No Betting Apps On Android
Online sports betting arrived in Michigan on January 22, 2021. Our editors picked the best 6 MI sportsbook apps with exclusive bonus offers. Ladbrokes betting app in available both for Android and iOS devises. It has been designed specifically to allow punters to enjoy betting on the go. This means that the application almost completely copies the features of the official website. With the help of the app you can place bets in advance and as well as enjoy in play betting. Especially if you have an Android phone. Until recently you were unable to download mobile betting apps, but you can now enjoy real-money online sports betting with some of the best mobile betting apps. We’ve reviewed some of the top Android betting apps.
Sports betting in Uganda. YouTube for Android TV. The best place to buy movies, music and apps for Android. Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more. How To Download A Horse Racing Betting App. If you decide to download a horse racing app rather than betting through your browser, you just need to follow these 6 easy steps. Choose from the list of best horse racing betting apps.
Sports betting is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. After having largely operated in the dark for years, it’s finally starting to come out of the shadows.
While there are quite a few platforms now running legal operations in the US, you can still place sports bets using offshore operators as well. The following are some of the best sports betting apps in the industry today.
| Rank | Gambling Site | Deposit Bonus | Get Started | |
| #1 | Up To €150 | Visit Site | ||
| #2 | 22Bet Sports | 100% Up To €122 | Visit Site | |
| #3 | 100% Up To €200 | Visit Site | ||
| #4 | 10Bet Sports | 100% Up To €50 | Visit Site | |
| #5 | 100% Up To €50 | Visit Site | ||
A number of states have legalized and started to regulate sports betting since the United States Supreme Court voted to strike down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in May of 2018. So, residents of quite a few states now have legal access to state-regulated sports betting, which is a dream come true for those that have been clamoring for legalization for years.
The prevalence of smartphone technology has made betting on mobile apps more prevalent than ever as well. Nowadays, it’s massively important for operators to offer mobile compatibility for their online sports betting platforms, especially considering the vast majority of people use their mobile devices to place their bets.
Each of the real money betting apps listed above has what you’re looking for in a mobile sports betting provider. Most importantly, they all meet our stringent safety requirements. You don’t have to worry about your personal data being compromised if you patronize any of the mobile sports betting apps in this table, as our team of experts has thoroughly reviewed them all to ensure they’re as safe and secure as possible.
Best Real Money Betting Apps
In addition to checking the boxes when it comes to safety, the 2021 sports betting apps listed above are also among the very best in the industry when it comes to their other offerings, too. So, if you’re in the market for the best apps for sports gambling that offer great bonuses, fast payouts, rapid withdrawal speeds, a bevy of banking options, competitive odds, and more, you can certainly do worse than the online sports betting apps listed above.
Best Betting Apps by Sport
The best apps for sports betting cover all sports all over the world. So, just because you’re in the United States doesn’t mean you can’t bet on sports like soccer, cricket, or rugby that are more popular internationally. The same can be said if you’re in another country and you want to wager on major American sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, and Major League Baseball or major US sports events like the 2021 Super Bowl. Point spreads, totals, moneylines, prop bets, and futures bets are easy to find on the best sports gambling apps, and they will also offer an array of in-game betting options if you’re wanting to bet on the action while the game is still going on!
What Makes These the Best Apps for Mobile Sports Betting?
Safety and Security
As mentioned previously, it’s hard to enjoy your online betting experience if you can’t do so with the comfort of knowing you’re safe. The internet is the Wild West when it comes to laws and regulations. Unfortunately, there are some sketchy operators out there willing to use the murkiness to their advantage by stealing your personal information.
That’s why it’s absolutely vital that you only sign up for real money betting apps that meet and exceed all industry standards for safety and security. Measures like password encryption and two-factor authentication are just a couple of the simple steps that developers can take to keep your information locked up safely. You can’t enjoy your betting endeavor if you’re worried about being hacked. If you use any of the online betting apps listed above, though, you don’t have to worry at all about your information being compromised. All the mobile sportsbook apps we recommend meet our lofty expectations for safety.
Real Money Betting Bonuses
Sportsbooks want to make it worth your while to sign up. Because there are so many real money online sports betting apps out there these days, the best ones have to try and differentiate themselves to try and stand out from the competition. One way they can accomplish that goal is by offering lucrative bonus programs to incentivize you to sign up and bet.
Bonuses vary from site to site. So, take the time to shop around in order to find the bonus offers that can help you boost your bankroll. Just about every mobile sportsbook app has a welcome bonus. That means, when you make your first deposit, the site will credit your account with extra cash that you can then use to place bets on football, basketball, soccer, or whichever sport you fancy. For example, some sites will offer a 100% bonus up to a certain dollar amount. This means that if you deposit $500, you will get an extra $500 added to your account!
