Sports Betting Sites for 2024

While the majority of online sports bettors have become accustomed to using their favorite online betting site’s betting app over the last few years, we’re here to shed some light on the best legal sports betting websites on the market right now. With the rise of legalized online sports betting across various states, bettors now have more options than ever before.

That’s right – we’re strictly talking about the desktop website accessible through your laptop or PC. Despite a heavy focus on wagering on-the-go by most bookmakers, the best online sports betting sites also step up to the plate with a quality desktop offering.

Follow along with the rest of this page, where we’ll break down the Top 9 best sports betting sites currently live in the United States (it used to be the top 10 but PointsBet merged with Fanatics, so we left it at 9), along with a slew of other important information in regards to placing action on your desktop or laptop computer.

Top 9 US sports betting sites

Now it’s time for the moment we’ve all been waiting for… the top online sports betting sites in the United States! Each of the sportsbook operators listed below cracked our ranking due to their stellar desktop client. An industry-standard sportsbook website typically contains little to no clutter, displays information in an orderly fashion, and offers competitive betting odds while you bet on your computer. Here are our Top 9 sportsbook sites that fit the bill:

1. BetMGM Sportsbook
2. Fanatics Sportsbook
3. DraftKings Sportsbook
4. bet365 Sportsbook
5. ESPN BET
6. Caesars Sportsbook
7. BetRivers Sportsbook
8. Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook
9. FanDuel Sportsbook

1. Best for Betting Markets: BetMGM Sportsbook

BetMGM Sportsbook was one of the first online betting sites to take off in the United States post-PASPA, and its improvement over the years really shows. Simply put, no list of top sports betting sites would be complete without BetMGM. BetMGM has undergone numerous changes since its initial launch, allowing the company to fine-tune and strengthen its product.

BetMGM’s latest desktop website is built similarly to many other top online sportsbook sites: the games are listed smack dab in the middle of the screen, sports markets are listed over to the left, and the player’s bet slip resides on the right.

One of the best features of the BetMGM website is its extensive menu bar at the top of the screen, which is featured at all times. This menu not only contains each of the tabs used to navigate the brand’s mobile set up (Home, A-Z Menu, My Bets, Promotions) but also links to each and every popular sports market currently available at BetMGM.

When registering on the sportsbook make sure that you enter the BetMGM bonus code (check the table below for the current code) to make sure that you qualify for the new player bonus. BetMGM us one of the top sportsbooks at rewarding customers, and the new player offer is a true value.

BetMGM Sportsbook Featured Promotions for August:

• None available at this time. Check back soon!

Here’s a few more of our favorite aspects of BetMGM’s site:

• Simple, Smooth Layout: BetMGM may not have the best technology in the industry backing its website, but the brand certainly knows how to organize a webpage. Every function is clearly labeled throughout the site for easy access, creating a stress-free wagering experience.
• Stream Media for Free: Located directly above the bet slip on desktop, BetMGM offers its players free streaming of lesser-known events such as tennis, table tennis, and snooker. Just log in, scroll through the list for your preferred event and watch for free on BetMGM’s website!
• Online casino & poker just a click away: In states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania that have access to online casino gaming, BetMGM makes switching between its offerings as easy as ever. A small tab featuring a window of popular casino games is readily available just below your bet slip, while tabs linked to the brand’s casino and poker sites are also available at the top of the page.

2. Best for Performance: Fanatics Sportsbook

A more recent addition to our online sports betting site list is Fanatics Sportsbook, the quickly up-and-coming retail giant-turned sports betting powerhouse. Fanatics is currently available in a handful of states with an excellent Fanatics Sportsbook promo code, after launching in full in August 2023. After recently acquiring PointsBet, Fanatics’ footprint looks set to grow, and fast.

The first thing we want to address is that Fanatics Sportsbook technically isn’t a sports betting site, at least not yet. At present, the brand only exists as a premium sports betting app. So be aware that if you’re looking specifically for a sportsbook that you can access through your web browser and bet with from a computer, Fanatics Sportsbook would not be for you. That said, the Fanatics Sportsbook product is exciting enough that it is worthy of discussion amongst the industry’s top sportsbooks.

