive FanCash with each wager. The credits can be swapped for bonus bets or gear at the Fanatics Store. Regular profit boosts also meet with favor from fans.
The mobile app is another strong point. Its fast and simple to master. Switching leagues for the best bet is no sweat. Secure banking methods are reassuring. Download the app on your iOS or Android device at no cost.
Fanatics’ generous welcome bonus is also nice. Bet and Get Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets. How it works: You get up to $1,000 in bet credits should you lose your opening wagers on the site over the first 10 days. Maximum daily bet is $100, minimum is $5. No promo code. Just click to claim.
6. DraftKings Betting App
DraftKings started as one of the best Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) providers in the country and has now launched a comprehensive sportsbook available in several states and internationally in several countries. DraftKings Sportsbook is available both on desktop platforms and through its mobile application. The sportsbook is 100% safe and secure and offers a variety of methods for depositing and withdrawing money. DraftKings transfers are completed quickly and painlessly.
DraftKings Sportsbook is built to appeal to various bettors, particularly with a mobile application with a stunning user interface and clean functionality. DraftKings has one of the best apps in sports betting, making the whole process simple for users. Even though DraftKings offers many sports, the interface is approachable for new users. DraftKings also offers some of the best promos for getting site credits and maximizing profits.
In addition to the extensive odds boosts and promotions for existing users, DraftKings offers one of the best new user bonuses in the industry. At the time of signup, new users can receive a $1,250 Bonus in the form of a Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 20% Deposit Match Up to $1,000 (25x playthrough) + $50 Bonus Bet with $5 Deposit.
Click through our exclusive links to access this offer.
7. Hard Rock Bet Betting App
Hard Rock Bet is the online betting app from Hard Rock International, and it’s gained some fans in different areas. It’s not surprising that the company would provide an excellent sports betting site, as Hard Rock International is also behind brick-and-mortar casinos in Atlantic City, Cincinnati and Tampa. Plus, Hard Rock Online Casino has launched in the state of New Jersey.
Hard Rock Bet gets plenty of praise for its mobile app, which has very high reviews on both the App Store and Google Play Store. The mobile app is easy to use so that new users won’t be overwhelmed trying out the mobile betting app. However, the design isn’t too simple so that longtime sports bettors won’t enjoy it. Hard Rock Bet also has plenty of ways to bet on different games, especially with major leagues like the NFL, NCAAF and NBA.
8. ESPN Bet Betting App
Like Fanatics, ESPN Bet is one of the latest sports betting operators to launch. The mobile sportsbook is an evolution from Barstool Sportsbook, the platform ESPN Bet relaunched from. ESPN Bet has built from Barstool’s offerings, with unique promotions and exclusive odds boosts. ESPN Bet also showcases a simple design that brand new bettors will find easy to use.
Fans of ESPN programs will also see familiar faces such as Scott Van Pelt, Erin Dolan, Mike Greenberg and Elle Duncan alongside different ESPN Bet promotions. In addition to the various promotions available to users after they sign up, new ESPN Bet users get access to an excellent signup bonus.
Comparing Sportsbooks & Promos
Since the federal ban on sports betting was struck down in 2018, various sportsbook operators have begun partnering and launching in states where sports betting is now fully legal. That has brought an abundance of promotions and bonuses for new users. Most come as a new user bet or deposit bonus match. However, the promos and bonuses range from sportsbook to sportsbook. Caesars Sportsbook offers a $1,000 first bet on Caesars using “LINEUPS1000”. DraftKings Sportsbook offers a Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets + 20% Deposit Match Up to $1,000 (25x playthrough) + $50 Bonus Bet with $5 Deposit + 1-month subscription to NFL+ Premium.
Sports Betting App Bonuses, Bet Credits, and Promo Codes
Most sportsbook bonuses and promos for new users come from deposit bonuses and/or new user bets. Deposit bonuses are where the sportsbook will match what you initially deposit and release in the form of site credits for you to wager with. You will need to play through that money to be able to withdraw. The new user bets are where your initial bet after signing up will be refunded to you in site credit if that bet does not win. Terms vary by the sportsbook for odds limits and time you must use the new user bet by. Check out the top promo codes and bonuses.