Welcome bonuses are pretty standard, but the other offers may change depending on which apps for online sports gambling you download. Some online sportsbook apps offer weekly and daily bonuses for you to take advantage of. Others will credit you with a referral bonus if you get a friend to sign up and deposit, while others may offer additional bonuses on any subsequent deposits you make. Bonuses are a phenomenal way for you to inflate your betting bankroll!
Variety of Banking Options
Your options when it comes to payment will vary depending on your location. Some banks and credit card companies have policies in place to try and prevent customers from processing financial transactions with online betting sites. That means your credit card may not work if you’re trying to make a deposit. Fortunately, you’re not up a creek without a paddle if this applies to you. The best real money betting apps accept a pretty good variety of different banking options.
Most sports betting sites accept major debit and credit cards. Bitcoin has become incredibly popular over the past few years, as well, and many sports gambling apps now accept Bitcoin and other forms of cryptocurrency as a viable form of payment. You may also make your deposits using an e-wallet, like PayPal or Neteller. You’ve never had more options when it comes to making deposits or withdrawals with your mobile sports betting provider than you do right now.
Best Sports Betting Odds and Lines
Line shopping is an important skill for any good sports bettor. Not every sports betting site is going to see every game the same way, for example, so it is usually worth your while to look from site to site to try and find an edge. The best sports betting apps online offer comprehensive coverage of every sport and provide a variety of different ways to attack every game. Some sites even offer alternative betting lines to try and keep things interesting.
It’s good to have options, and there are multiple ways to bet on a single game. The top mobile betting apps know this, which is why they make a point to expand their offerings with a wide variety of coverage and competitive odds.
User-Friendly Mobile Interface
The last thing you want to do is to try and navigate a betting app that looks like it was developed in the 1990s. Technology has advanced to the point where you can do everything on your mobile device, so why should betting on sports be any different? The best online sports betting apps in the industry today use state-of-the-art software that keeps the app looking clean. You shouldn’t have to bust your brain to try and navigate your way through the app. The mobile betting process is supposed to be simple, so don’t overlook ease of use when it comes to what you’re looking for out of a real money betting app.
Mobile Compatibility – iPhone and Android Betting Apps
iPhone Betting Apps
Apple’s iPhone essentially paved the way for the smartphone revolution back in the middle of the last decade. While some competitors have emerged in recent years, iPhones still tend to dominate the marketplace when it comes to smartphones. So, it should come as no surprise that every single one of the highest-rated real money sports betting apps are compatible with iPhone’s operating system.
So, if you’re one of the millions of people around the world that happens to own Apple’s signature device, you should have no issues finding a quality iPhone betting app that suits your needs. Any app that isn’t compatible with iOS is, frankly, behind the eight-ball.
Android Betting Apps
If you don’t have an iPhone or Apple device, chances are pretty good that you’ve opted to by an Android instead. While Androids may not be quite as prevalent as iPhones, they’re still popular enough to where people who own an Android phone aren’t left in the dark when it comes to real money mobile sports betting offerings.
Just about every developer that creates a sports betting app that works on an iPhone will work on an Android, too. While the list of Android-compatible betting apps isn’t quite as long as that of the iPhone, you’ll still have plenty of options if you’re a loyal Android user, too.
Why You Should Use a Betting App Instead of an Online Sportbook
Convenience
Betting online is more convenient than making your way to a land-based casino to place your bets. Let’s all thank Al Gore for inventing the internet. However, placing a sports bet on mobile sports gambling sites is even more convenient than doing so at traditional websites as well.
If you download one of the many viable mobile betting apps available today, you can place a sports bet no matter where you are.
If you’re stuck in line at the grocery store, for example, you don’t have to drop everything and rush home before kickoff. Instead, just fire up your trusty mobile betting app and have your bet placed within a matter of seconds. There is really nothing that beats the convenience of having a real money sports betting app handy.
Line Shopping
Shopping for lines via mobile sports gambling apps is also easier than doing so on your computer. Just a few taps of your finger can take you quickly from app-to-app, and all of the betting odds you’ll see are up to the minute. If a last-minute injury to a player has shaken up the lines, the new odds will be posted as quickly as possible. Obviously, line shopping over the internet is a lot less time consuming than doing so at a land-based sportsbook, too.