Upon accessing Fanatics Sportsbook, users will be instantly drawn to the clean, simple aesthetic. The color scheme is heavy on blacks and whites but in ways that complement each other and remain easy on the eyes. They place their daily “Odds Boosts” front and center, and often provide some useful contextual information about them. Users can flip through the available sports along a bar near the top, while there are four convenient options along the bottom of the screen, including a home button, a detailed schedule of upcoming events, “My Bets”, and a useful search feature. Overall, the performance was what impressed us the most. Fanatics Sportsbook is extremely responsive.

Bet and Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets!

Fanatics Sportsbook Featured Promotions for August:

• None available at this time. Check back soon!

A few other areas we enjoyed:

• Odds Boosts: We mentioned this briefly above, but we really liked the way that Fanatics Sportsbook handles their odds boosts. They are displayed clearly on the page, and they sometimes include little snippets of context about the wager alongside the clearly displayed odds. It’s easy to see what the odds were, and what the benefit is for the bettor.
• Earn FanCash: The Fanatics retail store has long rewarded its loyal patrons, and so too does Fanatics Sportsbook. The FanCash Rewards program has been ported over to the sports betting side of the business, too, allowing sports bettors to accumulate FanCash as they make bets. Straight Bets (1%), Parlay Bets (3%), and Same Game Parlays (5%) will all yield FanCash rewards. FanCash can be redeemed at any time for bonus bets within the sportsbook, or on the Fanatics website for eligible merchandise.
• Detailed Event Schedule: It seems like such a simple feature, but Fanatics Sportsbook has executed its “Schedule” page brilliantly. It’s exceedingly easy to click on the schedule tab and see every bet-able game, complete with the start time and current odds, sorted by sport.

3. Best for Functionality: FanDuel Sportsbook

FanDuel Sportsbook is highly regarded as the king of sports betting sites in the United States, so it should come as no surprise that the brand’s website is in fact one of our top betting sites, especially for the NFL. As an online betting site, FanDuel offers a seamless experience with features like live streaming for various sports, ongoing boosts and bonuses, and smooth banking methods. FanDuel’s desktop platform is an exact replica of its world-class mobile platform, from its aesthetics all the way down to its functionality… whether you like to bet on your laptop or desktop, the FanDuel client is nearly peerless.

The middle of the homepage showcases the biggest sporting events for that day, while players can sift through other trending sports markets using menus at the top of the page and over to the left side of the screen. The right side of the website is reserved for your bet slip, which is extremely simple to use. Adding and removing selections is a breeze, as is creating a parlay or teaser using said selections. It can all be done using the bet slip feature on FanDuel’s website.

FanDuel Sportsbook Featured Promotions for August:

• MLB 30% Profit Boost for SGP/SGP+: Place a 3+ leg SGP/SGP+ on any MLB markets for 08/12 games and receive a 30% profit boost. Odds must be +400 or greater. (08/12)
• Dinger Tuesdays: Place a $25+ wager on a “To Hit a Home Run” market and receive a $5 Bonus Bet for every HR hit in that game! $25 max in Bonus Bets per game. (08/13)

In addition to its usability on the wagering side of things, FanDuel’s website topped our list for numerous other reasons, including:

• Integrated casino, racebook, and DFS: Similar to opening tabs within your browser, FanDuel’s website contains tabs with links to its online casino, racebook, and Daily Fantasy Sports sites. All of FanDuel’s properties are synced, so feel free to give them a shot using the same login as your sportsbook account!
• Easy access to My Bets & Promotions: There’s hardly anything worse than not being able to find your existing, upcoming, or settled action on a sports betting website. This is not an issue with FanDuel’s site, as the My Bets tab is easily accessible at all times using a tab in the middle of the screen. Also found one tab over is the Promotions tab, another useful area of the site that players will often turn to.
• Fast, Responsive Technology: Perhaps the best part of using a FanDuel product is the tech backing the operation. Players who use FanDuel’s website will find very short load times (if any), zero lag, and should never have any trouble establishing their location.

4. Best for Promos: DraftKings Sportsbook

DraftKings Sportsbook has been one of the nation’s most popular online sports betting sites since it first made the jump from daily fantasy sports back in 2018. The brand was one of the first to launch in New Jersey after the abolishment of PASPA and is now accepting action, with a valuable DraftKings Sportsbook promo code and bonus, in over 20 different states. Its product is one of the best in the business, from the technology backing the operation to the number of different ways to play.

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets + 1 Month of NFL Premium!