| Sportsbook | New User Promo Value | New User Promo Code | New User Promo Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook Promo Code | $1,250 | No Code Click Link | $1,250 = Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 20% Deposit Match Up to $1,000 (25x playthrough) + $50 Bonus Bet With $5 Deposit |
| Caesars Sportsbook Promo Code | $1,000 | LINEUPS1000 | $1,000 First Bet On Caesars |
| Bet365 Sportsbook Bonus Code | Up to $1,000 | LINEUPSBET | $1,000 First Bet Safety Net or Bet $5, Get $200 |
| BetMGM Sportsbook Bonus Code | $1,500 | LINEUPS | Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back If Your First Bet Does Not Win |
| FanDuel Sportsbook Promo Code | $300 | No Code - Click Through Link to Unlock | Bet $5, Get $300 In Bonus Bets |
| Fanatics Sportsbook Promo Code | $1,000 | No Code - Click Through Link to Unlock | Bet & Get Up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets |
How to Bet on Sports in the US
Betting on sports is a super easy process that we can help you with here at Lineups.com. Most of the work has already been done for you, and you only have to follow the steps below!
Find A Legal US Sportsbook
First, download the DraftKings Sportsbook app or visit the DraftKings Sportsbook website on your desktop. It is key that your wifi or mobile device has geolocation turned on. This way, DraftKings can confirm that you are located in the state you are registering.
Select a Sign-Up Bonus
Using our site, you will find huge promotions and bonuses for signing up for many major sportsbooks. Ensure you click the link on our sportsbook reviews to maximize your sign-up bonus. These bonuses range from $100s in promotions to tons of money in deposit matching.
Create Your Account
Once you have clicked on the link to ensure you are getting the promotion, the next thing to do is register your account on your mobile device or desktop. One key thing to note is that you must have geolocation turned on whether you use wifi or mobile data. The sportsbook needs to be able to confirm that your location is indeed within state borders for whatever state you are betting in. The sportsbook will not let you register/place bets if it cannot verify your location.
When registering, you must provide quite a bit of personal information, depending on the company and state. However, every sportsbook that has gone through our 3-point check is safe and has tight security on your information. These details are needed so that they can confirm your identity and also make sure that you are of legal betting age.
Depositing/Withdrawing
Once your account is created, the next step is to deposit money. Most major sportsbooks will accept debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, bill pay and many more options. The deposit should go through quickly, and then you can be on your way to betting.
Once you want to cash out on your bankroll, you will be given the same options and the money should be transferred to your destination quickly. Remember that if you used a promotion that rewarded you cash from deposit matching or bet credits, this money is not eligible for withdraw. Remember to read the fine print and understand when and what money you can withdraw from your bankroll using promotions!
How to Choose an Online Sportsbook
First of all, you want to choose a Sportsbook that is legitimate. The top eight sportsbook sites on this page pass our LINEUPS 3-Point Check System. The 3-Point check ensures the Sportsbook is legal, licensed and safe. This means that the sportsbook only operates in states where it is legal to do so, it only operates when licensed to do so, and the sportsbook is regulated by an overseeing body.
The next big thing to check is if the sportsbook is available in the state you plan to wager in. Every state has different laws and different sportsbooks. FanDuel and DraftKings have the two largest reaches regarding the number of states they are available in.
Once you know the sportsbook is licensed, legal, regulated and available, it is time to choose the best one for you. Things to keep in mind include how big of a new user bonus that sportsbook offers and if the sportsbook carries the betting markets you are looking for. Each sportsbook site has different wagers, and some have more than others.
Of course, there is also the user interface, support, banking options and more to consider. You want to pick a sportsbook site and app you are comfortable using. You can check out in-depth reviews for our sportsbooks here on Lineups.
US States With Sports Betting
Sports betting is legal in PA, and mobile apps are available on iOS & Android. Lineups has exclusive PA welcome bonus offers.
Sports Betting is live and legal in New Jersey. Lineups has in-depth reviews and the highest sign-up bonuses for the top NJ Sportsbooks.
Arizona mobile sports betting went live in September of 2021, right in time for the 2021 NFL Season. Lineups has the max bonuses from the best AZ Apps.
Mobile sports betting is live for all of New York. Lineups has exclusive promo codes for the best NY betting apps.
Sports betting is legal in CO, and the top sportsbook apps are ready for download. Lineups has the highest CO bonuses.
Sports Betting is live and legal in Indiana. Lineups has reviews and the highest sign-up bonuses for the IN betting apps.
Sports betting launched in Tennessee on Nov. 1, 2020. Our Top 3 sportsbooks are taking bets and offering site credits on sign-up.