Ease of Use
App developers know that customers value simplicity. We mentioned how important it is to use an app that has a clean, easily-navigable interface. Betting on a top app for sports betting is also just flat-out easier than doing so on an old school webpage. You can find the bet you want to place, enter your risk amount, and have your bet submitted within seconds with just a few taps of your thumb. If you’re betting on a mobile device, ease of use is one of the main reasons.
How to Get Started Mobile Sports Betting
1. Download Your Sports Betting App
Downloading and signing up for real money betting apps is incredibly simple. Search “sports betting,” “betting apps,” or another comparable term in your smartphone’s app store. Sift through the options before you find the app you want to download. Click “download” and your new app should start loading onto your phone or tablet right away.
2. Sign Up and Create an Account
Before you place your bets, you have to create your account. Find the “Sign Up” or “Join” tab within the app. You’ll be prompted to enter some personal data, like a username and password, in order to create your account. Remember to make your password as unique as possible as a way of keeping your account secure.
3. Make a Real Money Deposit
Next, you’re ready to fund your account! Find the “Deposit” screen and choose your preferred banking method. You can use a credit or debit card, cryptocurrency, an e-wallet, or one of the other many banking options. Enter the amount you want to put into your account as well. Some real money online betting apps have certain limits on the amount of cash you can deposit at once, but these limits tend to be pretty high.
4. Collect Your Sports Betting Bonus
Before you hit “Submit” on that first deposit, don’t forget to grab your first-time deposit bonus! Enter the promotional code attached to your welcome bonus on the deposit screen. Double-check everything to make sure you’re set to deposit the right amount, and your new balance should be reflected immediately after you complete the transaction.
5. Find Betting Lines and Place Your Bet
Now, it’s time for the fun part! The vast array of sports on which you can bet should be easily found through your app’s home screen. Take the time to sort through your options before finding the bet you want to place. Next, enter the amount of money you’re willing to risk. Remember to never risk more than you’re okay with losing when you place a bet. Once you’ve done that and submitted your bet, you’re ready to sit back, relax, and watch the cash flow in!
Real Money Betting Apps FAQ
Is It Safe to Bet Real Money Using a Sports Betting App?
Betting online is safe as you make it. Placing real money sports bets online is very safe if you take the proper precautions. Most importantly, you have to be sure to choose an app that rates out well when it comes to safety and security. Remember, we would never refer you to mobile online sportsbooks that don’t have a spotless track record for keeping its customers out of harm’s way.
What Are the Best Betting Apps?
The most common question we get is, “What are the best sports betting apps out there?”. Well, the sports betting providers that have been around for the longest time tend to be the best when it comes to betting apps for money. Mobile sports betting sites like Bovada, MyBookie.ag, BetOnline.ag, and SportsBetting.ag all have excellent reputations, and they’re among the most recognized names in the industry for a variety of reasons. Consult the table at the top of this page for a list of our highest-rated mobile sports gambling apps.
Do Betting Apps Offer Other Types of Real Money Gambling?
While some sites specialize in sports betting, a lot of them know their users may have other interests that go beyond sports. That’s why many of the best apps for sports betting also happen to rank among the very best in the industry for online casino games as well. So, if you’re in the market for classic casino games like poker, roulette, slots, craps, blackjack, or anything else, these apps can be a one-stop-shop to suit all of your online gambling needs.
Are Mobile Sports Betting Apps Legal?
As mentioned, many states have moved to legalize and regulate sports betting to try and create extra sources of revenue. You can find a number of legitimate mobile sportsbooks that are fully legal if you happen to live in a state with legal sports betting. However, if you don’t, you’re not out of luck. Many of the biggest names in the online sports betting realm operate offshore, and no American has ever been targeted legally by authorities for placing a real money wager over the internet. Most anti-gambling laws are designed to prevent providers from illegally operating within a certain jurisdiction, but bettors themselves are in the clear.
Do iPhone Betting Apps Exist?
Yes! Without the advent of the iPhone, would we even have smartphones in the first place? All major providers ensure that their apps are compatible with the latest iOS software to cater as well as they possibly can to the millions of iPhone users out there.
Do Android Betting Apps Exist?
Like we said before, just about every iPhone betting app is also compatible with Android’s operating system so you’ll have no shortage of options to use to win money with betting apps.
Final Words on Sports Betting Apps
With so many people using smartphones these days, it’s an absolute must for any provider to be able to offer a comprehensive mobile sports betting experience. You can find just about everything on a mobile app that you would be able to find on a traditional website nowadays, and the offerings are as comprehensive as ever.
If you’re looking for an app that offers competitive odds, safety and security, a slew of banking options, fast payouts, and more, check out the list of high-quality online betting apps at the top of the page!