DraftKings Sportsbook Featured Promotions for August:

• MLB HR Odds Surge: Place a wager on any “To Hit a Home Run” market and watch your odds surge by +100 or +200 in odds! Wagers range from $10 to $50. (08/12)

Upon opening the DraftKings desktop site, players will find a plethora of information available right off the bat. Live betting options occupy the center of the homepage and players can use the menu bar above to switch to upcoming game odds or even access DK’s ‘Stats Hub.’ The Stats Hub is a unique feature exclusive to DraftKings that allows players to take a deeper dive into a game or prop bet before locking in their action. It’s a really helpful addition for sports bettors of all sorts, so check it out next time you log in!

Players can access their bet slip on the right side of the screen, while all available sports markets are listed on the left side of the screen at all times. Even more menu options can be found at the very top of the homepage, allowing players to easily switch to the DraftKings marketplace, the brand’s casino site, or its world-class daily fantasy sports site.

Players who choose to place their action on the DraftKings sports betting site will also have access to other incredible features, such as the following:

• DraftKings Pools: You will not find any real-money pools or contests offered at other online sportsbooks. DraftKings offers a diverse selection of different ways to play, whether they are completely free or for a fixed entry rate. Players can set up their own private pool with friends, join a public one, or simply play for fun! The options are endless.
• Missions: On top of any promotions offered, DraftKings also assigns its users various ‘Missions,’ which are basically small tasks that can be completed to earn additional rewards! Missions typically include tasks such as ‘place three $30+ live bets and earn 1250 DK Crowns.’ Simply opt in, complete the task, and DK will compensate you!
• DraftKings Social: Another unique and innovative feature of the brand is its social media hub, DraftKings Social! This one-of-a-kind social network allows DK players to share their picks amongst friends and even tail them if they wish!

5. Best for Unique Features: bet365 Sportsbook

Bet365 Sportsbook may not be a household name in the U.S online gambling space yet, but this seasoned online betting site has been serving sports bettors digitally since it first went live overseas in March of 2001. The brand first made its plunge into the United States online wagering market in New Jersey back in August 2019, and has since delivered its bet365 bonus code to Arizona, Colorado, Ohio, Virginia, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

Upon accessing the bet365 Sportsbook desktop website, players will be greeted by a homepage that features all of the basics. All of the top upcoming events can be found smack in the middle of the bet365 main menu, along with the site’s special ‘Bet Boosts’ on offer for that specific day. A detailed menu of sports markets is located in a column on the left hand side of the homepage, while My Bets, Promotions, and other special Features can be found on the right side. Once players select a specific game to wager on, a floating bet slip will appear in the middle of their screen.

bet365’s desktop website definitely runs smoothly and offers everything a sports bettor could desire, from Same Game Parlays to a loaded live betting menu. As mentioned above, bet365 is always offering some sort of ‘Bet Boost’ or other form of promotion, which is key if a brand wants to keep active users coming back. Here are a few of our favorite aspects of the bet365 desktop client:

• Casino Integration: Players can click on the Casino tab at the top of bet365’s desktop site to switch over to the brand’s online casino platform at any time. Place a sports bet or hit on a hand of blackjack with bet365 using the same shared wallet!
• Strong Promotional Department: In addition to bet365’s daily Bet Boost, the site is always coming up with creative new ways to entice active users to keep placing bets. One of the more clever promotions offered by bet365 Sportsbook that we’ve seen is its ‘Early Payout’ Promotion, which pays out bettors before a game or event has concluded as soon as their team goes up by a certain amount of points. For example, if your NFL wager is leading by 17 or more points, bet365 will grade it as a winner even if that team ends up losing the game.
• Early Cash-Out: It can always help, and most certainly will never hurt a bettor, to have early cash-outs available on their online sportsbook of choice.

6. Best Among New Sites: ESPN BET

Continuing our list of the best online sports betting sites in the United States is a sportsbook that just launched – ESPN BET. While it’s certainly one of the best new betting sites, can we really rank ESPN BET among the best betting sites if they haven’t been around for too long? We think that we can.

First, ESPN BET is not PENN Entertainment’s first venture into the legal sports betting space. They’ve been around the block before and know what they’re getting into. Second, PENN made big leaps forward with their sports betting tech in recent months, and so far the betting site and ESPN BET promo code have met expectations.

Finally, the real brand here needs no introduction. ESPN, The Worldwide Leader in Sports, has been an authority in sports media for more than forty years. Every person with a passing interest in sports is familiar with ESPN, and that recognition has thus far translated well to ESPN BET.

