1. Is it licensed in your state?
This is non-negotiable. Operators not licensed in your state are unregulated and not safe. Always confirm via your state's gaming commission.
2. Welcome bonus mechanics
Read the offer terms. Match-bonus rollover requirements, minimum odds, time windows, eligible markets. The headline number is rarely the most important thing.
3. App quality
You'll spend hours in the app. Try the free version (most operators have a free-play mode). Look for: bet slip clarity, search functionality, live updating, easy account management.
4. Market depth
Major sports are universally covered. Niche sports, college markets, props, and live betting vary. If you have specific interests, verify before depositing.
5. Pricing competitiveness
Open multiple books, compare standard moneyline pricing on a few games. The cheapest book wins many tightly-priced markets.
6. Payout speed
FanDuel and DraftKings are fastest (often same-day on PayPal). BetMGM and Caesars run 2-5 days. Confirm via the operator's help docs.
7. Loyalty value
If you'll bet regularly, loyalty programs add 1-7% in tangible value. BetMGM and Caesars win for travelers; BetRivers wins for high-volume.
Compare
See our comparison table.
FAQ
Is sports betting hard to learn?
The mechanics are simple. The discipline is hard. Most beginners take a year of disciplined volume before becoming consistently +EV.
How much money do I need to start?
$50-$200 is enough to start. The number matters less than your discipline. 1% per bet means a $100 roll bets $1 per game.