Michigan online sports betting is finally a reality for bettors. The Michigan Gaming Control Board announced a online sportsbook launch on January 22, 2021.
Both retail and online sportsbooks are allowed under the Michigan Lawful Sports Betting Act. Retail sportsbooks launched in early 2020. About a dozen sportsbook apps are part of the first round of Michigan online gaming apps. FOX Bet and Four Winds launched just after the first round of apps.
Commercial and tribal casinos can launch mobile sports betting platforms. The Michigan Gaming Control Board approved 15 different potential online sports betting operators late last year. This means more sportsbook apps will launch later in 2021.
Our Favorite Michigan Sports Betting Apps
- BetRivers: Best for Deposit Bonus
- WynnBet: Best for Sports & Casino Players
- William Hill: Best for New Bettors
- FanDuel: Best for iOS and Android App
- BetMGM: Best for Detroit Bettors
- DraftKings: Best for DFS Players
Michigan Sports Betting Updates
- Michigan off to a great start – Michigan’s first month with online gambling live proved to be a historic event. The state had a record-breaking launch.
- New online gambling operators join in – On February 15, the MGCB authorized Four Winds sports betting and online casino to launch. They partnered with Pala Interactive who provided the software.
- New online gambling operators join in – On January 29, the MGCB authorized FOX Bet and Poker Stars to go live with sports betting and casino gaming, respectively. Poker Stars also launched Michigan’s first online poker site. Barstool received approval to launch an online casino on the same day.
- Michigan sports betting begins with 10 sportsbooks live – 10 sportsbooks launched in the Great Lakes State on January 22, opening day for Michigan sports betting. These include BetRivers, William Hill, FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Golden Nugget, Barstool, TwinSpires, PointsBet, and Wynn.
- Michigan Gaming Control Board announced sports betting launch – On January 19, 2021, the MGCB announced that 9 sports betting apps would launch on January 22. The next day, the MGCB announced its approval of PointsBet, bringing the total number to 10.
- Michigan approves 15 online sports betting and casino licenses – The MGCB gave the green light to 15 different iGaming licenses on December 10. This action from the MGCB marks one of the final regulatory steps before Michigan’s online sportsbooks go live sometime in early 2021.
- Casinos reopen after a month-long shutdown – A COVID-19 emergency order forced Michigan’s trio of commercial casinos to shut down on November 18. The three casinos, all home to retail sportsbooks (MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel, Greektown Casino Hotel) reopened on December 21.
- Detroit Pistons partner with FanDuel, DraftKings – Michigan’s iconic NBA franchise announced simultaneous partnerships with both FanDuel and DraftKings. The agreements bring in the two top sports betting brands in the US as official sports betting partners of the Detroit Pistons.
- Barstool Sportsbook enters Michigan market – Greektown Casino Hotel announced a renovation and rebranding of its retail sportsbook. The land-based sports betting venue will be reintroduced as Barstool Sportsbook, the first retail sportsbook to bear the Barstool name.
Reviews Of Michigan’s 6 Best Sports Betting Apps & Sites
Best for Deposit Bonus
at BetRivers MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
Best for Deposit Bonus
BetRivers Michigan
Best App For Sports Betting
4.5
BetRivers ReviewDeposit Bonus
Retail Partner
Licensed by
BetRivers expansion across the US continues with the BetRivers Sportsbook MI platform. The selection of domestic and international sports put BetRivers on par with just about any other legal sports betting site in the US.
The welcome bonus at BetRivers presents one of the most player-friendly offers of any Michigan sportsbook. New players can unlock a 100% deposit match up to $250, with just a 1x playthrough requirement.
Excellent selection of international sports, deposit via Paypal
Best for Sports & Casino Players
at WynnBet MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
Best for Sports & Casino Players
WynnBet Michigan
4.3
WynnBet ReviewRisk-Free Bet
Retail Partner
Licensed by
Back by the Wynn Casino brand, WynnBet is a relative newcomer on the market compared to other sportsbook apps in Michigan. Operating only in Michigan, Colorado, and New Jersey, it is anticipated that WynnBet will continue its expansion into other US markets. In the meantime, WynnBet offers a great alternative for Michigan bettors, including a competitive bonus offer and strong online casino offering.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY & 21+
Best for New Bettors
at William Hill MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
States Accepted: MI, CO, IN, IA, NJ, NV, WV, VA, IL
Best for New Bettors
William Hill Michigan
4.2
Willaim Hill ReviewRisk-Free Bet
Retail Partner
Licensed by
The William Hill Sportsbook in Michigan brings a century-old sports betting brand from the UK to what will be one of the top online gaming markets in the country.