New users only, must be physically present in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, or WV in order to wager. Players must sign up using a specified promotion code and then place an eligible wager on an eligible game during the promotion period. Please gamble responsibly.

Here are a couple of features that ESPN BET offers, affirming its position on our list of top betting sites in the US:

• Odds Boosts: Like many top sportsbooks, ESPN BET offers odds boosts. Unlike other sportsbooks, users can tail their favorite ESPN personalities and bet with them. One recent example is Stephen’s A-List boost, which boosted UNC and Duke to both cover in their Sweet 16 matchups. The odds were boosted from +285 to +320, which is an extra payout of $35 on a $100 bet. Pretty good.
• Rewards Program: PENN has offered a great rewards program for many years, and now anyone who uses ESPN BET can join the action. Reward points are earned on every wager and can be used for hotel nights, PENN Cash, or even a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line.
• Live Betting: Live betting is very easy to find on ESPN BET. It’s at the top of the page and in the featured column on the left side. The prices are competitive and the wide variety of live betting markets is useful for anyone who likes to find value as the game progresses.

7. Best for Ease of Use: Caesars Sportsbook

Following the brand’s 2021 merger with William Hill, Caesars Sportsbook took a step back and decided to start from scratch. A rebranded online sports betting site structure was revealed shortly after, and thus the incredible Caesars product that we know and love today was born.

Caesars Sportsbook has risen to the top of the online sports betting industry rather quickly since the rebrand, mostly due to a barrage of advertisements, quality rewards, and a must-claim Caesars Sportsbook promo code and bonus. Of course, the new and improved tech platform helped, too.

We found that Caesars’ desktop website was extremely easy to use – and that’s a good thing. Between the site’s clever use of space, strong responsiveness, and ease of finding what you’re looking for, the Caesars Sportsbook website is the total package.

21+. New users only. Offer valid and must be physically present in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, IL, MD, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY. 1-877-8-HOPENY (467369) or Text HOPENY (467369). Call 1-800-GAMBLER. ©2023, Caesars Entertainment.

Here are some of the site’s best features:

• Change Location with Ease: Most online sports betting sites geolocate players based on their current whereabouts, automatically directing them to the brand’s website tailored to their state. As a result, it can be both difficult and frustrating to switch to a different state’s website—but not at Caesars Sportsbook! Caesars’ website features a dropdown location menu at the top of the page, allowing players to choose from its list of active states and immediately jump right into that state’s specific website!
• One-Stop-Shop Bet Slip: While other sportsbooks require their players to run around like a chicken without a head to find their open bets or settled action, Caesars’ desktop website puts everything into one place. Players can access the Bet Slip on the right side of their screen to view any pending selections, upcoming open bets, or scroll through previously settled wagers.
• Promotions Readily Available: Another major issue at many competing online sportsbooks is their lack of promotions and how difficult it can be to locate them. Caesars’ desktop site showcases all of its active promos on a scrolling menu right in the middle of its homepage. Players can quickly view the brand’s offers here or open the promotions page for additional details.

8. Best for Rewards: BetRivers Sportsbook

Now live and accepting action in more than a dozen states plus Ontario, Canada, BetRivers Sportsbook has become a staple among U.S. online sports betting sites. The brand serves as the online betting platform for its parent company, Rush Street Interactive, and is best known for offering one of the best welcome bonuses in the industry. Seriously, if you haven’t utilized the BetRivers promo code and bonus offer yet then you’re missing out.

As far as the product itself goes, BetRivers’ desktop client cracked our list of the best sports betting sites due to its vibrant aesthetics, overload of information, and countless daily specials. In fact, we believe the desktop version of BetRivers is the best way to engage with the product.

The sportsbook portion of the BetRivers desktop site passes the eye test at first glance, with live betting options taking up the majority of the home screen. Two menus littered with different sports markets run along the top and left-hand side of the screen, allowing players to jump to a specific league or sport with ease.

One of the coolest features on BetRivers’ desktop website are the promotions and menu options tailored to players based on their location. For example, in New Jersey, the menu on the left hand side may cater specifically to bets on the local Giants or Jets, right above other leagues such as UFC, WNBA, and MLS. It’s a nice touch that could also be advantageous to local players, as many are likely to be in search of markets involving their team.