Sports Betting in Michigan was launched in mid-January 2021. Seven of our top-rated sportsbooks are approved for mobile bets in MI.
Sports betting launched in Virginia on Jan. 22, 2021. The nation’s leading sportsbooks are live. If you’re in VA, you can legally bet now.
Sports Betting in Ohio launched on Jan. 1, 2023. Seven of our top-rated sportsbooks are approved for mobile bets in OH.
Other States With Sports Betting
Wyoming
Wyoming was another state to launch in 2021. It has seen relative success given the size of the state, and DraftKings, BetMGM and FanDuel are live!
Illinois
Illinois went live with online sports betting in 2020 but hit a wall due to the pandemic. They have struggled to capture the success of nearby states due to the in-person sign-ups and delays in launching retail sportsbooks due to city and league issues.
Louisiana
Louisiana sports betting officially launched on Jan. 28, 2022, and plenty of sportsbooks are now available there. Caesars Sportsbook has the naming rights to the Superdome, the New Orleans Saints home stadium.
Kansas
Kansas was one of the few states to go live in 2022, and while a relatively small market, the state has a competitive group of sportsbooks currently operating both retail and through mobile apps.
Maryland
Maryland sports betting launched on Nov. 22, 2022. You can find our favorite Maryland sports betting apps and promo code views through the Maryland sports betting page.
Ohio
Ohio launched in early January of 2023 and was a catalyst in implementing responsible gambling methods across the country.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of the most lucrative sports betting markets today, and it launched in March 2023, just in time for the NCAA March Madness tournament.
Top US Sportsbook Apps Odds Comparisons
One of the optimum sports betting strategies is access to as many sports betting apps as possible. This ensures that you can take advantage of each sportsbook’s unique promotions and compare odds between different possible bets on the various platforms. For example, let’s say the Los Angeles Rams are -115 on the money line to beat the Buffalo Bills on DraftKings Sportsbook. If you’re signed up for FanDuel Sportsbook and see that the Rams are facing moneyline odds of -105, you’re getting a better number placing your wager with FanDuel because the odds are considered longer on that book.
The same goes for many different types of bets, such as futures bets, parlay bets and player prop bets. Whether you’re signed up with DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, BetMGM Sportsbook, Caesars Sportsbook or whichever sportsbook app you prefer, having multiple options helps you get the best betting odds every time.
US Sports Betting Background
United States sports betting was federally illegal until 2018. In 2018, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 was challenged in court in Murphy v. National Collegiate Athletic Association; the case made it to the Supreme Court, where the court deemed PASPA unlawful as it conflicts with the Tenth Amendment.
Now, each state and territory has the right to decide if it would like to legalize sports betting. Several states have legalized, regulated and taxed sports wagering. Most of these states have also legalized online sports betting. This new movement pushed companies such as DraftKings, FanDuel, MGM Resorts International and many more to create online sportsbooks. Now, in states such as Michigan, Virginia and Tennessee, an entire sportsbook is readily available online via a sportsbook site or mobile app.
US Sports Betting FAQ
- What sportsbook has the best new user bonus?
- Which online sportsbook is the best?
- Is US sports betting legal?
- Can I bet on sports?
- What is the legal betting age?
- Can I bet on sports when visiting a state?
- Can I bet on collegiate sports?
- Can I bet on sports from my phone?
- What is an offshore sportsbook & is it safe?
- Can I use Paypal to deposit and withdrawal money?
- Are winnings on sportsbooks taxable?
- Is Daily Fantasy Sports considered sports betting?
What sportsbook has the best new user bonus?
Bet365 Sportsbook offers a $1,000 first bet safety net or you can bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets. DraftKings offers up to a $1,250 bonus – $1,250 = Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 20% Deposit Match Up to $1,000 (25x playthrough) + $50 Bonus Bet With $5 Deposit. BetMGM offers up to $1,500 in bonus bets paid back if your first bet does not win.
Which online sportsbook is the best?
It isn’t easy to pin down just one sportsbook as being the best, but DraftKings and FanDuel are the perennial leaders in betting handles, and that says something. Caesars’s new platform, in partnership with William Hill, is making a strong run at the best user interface.
Is US sports betting legal?
Yes, the United States Supreme Court overturned the Professional and Amateur Sports Participation Act in 2018, which paved the path for launching sports betting state-by-state. The legislation process is well underway, and more progress is made daily on the growth of sports betting.