William Hill really stands apart from the other options in the state with an impressive market depth for international events, and their odds are competitive across the board.
But beyond that, William Hill largely falls a bit short with a less than competitive new player bonus.
Huge market depth, unique options for international sports, simple, straightforward platform, quality odds that compete well with competitors
Best for iOS and Android App
at FanDuel Sportsbook MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
States Accepted: MI, NJ, PA, IL, IN, IA, CO, WV, TN, VA
Best for iOS and Android App
FanDuel Sportsbook Michigan
4.4
FanDuel Sportsbook ReviewRisk-Free Bet
Retail Partner
Licensed by
FanDuel Sportsbook offers just about everything a bettor could ask for in an online sportsbook. The domestic and international leagues available for wagering puts FanDuel Sportsbook in the top tier of legal mobile sports betting platforms in the US.
New players can take advantage of a risk-free bet up to $1,000 after making an initial deposit. Other unique promotions include parlay insurance, which offers up to $25 back on a five-leg or more parlay if all legs but one are winners.
Comprehensive selection of sports, ways to bet, and deposit options
Best for Detroit Bettors
at BetMGM MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
States Accepted: MI, CO, IN, IA, NJ, NV, PA, TN, WV, VA
Best for Detroit Bettors
BetMGM Michigan
4.4
BetMGM ReviewRisk-Free Bet
Retail Partner
Licensed by
BetMGM Sportsbook functions as the sports betting branch of Michigan’s largest land-based casino, MGM Grand Detroit. BetMGM brings together a comprehensive sports betting platform that belongs on the go-to list for any serious bettor.
New Michigan bettors can claim up to a $600 risk-free bet bonus offer at BetMGM Michigan.
Robust number of available sports and ways to wager
Best for DFS Players
at DraftKings Sportsbook MI
Available On: iOS, Android, Web Browser
States Accepted: MI, CO, IN, IA, NJ, NV, PA, TN, WV, VA, NH
Best for DFS Players
DraftKings Michigan
4.0
DraftKings ReviewDeposit Bonus
Retail Partner
Licensed by
Michigan bettors of all experience levels should find plenty to like about DraftKings Sportsbook. The platform offers one of the most robust selections of sports among any legal online betting site.
The welcome bonus at DraftKings Sportsbook comes as a 20% deposit match up to $1,000. The sportsbook also offers a $100 bonus for each new player you refer to the site.
Wide array of sports, ways to bet, and deposit/withdrawal methods. Official sports betting partner of the Detroit Pistons.
All Michigan Online Sportsbooks Apps
| Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus | Casino Partner | Launch Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetRivers | 100% Deposit Match Up To $250 | Little River Casino Resort | 1/22/21 |
| William Hill | Risk free bet up to $2,021 | Turtle Creek Casino & Leelanau Sands Casino | 1/22/21 |
| FanDuel | Risk-free Bet Up To $1,000 | Motor City Casino Hotel | 1/22/21 |
| BetMGM | Risk-free Bet Up To $600 | MGM Grand Detroit | 1/22/21 |
| PointsBet | Two Risk-free Bets Up To $2,000 | Northern Waters Casino Resort | 1/22/21 |
| DraftKings | 20% Deposit Match Up To $1,000 | Bay Mills Resort & Casino | 1/22/21 |
| Golden Nugget | Risk-free Bet Up To $100 | Ojibwa Casino | 1/22/21 |
| Barstool | $1,000 Risk Free Bet | Greektown Casino Hotel | 1/22/21 |
| WynnBet | $1000 Risk Free Bet | Kewadin Casino | 1/22/21 |
| Twin Spires (formerly BetAmerica) | One week risk-free betting up to $1000 | Island Resort & Casino | 1/22/21 |
| FOX Bet | Risk-free Bet Up To $500 | Odawa Casino | 1/29/21 |
| Four Winds Sportsbook | $200 Deposit Match Bonus | Four Winds Casinos | 2/15/21 |
| Fire Keepers Sportsbook | TBA | Fire Keepers Casino And Hotel | TBA (Expected 2021) |
| Parx Sportsbook | Risk-free Bet Up To $500 | Gun Lake Casino | TBA (Expected 2021) |
How To Place A Bet In Michigan
Choosing An Online Sportsbook In Michigan
Michigan’s online sports betting market includes at least 14 mobile sportsbooks approved by the MGCB, nine of which launched on day one. Each different sportsbook offers different welcome promotions, betting markets, and odds.