Here are a few more features that we liked in particular:

• Real Winners! Menu: Players can view any recent sports bet wins or casino hits cashed by other players on BetRivers using the menu on the right side of the homepage, labeled ‘Real Winners!’ Casino hits will display the name of the game that was won, while sports bets aren’t specified. And don’t worry – players who choose to remain anonymous can do so by heading over to their account settings.
• iRush Rewards: It’s rare to find a sportsbook website that offers any sort of loyalty program nowadays, so it’s refreshing to see the iRush Rewards system offered by BetRivers. With every wager placed online, players will earn both Loyalty Level Points and Bonus Store Points – the former of which will improve your earning power, while the latter can be exchanged for rewards and other incentives in the Bonus Store!
• Free Live Streams: Very few online sports betting sites also offer free live streaming (or any streaming, for that matter) on their desktop website – but not BetRivers. Players who just wagered on an obscure tennis or snooker match can now head over to the ‘Stream’ tab on the BetRivers desktop site and find just about any event imaginable. Simply log in to your BetRivers account and enjoy the show.

9. Best Interface: Hard Rock Bet

Hard Rock Bet is a recent addition to our best online sports betting sites list. Their overall footprint in the American sports betting market has only grown in recent years, and with Hard Rock picking up business in Florida again – Hard Rock Bet and the Hard Rock Bet promo code, can’t be ignored.

Aesthetically Hard Rock Bet is one of our favorite-looking top sportsbooks. The clean grays, blacks, and contrasting white text is exceptionally easy to read and peruse. In addition, the electric-purple accents also stand out perfectly against the darker background shades.

Functionally, Hard Rock Bet performs as well as any of the other sports betting sites on our list. Their live odds are quick, the betting experience is simple, and they offer an excellent menu of betting options. Plus, they have an active promotions section that regulars should always keep an eye on.

A few other areas we enjoyed in specific:

• Flex Parlay: Parlay bets are a lot of fun, but they’re certainly a challenge to hit. Hard Rock Bet’s Flex Parlay system allows you to flip a switch and enable a degree of insurance. With a Flex Parlay, you don’t have to be perfect – there IS a margin for error. For example, with a 2-of-3 Flex Parlay you only need to win two fo your three bets to cash the ticket. Now, you will have an odds adjustment – but winning a lesser payout is certainly better than a complete loss.
• Happy Hour: Hard Rock Bet runs a “Happy Hour” promotion with unique boosts available every Friday. Starting at 4:00 pm, an exciting, new boost offer will be available for just one hour. At 5:00 pm, it will switch to a new boost, and then it does the same at 6:00pm. Each Happy Hour boost is only available for one hour, and then that value disappears.
• Headliner Treatment Rewards: All of the best betting sites offer some sort of VIP Club or Loyalty Rewards structure. Each bet you place with Hard Rock Bet will come with both Rewards Points and Tier Credits. The higher you climb in the VIP program, the better your Headliner Treatment becomes. All Reward Points can be redeemed for sports betting bonuses, free bets, wheel spins, and plenty of other exciting rewards. Plus, you can earn comp dollars to use at participating Hard Rock Hotel & Casino properties.

States with legal betting sites

Ever since the United States got the green light to begin legalizing sports betting back in 2018, states have been individually voting on the matter and regulating their specific markets as they see fit. While many states haven’t budged, an increasingly large number have elected to pursue the legalization of sports betting. Of the states that do offer legal betting, some have chosen to selectively permit in-person betting only, others only offer legal betting online, and some states have approved both types.

States with full legal access to both retail sports betting and the best online betting sites :

• Arizona Sports Betting
• Arkansas Sports Betting
• Colorado Sports Betting
• Connecticut Sports Betting
• Delaware Sports Betting
• Florida Sports Betting
• Illinois Sports Betting
• Indiana Sports Betting
• Iowa Sports Betting
• Kansas Sports Betting
• Kentucky Sports Betting
• Louisiana Sports Betting
• Maine Sports Betting
• Maryland Sports Betting
• Massachusetts Sports Betting
• Michigan Sports Betting
• Nevada Sports Betting
• New Hampshire Sports Betting
• New Jersey Sports Betting
• New York Sports Betting
• North Carolina Sports Betting
• Ohio Sports Betting
• Oregon Sports Betting
• Pennsylvania Sports Betting
• Rhode Island Sports Betting
• Tennessee Sports Betting
• Vermont Sports Betting
• Virginia Sports Betting
• Washington D.C. Sports Betting
• West Virginia Sports Betting
• Wyoming Sports Betting

North Carolina betting apps officially launched on March 11, 2024. We are now able to bring you North Carolina betting bonuses – so make sure to check those out.