Can I bet on sports?
If you live in one of the states where sports betting is live, you can now bet on sports on desktop and mobile devices. Sports betting is legal in 38 states plus Washington D.C. but not yet legal in many others.
What is the legal betting age?
Currently, all but five states require individuals to be at least 21 years old to bet on sports. In Montana, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Kentucky and Washington, the age limit for sports betting is 18 years old and over.
Can I bet on sports when visiting a state?
Yes, you do not need to be a resident of a state that has launched sports betting to place wagers. You must be within the state borders to place bets, even if you do not live there.
Can I bet on collegiate sports?
The short answer to this question is yes. Maine recently attempted to pass legislation that would not allow in-state collegiate betting, but it did not go through. Certain types of prop bets are not allowed, though.
Can I bet on sports from my phone?
Yes. Most sportsbooks have a free mobile app to download and create an account. As long as you are in a state where sports betting is legal, you can download sportsbooks and place bets. However, not every sportsbook is licensed in every state, though.
What is an offshore sportsbook & is it safe?
Offshore sportsbooks are sportsbooks that operate outside of US borders. They are not US-regulated sportsbooks; therefore, your funds are not protected, and protection standards often fall short.
Can I use PayPal to deposit and withdraw money?
PayPal is a banking method that a lot of sportsbooks use and should be available on most of them. However, some sportsbooks don’t use PayPal, and you will have to use other banking methods, such as credit and debit cards or ACH payments.
Are winnings on sportsbooks taxable?
Yes. Winnings on sportsbooks are fully taxable. However, you do have the ability to deduct losses. Your annual income determines your tax bracket, which you will pay on any winnings from your bets on any sportsbook.
Is Daily Fantasy Sports considered sports betting?
Daily Fantasy Sports are not considered sports betting as they were determined to be a “game of skill” and are legal in the United States of America and Canada. One important note is that you can deduct entry fees from your taxable winnings.
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Common Sports Betting Restrictions
The most common restriction regarding states and sports betting is the legal age. In most states, you must be 21 years or older; however, the legal age requirement in other states is 18.
Location restrictions are the other common theme when it comes to sports betting. State lines are important when using mobile apps and accessing sportsbook desktop sites. You are legally required to be eligible and located within the state of the sportsbook you are trying to access. That means if you normally live in Colorado and travel to California, you cannot place wagers while in California. Apps will geo-locate your device to verify your location. Conversely, if you live in a non-legal state like California and travel to a legal state like Colorado, you can place sports bets. Residency of a state is not a requirement.
Collegiate Sports Betting
Every state that has legalized sports betting has set rules for how users can wager on college sports teams. In most states, you can freely place bets on colleges in and outside the state. However, a state like Illinois has banned wagering on in-state college sports teams.
Live betting and player props are two things that are universally not allowed when it comes to betting on college teams. Most sportsbooks provide many odds on games between basketball and football. Those sports remain the most popular and contribute towards high-betting seasons during the Fall and Winter.
Betting Guide
Moneyline
Moneyline is the easiest form of betting and the best way to learn as a beginner. Its simplicity is attractive to many new bettors, as all you need to do is pick the winning team. Since not all games are equal in odds, a team is either a “favorite” or an “underdog,” depending on whether or not they are expected to win. With a moneyline bet, you choose the team you think will win, and your payout will vary based on how heavy of a favorite or underdog they are.
Spread
A spread is similar to a money line but instead creates close to or even odds by forcing the favorite to “cover” by winning by a certain amount of points, goals, or other scoring units relative to the game being played. The spread can be set by runs in baseball, points in basketball or football, or goals in hockey. A five-point spread in basketball isn’t significant, but a five-run spread is extremely uncommon and difficult to cover. Therefore, the measurement of a spread looks different across various sports.
Parlay
Parlays are a form of betting where every single “leg,” or individual bet, has to win for you to receive a payout. Since parlays are inherently less likely to hit because you have to win several bets in conjunction, and one loss means you lose everything, the payouts are substantially higher. Parlays should not be solely relied on as a bettor but more of a fun way to diversify your betting portfolio.
Teasers
Teasers have many similarities to parlays but offer differences in the point spread to make bets more favorable. Therefore, when you bet on a teaser, it must be two legs, and with those two legs, they both have to hit to pay you out. Additionally, the teaser usually holds even odds, even though you have to hit on two games to win. Like parlays, teasers can have several legs and are not limited to two.