Gaming Today continuously updates this page with the latest information on Michigan’s mobile sports betting apps. You can use the information here to evaluate which sportsbooks suit your preferences.
Make A Deposit
The most reliable deposit options for Michigan bettors include PayPal and ACH/eCheck. The Play+ prepaid card, available at most sportsbooks, offers another convenient and secure deposit method.
Mobile sportsbooks put several different deposit options at your fingertips, allowing you to fund your account from anywhere in the state.
Verify Your Location
Michigan’s mobile sportsbooks use geolocation technology to determine your location when you log in. You must be located within Michigan borders to place a bet at a state-regulated sportsbook.
If the geolocation service determines that you’re out-of-state, you’ll be blocked from betting until you’re back in Michigan.
How To Register An Account
Once you’ve chosen an online sportsbook, you’ll need to provide proof of age and identity before you can deposit and start betting.
The sportsbook will ask you for a valid identification document (driver’s license, state-issued ID) to confirm these details. Once your documents are verified, you can navigate to the cashier and make your first deposit.
How To Place A Bet
Michigan’s mobile sports betting apps provide unprecedented ease of access to betting markets on sports events around the globe.
Most sportsbooks offer a user-friendly interface that allows you to browse all available sports, and then leagues and games within that sport. Placing a bet requires just a couple of clicks.
Clicking on a line of your choice puts the wager on your bet slip. Once there, you’ll have to click on “Confirm” or a similar link to send your bet to the sportsbook.
Legal Sportsbooks Versus Offshore Betting Sites
With no less than 14 online sportsbooks coming to Michigan, bettors will enjoy access to an entire new world of legal sportsbooks. All state-regulated sportsbooks will bear the seal of approval from the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Any online sports betting site not displaying that seal is operating illegally in the US. These offshore sites can’t guarantee the same level of security and accountability as their legal counterparts.
Putting your money down on an offshore gambling site isn’t worth the risk, especially with so many legal options at the disposal of Michigan players. If you deposit at an offshore site, you might never see that money again.
Michigan Sports Betting Revenue
While online sports betting has yet to launch in Michigan, the state’s three commercial casinos all opened retail sportsbooks in 2020.
After nearly five months shut down due to a COVID-19 emergency order, the trio of Detroit-based commercial casinos reopened in early August. The casinos could only allow 15% capacity, but the land-based sportsbooks at each performed well under those conditions.
October marked the last full month of operations for the commercial sportsbooks before another shutdown in November. The three Detroit sportsbooks (MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino Hotel, Greektown Casino Hotel) brought in $7.6 million in combined revenue in October.
In leading sports betting markets like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, mobile wagering produces around 90% of overall sports betting revenue. The $7.6 million revenue figure for Michigan in October doesn’t include mobile wagering, and also excludes revenue from tribal casinos.
With all of those factors in mind, the October performance of Michigan’s commercial sportsbooks points to big things in 2021 for Michigan’s sports betting industry.
How Michigan Sports Betting Compares To Other States
Illinois
What's The Best Betting App On Android
In less than a year, Illinois has emerged as the nation’s fourth-largest sports betting market in terms of overall wagering handle.
Illinois sportsbooks brought in $434 million in handle in October of last year, with more than 94% of those bets coming from mobile sportsbooks. DraftKings, BetRivers, and FanDuel dominate the Illinois online sports betting market.
The Illinois market currently includes those brands, as well as William Hill and PointsBet. Michigan bettors will enjoy access to several other different options compared to Illinois, which could lead to Michigan eclipsing Illinois in the US sports betting economy.
Indiana
Another Midwest state with a flourishing sports betting market, Indiana took nearly $231 million in handle in October 2020. The Hoosier State stands as the No. 5 sports betting market in the US, right behind Illinois.
Indiana’s land-based and online sportsbook market somewhat resembles what’s on the way in Michigan. FanDuel and DraftKings operate as the top two choices in Indiana’s mobile sports betting market, a trend that could likely carry over to Michigan.
Mobile wagering accounts for more than 75% of all bets in Indiana. Indiana’s online sportsbooks are on the way to going over the $100 million revenue mark for 2020.
Michigan Sports Betting Successes And Failures
Sports Betting Successes For Michigan
Michigan’s potential as a top-five US sports betting market attracted the industry’s biggest brands to the state. At least 14 different online sportsbooks are approved in Michigan, with 9 apps launching on the first day of online gaming.
Michigan’s attractive tax rates (8.4% on mobile and retail sports betting revenue), rich sports tradition, and the number of available land-based casino partners successfully drew the giants of the sports betting industry to the state.