States with retail-only betting

Typically available at a local casino, horse racing track, or betting kiosk, residents of the following states must place all of their legal sports betting action in person, at the counter:

• Mississippi
• Montana
• Nebraska
• New Mexico
• North Dakota
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• Washington
• Wisconsin

States with online betting coming soon (maybe)

Don’t see your state mentioned? No worries! As the U.S. online sports betting market continues to unfold, more and more states are starting to figure out their path towards legalization. The following states have yet to offer any action or accept a legal sports bet, but could be ready to do so within the next few years or so. States with legal online sports betting sites on the horizon include:

• California : although Proposition 26 and Proposition 27 failed to pass in Nov. 2022, the state will likely make another attempt to legalize sports betting at some point in the future.
• Georgia : legalization didn’t happen in 2024, but the state remains persistent.
• Missouri : legalization didn’t happen in 2024, but the state will keep pushing after local rivals – like Kansas – have launched.
• Alabama: legalization didn’t happen in 2024, but the legislature made some progress and will likely try again in 2025.
• Minnesota : legalization didn’t happen in 2024, but the legislature made some progress and will likely try again in 2025.
• Oklahoma

States that will (most likely) never legalize sports betting

Never say never, but we are at least 97 percent confident that the following states will never legalize sports betting:

Sportsbook vs. Sportsbook

How do these betting sites stack up when specifically compared against each other? Is FanDuel better than DraftKings? Should you use the Underdog Fantasy promo code , or the PrizePicks referral code if you want to start playing Pick’em-style DFS games? BetMGM vs ESPN BET? We take a deeper, side-by-side dive through our “sportsbook vs sportsbook” series, covering banking methods, betting options, markets, app speed, and much more.

• BetMGM vs. Caesars
• BetMGM vs. DraftKings
• BetMGM vs. FanDuel
• Caesars vs. FanDuel
• FanDuel vs. DraftKings

Curious about the worst sports betting sites ? We’ve compiled a list of the apps to avoid.

Canadian betting sites

Our neighbors from the Great White North recently found their way into the legal sports betting realm following the passage of Bill C-218, The Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act, in June 2021. The bill officially approved single-game wagering throughout all of Canada , finally putting an end to the country’s parlay-only betting policy. Prior to C-218 getting the green light, the only legal action offered to Canadian sports bettors involved multiple legs in one bet – making it nearly impossible for players to consistently profit over time.

With those times now in the rear-view, each of Canada’s ten provinces and three territories can individually decide how they wish to go about running their respective iGaming markets. It’s been a slow start for the most part outside of Ontario , which remains the only province or territory to call upon and begin licensing third-party commercial betting sites thus far.

Ontario betting sites

Ontario launched Canada’s first-ever regulated iGaming market on April 4, 2022, officially allowing popular U.S. online sports betting sites such as FanDuel and BetMGM to launch up north. Other fan favorites such as 888sport and bet365, which previously operated in Canada through the country’s grey market, were required to make the switch to a fully regulated, legal version of the book. In order to legally accept action in Ontario, operators must first get licensed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), a regulatory group that was formed by iGaming Ontario in preparation for the new market launch, and then enter into an operating agreement with iGaming Ontario as well.

More than 25 different online sportsbook brands have already done so and are live at the moment, in addition to Ontario’s ProLine+ betting platform. Prior to launching its iGaming market, Ontario allowed players to place their parlay action through this government-run online sportsbook site. The website remains operational despite the market in Ontario starting to fill up, however it seems unlikely that many players will choose ProLine+ over any of its competitors, which include the following online sportsbook brands:

• Betano Sportsbook Ontario
• Bet99 Sportsbook Ontario
• theScore Bet Ontario
• Sports Interaction Ontario
• Caesars Sportsbook Ontario
• 888sport
• Coolbet
• Novibet
• Pinnacle Sportsbook
• TonyBet
• Bally Bet
• bet365
• BetMGM
• BetRivers
• Betway
• DraftKings
• FanDuel
• Unibet

Benefits of legal sports betting websites

The recent emergence of legal online betting sites in North America has already improved the industry as a whole. Sports bettors can now deposit funds and place their wagers with peace of mind, knowing they are at zero risk of anything out of the ordinary happening to their online betting account.