DraftKings, FanDuel, BetRivers, BetMGM, and William Hill represent just a few of the companies slated to launch online sportsbooks in Michigan. Michigan’s sports betting scene will offer a selection of different online sportsbooks that rivals any US state.
No Betting Apps On Android
What Could Improve For Michigan’s Sports Betting Industry
After sports betting legalization got the green light in late 2019, 2020 ended up as a year of uncertainty and mixed messages about the launch of online sports betting in the state.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board pushed for a late-2020 launch of online sports betting, but the year ended with mobile sportsbooks still on hold.
Every week that went by without a launch of online sports betting, Michigan’s casinos lose out on significant potential revenue. This delay was remedied by the first sports betting apps launching in time to place bets on the Super Bowl. Still, there are additional gaming apps that have been approved but are delayed in their launch.
Sports Betting Legalization Effort In Michigan
A sports betting legalization bill passed through the state House and Senate in 2018, and it appeared that Michigan was poised to become the next US state with legal sports betting.
Needing only a signature from then-Governor Rick Snyder, however, the 2018 effort was nullified by a veto from Snyder just days before his gubernatorial term ended.
That setback reset the Michigan sports betting legalization effort back to square one. A 2019 version of a sports betting bill once again passed through the House and Senate, and this time got the final signature from new Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Retail Sportsbooks Launch In Michigan
The sports betting bill approved both retail and online sports betting in Michigan. The state’s three Detroit-based commercial casinos all opened sportsbooks on their properties in March 2020, only to shut down just days later due to a COVID-19 emergency order.
Commercial casinos reopened in August, with all three resuming retail sportsbooks operations. Some of Michigan’s tribal casinos opened land-based sportsbooks throughout the year as well, as tribal properties aren’t bound by state-issued emergency orders.
Nine online sportsbooks launched on January 22, 2021, ending months of speculation as to when the MGCB would give Michigan sports betting the official green light to start accepting bets.
Michigan Sports Betting Timeline
- December 2018 – After passing through the state House and Senate, a sports betting bill gets vetoed by outgoing Gov. Rick Snyder.
- December 2019 – Sports betting legislation once again goes through the two state chambers, and this time gets the needed signature from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to go into law.
- March 2020 – Michigan’s three Detroit-area commercial casinos open retail sportsbooks. All three casinos are forced to shut down just days later, however, due to COVID-19 emergency orders.
- August 2020 – Not bound by the state’s COVID-19 order, FireKeepers Casino becomes the first Michigan tribal property to open a retail sportsbook.
- August 2020 – Commercial casinos get the green light to reopen, allowing their retail sportsbooks to operate uninterrupted until a second shutdown in November.
- September 2020 – The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) finalizes rules for the state’s sports betting industry.
- November 2020 – A monthly MGCB meeting alludes to a possible early-2021 launch of online sports betting. The meeting dampens hopes of a late-2020 launch.
- January 19, 2021 – After a January 12, 2021 meeting, the MGCB officially announced that the first bets would be placed in Michigan on Friday, January 22, 2021.
Michigan’s Sports Teams
Professional Sports Franchises In Michigan
Detroit Red Wings
Detroit’s “Hockeytown” nickname comes as a result of the success and popularity of the Detroit Red Wings. The Red Wings status as 11-time Stanley Cup champions bolsters the franchise’s reputation as perhaps the most beloved Michigan professional sports franchise.
Michigan’s legal sportsbooks offer betting markets on the Red Wings throughout the NHL season. When the Red Wings make a playoff appearance, Michigan bettors can wager on the Detroit hockey franchise through the Stanley Cup Finals.
Detroit Tigers
The lineage of the Detroit Tigers goes back to 1894. Detroit’s Major League Baseball franchise boasts four World Series Championships, with the most recent of those coming in 1984.
The Tigers have made five playoff appearances and two American League championships since the turn of the century. Moneyline, run line (aka point spread), parlays, and prop bets on the Tigers are available throughout the regular season and playoffs at Michigan’s sportsbooks.
Detroit Lions
Longsuffering fans of the Detroit Lions still await the NFL franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance. The Lions lay claim to four NFL championships, but all four came in the 1950s and before the Super Bowl era.
The Lions have made three playoff appearances in the last decade. If and when the Lions do make a magical Super Bowl run, Michigan bettors will enjoy the full gamut of betting options on the Lions all the way through the championship game.
Detroit Pistons
The NBA’s Detroit Pistons stand as one of Michigan’s most successful sports franchises in the modern era. The Pistons have won three league championships since 1989, with the most recent of those coming in 2004.