Here are a few more reasons why we believe the use of legal, regulated sports betting websites is greatly benefiting the gambling community:

• Safe & Secure, Unlike Offshore Sportsbooks: Prior to the recent sports betting legalization throughout the U.S., sports bettors would either have to fly to Las Vegas and place their bets in person or use an illegal offshore sports betting sites operating overseas. Offshore sportsbooks might have seemed convenient before legal options opened up, but they always came with a risk. Since these operators conduct their businesses illegally, there are no governing bodies overseeing their operations. If players run into any issues while playing with an offshore account, there is no guarantee that someone will come to the rescue. With legal, regulated betting sites, this would not be possible – there is always help on the way and the organizations overseeing the operators will make sure no customer is ever cheated or done wrong by a service provider.
• Banking Options are Plentiful:Banking is another area that puts legal, regulated sportsbook websites on another level compared to offshore operators. Previously, in order to fund an offshore account, players needed to wire money to another country using some sort of shady delivery service with no guarantee that their money was going where it needed to be. With regulated sports betting websites, the banking options are as safe and secure as going to the bank and making a deposit or withdrawal at the window. And on top of the enhanced security, banking options at regulated sports betting sites are extensive – with everything from PayPal to online banking available at a moment’s notice.
• Online Betting Surpassing Retail Betting: Generally speaking, online wagering is becoming increasingly more popular as time progresses and legal options expand. Most players prefer, or at least find it more convenient, to place their action on one of the best sports betting sites rather than heading over to the casino every time they’d like to place a bet. In a world that now runs on technology, online betting is just a lot more practical.
• Rewards, Promos, and Other Incentives: On top of the enhanced convenience they provide, sportsbook websites also reward their loyal customers with added incentives and promotions, something you will not find when betting at a brick-and-mortar location. Online betting is easier, way more convenient, and gets bettors more bang for their buck

Sports-specific considerations when using betting sites

The best online sports betting sites are packed to the gills with just about every sports market, event, or bet type available. In the United States, basketball and football are by far the most popular sports to bet on, whether professional (NFL, NBA) or collegiate (NCAAF, NCAAB).

With such a vast selection to choose from, players might get a bit overwhelmed when trying to fine-tune their strategy across different sports. We’re here to help, with a few sports-specific considerations to consider the next time you’re ready to slap down some action.

Betting on the National Football League (NFL)

Professional football, specifically the National Football League, is by far the biggest sport in the country. No other sport or league rings in a larger betting handle on its games than the NFL, which benefits from having most of its action take place on one day of the week: Sunday.

While there are games scattered throughout different days of the week throughout the season, Sundays reign supreme in the United States during football season, and sports bettors absolutely love it. All of our top betting sites will have NFL offerings galore.

There are countless different ways to wager on the NFL, and most sports betting sites offer all of them. The options for NFL betting typically include:

• Spread Bets
• Moneyline Bets
• Quarter or Halftime Bets
• Totals (Over/Under)
• Player Props (Player to score first touchdown)
• Future Bets (Team to win the Super Bowl, player to win MVP)

Player props are shooting up the charts in terms of popularity, largely in part due to the rise of Same Game Parlays over the last few years or so. Many players prefer to tackle one specific game when making a multi-leg wager, as it’s easier to focus on two teams rather than say, four or more. NFL bettors also seem to enjoy teasers, which are essentially just parlays with a fixed amount of points added to each leg in exchange for a lower payout. Many believe teasers are easier to win than a traditional spread bet and as a result, they are one of the most common bet types placed during football season.

Betting on the National Basketball Association (NBA)

The NBA is becoming an increasingly popular league to bet on with betting sites around the US. As the years move forward with free agency, trade rumors, and drama around the league fueling each and every offseason, building up the hype for fans and bettors alike.

Betting on the NBA can be a bit more difficult than the NFL, however, for two reasons. First off, games are played every single night – there’s hardly ever a day off. The higher the volume, the harder it can be to profit. Second, players simply do not play as many games in the NBA anymore. Between load management, injuries, and back-to-back games, there’s seemingly always a significant player popping up on the injury report, swaying the odds hours before the game tips off.

With that being said, it’s crucial to do your research when wagering on the NBA and if possible, wait until the very last minute to lock in your action.

Among the many betting options available during NBA season, here are the markets and bet types most commonly offered by the top sports betting websites in the U.S:

• Spread Bets
• Moneyline Bets
• Quarter or Halftime Bets
• Totals (Over/Under)
• Parlays
• Teasers
• Round Robins
• Same Game Parlays
• Player Props (Player to score the game’s first basket)
• Future Bets (Team to win the Finals, player to win ROY)

College sports betting limitations

Over on the amateur side of things, both college football and college basketball command their fair share of attention when it comes to wagering. With that being said, amateur sports are treated much differently on legal sports betting sites than their professional counterparts, especially in the legal U.S. sports betting market.

Each state that decides to legalize sports betting has the ability to keep certain markets or bet types off-limits, regardless of their reasoning. This has led to a number of legal U.S. sports betting states imposing bans on betting on local college teams, college player props, or some variation of either.

Here are all of the college sports betting limitations you might run into when placing any action on the best online sports betting sites in the following states:

• Massachusetts, New Jersey , New York , and Virginia prohibit wagering on any in-state college teams, regardless of the location of the game. Furthermore, any collegiate event taking place in NJ or VA is also off-limits, even if two out-of-state teams are competing. New York does allow this, but it must be during a big event or tournament such as the NCAA Tournament and involve two teams from outside of the state. Massachusetts betting sites can’t accept action on in-state teams, unless they are competing in a tournament .
• Connecticut prohibits wagering on in-state college teams for individual games, however future bets on local favorites like UConn are allowed.
• Illinois prohibits wagering on in-state college teams through mobile but does allow retail books to offer action on those teams. Unfortunately for Illinois bettors, none of the state’s books have filed out the necessary requests to begin doing so.
• Arizona , Colorado , Illinois , Iowa , New York , Pennsylvania , Tennessee , Virginia , North Carolina , and West Virginia all prohibit wagering on college player props of any kind.

Betting sites and safety

As highlighted above, safety is one of the major benefits of placing bets with a legal, licensed online betting site.

Every state that legalizes sports betting must appoint a specific committee or governing body to oversee all operations that take place within their jurisdiction. This is great for patrons of online betting sites – online gambling has never been safer. Here are a few more reasons why:

• Trustworthy Brands: Unlike your offshore betting site’s sketchy website that changes every six months, legal sportsbook websites are typically run by notable, trustworthy brands. Many of the parent companies backing your favorite legal sports betting sites have been involved in the gaming industry for decades and have a strong reputation that they are investing heavily to preserve.
• Direct Ties to Retail Locations: Many states that have launched online betting sites have required the online component to be tethered to an in-person partner. Whether it be a local casino or horse track, there is often going to be a nearby physical location with ties to your online bookmaker. This not only further legitimizes online sports betting sites, but gives players extra means to seek help in case any issues arise. Plus, who doesn’t love making cash transactions in person!
• Next Level Security & Technology: When you consider all of the money and resources available to most of the industry’s biggest commercial operators, it makes a lot of sense why all of your information is safe, secure, and sure to remain private under all circumstances. Legal sports betting sites use the strongest technology in the business to ensure nobody can ever get their hands on your personal information, such as online banking info or your social security number.

Responsible gambling resources on betting sites

Now that you can legally bet on your laptop, computer, or phone, all participants should be aware of the risks and pitfalls associated with using an online sports betting site. One of the most important areas to discuss when it comes to online betting is responsible gambling. While many people can casually enjoy recreational sports betting, others can lose control fast. If you or someone you know may be suffering from a gambling problem, don’t panic. There are resources available, both online and in-person, that can make a major difference in a struggling gambler’s life.

The best sports betting sites typically offer a multitude of different ways to limit a player’s account, including deposit limits, session time limits, cool-off periods, and even a self-exclusion list. While top sportsbooks are in the business of making money, they will gladly ban any player who wishes to drop all access to their platform due to problem gambling. Most sports betting sites will also plaster their platform with responsible gambling resources such as a hotline to reach out to or an external website with relevant, useful materials.

All in all, the online sports betting industry is working hard and fast to ensure that anyone with a gambling problem can get the necessary help. To continue expanding this ever-evolving industry, betting sites are obligated to commit to responsible gambling.

For additional information on responsible online betting, head over to our responsible gambling page.

Michael Sciangula

Michael is a New Jersey-based sports writer who recently began working in the online gaming industry. He now contributes to various online publications for Better Collective. He is an alumnus of Rutgers University and avidly follows Rutgers basketball and the New York Mets.