The Pistons put together a string of six consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances from 2003-2008. The next era of greatness for the Pistons could be just around the corner, and fans will enjoy betting opportunities on the team through all rounds of the NBA Playoffs.
Michigan College Sports Teams
The Michigan Lawful Sports Betting Act permits betting on all college sports, including Michigan-based teams. In-game and player prop bets aren’t allowed, but all other kinds of betting on college sports are legal at Michigan’s sportsbooks.
College sports loyalty throughout the state is divided between two major programs – the Michigan Wolverines and the Michigan State Spartans.
University of Michigan Wolverines
One of the most storied college football programs in the country, the Michigan Wolverines play as a perennial powerhouse in the Big Ten Conference.
The Wolverines lay claim to 11 national championships and a staggering 42 conference titles since the inception of its football program in 1879.
The University of Michigan also competes for the Big Ten men’s basketball title on a regular basis. The program’s recent history includes five Sweet Sixteen appearances in the 2010s and eight overall appearances in the NCAA Tournament in that span.
Michigan State Spartans
The Michigan State University Spartans stand as one of the main rivals to the Michigan Wolverines in virtually every sport. Big Ten basketball and football matchups between the two schools provide Michigan sports fans with some of the most hyped events on the annual athletic calendar.
The football program went to the College Football Playoff in 2015 and has earned conference championships over its more than century-long history.
Legendary head coach Tom Izzo leads the Spartans men’s basketball program to the postseason virtually every year. The Spartans have clinched a March Madness berth in 22 consecutive seasons under Izzo.
Aside from in-game and player prop bets, both major Michigan programs can be wagered on throughout the regular season and playoffs, both in football and basketball.
Other Sports To Bet On In Michigan
All major domestic sports leagues will appear on the betting menus at Michigan’s mobile sportsbooks. NASCAR, golf, tennis, MMA, MLS, and other US-based sports offer almost innumerable opportunities for Michigan sports bettors.
The NASCAR Cup comes through Michigan International Speedway each year for the FireKeepers Casino 400 race. Other major Michigan sports events include the PGA’s Rocket Mortgage Classic, which commences from the Detroit Golf Club each summer.
International sports and niche events round out the betting markets available at Michigan’s legal sportsbooks. Table tennis, rugby, cricket, Aussie Rules football, international motorsports, and even games like darts and chess are available for wagering.
Michigan Sports Betting FAQs
More Resources On Michigan Sports Betting
- Michigan Gaming Control Board: News & Reports – The latest press releases and revenue figures from Michigan’s gaming regulation agency.
- Michigan Lawful Sports Betting Act – An e-copy of the official bill outlining Michigan’s sports betting laws.
- The Fall of PASPA – Article on the overturning of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, and how it opened the door for legal sports betting throughout the US.
- The Detroit News – Sports section of one of Michigan’s leading news outlets.
- ESPN US Sports Betting Map – Updated map showing where each US state stands on legal sports betting.
Yes. The Michigan Lawful Sports Betting Act allows both online and retail sports betting. Ownership groups for both commercial and tribal casinos can offer online sports betting.
No less than 14 different online sportsbooks are set to launch in Michigan. State gaming regulators announced 9 of these sportsbooks were ready to launch on January 22, 2021.
Yes. Michigan sports betting laws allow for wagering on college sports, including Michigan-based programs.
The only exceptions to Michigan’s allowed wagering on college sports are a ban on in-game prop betting and player props. All other kinds of betting are legal under Michigan law.
21 or older. Michigan sports betting laws set the minimum wagering age at 21. This age applies to online sportsbooks licensed to both commercial and tribal casinos.
While some tribal casinos set the minimum age for retail sports betting at 18 or 19, all online sportsbooks mandate a minimum age of 21.
No, but you must be located within Michigan state lines at the time of a wager. Michigan’s online sportsbooks use geolocation technology to determine your location when you access your account.
If you’re in Michigan when you place your bet, that bet is legal whether you’re a Michigan resident or not.
Yes. Most of Michigan’s upcoming online sportsbooks offer their platforms as iOS apps. These apps can be found as free downloads in the App Store.
Best Sports Betting Mobile Apps
Even if you don’t have the app (or the sportsbook doesn’t offer an iOS app), you can still use the browser on your Apple device to access Michigan’s online sportsbooks.
Free Betting Apps For Android
Yes. DraftKings Sportsbook operates as a license partner of Bay Mills Resort & Casino. They launched on January 22, 2021.